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Chat with the Chief

Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche

Chat with the Chief is a podcast hosted by Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche. Each episode features conversations with Sarasota Police Department members and community leaders, offering a closer look at the initiatives shaping life in our city.

The podcast was created to open the lines of communication with our community, discussing topics you may not always see but that impact all of us, from traffic safety and investigations to homeless outreach and beyond.

There’s a lot happening behind the scenes to keep the City of Sarasota safe and connected. This is our chance to share those stories and to chat about what matters most to you.

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20 episodes
Avg 33 min
English

Episodes 20

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S2 · E23
September 15 · 31 min
Chat with the Chief: Back to School with Sarasota County Schools Superintendent Terry Connor
Send us Fan Mail School has been back in session for about a month, so how is the new school year going across Sarasota County? On this episode of Chat with the Chief, Chief Troche sits down with Sarasota County Schools Superintendent Terry Connor for a timely conversation about the start of the school year, the successes and challenges so far and what’s ahead for students, families, teachers and the entire school community. Tune in for an inside look at how Sarasota County Schools is kicking off another year of learning and growth. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S2 · E22
June 24 · 21 min
Chat with the Chief: Smooth Sailing into Summer Safety with Marine Patrol
Send us Fan Mail Ready to hit the water this summer? Join Chief Troche and the Marine Patrol Unit for an important conversation about boating safety, waterway awareness and the simple steps that can make all the difference in an emergency. On this episode of Chat with the Chief: Smooth Sailing into Summer Safety with Marine Patrol, you'll learn how to keep you and your family safe all season long. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S2 · E21
May 18 · 46 min
Chat with the Chief Podcast: Inside the Sarasota Police Department's Real-Time Operations Center
Send us Fan Mail The Sarasota Police Department Real-Time Operations Center (ROC) is a centralized hub that enhances public safety by bringing together live technology and real-time intelligence. It integrates tools such as traffic cameras, license plate readers, computer-aided dispatch data and other digital systems to give officers a comprehensive, real-time view of activity across the City of Sarasota. This improved situational awareness allows analysts and officers to quickly track developing incidents, support field units and respond more efficiently to crimes in progress. The ROC ultimately strengthens investigative capabilities and helps the department make faster, more informed decisions to better protect the community. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S2 · E20
January 30 · 1 hr 20 min
Chat with the Chief Podcast: Intimate Conversation with Commissioner Bill Bratton
Send us Fan Mail On this episode of Chat with the Chief, we're humbled to welcome Commissioner Bill Bratton to our podcast. Former leader of NYPD, Boston PD and LAPD. He’s a dedicated leader who cares deeply about public safety, our community and law enforcement. We appreciate his partnership and his willingness to join us for this important conversation. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S2 · E19
Dec 8, 2025 · 38 min
School & Safety: Sarasota County Schools Superintendent Sits Down with Chief Troche
Send us Fan Mail As the 2025-2026 school year continues, Sarasota Police and Sarasota County Schools are teaming up to talk about what safety really means on and off campus. Sarasota County Schools Superintendent Terry Connor joined Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche to talk about everything from managing the busy morning drop-off line to protecting student wellness and building trust between schools, law enforcement and families. They are discussing the issues that matter most on this episode of 'Chat with the Chief.' Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S2 · E18
Oct 23, 2025 · 28 min
Chat with the Chief: Ready for Anything with Sarasota County Emergency Manager Sandra Tapfumaneyi
Send us Fan Mail Chief Troche sits down with Sarasota County Emergency Manager Sandra Tapfumaneyi for an important conversation about hurricane season including what we learned from the historic 2024 season, how our community came together and what you can do to prepare before the next storm. City of Sarasota Hurricane Preparedness: https://www.sarasotafl.gov/Department-Pages/City-Manager/Communications/Hurricane-Preparedness Sarasota County Government Hurricane Preparedness: https://www.scgov.net/government/emergency-services/hurricane-preparedness-6291 Even though the busiest part of hurricane season is behind us, it’s not over until Nov. 30. Hurricane season runs June 1 through Nov. 30. Stay informed, stay prepared, and take care of one another, Sarasota. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S2 · E17
Sep 22, 2025 · 29 min
Chat with the Chief Returns
Send us Fan Mail We’re pleased to announce the return of the Sarasota Police Department’s podcast, Chat with the Chief. After a brief pause, we're excited to resume sharing conversations, insights and stories from our agency. On this episode, Captain Konstantopoulos and Lt. Quinlan, leaders of the Sarasota Police Department’s Support Services Division, join Chief Troche to discuss protests and public safety. The Sarasota Police Department is committed to protecting the constitutional right to peacefully protest while ensuring the safety of residents, visitors and demonstrators. Effective planning, communication and coordination with organizers are essential and our officers are trained in de-escalation, crowd management and public safety. The presence of our officers at demonstrations is intended to maintain safety, not to intimidate. We thank all who exercise their rights respectfully, as this strengthens our community and we remain dedicated to safeguarding both free speech and public safety for everyone involved. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E16
Dec 20, 2024 · 26 min
From Perth to Tampa: International Law Enforcement Partnerships, Part 2
Send us Fan Mail In Part 2 of this Chat with the Chief episode, Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche continues the conversation with Western Australia Police Force Detective Senior Constables Jamie Auhl and Brandon Jeffries and DEA Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Mike Furgason. The discussion highlights lessons learned from this international collaboration, the benefits of task force operations, and how these experiences will shape future law enforcement strategies in Australia. The guests also share their observations of life in the U.S., from driving adventures to celebrating the Fourth of July, and reflect on how Tampa and Perth compare as cities. Tune in for an engaging conclusion to this two-part series that underscores the value of global partnerships in law enforcement. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E15
Dec 13, 2024 · 41 min
From Perth to Tampa: International Law Enforcement Partnerships, Part 1
Send us Fan Mail In this special two-part Chat with the Chief episode, Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche hosts three distinguished guests: Western Australia Police Force Detective Senior Constables Jamie Auhl and Brandon Jeffries, and DEA Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Mike Furgason. Part 1 explores the unique collaboration between the Western Australia Police Force and the DEA in Tampa. Learn about the challenges and successes of tackling serious crimes like drug trafficking across international borders, the vast jurisdiction of Western Australia, and how task forces strengthen global law enforcement efforts. The conversation also highlights the cultural and operational differences between policing in the U.S. and Australia and dives into what makes Perth and Tampa surprisingly alike. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion about bridging continents to combat crime. Stay tuned for Part 2! Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E14
Sep 11, 2024 · 29 min
Weathering the Storm: Lessons from Hurricane Ian with Chief Todd Garrison
Send us Fan Mail In this Chat with the Chief episode, Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche is joined by North Port Police Chief Todd Garrison to reflect on the devastation of Hurricane Ian, two years after it made landfall. As the anniversary of this deadly storm approaches and the region enters peak hurricane season, the two chiefs discuss the lessons learned from the disaster, the investments made in equipment and technology to enhance response efforts, and the unwavering support from surrounding agencies that came together day after day. Tune in as Chief Garrison shares how the City of North Port has recovered, the resilience of its first responders, and the steps being taken to better prepare for future storms. Join us for an insightful discussion on leadership, community strength, and the power of collaboration in times of crisis. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E13
Jul 23, 2024 · 26 min
Reflecting with our Resident Olympic Gold Medalist, Officer Schwenk
Send us Fan Mail In this Chat with the Chief episode, Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche welcomes Officer Trip Schwenk, who took home gold and silver medals in the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, GA. Officer Schwenk competed in swimming. He is now a skilled member of the Sarasota Police Dive Team, assisting in derelict vessel removals and teaching water survival tactics to new recruits. In this episode, Officer Schwenk reflects on his Olympic accomplishments and shares how his athletic background has influenced his law enforcement career. Join us for an inspiring conversation as Officer Schwenk discusses the transition from elite athlete to dedicated public servant and how his unique skill set continues to benefit the Sarasota community. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E12
Jul 18, 2024 · 47 min
Law Enforcement Insights with Chuck Wexler
Send us Fan Mail In this Chat with the Chief episode, we're excited to welcome Chuck Wexler, the Executive Director of the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). Chuck shares the story of where his love for law enforcement began and why he chose to stay in the research field rather than become a sworn officer. Our discussion delves into successful and failed recruiting techniques, offering valuable insights for departments nationwide. We also explore the profound impact of body-worn cameras on the law enforcement field, highlighting their role in enhancing accountability and transparency. Looking ahead, Chuck discusses how AI could revolutionize the law enforcement landscape, bringing new opportunities and challenges. Join us for an engaging conversation with Chuck Wexler and Chief Rex Troche as we navigate the evolving world of law enforcement research and innovation. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E11
May 1, 2024 · 11 min
Strengthening Florida's Law Enforcement: A Chat with Attorney General Ashley Moody
Send us Fan Mail In this Chat with the Chief episode, we're thrilled to host Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody. Attorney General Moody's presence at the April 18, 2024, swearing-in ceremony for nine new officers marked a pivotal moment, highlighting her commitment to bolstering law enforcement across the Sunshine State. Her innovative "Be a Florida Hero" program, offering financial incentives to new Law Enforcement Officers, has made a profound impact, with eight out of nine officers in the recent class eligible for the bonus. During this Chat with the Chief, Attorney General Moody shares insights into the program's success and broader efforts to fortify law enforcement infrastructure statewide. Moreover, we celebrate the remarkable achievement of the Sarasota Police Department in keeping the City homicide-free in 2023, a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our officers. Join us for a compelling dialogue as we explore the initiatives, challenges, and triumphs shaping Florida's law enforcement landscape with Attorney General Ashley Moody and Chief Rex Troche. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E10
Feb 13, 2024 · 25 min
Mental Health and Relationships
Send us Fan Mail Joining Chief Troche on the podcast this episode is Denise Schonwald, a nationally licensed mental health counselor, published author, and public speaker in Sarasota, with over 30 years of experience as a registered nurse (RN) in the ICU. As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, Denise talks with Chief Troche about some best practices for navigating relationships and family life for law enforcement officers. The national average of marriages ending in divorce is around 50 percent. According to the FBI’s Law Enforcement Bulletin, the rate of divorce in law enforcement, whether one or both members are officers, can be as high as 70 percent. Denise talks through some strategies officers can use at home to increase communication and the best tools to process trauma endured on the job. You can connect with Denise by visiting her website, www.deniseschonwald.com, and mention our podcast, Chat with the Chief, to receive a free book. She can also be contacted by phone at 410-913-8963. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E9
Feb 2, 2024 · 34 min
How the Volunteer Coordinator plays into Crime Prevention
Send us Fan Mail Joining Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche on the podcast for this episode is Lashelle Williams, the Civilian Volunteer Coordinator. She works closely with the Community Relations (CRU) and Crime Prevention Units. The Crime Prevention Unit works with community groups, organizations, and businesses in an effort to identify mutual problems and community needs, identify police service needs, obtain community feedback, and exchange information. The Civilian Volunteer Coordinator oversees several programs in addition to volunteers, like the Citizen's Police Academy, Police Explorer Program, Chaplain Program, and Student Internship Programs. If you want to get involved with the Sarasota Police Department as a program participant or as a volunteer, please reach out to Lashelle Williams at 941-724-2749 or Lashelle.Williams@sarasotaFL.gov Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E8
Nov 14, 2023 · 30 min
Holiday Season with the Support Services Division
Send us Fan Mail Lieutenant Richie Schwieterman of our Support Services Division (SSD) is joining Chief Troche for this episode. The Support Services Division comprises the critical infrastructure components like the Body Worn Camera Program, Management Information Systems (MIS), Special Events and Extra-Duty, Facilities Maintenance, Records Management, Property and Evidence Unit, Fleet, and the Red-Light Camera Program. This time of the year is hectic for Support Services, as they plan for all of our holiday parades and events and make sure they are safe for all to enjoy. A lot goes into executing each event, and Lt. Schwieterman chats with the Chief about it! Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E7
Oct 3, 2023 · 36 min
Meet the Community Relations Unit (CRU) Crew
Send us Fan Mail Joining Chief Troche on the podcast this episode are two members of the new Community Relations Unit (CRU), Sergeant Comac and Officer Grochowski. Our CRU officers are dedicated to addressing quality-of-life concerns throughout our city. They are highly trained and bike-certified, allowing them to patrol area parks and neighborhoods efficiently. You may have already seen them at your local schools, where they greet students during morning drop-offs, provide homework assistance, or enjoy a game of sports with the kids after school. Learn about upcoming outreach events at the Sarasota Police Department and the grand opening of the Community Relations Unit Office in North Sarasota. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E6
Sep 1, 2023 · 34 min
Beyond the Beaches with Marine Patrol
Send us Fan Mail Joining Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche on the podcast this month are Officer Dixon and Officer Skinner of the Marine Patrol Unit. Learn about the many things their unit is tasked with, like enforcing marine laws and ordinances and investigating boating accidents. Officer Dixon and Officer Skinner also talk about how they assist the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission with derelict vessel investigations and removals. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E5
Aug 1, 2023 · 20 min
Recruiting the Best of the Best
Send us Fan Mail Joining Chief Troche on the podcast this episode is our top-notch recruiting team, Jack Carter and Enrique Nazario. Law enforcement continues to offer exciting career opportunities while meeting the ever-changing needs of our diverse community. Our recruiters are working hard to find the best and brightest candidates to enhance our dedicated workforce. In this episode, Jack and Enrique discuss what qualities they look for and what perks and benefits there are to being a Sarasota Police officer. Enrique is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel who served on active duty and in the Reserves for 32 years. Throughout his law enforcement career, Enrique served as a Federal Corrections Officer, a Trooper for the Indiana State Police, and 22 years at the Orlando Police Department, where he was a Master Police Officer and Recruiter. Jack is a retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel who joined the Sarasota Police Department family as a police officer in 1999 and retired as a White-Collar Crime Detective in 2013. He then served with the Florida Department of Veteran Affairs as a claims specialist and designated representative for veterans before the Board of Veteran Appeals. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.
S1 · E4
Jun 22, 2023 · 32 min
The Patrol Perspective with Captain Armstrong
Send us Fan Mail Joining Chief Troche on the podcast this episode is Captain Armstrong. He oversees the entire Patrol Division, which is considered by many to be the backbone of the Sarasota Police Department. With four rotating shifts covering ten work zones, officers provide police services within the City of Sarasota 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Patrol officers are the first to arrive on-scene at critical incidents occurring in the City of Sarasota. They routinely detect and deter crimes, render lifesaving and first-aid care on scene, collect evidence, conduct crash investigations, and interview victims, witnesses, and suspects. In addition, they attend numerous community outreach events and often collaborate with the Department’s other divisions. Chat with the Chief is the official podcast of the Sarasota Police Department, where Chief Troche speaks with department leaders and community partners about public safety, policing and issues that impact our community. Each episode offers insights, stories from the field and guidance on how residents and visitors can stay informed and engaged.

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