The Detectives Podcast

Triton Publishing LLC

The Detectives Podcast is an award-winning podcast hosted by Dave and Steve, two active detectives with more than 35 years of combined law enforcement experience. Together, they pull back the curtain on criminal investigations, policing, and the criminal justice system. They explore investigative techniques, police procedures, mental health, leadership, courtroom realities, and the human side of the job. Along the way, they share firsthand experiences, break down real cases, answer listener questions, and sit down with professionals from across the field.

It's an honest look at law enforcement: the good, the bad, and the untold. Dave and Steve take their work seriously, but they never take themselves too seriously. Expect unfiltered conversations, behind-the-scenes stories, dark humor, and plenty of laughs along the way.

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22 episodes
Avg 52 min
English

Episodes 22

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September 1 · 42 min
Building the Timeline
Dave and Steve explain how detectives build investigative timelines using witness statements, surveillance footage, phone records, digital data, financial transactions, and other evidence. They break down how timelines help establish sequence, test alibis, expose contradictions, identify gaps, and determine what was physically possible. They also discuss why timestamps must be verified, how timeline evidence may be challenged in court, and why investigators must be willing to change direction when the facts disprove their original theory. A timeline isn’t built simply to prove guilt. It is built to test the evidence and help determine what actually happened. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 25 · 59 min
CrimeSCENES: The Departed
In this edition of CrimeSCENES, Dave and Steve take Martin Scorsese’s The Departed through the official scorecard from the perspective of two active detectives. They explore whether the undercover operation at the center of the story could actually work, along with the film’s portrayal of organized crime, informants, police corruption, investigative decisions, and the emotional toll. They compare their results with the Squad’s scores and comments before delivering their final verdict on how closely this Academy Award-winning cop movie resembles real police work. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 18 · 1 hr 19 min
Detectives Do That?
Detectives investigate crimes, interview suspects, and make arrests, but what else comes with the job? In this episode, Dave and Steve explore the parts of being a detective that many people never see or may not even know about. From unexpected responsibilities to the work that continues long after an investigation ends, they reveal how much of the job happens outside the crime scene. Because yes, detectives do that too. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 13 · 18 min
Squad Meeting: August 2026
In our August Squad Meeting, we celebrate Dave’s birthday, reflect on the start of year two of the podcast, and talk about our new series, CrimeSCENES. We revisit Heat (1995), break down a scorecard submitted by one of our Investigative Commanders, and announce August’s movie! Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 11 · 1 hr 7 min
Both Sides of the Stop
An officer and a driver usually meet as complete strangers, each carrying their own fears, assumptions, and unknowns into the traffic stop. In this episode, Dave and Steve examine these encounters from both perspectives, discussing what officers experience as they approach a vehicle, what drivers and passengers may be feeling, and the rights and responsibilities that exist on both sides. It’s an honest conversation about communication, professionalism, constitutional rights, and the choices both officers and citizens can make to reduce unnecessary escalation and find some common ground. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
August 4 · 52 min
From the Outside Looking In: Citizens Academy
Patreon Lead Detective Jen joins Dave and Steve to discuss going through a Citizens Academy program with her husband and getting an inside look at police work. She shares what they expected, what surprised them, and the experiences that stood out most. From traffic stops and investigations to training and the human side of the job, the conversation explores what the public often misunderstands and whether seeing the work firsthand changed the way Jen and her husband viewed policing. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 28 · 1 hr 22 min
CrimeSCENES: Heat (1995)
Welcome to the first episode of CrimeSCENES, a new series from The Detectives Podcast. Each episode, Dave and Steve put a different cop movie under the microscope through the eyes of two active detectives. They'll talk investigations, police procedures, criminal behavior, courtroom realities, and the emotional toll of the job, all while separating Hollywood from real life. This time, they're breaking down Heat (1995). Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 21 · 51 min
The Fight That Didn't Happen
Dave and Steve break down the body camera footage from Dustin Poirier's public intoxication arrest at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, using it as a real example of police de-escalation done right. They cover what de-escalation actually is, what it isn't, and how officers use time, distance, and backup to avoid unnecessary force. The episode also looks closely at the responding officer's handling of a tense encounter with a professional mixed martial arts fighter, along with what Poirier said afterward, including his public comments and what he thought about law enforcement's response to his arrest. Body Camera Video: https://cityofatlanta-my.sharepoint.com/personal/awgrant_atlantaga_gov/_layouts/15/stream.aspx?id=%2Fpersonal%2Fawgrant%5Fatlantaga%5Fgov%2FDocuments%2F11700%20Spine%20Rd%2C%20Delta%20Gate%20D36%5F062126%5F261728087%2Emp4&ga=1&referrer=StreamWebApp%2EWeb&referrerScenario=AddressBarCopied%2Eview%2E5b055bf1%2D4296%2D4ef6%2D8ecb%2Dabe1053005f9 Atlanta PD Press Release: https://www.atlantapd.org/Home/Components/News/News/8389/71 Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 14 · 57 min
Behind the Headset
State police dispatcher Emily joins Dave and Steve for a conversation about the stories behind the headset, from the calls that made her laugh to the voices she still carries home. She explains how dispatchers read people without seeing them, recognize clues hidden in background noise, coordinate major incidents, and sometimes save officers and citizens before anyone reaches the scene. Along the way, they discuss what the public misunderstands about dispatch, what callers should know before dialing 911, and what officers appreciate about a great dispatcher. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 9 · 1 hr 14 min
Squad Meeting: July 2026 | One Year Later
One year after launching The Detectives Podcast, we’re using this July 2026 Squad Meeting to look back at everything that made our first year more than we ever expected. We talk about launching the show in July 2025, breaking into Apple’s Top 100 True Crime chart, building our Patreon Squad, attending conventions, winning three podcast awards, and welcoming some incredible guests along the way. We also look back at important series like The War We Owe Them and K-9 Roll Call, while looking ahead to the official launch of CrimeSCENES. Most importantly, we take time to thank every listener, Patreon member, guest, supporter, and person who helped the podcast grow. Our first year was more than we imagined, and now we’re excited to see what our second year brings! Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast:https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 7 · 57 min
Come Back With a Warrant
“Come back with a warrant.” Don't worry, we already got one. In this episode, Dave and Steve take listeners behind the scenes of the warrant process, from where it begins and how probable cause is built, to judicial review, execution, and what happens after a warrant is served. They break down the differences between search and arrest warrants, tackle common myths about police authority, and explain why warrants are not simply legal obstacles, but some of the strongest investigative tools available. Most importantly, they show why the warrant process matters to citizens, detectives, and the integrity of the entire criminal justice system. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 30 · 48 min
Cold Doesn’t Mean Forgotten
When a case goes cold, it doesn’t mean detectives stop caring or that the victim has been forgotten. In this episode, Dave and Steve discuss what actually causes a case to lose investigative momentum. They look at exhausted leads, limited evidence, uncooperative witnesses, technology limitations, and sometimes, simple bad luck. They also talk about the emotional weight these cases carry, the difficult resource decisions agencies face, and how one new witness, one new piece of technology, or one fresh set of eyes can bring a cold case back to life. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 23 · 47 min
Beyond the Rank
Leadership and rank are not always the same thing, but both matter in law enforcement. In this episode, Dave and Steve discuss the people who shaped them throughout their careers, from supervisors and command staff to veteran officers and detectives whose influence extended far beyond their job titles. They also talk about why leadership has to change with the situation, the challenges that can come with promotions, and what organizations lose when decades of experience walk out the door. Leadership matters in every profession, but the stakes can be especially high in law enforcement. The decisions leaders make can affect morale, careers, public safety, and, in critical moments, whether people go home safely at the end of the day. Ultimately, leadership is not just about the authority someone holds. It is about the judgment, culture, knowledge, and example they leave behind. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 16 · 39 min
Let’s Call It a Day
A viral traffic stop involving a woman accused of holding a cellphone in a hand she doesn’t have raises a much bigger question: what happens when an officer realizes their original assessment may have been wrong? In this episode, Dave and Steve discuss why admitting mistakes can be difficult in a profession built around confidence and decisiveness, how ego can interfere with good judgment, and why humility is an essential part of the job. They also talk about the role training, accountability, and self-reflection play after a mistake is made, and why sometimes the most professional decision an officer can make is to simply call it a day. Traffic Stop Video: One-armed woman shuts down officer during texting-and-driving stop Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 12 · 22 min
Squad Meeting: June 2026
In this month's Squad Meeting, we share a few podcast updates, including a scheduling change to our live stream this month, and preparations for our upcoming one-year anniversary. We also introduce CrimeSCENES, a new monthly series where we review police movies through the perspective of experienced, active detectives. We explain the Patreon voting process, listener participation, and the evidence marker scoring system. As always, we appreciate all of your support and look forward to building the next chapter of the show together! Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 9 · 39 min
No Witness? No Confession? No Problem.
When people hear the phrase "circumstantial evidence," they often assume it means investigators don't really know what happened. In reality, circumstantial evidence plays an important role in many criminal investigations and prosecutions. Crimes frequently occur without eyewitnesses, and confessions are less common than many people think. Instead, investigators piece together timelines, forensic findings, digital evidence, behavior, and other facts to determine what the evidence supports. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 2 · 1 hr 10 min
Cross Examined #9: A Conversation with a SANE Nurse
Note: We experienced some audio corruption during the first several minutes of this episode. We apologize for the rough audio quality at the beginning. It clears up shortly afterward. This week, Dave and Steve release a special edition of Cross Examined, a Patreon series where listeners join the show and ask questions directly. This episode features Angela, one of the show's Lead Detectives on Patreon. Angela has been a registered nurse for 30 years and recently became a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE). Together, they discuss the critical role SANE nurses play in sexual assault investigations, from caring for victims to collecting evidence and working alongside law enforcement. The conversation explores trauma-informed interviewing, memory recall, delayed reporting, anonymous reporting, cultural barriers that can affect reporting, and the realities of investigating strangulation cases. Angela explains the examination process, the challenges of evidence collection, and they talk about why evidence is not always present even when a crime occurred. Dave, Steve, and Angela also discuss false reports, mental health considerations, the role of technology in modern investigations, and what comes next after a career in investigations. If you enjoy this episode and would like access to more Cross Examined conversations, bonus content, live streams, behind-the-scenes updates, ad-free episodes, early access, and opportunities to join the podcast yourself, visit the Patreon link below. Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 26 · 53 min
Just Because We Can
In policing, there are moments where an officer may be legally justified, backed by department policy, and tactically correct, but still ask themselves: just because we can, does that mean we should? The episode explores the tension between procedure and empathy, and how experience changes the way officers view enforcement, suffering, and the people they encounter. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 19 · 59 min
Mental Health Awareness Isn’t Enough
Dave and Steve take an honest look at why conversations about police mental health continue to repeat themselves year after year. During Mental Health Awareness Month, they break down the reality that most officers already know these struggles exist, yet many departments and individuals still feel stuck in the same cycle. From emotional suppression and command presence to trust gaps, surface-level wellness initiatives, and the fear of speaking up, they examine how the culture of policing was built and why changing it is far more complicated than simply raising awareness. Mental Health Resources National Mental Health & Crisis Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or Text: 988 24/7 confidential support for mental health crises, emotional distress, substance abuse concerns, or suicidal thoughts. Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741 Free 24/7 confidential crisis counseling by text message. SAMHSA National Helpline Call: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) Free and confidential treatment referral and information service for mental health and substance use support. Available 24/7. Law Enforcement / First Responder Resources CopLine Call: 1-800-267-5463 24/7 confidential hotline staffed by retired law enforcement officers for officers and their families. Safe Call Now Call: 206-459-3020 Confidential 24/7 crisis referral service for law enforcement, first responders, and their families. ResponderStrong Mental health, PTSD, stress, and resilience resources specifically for first responders. https://responderstrong.org/ Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 14 · 31 min
Squad Meeting: May 2026
In this May 2026 Squad Meeting, we break down our full weekend at PopCon Indy 2026 from Friday through Sunday. We talk about the convention, the PopCon Podcast Awards, and the incredible conversations we had throughout the weekend. We also share some funny stories, memorable moments, and some of the great food we tried while we were in Indianapolis. Most importantly, we want to thank all of you. None of this would be possible without the support of our listeners, Patreon members, family, friends, coworkers, and everyone who continues to support The Detectives Podcast. We are incredibly grateful to PopCon for having us. We also appreciate every person who stopped by the booth, asked questions, shared stories, or spent time talking with us. Thank you for making this such an unforgettable weekend! Want to see exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus pictures from the weekend? Click the link below and join our Patreon for bonus content, extra photos, and more! Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcast Join us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectives Shop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcast Directly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectives See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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