Climbing the Law Enforcement Ladder

Guardian Mindset Podcast

Episode Summary:

In this captivating episode, we have the privilege of welcoming retired Chief Terri Wilfong, a trailblazing female leader in law enforcement, to share her incredible journey.

Terri's story, starting from her humble beginnings in Kentucky and reaching the highest levels of law enforcement, is undeniably inspiring. Join us as Terri reflects on her experiences, from her very first day on the job to her remarkable rise to the position of Chief.

Our conversation with Chief Terri Wilfong (Ret.) goes beyond a mere recollection of her experiences; it's a treasure trove of insights for anyone in a supervisory role. Her leadership style is centered around nurturing her team and fostering intellectual growth, making it a valuable masterclass for those in leadership positions.

Looking ahead, Terri provides her perspective on the ever-evolving landscape of law enforcement, sharing her observations on the changes she's witnessed and offering guidance on how officers can navigate the current media scrutiny. This enlightening conversation is not to be missed.

From embracing passion in the job to building strong relationships, Terri's wisdom is a beacon for those in, or aspiring to join law enforcement.

Resources:

• Follow DLG on LinkedIn
• Follow Attorney Eric Daigle on LinkedIn
• Learn more about the DLG Learning Center
• Don't miss this golden opportunity to receive leadership training directly from Chief Wilfong (Ret.). Our training program is tailored for supervisors and command personnel, offering valuable insights and expertise to help you excel in your role. Join us today: Training Built for Supervisors & Command

About the Guest:

Terri Wilfong served as the Chief of Police in the City of Greenville, South Carolina after a seven-year tenure. As the Chief of Police, the agency was the first in the state of South Carolina to implement a Crisis Intervention Team. The agency of 250 persons is recognized as one of the top ten cities to live in the United States.

During 30 + years in law enforcement, she has previously served in the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, Kentucky State Police, and the Jefferson County Police Department. Terri was assigned to multiple units including Criminal Investigation, Internal Affairs, Accreditations Manager, and the Hostage Negotiations Team. In 2003, the Jefferson County Police Department and the Louisville Division of Police were merged into the new Louisville Metro Police Department. Terri was selected to serve as a Lieutenant Colonel in the first command staff of the Louisville Metro Police Department. She was assigned to the operations division including the Patrol Division, Specialty Divisions, and the Kentucky Derby.

She currently is a Master Instructor with the FBI-LEEDA teaching the Trilogy, Internal Affairs, and the Reflective Leadership. Terri is a Law Enforcement Consultant for Daigle Law Group with the responsibility of reviewing and revising law enforcement policies and procedures to maintain and reflect constitutional police practices regarding the use of force legal standards, training and investigations involving the use of force. She is a Law Enforcement Consultant for Lockup Police Training Systems and provides training in communication skills, evidence based active de-escalation strategies and Fair and impartial policing. Terri is a certified law enforcement trainer for the Department of Criminal Justice Training (DOCJT) in the Commonwealth of Kentucky

Terri works with National Public Safety Partnership (PSP). She is the Strategic Site Liaison Assigned to Richmond VA Police Department. The Expedited Delivery of Assistance as a DOJ-wide program is in the core areas: Criminal Justice Collaboration, Community Engagement, Crime Analysis, Gun Violence, Constitutional Policing, Federal Partnerships, Technology and investigations.

Terri currently serves as a member of a monitoring team that oversees the implementation of a Consent Decree by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The Decree requires several specific reforms aimed at ensuring effective, safe and constitutional policing is implemented into the law enforcement agency.

Terri has presented to the Use of Force Summit, IACP, Southern Police Institute, local government hearings and both public and private entities. Ms. Wilfong served as the IACP Chair of the Crime Prevention Committee and the Conference Committee. She has served as the National Secretary to the Southern Police Institute Alumni Associations

She has received the Liberty Award by the Greenville Bar Association, the YMCA Women of Achievement Award, the Breaking Class Ceiling Award from the National Center for Women and Policing and the Southern Police Institute Alumni Association Outstanding Performance Award.

Ms. Wilfong holds Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Justice Administration, both from The University of Louisville. She is a graduate of the Southern Police Institute, 95th Administrative Officer's Course and served on the National SPIAA Executive Board.