Source: US FBI
Just a few weeks after the prison incident, we worked closely again with the Delaware State Police after a man killed one of its officers (a fellow negotiator) outside a convenience store and then barricaded himself in a family member’s house.
Both situations were terrible and tragic, but law enforcement responded quickly and professionally. Incidents like this draw people together and build trust, which helps us respond more effectively when facing crisis situations.
What is the best career or life advice you have to give?
Build bridges. During one assignment I was warned that a particular partner was very difficult to work with. But I wasn’t willing to take that as a given. I kept working it until I was able to develop a great working relationship. Strong partnerships are essential to mission success.
What is the best career or life advice you’ve been given?
I never thought I would go into leadership just because I love working cases and supporting victims. But I had a female supervisor who believed in me and told me to push myself out of my comfort zone and work on developing the people coming behind me. That really affected me and changed the trajectory of my career.