Behind the Star: Recent Episodes
Orange County Sheriff's Office
Behind the Star is the official podcast of the Orange County Sheriff's Office, the largest law enforcement agency in Central Florida. From forensics to dispatch to the deputies on patrol, we share stories and talk to the brave men and women of law enforcement.
Director of Strategic Communications Michelle Guido joins the podcast to talk about a program that has taken on real importance at the Orange County Sheriff's Office. The Community Crime Prevention Awards use seized drug money to support groups that give young people guidance and improve safety in neighborhoods.
Michelle explains how the idea started and how it grew into a reliable source of support for local organizations. She also walks through how applications are reviewed and why this program has become a steady point of connection between the agency and the community.
0:00 – How the Community Crime Prevention Awards began 1:12 – What the Law Enforcement Trust Fund is and how seized money can be used 2:07 – Opening the program to smaller, lesser-known organizations 2:30 – First-year launch and early success 3:25 – Growth over five years and approaching $1 million given back 4:20 – Who can apply and what types of programs align with crime prevention 5:45 – Why turning drug money into community support matters 6:55 – Award amounts, vetting, and how recipients are selected 8:18 – Common mistakes and applications that don't qualify 9:13 – Examples of funded programs and success stories 15:25 – How far the funding can go for the right groups 16:43 – Annual award event and building relationships with recipients 17:03 – Tips for first-time applicants and what criteria matter most 20:23 – What the money can and cannot pay for 21:35 – Why the program continues to grow and evolve 22:51 – Deadline, approval process, and when awards are announced 24:57 – Final thoughts and where to apply
Deputy Romaine Campbell opens up about the loss of his young son, how that tragedy reshaped him, and the long, uneven process of finding purpose again. He talks about the job, the pain he tried to outrun, the help he finally accepted, and the work he's doing today to support others walking through their own darkness. 0:00 – Getting into law enforcement 2:40 – The night he got the call about his son 7:55 – Working nonstop to outrun the pain 9:35 – Realizing he wasn't healed 15:11 – Getting help and starting to process everything 19:17 – Time in the courthouse and as an SRO 20:31 – Message about seeking help 23:10 – Writing his book and starting his nonprofit 25:30 – Blessings in his life now 27:09 – How he handles the long delay in the trial 29:07 – Final thoughts for listeners
In this episode of Behind the Star, we visit the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Unit to learn what it’s really like to patrol on horseback.
Master Deputy Lindsay Gonzalez and Corporal Niko Velazquez share how they joined the mounted unit, what it takes to train for the job and the strong bonds formed between deputies and their horses.
Lindsay and Niko talk about patrol work, crowd control, parades, and how horses play a role in community engagement and search and rescue. They also discuss training challenges, funny stories from the field, and what it’s like when a horse retires.
0:44 – History and purpose of the unit 2:30 – Horses: how many, how they’re assigned, and their personalities 7:20 – Daily care, barn duties, and the reality of poop patrol 10:32 – Matching horses to events and understanding their temperaments 11:34 – Where the horses come from and why most are donated 15:13 – Meet James, Justice, Grace, Alessandro, Pocket Change, Remington, Pete, and Blackjack 29:14 – Retirement: when, why, and where they go 31:00 – Law enforcement uses: presence, patrol, and search and rescue 35:12 – Memorable stories, de-escalations, and the public’s love for the unit 39:20 – Weird snacks, funny habits, and diva horses 42:00 – Horses’ intelligence, emotions, and long memories
In this episode of Behind the Star, we sit down with Hostage Negotiation team leaders Lieutenants Abby Hilley and Bill Bartlett for a look inside one of the most intense and high-stakes units at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Abby and Bill share insights into the psychology, preparation, and pressure behind the badge.
Segment Breakdown:
0:44 – Lt. Bartlett shares a real callout story and explains when the Hostage gets involved3:49 – Who joins the team, how they train, and how the 20-person roster is managed9:03 – The pressure of knowing lives are on the line12:54 – What kinds of requests or demands do people make during standoffs?14:37 – Misconceptions about hostage negotiations16:52 – How they decide who makes the team18:48 – Why consistent training is critical20:17 – How long can a negotiation last?23:12 – How often do cases involve actual hostages?24:25 – How they make first contact—and what they’re listening for29:52 – Most surprising encounter in the field32:54 – Do they follow up with the people they help?36:56 – What led Hilley and Bartlett to become negotiators
In this episode of Behind the Star, we visit with Crime Scene Investigator Mikayla Overholtzer and Forensic Firearms Specialist Marriah Herro to uncover what forensics work really looks like at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Mikayla and Marriah break down how they got into the field, what it’s like to work in their unit and how forensics plays a key role in solving everything from shootings to suspicious deaths. Marriah shares how firearms are test-fired, linked to crimes using NIBIN, and even restored when serial numbers are destroyed. Mikayla walks us through her process at crime scenes, including the tough emotional side of the job and how the team supports one another.
You’ll hear wild stories from the field and find out why some scenes smell worse than others. The episode also includes fun rapid-fire questions and heartfelt moments about what drives them to do this work and what they’re most proud of.
0:24 – TV vs. Reality: How shows shape public perception of forensics 2:16 – How Mikayla and Marriah got into the field 3:42 – Overview of the Forensics Unit and roles; why so many women in CSI 5:07 – Types of crime scenes OCSO responds to 8:08 – Marriah breaks down firearms forensics and NIBIN 11:47 – Role of forensic biologists and fingerprint analysts 14:00 – Fun questions: weirdest crime scene finds, unexpected parts of the job 16:18 – Impact of regularly seeing death and trauma as a CSI 19:56 – Mikayla’s scene-processing workflow 23:16 – Memorable moments and stories from the field 30:37 – How friends and family react to their careers 31:57 – Eureka moments, staying updated on case outcomes, proudest moments 37:24 – Testifying in court, mentoring others, advice for aspiring forensic professionals 43:57 – The unit’s family dynamic and trauma bonding 46:28 – Rapid-fire fun: worst smells, weirdest evidence, most “Florida” things 49:23 – Marriah on oddball guns and a test-firing mishap
In this episode of Behind the Star, we sit down with Drone Coordinator Mike Kleinfelt to learn how drones are transforming law enforcement at the Orange County Sheriff's Office. From assisting in critical missions to providing an eye in the sky when helicopters aren’t an option, Mike breaks down how, when, and why OCSO deploys this technology.
He also clears up common misconceptions about drones, explains how the agency addresses privacy concerns, and shares some memorable stories from the field. With a background in law enforcement and a passion for innovation, Mike offers a behind-the-scenes look at the growing role of drones in public safety and what the future might hold.
(0:30) – Introduction to drone operations at the Orange County Sheriff's Office (1:50) – Common misconceptions about drones in law enforcement (3:59) – When and why drones are used instead of helicopters (5:43) – Mike Kleinfelt’s background and career in law enforcement (9:10) – Memorable stories from the field involving drone deployments (13:24) – How often OCSO deploys drones in real-world situations (15:06) – Addressing public concerns about drones and surveillance (16:24) – What it takes to become a drone operator at OCSO (17:55) – The future of drone technology in law enforcement (20:34) – Rapid-fire questions with Mike (26:15) – What the public should know about drones in law enforcement
In this episode, we take you inside the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Teen Academy — a unique, hands-on summer experience for local teens. You’ll learn how the program started, who it's for, and what makes it stand out from a typical summer camp. From flying drones and meeting the K9 Unit to exploring forensics, SWAT demos, and even an obstacle course, this episode highlights the wide range of experiences teens can expect. We also talk about what the week is like for the deputies and staff who lead the program, and how the academy helps build trust and connection between law enforcement and the community. Whether your teen is thinking about a future in law enforcement or just wants an unforgettable week, this episode gives you the full picture.
- (0:00): Introductions
- (1:20): What is the Teen Academy?
- (3:38): Why does OCSO do the Teen Academy?
- (4:01): How does Teen Academy compare to a typical summer camp?
- (4:48): What happens during the week? (detailing the activities)
- (10:01): What else do parents need to know before registering?
- (10:53): What the week is like for teens and deputies
- (13:40): Dates available for the 3 Teen Academies
- (14:05): How Teen Academy has evolved over the years
- (17:13): Sometimes the camp inspires a career in law enforcement
- (19:58): Are there similar programs for adults?
- (22:35): What happens at graduation at the end of the week?
In this episode, we sit down with K9 Deputy Angie Keller to explore the incredible work she does with her Bloodhound, Wyatt. Together, they achieved 23 successful finds in 2024. Angie shares stories from the field, explains what it’s like working with Wyatt every day, and talks about personality traits that make Wyatt such a special partner. From the science of scent tracking to the way they celebrate a successful find, this episode gives you an inside look at the bond between a K9 handler and her dog.
- (0:00): Meeting Deputy Keller and her history at OCSO
- (1:10): Why the agency uses bloodhounds and the training involved
- (3:33): Dog retirement and whether Wyatt goes home with Angie
- (5:10): How Wyatt picks up a scent
- (6:44): Common cases: finding children with autism or elders with dementia
- (8:14): Stories from the 23 finds made in 2024
- (14:11): The usefulness of free scent kits
RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS
- (16:02): How far can Wyatt track a scent?
- (16:39): What is the weirdest item you’ve used to track someone?
- (17:03): How does Wyatt indicate he’s found someone?
- (17:33): What’s a typical day off like for Wyatt?
- (18:04): What conditions are the most difficult for Wyatt to track in?
- (20:11): Wyatt’s personality: like a toddler’s
- (21:20): Commands: What words does Angie use?
- (22:33): Does Wyatt know the difference between work and downtime?
- (23:57): How do Angie and Wyatt celebrate or reward a find?
In this episode, we sit down with Sergeant Ryan Donovan and Master Deputy Jovi Santos from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team. They share insights into the purpose and history of SWAT, what their day-to-day job entails, and the camaraderie that makes the unit so unique. We also dive into the selection process, common misconceptions about SWAT, and an inside look at the annual SWAT Round-Up International competition.
- (0:00): Meeting Sgt. Donovan and MD Santos
- (2:15): Process for joining SWAT
- (4:00): How has SWAT changed over the years?
- (5:08): Explaining the origin of SWAT
- (6:36): How often is SWAT called on?
- (7:10): How big is our team?
- (7:33): What's it like when you first join?
- (9:22): Challenges and stresses of the job
- (10:10): Why is the job appealing?
- (12:36): What is a typical day like?
- (14:05): Sgt. Donovan shares some unfortunate stories
- (15:19): What is the most common call SWAT goes on?
- (15:48): What most commonly goes wrong?
- (16:36): Training is most of the job
- (17:50): Explaining the selection process
- (21:23): Camaraderie is important to the team
- (22:56): SWAT Round-up International
- (34:43): Mike Milmerstadt's legacy at the agency
- (35:38): How SWAT recruits
- (38:36): Common misconceptions about SWAT
In this episode of Behind the Star, Garbrielle Griffith, an Emergency Communications Specialist, and Nikaela Phillip, a 911 Supervisor, share their experiences from the front lines of emergency response. They recount some of the most impactful calls they've handled, offering a glimpse into the intense and often unpredictable nature of their work.
Garbrielle and Nikaela discuss what it takes to thrive in this demanding role, the kind of person best suited for the job and the preparation required to handle the constant unknowns. They also explore how many use this position as a stepping stone into law enforcement, highlighting the skills and insights gained from their experiences.
- (1:55): The seriousness and stress of the job
- (9:05): The Comm Center looks like you would expect from a TV show or movie
- (10:17): How long does it take to feel comfortable in the role?
- (11:23): Learning how to do the job
- (13:38): Traits and skills needed to be a 911 operator
- (15:24): How has this job changed you?
- (17:04): The biggest miscinceptions about 911 operators
- (18:11): Gabrielle and Nikaela share some of their most memorable calls
- (25:31): Why you should consider applying for a job here
In this episode of Behind the Star, Koreen Baker and Delaney Saunders from the Victim Advocates Unit discuss the critical support they provide to victims of crime and crisis, the types of calls they respond to, and how they prepare themselves mentally and emotionally for their challenging roles.
Koreen and Delaney explain the importance of working closely with deputies and detectives, the resources available to victims, and the essential qualities and training required for their work. They also delve into the structure of the Victim Advocates unit and how their approach compares to other agencies nationwide.
Additionally, they highlight the special role of therapy dogs in their work, including the training and significant impact these canine companions have on victims and the community.
Tune in to hear personal stories, motivations, and the challenges of being a Victim Advocate, as well as some rapid-fire questions that reveal more about Koreen and Delaney's experiences and perspectives.
Join us for an in-depth look at the vital work of Victim Advocates and the profound difference they make in the lives of those they serve.
In the concluding episode of our series on legislative reforms, we address a loophole in Risk Protection Orders (RPOs)—the lack of penalties for providing firearms to individuals under an RPO. Sheriff John Mina proposes making it a felony to knowingly give a gun to someone under an RPO. Cristal Maisonet, assistant general counsel at OCSO, joins us to discuss the impact of this change and how it would strengthen protections against gun violence.
(1:25) What is a Risk Protection Order (RPO)? (2:10) How are RPO's implemented in Florida? (7:50) Have RPO's been effective so far? (10:10) Explaining the current loophole the law (12:48) How do people respond to being placed under and RPO? (14:02) Addressing the loophole
In the third episode of our four-part series on Sheriff Mina's legislative priorities, we explore the mission to strengthen protections for our children with Lt. Chip Denmark. We discuss the current law in Florida, where luring or enticing a child under 12 into a secluded space is shockingly only a misdemeanor. Highlighting the need for change, Sheriff Mina proposes making this act a felony.
(0:54) Explaining the current Florida law
(1:53) Past examples of this law being applied
(2:53) Electronic luring of a child is already a felony
(3:41) Challenges for law enforement when it is only a misdemeanor
(4:42) Explaining Sheriff Mina's goal to make it a felony
In the second episode of our four-part series, we delve into Sheriff John Mina's legislative push against the dangers of street racing, reckless driving and intersection takeovers with Lt. Mike Crabbe. Highlighting the growing menace these activities pose to public safety, the discussion covers proposed legal reforms aimed at escalating penalties, including turning second offenses into felonies and increasing fines for spectators, to deter such hazardous behavior and ensure safer streets for the community.
- (1:45): A brief history of OCSO's efforts to combat the problem
- (2:50): All of these illegal street activities are considered RVO's
- (4:01): Recent trends we've seen
- (6:38): The role of social media with reckless vehicle operation
- (8:26): The problem, and the public's frustration, is widespread
- (10:10): The Sheriff's legislative proposal to combat the problem
- (16:10): Success stories from the last year of tackling the issue
We dive into Sheriff John Mina's legislative initiative aimed at transforming the safety landscape of after hours clubs. Featuring guest Lt. Joseph Bellizio, the episode explores the critical need to elevate illegal alcohol sales to a felony as part of a broader effort to ensure community safety.
- (1:13): Strike team established in November to go after after hours clubs
- (4:20): What dangerous activities happen at these clubs
- (5:03): Biggest challenges in dealing with these clubs
- (6:30): What these clubs look like
- (7:18): Understanding the Sheriff's legislative proposal to combat these clubs
- (9:20): Strike team is making an impact
- (11:20): How the public can give tips to OCSO
Orange County Sheriff's Office Captain Darryl Blanford and a narcotics agent, whose identity remains undisclosed due to the sensitive nature of his work, talk about the enigmatic realm of Xylazine, a drug commonly known as "Tranq" or the "Zombie Drug."
- (1:39): An overview of Xylazine
- (5:01): Will Xylazine replace Fentanyl?
- (8:12): Xylazine can cause rotting of flesh in users
- (9:10): Because Xylazine is not an opioid, Naloxone (Narcan) does not reverse its effects
- (14:09): Fake pills are another major concern
- (18:55): Penalties for trafficking
- (21:26): Misconceptions about users
- (26:58): Ways OCSO is combating the drug problem
Master Deputy Nick Mahon and Deputy Doug Kimberlin talk about why the Orange County Sheriff's Office has a Marine Unit, break down some of the unique parts of the job and explain some of the challenges of working on the water during summer holiday weekends like Memorial Day.
For people diagnosed with a memory disorder or family members caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease, the dangers of wandering and getting lost are a major concern.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office offers free Scent Preservation Kits to pre-collect and preserve a person’s unique scent ahead of time giving responding K-9 Units a head start during a search with an uncontaminated scent article.
In this episode, Corporal Kyle Ramsey and Deputy Angie Keller talk about how the scent kits work and their usefulness in finding a missing person.
To pick up a free Scent Evidence K-9 Collection Kit from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, come to our Central Operations Building, 2500 W. Colonial Drive, and enter the lobby that faces Colonial Drive. The lobby hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The Orange County Police Athletic League provides athletic, recreational, and educational programs for kids by using dedicated Orange County Sheriff’s deputies as coaches and mentors. The deputies work at select schools in Orange County and organize flag football, soccer and basketball leagues. PAL Deputies Maurice Crum and Shawn Randall join Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker to talk about sports, the students and why PAL matters.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office K9s go through extensive training. On this episode, OCSO deputies Robert Lees and Angie Keller discuss K9 Tracking School, a 400-hour training course for dogs and handlers.
New deputies at the Orange County Sheriff's Office must undergo Basic Recruit Training. The 8-week training teaches deputies "the Orange County Way" of law enforcement. Corporal Ken Jorgensen and Master Deputy Autumn Chouinard of the Training Section join Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker to discuss Basic Recruit Training.
The OCSO Emergency Response Team (ERT) is made up of more than 75 deputies whose job is to respond to emergencies, including hurricane rescue efforts. Following Hurricane Ian, the Emergency Response Team was deployed to flooded neighborhoods in Orange County to evacuate residents. Sgt. Matt Schroeder and Master Deputy Kent Matherne talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about how the team prepared for Hurricane Ian and the on-going rescue efforts across Florida.
In August 1992, deputies at the Orange County Sheriff's Office found the body of John Stagner. An Orange County maintenance worker, Stagner had been beaten to death in his bed at a county maintenance property where he lived. Last week, Orange County Sheriff John Mina announced the arrest of Ronald Cates in connection with the murder. Corporal Dave Nutting and Detective Kevin Wilson talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the murder and how the case was solved.
Members of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Unit work with the community to stop a crime before it can occur. Sgt. Helen Harvey and Master Deputy Stanley Murray talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the Crime Prevention Unit and how a few simple upgrades can reduce the likelihood of being a victim of crime.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Motor Unit is a county-wide unit that conducts traffic enforcement as well as provides security escorts for visiting dignitaries, conducts funeral escorts and participates in community relations and educational events. Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talks to Lt. Mark Conner and Sgt. Dave McDaniels of the Motor Unit about speeding and aggressive driving in Orange County, how to get them to come to your neighborhood and what it's like cruising around on a motorcycle.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office's Mobile Video Game Theater is one of the newest vehicles at the agency. The "Game Trailer," which is decked out with some of the latest video game systems, is meant to create a connection between law enforcement and the youth in Orange County. Sgt. D'Angelo Bell and Deputy Micheaux Boyce talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the Video Game Theater and how OCSO's Community Relations Section uses it.
If you dial 9-1-1 in Orange County, the call goes to the Orange County Sheriff's Office Communications Center. The center receives more than a million calls every year. On this episode of Behind the Star, Emergency Communications Specialist Nancy Grassi and Dispatcher Nikayla Phillip talk to host Jon Busdeker about life at the Comm Center.
Analytics, Intelligence and Monitoring, better known as AIM, is a unit that assists deputies in real-time. With access to thousands of video feeds from across the county, detectives and analysts can monitor a situation and help deputies responding to calls for service.
Sergeant Glenn Arguilla talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about AIM and how it works.
Sector V is commonly known as the tourist corridor. Home to many attractions and hotels, as well as more than 25,000 residents, the sector includes Sea World Orlando, Universal Orlando and the Orange County Convention Center. Captain Joe Scutero talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about Sector 5 and its unique challenges.
Orange County Sheriff John Mina sits down with Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker to talk about the agency and its initiatives in 2021. From the launch of the Autism Decal Program to the new policy of releasing body-worn camera video, Mina discusses a wide range of topics in this year in a review podcast.
In 1996, Terry Paquette was murdered at the Lil' Champ convenience store in northwest Orange County. He was stabbed 73 times. The case went unsolved for more than 25 years. OCSO Det. Brian Savelli and Corporal Dave Nutting talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talk about the case, how it was solved and the man arrested for Paquette's murder.
Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker returns to Sector III to talk to Captain Dennis Ela. Sector III is comprised of the western portion of Orange County and includes the communities of Pine Hills, Orlo Vista, Horizon West and more. Captain Ela is a 26-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office and was assigned to Sector III in January 2021.
Sgt. Wayne Lenihan teaches Bike School at the Orange County Sheriff's Office. During the 40-hour training session, deputies learn the proper way to ride a bike, including how to brake, dismount and maneuver various terrains. Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talks to Lenihan about the class and why deputies on bikes are so vital to the agency.
The Central Florida Intelligence Exchange, better known as CFIX, is a partnership between law enforcement agencies across the region to exchange information and intelligence. At its core, the mission of CFIX is to disrupt and deny terrorist and criminal activity. CFIX Director Matt Butler and Deputy Director Jon Cute talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the role of CFIX and how it's protecting Central Florida.
If you are active military or a veteran, the Orange County Sheriff's Office wants you. But if you have questions about joining the agency, the person to talk to is Orange County Sheriff's Office Military Field Recruiter Rick DeMarco. For the past six years, DeMarco has assisted military service members in the hiring process. In this episode, host Jon Busdeker talks to DeMarco about where he finds military recruits, what happens if a deputy gets deployed and how OCSO is one of the best agencies in the country for hiring and supporting veterans.
If you are a current or former member of the military and interested in working at OCSO, contact Rick DeMarco at richard.demarco@ocfl.net or call (407) 448-6804.
What happens if an explosive is discovered in Orange County? The OCSO Hazardous Devices Team, or Bomb Squad, is usually called out to dispose of it. Lieutenant Chris Hall and Master Deputy Kris Brooks talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about explosives, the bomb suit and how the team gets to blow stuff up.
Orange County Sheriff John Mina and Undersheriff Mark Canty discuss the Pulse nightclub shooting, how law enforcement responded and how the community can honor the victims. In 2016, at the time of the shooting, both Mina and Canty worked for the Orlando Police Department. It has been five years since a gunman killed 49 people and injured dozens at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Economic Crimes Squad is responsible for investigating the crimes of identity theft, credit card fraud, check fraud, embezzlement and various other “white collar” type crimes. Detectives Brian Hummel and Jacob Devine talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker wild world of economic crimes and how to avoid being scammed.
Sector 4 of the Orange County Sheriff's Office is made up of mostly South Orange County, including the areas around Orange Blossom Trail. Captain Chris Barrett took over the Sector in October 2020. A native of Central Florida, Barrett has been at OCSO for 25 years. Barrett talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about Sector 4, the challenges patrolling the area and what he hopes to accomplish as Captain.
Operation Quiet Nights is a multi-agency effort designed to stop street racers and illegal motorcycles in Orange County. Lt. Michael Crabb, the incident commander of Operation Quiet Nights, talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the operation and how teams of law enforcement officers issued more than 1,700 tickets in two months.
Denise Demps is the newest Chief Deputy at the Orange County Sheriff's Office. An Orlando native, Demps has been with OCSO for nearly 30 years and is the first Black woman promoted to Chief Deputy. Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker sat down with Demps to talk about her career at OCSO and her goals as the new Chief Deputy.
The OCSO LGBTQ Liaisons are available to work work with all sectors and units of the Sheriff’s Office to identify with LGBT citizens and address their concerns. Lt. Brandon Ragan and Det. Mara Everson talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the LGBTQ Liaison program, working at OCSO and how to sign up for the Safe Place initiative.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Vehicle Operations (LEVO) section offers training designed to enhance the driving skills of OCSO deputies and civilians. Sgt. Michael Rosignol talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about PIT maneuvers, braking exercises and just how difficult it is for some drivers to go in reverse.
The new Behavioral Response Unit at the Orange County Sheriff's Office pairs an OCSO deputy with a trained clinician from Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health. Sgt. Bruce Vail and Christin Edwards-Salinas discuss the new Behavioral Response Unit, how the unit will respond to calls and what the teams have encountered in the field.
Every month, the Orange County Sheriff's Office takes in roughly 7,000 pieces of evidence. From firearms to bicycles to blood, a majority of the evidence is stored in a warehouse in Orange County. Evidence Manager Gene Bernal talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the evidence process and how OCSO stores 500,000 pieces of evidence.
Sector 6 of the Orange County Sheriff's Office is tasked with keeping Walt Disney World and the areas around it safe. Sector Commander Captain Bill Van de Water talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the unique challenges of Sector 6, the growth in the sector and how deputies interact with tourists from across the globe.
It's a different world on the roads at night in Orange County. The Orange County County Sheriff's Office Evening Traffic Unit patrols the streets in marked and unmarked cars, specializing in DUI investigations, street racing and more. Deputies Ernesto Martinez and Steve Hallock talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about what goes on after dark.
From simulators to how to drive a patrol vehicle, training is ongoing at the Orange County Sheriff's Office. Cpl. Sebastian Santos of the Field Training and Evaluation Unit talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about how OCSO deputies train and what they do to prepare for the job.
Bigger nose? Smaller eyes? Taller forehead? Master Deputy Timothy Horne can do it all as the Sketch Artist at the Orange County Sheriff's Office. Horne, a near 25-year veteran of law enforcement, talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the process of sketching a suspect, how he learned to draw and how he works with victims on crafting a sketch.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Dive Team is made up of 20 members who are responsible for recovering items or people in Central Florida's bodies of water. OCSO Dive Team Corporal Bim Lowers and Master Deputy Billy McCoy talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about finding guns in lakes, how difficult it is to locate a submerged car and what happens when they find a body in the water.
The sudden, unexpected loss of a loved one is a most difficult time for family members, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. When that loss is the result of a criminal act, suicide, or violent accident the tragedy becomes unbearable. OCSO Victim Advocate Koreen Baker talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the Victim Advocate Squad and its role assisting crime victims or family members who have lost a loved one through violent act or unforeseen accident.
Orange County native Captain Joe Carter oversees more than 110 deputies in Sector I in Northwest Orange County. Carter, who has been with OCSO for 30 years, talks with Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about community policing, how the agency has changed since 1990 and why he loves his community.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Reserve Unit is made up of more than 70 volunteer deputies. A Reserve Deputy has the same “police power” as a full-time Orange County Deputy Sheriff. OCSO Reserve Chief Deputy Ross Wolf talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the Reserve Unit and why it's beneficial to the agency.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Cold Case Team is tasked with solving cases that, for whatever reason, have gone cold over the years. Corporal Dave Nutting and Det. Kevin Wilson talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the difficulty of solving cold cases and what OCSO is doing to bring justice to victims and their families.
The wellness program at the Orange County Sheriff's Office works with employees in many areas of wellness, including fitness, nutrition, stress management, weight management and finances. Senior Wellness Analyst Valerie Reed talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the variety of classes, programs and events OCSO offers its employees.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office has more than 2,200 vehicles, from patrol cars to motorcycles. Fleet Management services and repairs many of those vehicles. Acting Fleet Supervisor Bob Jewell talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about how his team keeps OCSO on the road.
Coronavirus and COVID-19 has dramatically changed life in America. At the Orange County Sheriff's Office, Lt. Bill Bartlett oversees Emergency Management and Homeland Security. Bartlett talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about how the agency is responding to Coronavirus, how it trains for a pandemic and what OCSO is doing to keep deputies safe.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Agricultural Crimes Unit is tasked with protecting domestic animals and livestock in the county. Sgt. Al Giardiello and Master Deputy Drew Risser talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the role of the unit and what happens when someone is accused of animal cruelty.
Behind the Star host and OCSO Storyteller Jon Busdeker passes the mic to Deputy Christian Marrero for this special episode. Marrero, a Public Information Officer, interviews Busdeker about the role of the OCSO Storyteller, how he finds stories to profile and how Busdeker ended up at the agency.
Orange County Sheriff John Mina sits down with Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker to answer submitted questions from civilians and law enforcement officers of the Orange County Sheriff's Office.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Forensics Firearms Section is made up of specialists who test and review more than 1,000 guns each year. Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talks to Firearms Specialists Amanda Vibert and Mila Tran about the role of the firearms section, how they test-fire hundreds of guns and what happens to "crime guns".
The Orange County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit is made up of 20 dogs and handlers. The specialized unit assists patrol deputies in apprehensions, tracking and more. Master Deputy and K-9 Handler Jeff Stinson talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the role of the dogs, how the dogs are trained and how they help OCSO deputies.
Sector 2 encompasses all of East Orange County for a total of 408 square miles, making it the largest sector patrolled by the Orange County Sheriff's Office. Sector 2 Captain Susan Wallis talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the challenges of patrolling a place with more than 400,000 permanent residents.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office SWAT Team draws some of the most dangerous assignments. The elite team is trained in the use of advanced tactics and specialized weapons and equipment. Captain Todd Payne and Lieutenant Dennis Ela talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about OCSO SWAT.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office Professional Standards Section is, in essence, one of its quality control centers. Allegations of inappropriate behavior, misconduct or failure to follow agency rules and policies are typically investigated by Professional Standards. Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talks to Captain Carlos Espinoza of the Professional Standards Section.
Before any deputy or civilian begins working at the Orange County Sheriff's Office, they must go through an extensive background investigation. That process, which can take up to 5 months, includes a background check, credit check, voice stress analysis test and several rounds of interviews. Sworn staff recruiter Jeff Tramonte and Recruiting and Background Section Supervisor Jon Nichols talk to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the OCSO application process, which includes background checks and a voice stress analysis test.
The Sex Crimes Unit at the Orange County Sheriff's Office handles some of the region's most heinous crimes, including child sex crimes, sexual battery and child pornography. Detective Corporal Nikki Harper talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about how the unit handles cases and what it's doing to combat sex crimes in the Orange County. (Some material in this episode may not be suitable for all ages.)
The Legal Services Section at the Orange County Sheriff's Office serves as in-house counsel to the agency's 2,400 employees. General Counsel Austin Moore talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the legal staff and its role at the Sheriff's Office, from forfeiture cases to labor issues to when the agency decides to pursue a lawsuit.
Look up and you may see an Orange County Sheriff's Office helicopter. The Aviation Section patrols the skies above Orange County. Master Deputy Jason Sams, a Tactical Flight Officer, talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about catching bad guys from above, why lasers are dangerous for helicopter pilots and how the Aviation Section can save lives.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Domestic Violence Unit at the Orange County Sheriff's Office handles more than 5,600 domestic violence reports and 3,300 arrests each year. OCSO Corporal Jessie Bourque and Jessie Motley, Early Victim Engagement Advocate for Harbor House, talk with host Jon Busdeker about how the Sheriff's Office combats domestic violence, the signs of domestic violence and how victims in abusive relationships can get help.
Every year, the Orange County Sheriff's Office Communications Center receives more than a million phone calls. The center, located in east Orange County, is where more than 200 operators answer both emergency and non-emergency calls. This week, Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talks with Cynthia Jefferson, a manager and 20-year veteran of the Communications Center. Jefferson talks about what happens when a resident calls 9-1-1, how information is relayed to OCSO deputies and how operators handle the stress of the job.
The Community Relations Division at the Orange County Sheriff's Office oversees more than a dozen agency initiatives, including community barbecues, award ceremonies and Citizens on Patrol. Lieutenant Alex Greenberg and Sergeant Menachem Green sat down with Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker to discuss the role of Community Relations and how it's helping build trust in the Orange County community.
If there's a homicide in Orange County, several units within the Orange County Sheriff's Office are alerted. Two of those units - Strategic Communications and the Homicide Unit - work closely to release information to the public. How, what and when information is released is vital to any investigation. On this week's Behind the Star, host Jon Busdeker speaks with Captain Carlos Torres of Strategic Communications and Homicide Unit Sgt. Joe Covelli about releasing details of a homicide.
What is the role of the Undersheriff? Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talks with Mark Canty, Undersheriff at the Orange County Sheriff's Office. A native of Central Florida and West Orange High School grad, Canty played football at Northwestern University and later worked for the Urban League of Central Florida. He spent 22 years at the Orlando Police Department before joining the Orange County Sheriff's Office in 2019.
Master Deputy Stanley Murray is the Chaplain Coordinator at the Orange County Sheriff's Officer. Murray oversees a team of more than 20 chaplains of various faiths at the agency. Murray sat down with Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker to discuss the role of the chaplain and how chaplains respond to traumatic calls for help.
All eyes had been on Hurricane Dorian for nearly a week. A team of men and women at the Orange County Sheriff's Office were prepared for the impacts of the storm. Leading that team is Lt. Bill Bartlett, a veteran of OCSO who is in charge of Emergency Management. Before the storm passed Central Florida, Bartlett sat down with Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker to discuss how OCSO prepares for an emergency.
Sgt. Danielle Batlemento has worked at the Orange County Courthouse for nearly 25 years. She is one of more than 150 men and women who keep the sprawling complex in downtown Orlando safe. Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talks with Betlemento about the challenges of protecting attorneys, judges, juries and the public and what happens when someone "accidentally" brings drugs or firearms to the courthouse.
The Crime Scene Investigation Unit at the Orange County Sheriff's Office is on the front line of solving crimes in Orange County. Mikayla.Overholtzer and Missy Roughgarden, both Crime Scene Investigators, sit down with Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker to discuss what life's like working in Forensics. (Warning: This episode may contain information not suitable for all audiences.)
The new school year for Orange County Public Schools started this week, which means crossing guards are posted at crosswalks around the county. Bertis Negron is the School Guard Coordinator at the Orange County Sheriff's Office and supervises more than 400 employees. Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker talks to Negron how locations for crossing guards are determined, who applies for the job, what training the crossing guards must complete and where the crossing guards get their gear. If you are interested in becoming an OCSO crossing guard, apply at OCSO.com.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office is always looking to hire deputies and civilians. As an agency that employs nearly 2,500 people, OCSO prides itself with hiring highly qualified candidates of the highest integrity for all positions. But what exactly are we looking for? That's the job of Field Recruiter Sgt. Steve Harrielson. Host Jon Busdeker talks to Harrielson about the requirements for sworn positions, how veterans make great deputies and how you can apply to the Sheriff's Office.
Follow the Orange County Sheriff's Office on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. For more information, go to OCSO.com
Has your house ever been broken into? Has anything ever been stolen out of your vehicle? If so, it's Corporal Kelly Deegan's job to work the case. Deegan is part of the Criminal Investigations Division Property Unit, which handles thousands of cases each year. Investigators like Deegan are tasked with investigating residential, commercial and vehicle burglaries, as well as thefts, criminal mischiefs, and dealing in stolen property cases that occur in the county.
Deegan spoke with Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about crime trends, what happens to stolen property and how to avoid becoming a victim of property crime.
Master Deputy Lindsay Whitesell and Deputy First Class Andrew Stephens discuss life in the Mounted Unit at the Orange County Sheriff's Office. About a dozen horses are part of the unit which patrols Orange County, handles crowd control and performs search and rescue. Whitesell and Stephens answer the tough questions, including: "What happens when a horse has to use the bathroom?"
This week's episode was recorded on location at OCSO's stables near Walt Disney World. Behind the Star is hosted by Jon Busdeker.
Captain Tony Marlow oversees Sector 3, a large portion of Orange County that includes Dr. Phillips, Horizons West and Pine Hills. Marlow, who grew up in North Florida, played basketball at the University of Central Florida before becoming an Orange County Deputy. Marlow talks to Behind the Star host Jon Busdeker about the perception vs. reality of Pine Hills and the challenges of protecting a growing region like West Orange County.
Sheriff John Mina talks about his career as a law enforcement officer, from working on the streets of Orlando to overseeing the Orange County Sheriff's Office. Mina was elected Orange County Sheriff in November 2018.