Chief Koval's Podcast

Gun violence in Madison has been on the upswing in early 2017, with warm summer months still ahead. Concerned for what the upcoming months might bring, Chief Mike Koval talks about how the community can band together with the MPD to help reduce weapons violations. Chief Koval also talks about the importance the Violent Crime Unit is playing in investigating these cases, and why he decided to recently expand the unit.

The MPD is getting ready to launch new technology. Chief Koval does not like to refer to the recently purchased tools as “drones”, but as “unmanned aircraft systems.” In this podcast, Chief Koval explains why this is important. He also discusses under which circumstances unmanned aircraft systems will be used, and how a recently trained team of MPD team will avoid violating anyone’s privacy.

Every year hundreds apply for a limited number of police officer positions at the Madison Police Department. Many are switching careers from professions like teaching and social work; feeling a calling to work nowhere else but at the MPD. In this podcast, Chief Mike Koval talks about what type of person makes a good MPD officer and how the department works diligently to recruit a diverse mix of individuals who will reflect well the diversity of the eclectic Madison community.

Chief Koval takes a look ahead to the coming weekend, when one of Madison’s rites of spring takes place: The Mifflin Street Block Party. Koval takes a look back at the party’s anti-war Vietnam era roots, to the drunken bash it has become today. The Chief also talks about how his officers are uniquely trained to keep large crowds safe in a city known for its activism, protests, marches and parties.

Chief Koval talks about those things that make the MPD unique, including departmental philosophy and core values. Koval also  discusses his journey to leading the nationally recognized department; from Bucky Badger, to FBI agent, the recruiting sergeant.