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
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28:31
Teen Academy: Not your average summer camp
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?
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28:30
Finding the Missing: Deputy Keller and K9 Wyatt
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?
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24:59
SWAT: Behind the Scenes with OCSO's Elite
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
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40:42
Inside the 911 Call Center
In this episode of Behind the Star, Garbrielle Griffith, an Emergency Communications Specialist, and Nikayla 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 Nikayla 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 Nikayla share some of their most memorable calls (25:31): Why you should consider applying for a job here
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.
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