Law Enforcement Leadership Summit 2026

The 2026 Leadership Summit addresses the leadership, operational, and organizational challenges agencies experience.  The training will focus on media relations, evidence management, officer wellness, major case leadership, large-scale event management, and recruitment and retention.

Schedule:

October 7, 2026

8 am – 12 pm – Public Information Officer (PIO) and Media/Public Relations for Law Enforcement Administrators – Brian Hilke – Vista Law Enforcement Training

• A look at practical strategies for managing media relations, conducting interviews, handling crisis communications, and effectively communicating with the public during critical incidents and major events.

1 pm – 4 pm – Evidence Management and Storage Liability for Law Enforcement Administrators Training – Brian Hilke – Vista Law Enforcement Training

• Examination of leadership, policy, and operational factors that create evidence management liability and provides practical solutions for improving property room accountability, compliance, and risk reduction through effective procedures, supervision, and current legal requirements.

October 8, 2026

8 am – 5 pm – Broken Blue – Perils of Policing | Embracing Leadership and Wellness – Richard Wagner – Maryland Heights Police Department

• A look at leadership, emotional intelligence, and officer wellness, challenging participants to develop a servant-leadership mindset that strengthens organizational culture, supports personnel, and leads by example both inside and outside the office.

October 9, 2026

8 am – 12 pm – Leading Major Cases and Cold Case Investigations – Operation Resurrection the Springfield 3MW – David Millsap – Retired Laclede County Sheriff

•  A case study review will provide insight into managing high profile major case investigations and the problems that can be encountered.

1 pm – 3 pm – Bikefest/OMG Post-Event Review – MSgt. Chris Hamlett – Missouri State Highway Patrol

• A review of Bikefest 2026 from a leadership perspective.

3 pm – 5 pm – Recruitment and Retention Tools for Administrators – Joel Henry – CivicHire Recruiting Solutions

• An overview of how administrators can increase recruitment efforts and retain officers in the long run.

Breakdown of Post Hours: 18 TS, 3 LS, 3 IP