In this episode of First Response, Bob Plaschke sits down with Captain Abrem Ayana of the Brookhaven Police Department for a practical conversation about modern policing, technology, and the people behind the badge. Captain Ayana shares how he entered law enforcement, what field training taught him, and why experience, mentorship, and adaptability still matter.
The conversation also looks at the real pressures officers face, from family stress to the lasting impact of critical incidents, and why mental health support has to be part of today’s public safety strategy. Ayana also explains how Brookhaven uses drones, Live 911, and real-time information to improve response, reduce uncertainty, and help officers make better decisions. It is a grounded look at how tradition, training, and innovation can work together. Listen to the full episode to hear Captain Ayana’s perspective on where policing is headed, what communities should understand, and why it matters most now.