From Giraffes to German Shepherds: Animal Services Officer Karla Butler
Send us a textSenior Animal Services Officer Karla Butler takes us behind the scenes of animal control in Allen, sharing her remarkable journey from California zookeeper to Texas animal services professional. Her stories range from heart-warming to hilarious—from Stacy, the elusive dog who led officers on a three-week chase across the city before becoming a shelter favorite, to the adventures of trying to recapture Nacho after he slipped his leash during a photo opportunity.Butler offers fascinating insights into shelter operations, explaining how the six-person team handles everything from animal care and adoptions to emergency response and cruelty investigations. The shelter houses not just cats and dogs but occasionally ferrets, birds, bearded dragons, and even chickens—all available for adoption regardless of where the adopter lives. Her description of answering thousands of phone calls annually while managing daily animal care paints a picture of dedicated professionals working tirelessly behind the scenes.What makes Butler's perspective truly unique is her extensive zookeeping background. Her stories about caring for giraffes, joining a zoo's emergency weapons team, and chasing runaway tortoises provide entertaining context for her current role. This diverse experience prepared her perfectly for Allen's animal control challenges, from netting vultures trapped at Topgolf to wrangling snakes from car engines.The conversation highlights recent shelter improvements like new turf installation in the dog yards and emphasizes the importance of pet vaccination, microchipping, and proper registration. Butler also discusses resources available for pet owners facing hardship, underscoring the shelter's commitment to keeping pets with their families whenever possible. Want to help? Visit allenpolice.org to learn about volunteer opportunities, fostering through Bose Buddies, and how to support the shelter's mission of finding forever homes for animals in need.
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From San Diego, CA to Allen, TX with Detective Zeltner
Send us a textEver wonder what happens when a California cop moves to Texas? Detective Christopher Zeltner takes us on his 17-year journey through law enforcement across state lines, revealing both the humorous mishaps and serious insights that have shaped his career.The interview opens with Zeltner's memorable story of chasing a suspect called "Ghost" in San Diego, complete with an embarrassing fall and barrel roll that his partner never let him forget—until he did the same thing a month later. This moment of vulnerability sets the tone for an authentic conversation about the realities of police work.After relocating from California four years ago, Zeltner found Allen to be the perfect blend of growing city and tight-knit community. "We have citizens that genuinely love us and appreciate us," he explains, highlighting how Allen's supportive atmosphere differs from many other places. Now working in the property crimes unit specializing in auto theft, he offers practical advice for residents: "Don't assume crime can't happen here. Lock your cars, put valuables away, please don't leave spare keys inside your vehicle."The conversation explores fascinating contrasts between California and Texas policing approaches, from differences in drug possession laws to search rights for probationers. Zeltner also discusses the department's cutting-edge tools, including stationary and vehicle-mounted license plate readers that help track stolen vehicles and solve crimes efficiently.Perhaps most significantly, Zeltner shares his role on the department's peer support team, reflecting on how police culture has evolved since he began his career. What was once taboo—officers discussing feelings or seeking emotional support—has become recognized as essential for wellbeing, especially given the challenges facing law enforcement nationwide.On a personal note, his story includes a remarkable detail: he's known his wife since they were both three years old, and they're approaching their 20th anniversary with four children in tow. These glimpses into his life remind us that behind every badge is a person with a family, hobbies, and everyday concerns—even a dislike of yard work!Want to hear more stories from the men and women who protect our community? Subscribe to our channel and visit allenpolice.org for information about upcoming events.
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From NFL to APD: Rookie of the Year Officer Villarreal
Send us a textOfficer Brandon Villareal shares his journey from professional football player with the New Orleans Saints to Allen PD's Rookie of the Year. His unexpected career path demonstrates how life's detours can lead to finding deeper purpose in serving the community where you grew up.• Surprising candor from suspects, including a memorable traffic stop turning into a major drug bust• Transitioning from an NFL career to teaching and coaching for 12 years • Making the decision to join law enforcement at age 40 following the Allen mall shooting tragedy• Balancing being a police officer with watching his sons play football for Allen High School• Advice for drivers: always pull over to a safe location when stopped by policeIf you'd like to know more about upcoming events, go to our website, allenpolicedot.org. Make sure to like and subscribe, and leave questions in the comments below.
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Sniffing Out Digital Evidence: Detective Compton & K9 Lacey
Send us a textDetective Keith Compton introduces K9 Lacey, Allen Police Department's dual-purpose canine trained to detect hidden electronic storage devices and provide emotional support to trauma victims. Lacey's specialized skills make her one of only three electronic detection K-9s in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, capable of finding devices as small as micro SD cards that human investigators might miss.• K-9 Lacey requires daily training with food rewards only given when she successfully detects electronic devices• Trained to detect TPPO, a chemical compound found in 99% of electronic storage devices• Already assisted in an FBI case where she found a hidden phone investigators had missed• Senses handler stress and switches automatically to emotional support mode• Works with child victims to provide comfort during difficult forensic interviews• Selected through a competitive Secret Service program with only 12 handlers chosen from 600 applicants• Improves morale in the Criminal Investigations Division by providing mental breaks for detectivesIf you have more questions about upcoming events, check out our website allenpolice.org and follow us on our social pages. Make sure to like and subscribe, and if you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below.
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From Trooper to Trainer: One Officer’s Path to Wellness
Send us a textWelcome to a transformative conversation with Officer Will Brindza, part of the Allen Police Department's commitment to wellness and fitness. In this episode, Officer Brindza shares his inspiring journey from a sporting upbringing to becoming a dedicated law enforcement officer who champions health and fitness within the police force. We dive into the innovative FitForce initiative aimed at ensuring officers are physically and mentally prepared for the challenges they face daily. With candor and humor, Officer Brinza recounts both the serious and light-hearted moments from his career, revealing the multi-faceted nature of policing that often goes unseen. His experiences highlight how fitness programs like CrossFit not only aid in individual officers' wellness but also contribute to better overall community safety.This episode serves as a reminder that police officers are much more than their badge; they are individuals with personal stories and commitments, making efforts to engage with the community and foster positive relationships. Join us as we explore the connection between proactive health and effective law enforcement. Share your own fitness journeys with us and don’t forget to tune in, subscribe, and leave a review!
Behind the Badge explores the relationship between the Allen Police Department and the community. Join us as we get to know our officers by learning who they are, what they do, why they do it and how it relates to you.
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