LGM Program Day Reflection – Criminal Justice Day 2026
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riminal Justice Day was one of the most eye-opening experiences of the Leadership Greater Manchester program. While many of us interact with law enforcement and fire services only occasionally, this day provided a rare opportunity to see firsthand the complexity, professionalism, and humanity behind the criminal justice system. Between our fire department ride-alongs, police ride-alongs, presentations from Manchester Police Department leadership, hands-on demonstrations, and a visit to the New Hampshire State Prison, the day challenged assumptions and deepened my appreciation for those who serve our communities.
The experience began long before we gathered at the Manchester Police Department. During our fire department ride-alongs and police ride-alongs, participants had the opportunity to witness officers and firefighters in real-world situations. What struck me most was not only the variety of calls officers and fire department personnel respond to, but the calm professionalism they bring to every interaction. From the moment officers or firefighters reported for duty and prepared their equipment, including specialized gear, it was clear that they must be ready for anything. 
Many of the calls we observed ended not with arrests, confrontation, or fires, but with communication, problem-solving, and mutual respect. As leaders, we often focus on outcomes, but watching officers and firefighters navigate highly emotional situations reminded me that successful resolution frequently depends on patience, empathy, and sound judgment.
Classmate Greg Ruff shared that his ride-along with Officer Wheeler “gave me a whole new perspective of law enforcement” and reinforced his appreciation for those “helping make Manchester a safer place to live.” Similarly, Shawn Monahan reflected on responding to a barricaded subject call, describing how officers quickly assessed the situation, communicated effectively, and developed a coordinated plan. He noted that their “training, teamwork, and ability to remain calm under pressure allowed the situation to be resolved safely and professionally.”
Throughout the criminal justice class day, Manchester Police Department personnel offered an inside look at the challenges they face daily. Presentations highlighted everything from body camera footage reviews to SWAT technology, including drones, robots, and thermal imaging equipment. We also learned about the countless factors
officers must consider when making split-second decisions in dynamic situations.
Perhaps the most profound realization came from understanding the emotional toll of the profession. One comment from our discussions continues to resonate with me: the average person may experience only a handful of truly traumatic incidents during their lifetime, while law enforcement officers may encounter hundreds throughout their careers. Yet despite that reality, they continue to run toward emergencies when others are running away.
Martha Edgar summarized the experience best when she observed that the day reinforced the importance of showing “love and respect to all humans, especially the ones running toward the emergency.” That sentiment captures the spirit of what many of us learned throughout the day. Criminal justice is not simply about enforcing laws; it is about serving people, protecting communities, and navigating difficult situations with professionalism and compassion.
As leaders, Criminal Justice Day challenged us to look beyond headlines and assumptions. It reminded us that strong communities depend upon collaboration, trust, and a deeper understanding of the people working every day to keep us safe. I left with a renewed respect for law enforcement, fire department, first responder and all those who serve as well as a greater appreciation for the challenges they face, and a stronger commitment to approaching community issues with empathy, understanding, and respect.
