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

In this episode of Behind the Star, Koreen Baker and Delaney Saunders from the Victim Advocates Unit discuss the critical support they provide to victims of crime and crisis, the types of calls they respond to, and how they prepare themselves mentally and emotionally for their challenging roles.

Koreen and Delaney explain the importance of working closely with deputies and detectives, the resources available to victims, and the essential qualities and training required for their work. They also delve into the structure of the Victim Advocates unit and how their approach compares to other agencies nationwide.

Additionally, they highlight the special role of therapy dogs in their work, including the training and significant impact these canine companions have on victims and the community.

Tune in to hear personal stories, motivations, and the challenges of being a Victim Advocate, as well as some rapid-fire questions that reveal more about Koreen and Delaney's experiences and perspectives.

Join us for an in-depth look at the vital work of Victim Advocates and the profound difference they make in the lives of those they serve.

In the concluding episode of our series on legislative reforms, we address a loophole in Risk Protection Orders (RPOs)—the lack of penalties for providing firearms to individuals under an RPO. Sheriff John Mina proposes making it a felony to knowingly give a gun to someone under an RPO. Cristal Maisonet, assistant general counsel at OCSO, joins us to discuss the impact of this change and how it would strengthen protections against gun violence.

(1:25) What is a Risk Protection Order (RPO)?
(2:10) How are RPO's implemented in Florida?
(7:50) Have RPO's been effective so far?
(10:10) Explaining the current loophole the law
(12:48) How do people respond to being placed under and RPO?
(14:02) Addressing the loophole