National Police Association Podcast with Guest, Peter J. Forcelli, ATF Deputy Assist Director (Ret) & NYPD Det
In this episode of the National Police Association Podcast, Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith sits down with retired federal agent Peter J. Forcelli, whose 35-year law enforcement career spans street policing in the Bronx and federal investigations.
Forcelli recounts his path from a TV-inspired NYPD rookie to a respected federal agent who took on both violent criminals and a complacent justice system. The conversation offers a firsthand look at the failures of modern prosecution, the dangers of “woke” criminal justice policies, and why accountability — not leniency — is the key to public safety.
- From Beat Cop to Homicide Detective: Forcelli reflects on walking a Bronx beat, working homicides, and partnering with federal agencies that got real results.
- Why Prosecution Matters: He argues that violent crime spikes not because of guns but because prosecutors refuse to keep violent offenders behind bars.
- Broken Windows Policing: Forcelli defends the proven success of proactive policing — stopping minor crimes to prevent major ones — and warns what happens when cities abandon it.
- The Cost of “No Foot Pursuit” Policies: From Chicago to Virginia, new restrictions on basic policing tactics embolden criminals and endanger communities.
🌐 Website: www.peterjforcelli.com
