Cop Talk with Kevin Schroeder & Ed Mamet

On this episode of Cop Talk, former Chief U.S. Marshal John Cuff joins the show for an inside look at his 31-year career in federal law enforcement. Hear firsthand stories about the O.J. Simpson investigation, notorious prison escapes, fugitive manhunts, organized crime, and the pursuit of America's most wanted criminals. Real stories, real investigations, and the men behind the badge.

On this episode of Cop Talk, Kevin Shorty and retired NYPD Sergeant Rory Kappa sit down with Tom Sullivan, a 9/11 survivor, retired U.S. Army Colonel, longtime Army Reserve officer, businessman, and candidate for New York State Assembly District 23.

Sullivan shares his remarkable story of being inside the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, escaping from the 95th floor of the South Tower, and later serving multiple deployments in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan. He also discusses his family’s extraordinary tradition of military, police, fire and public service.

The conversation covers Sullivan’s campaign for Assembly District 23, his...

As the 25th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, Cop Talk takes a powerful look back with retired NYPD Lieutenants Richard Clifford and Tony Giorgio, who share their firsthand experiences of September 11, 2001 and the days that followed. They recount responding to the World Trade Center, the chaos and heroism they witnessed, the loss of fellow officers, the rebuilding of emergency command centers, and the extraordinary response from law enforcement agencies across the country. They also discuss the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, the evolution of 9/11 remembrance, and why educating future generations about what happened remains so important.

As the 25th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, retired NYPD Bomb Squad Lieutenant Mark Torrey shares his firsthand account of September 11, Ground Zero, the recovery effort, and the lives lost. Jeannie Kelly discusses the lasting health effects on 9/11 first responders and the fight to help them and their families get the benefits they deserve.

Operating Engineers Local 94 President Thomas "Tom" Hart joins Cop Talk to share his firsthand experience responding to 9/11, the devastating loss of fellow workers, and the long-term health battles facing those who served at Ground Zero. Twenty-five years later, Hart explains why the fight for medical care, benefits, and recognition continues—and why we must never forget those who responded.

Kevin Schroeder sits down with financial advisor Braken Fiore to discuss the financial decisions every law enforcement officer and first responder should understand before retirement. They break down pensions, 457 plans, investments, fees, financial advisors, and the importance of planning early—not waiting until retirement is around the corner. Bracken also explains how to protect your pension and build a financial legacy for your family.

This week on Cop Talk, hosts Kevin Schroy, Rory Kappa, and Dave Gano welcome Cardinal Timothy Dolan for an inspiring conversation about faith, service, and the enduring bond between law enforcement and the clergy. From his 50-year journey in the priesthood to stories about the NYPD, St. Louis baseball legends, the Vatican, and his new role as Co-Chief Chaplain of the NYPD, Cardinal Dolan shares heartfelt insights, humor, and powerful reflections on leadership, sacrifice, family, and the importance of faith in today's world. It's a memorable episode filled with wisdom, laughter, and gratitude for those who serve.

On this episode of Cop Talk, Kevin Schroeder is joined by retired NYPD officer David Giordano for a conversation with Saritha Komatireddy, GOP candidate for New York State Attorney General. Komatireddy discusses her background as a federal prosecutor in the Eastern District of New York, where she worked terrorism cases involving Al-Qaeda and ISIS, partnered with the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, and later led narcotics work targeting drug cartels. The conversation covers crime in New York, cashless bail, repeat offenders, ICE arrests, assaults on law enforcement, the role of the Attorney General’s Office, her campaign for AG, he...

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder is joined by guest co-hosts Rory Capra and David Giordano for a conversation with retired NYPD Lieutenant Tony Giorgio, former commanding officer of the NYPD Ceremonial Unit. Tony reflects on his 36-year career, from patrol assignments in NSU-18, the 69 Precinct, the 20 Precinct, and the 19 Precinct to leading the unit responsible for promotions, Medal Day, family events, line-of-duty funerals, honor guards, press conferences, music programs, papal visits, ticker-tape parades, and major city ceremonies. He also shares powerful memories from 9/11, the creation of funeral protocols after the attacks, Superstorm Sandy relief efforts for NYPD families, working under...

Kevin Schroeder is joined by guest co-hosts Rory Capra and David Giordano for a powerful conversation with Leigh Bishop , former Queens Assistant District Attorney, former director of the Babies and Toddlers Task Force with the New York City Medical Examiner’s Office, and current clinical instructor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Leigh discusses her path from Alabama to the Queens DA’s Office, working under Judge Richard Brown, homicide investigations, child fatality cases, abusive head trauma, shaken baby syndrome, medical evidence, autopsies, timelines, and the challenges of prosecuting cases involving infants and toddlers who cannot speak for themselves. The conv...

On this episode, Kevin is joined by retired NYPD Detective Michael McBride for a wide-ranging conversation about his life, career, and work after the job. McBride reflects on growing up in Brooklyn, joining the NYPD, working Midtown North, Queen’s Narcotics, OSID, the Joint Firearms Task Force, organized crime cases, Intel, and the Manhattan DA Squad before beginning his second career in funeral service. He also discusses helping police families and 9/11 responders, his work with the NYPD Pipes and Drums, the New Hyde Park and Dellehanty funeral homes, and the creation of the Katie McBride Foundation in honor of his da...

On this episode, Kevin sits down with Susan and Lonnie Sherman, co-founders of General Needs, to discuss how their mission began by bringing underwear, socks, and T-shirts to homeless veterans at the Northport VA shelter and grew into a larger effort providing boots, coats, beds, furniture, dental care, home repairs, and dignity to veterans in need. Susan and Lonnie share powerful stories from shelters, explain the challenges veterans face when transitioning into housing, discuss their Welcome Home apartment project, work with police and fire departments, support from partners like P.C. Richard & Son, their upcoming General Needs gala, and the...

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder is joined by retired Sergeant Rory Capra and Judge Richard Weinberg to remember the life, service, and legacy of Captain Ed Mamet. A proud United States Marine, 40-year veteran of the NYPD, dedicated investigator, public servant, and beloved co-host, Ed left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. Kevin, Rory, and Judge Weinberg share stories about Ed’s remarkable police career, his toughness, loyalty, humor, love of America, dedication to law enforcement, and his deep connection to WABC Radio. From his years in the NYPD Detective Bureau to his work with the Police Athletic Le...

On this episode, Kevin opens with a heartfelt tribute to his friend, co-host, and longtime NYPD legend Captain Ed Mamet, remembering his impact on the show, his love for the NYPD, and the legacy he leaves behind. Kevin is then joined by former NYPD officer and security professional Robert Garcia for a wide-ranging conversation on growing up in Chelsea, joining the NYPD, working the Lower East Side and the Sixth Precinct, Washington Square Park, narcotics enforcement, life after retirement, private security, 9/11, New York City’s changing neighborhoods, and the challenges facing police officers today.

On this episode of Cop Talk, Kevin Schroeder opens with a heartfelt tribute to his friend and longtime co-host, Captain Ed Mamet, remembering his service, friendship, and the role he played in helping launch the show. Kevin is then joined by retired NYPD veteran Richard Sharp for a wide-ranging conversation about his career in transit policing, Brooklyn South, the 72 Precinct, the 67 Precinct, the Brooklyn South Task Force, the Crown Heights riots, his line-of-duty injury, responding to Ground Zero after 9/11, life after the NYPD in Florida, 1013 clubs, the 9/11 health program, Tunnel to Towers, and the importance of supporting law enforcement, first...

On this episode of Cop Talk, Kevin Schroeder honors the life and legacy of his late friend and co-host, Captain Ed Mamet, remembering his impact on the NYPD. Kevin is joined by retired Sergeant Rory Capra and political consultant Hank Sheinkopf for a conversation on New York City’s changing political landscape, Mamdani’s leadership, Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa, concerns over city pensions, the proposed Halo Law, NYPD staffing and morale, attacks on law enforcement and public officials, and the importance of continuing support for 9/11 first responders and their families.

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder is joined by retired NYPD Sergeant Rory Capra and David Giordano to break down some of the most controversial cases impacting law enforcement today. The discussion dives into the outrage surrounding Detective Jonathan Diller’s killer being acquitted on top charges, the conviction of Sergeant Eric Duran, and what these rulings mean for police morale across New York City. The guys also react to the Grand Central machete attack, praising the NYPD officers who stopped what could have been a mass casualty event. From activist judges and political influence in the courtroom to rising anti-police se...

On this episode Kevin Schroeder sits down with actor Steven Randazzo, a New York City native with decades of experience in film, television, and stand-up comedy. Steven shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories from working alongside legends like Robert De Niro, Robin Williams, and Al Pacino, along with his journey from the Lower East Side to nearly 60 film appearances. The conversation takes a deeper turn as Steven opens up about his personal battle with a nervous breakdown, mental health struggles, and how he fought his way back through years of therapy. The discussion expands into the growing issue of depression in law...

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder sits down with former LAPD and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department veteran Jimmy Amormino. With over four decades in law enforcement, Jim shares unforgettable stories from patrolling Hollywood Boulevard, working gang units, surviving a near-fatal crash, and handling high-profile moments like the OJ Simpson trial. The conversation also dives into real-world policing challenges, media influence on investigations, and lessons learned from a lifetime on the job.

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder hosts a powerful roundtable with Rory Capra, David Giordano, and Peter Panucchio. The group discusses the tragic murder of Detective Jonathan Diller, the repeated failures of the justice system, rising terror concerns in New York City, and the growing public safety challenges facing law enforcement. Drawing from decades of firsthand experience, the panel delivers a direct and unfiltered conversation on crime, policy, and what it means to truly back the blue.

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder is joined by active NYPD Sergeant Kevin Keenan of the Harbor Unit and president of the NYPD Emerald Society, along with familiar voices from Central Park Community Affairs. Sgt. Keenan shares his path from growing up in Marine Park, Brooklyn, to working on tugboats and eventually building a long career in the NYPD, including his years in transit, patrol, and the Harbor Unit. The conversation also dives into the mission and legacy of the NYPD Emerald Society, its role in preserving Irish heritage within the department, its scholarship efforts, and the strong sense of fraternity...

On this episode of Cop Talk, Kevin Schroeder is joined by retired Sergeant Peter Panuccio, Lieutenant Rory Capra, and retired NYPD officer Dave Giordano for a roundtable discussion on the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. The panel breaks down the investigation from a law enforcement perspective, examining crime scene handling, canvassing procedures, the Walmart backpack and holster, ransom emails, DNA questions, and whether this case points to a true kidnapping, a burglary gone wrong, or a possible homicide. Drawing on decades of NYPD experience, the group discusses old school detective work, victimology, forensic strategy, leadership decisions, and the challenges of managing...

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder is joined by guest co-host retired Manhattan DA investigator Judy Newton for a conversation with retired NYPD First Grade Detective Mike Sapraicone, who looks back on joining the job in 1980, rising through Transit and the NYPD, and what it took to earn the First Grade shield. He shares stories from Midtown, narcotics, and anti-crime, and explains how old-school interviews, informants, and squad culture drove investigations before modern technology. The group discusses the merger era, CompStat, leadership shifts, and how accountability reshaped policing, along with Sapraicone’s post-retirement success building a major security company, protecting financial in...

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder is joined by guest co-host retired Manhattan DA investigator Judy Newton for a deep dive into New York City’s most intense crime years with former Manhattan ADA and Chief of Rackets Michael Scotto. Scotto shares what it was like entering the DA’s Office in 1989 during the height of the crack epidemic, when felony drug arrests and violent crime were at historic levels. He explains how prosecutors and police worked together, how wiretaps and street investigations were built, and how modern tools like DNA, surveillance video, and body cameras have changed trials and jury expe...

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder sits down with Retired Lieutenant Paul Page of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for an in-depth conversation on his career in one of America’s most unique law enforcement agencies. Paul shares his journey from New York to Las Vegas, patrol on the Strip, work in organized crime and criminal intelligence, casino security operations, major cases, and crime trends in the city, as well as his transition into private investigations after retirement.

On this episode of Cop Talk, host Detective Kevin Schroeder is joined by retired NYPD veterans Peter Panuccio, Rory Capra, and David Giordano to discuss the new mayor’s relationship with Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, recent NYPD officer-involved shootings, anti-police rhetoric from City Hall, and the impact of protest politics on law enforcement. The panel also breaks down manpower shortages, retirement age issues, specialized NYPD units, and what these policies mean for officer morale and public safety.

On this episode, Detective Kevin Schroeder is joined by guest co-host Joe Diamond as they sit down with retired NYPD Detective Second Grade Keith O'Palick, a 24-year veteran and author of Selfish Party. Keith shares how he landed in the NYPD, his experience policing Chinatown during 9/11, major cases from Midtown North, and his work on cold cases at the Manhattan DA’s Office. He also breaks down the inspiration behind his new book.

On this episode, Kevin and Ed sit down with retired DEA Special Agent Lewis Rice Jr. to revisit a 26-year career on the front lines of the war on drugs. From undercover work in New York and Miami during the height of the cartel era, to serving as the youngest Special Agent-in-Charge of the DEA’s flagship New York office, Rice shares true stories from high-stakes narcotics investigations, international operations and major takedowns. He also opens up about preparing “American Gangster” Frank Lucas for federal testimony, his work with youth and community programs and life after federal service.

On this episode, Captain Ed Mamet and retired Sergeant Peter Panuccio speak with Hank Sheinkopf about crime in New York, prosecutors who refuse to prosecute, the loss of qualified immunity, and why so many experienced officers are retiring. They explain what happens if a new administration weakens the NYPD, how it affects everyday New Yorkers, and why public safety is at real risk.

On this episode, Kevin and Ed talk with retired NYPD Sergeant Jack Cucci, whose remarkable career took him from Wall Street to the NYPD’s Housing and Intelligence Divisions. Jack shares how he left finance to serve the city, his firsthand experience on 9/11, and his work in counterterrorism operations that helped keep New York safe. He also discusses his coffee company “Pour the Finest,” created to give back to police charities, and offers his unfiltered take on New York’s politics, policing today, and the future of the NYPD.

On this episode, Kevin and Ed speak with Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis about crime, bail reform, and the state of public safety in New York City. Nicole shares her personal story as a lifelong New Yorker with Greek and Cuban roots, her path from Staten Island to Congress, and her fight to restore law and order. She discusses her legislative work on 9/11 compensation, tax relief for seniors, and restoring the SALT deduction. The conversation dives deep into New York’s political climate, the effects of defunding police, and her concerns over the upcoming mayoral race.

On this episode, Kevin and Ed speak to Charlie Ferrante, a former New York City correction officer who went on to serve as Chief Deputy in Lee County, Florida. Charlie shares his remarkable journey from Rikers Island to the Florida Sheriff’s Office, detailing how policing and corrections differ between New York and the South. He opens up about life-changing experiences on the job, adapting to new challenges, and the importance of integrity and leadership in law enforcement. The conversation also explores PTSD among officers, the challenges facing today’s police, and Charlie’s perspective on the state of New York C...

On this episode, Kevin and Captain Ed talk with former Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Diana Florence, who is running as an independent candidate for Manhattan DA. They discuss her 25-year career in the DA’s office, her mission to restore public safety and rebuild trust in law enforcement, and her plan to rescind Alvin Bragg’s day one memo. Florence explains how she would recruit top prosecutors, hold repeat offenders accountable, and bring back fairness to the justice system. The conversation also covers discovery reform, counterfeit goods on Canal Street, crime funding, and the future of public safety in New York...

On this episode, Kevin and Ed welcome back Supreme Court Judge Richard Weinberg and retired NYPD Sergeant Pete Panucci for a hard-hitting conversation on America’s escalating political violence following the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk. Judge Weinberg warns about the dangers of ideological extremism, the failure of universities to uphold true free speech, and the erosion of law and order in New York City. The discussion covers everything from terrorism threats, anti-crime policing, and the role of federal enforcement to the influence of Antifa, BLM, and foreign-funded agitators. Together, the panel examines how education, politics, and weak leadership are fu...

On this episode, Kevin and Ed welcome back Maud Maron, the Republican candidate for Manhattan District Attorney, for an in-depth conversation about the future of public safety in New York City. Maud shares her journey from longtime public defender to education advocate and now candidate for DA, explaining why she left the Democratic Party after decades to take on Alvin Bragg. She discusses her opposition to defunding the police, her concerns about rising crime, and how prosecutorial decisions directly affect quality of life for everyday New Yorkers. The conversation also covers the dangers of radical policies, the failures of decarceration...

On this episode, Kevin and Ed sit down with former NYPD officer turned attorney Eric Sanders. Sanders reflects on his 13 years on the force, his leadership role with the Guardians Association, and his path to becoming a lawyer. He shares insight into the high-profile case of Sal Greco, exposes problems with NYPD psychological exams and drug testing, and discusses broader issues of fairness, leadership, and culture within the department. This candid conversation sheds light on the legal battles and challenges shaping the future of policing in New York City.

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder and Rory Capra sit down with independent Manhattan District Attorney candidate Diana Florence. She shares her New York roots, her decades of experience as a prosecutor in the Manhattan DA’s office, and her vision for restoring fundamental principles of law enforcement. Florence critiques current DA Alvin Bragg’s policies, outlines her priorities on public safety, combating antisemitism, and innovative legal work with collegiate athletes. She also highlights ways supporters can get involved with her campaign as she heads into the upcoming election.

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder and retired Sergeant Rory Capra discuss various challenges facing law enforcement with special guest Detective Scott Munro, President of the Detective Endowment Association (DEA). Topics include the tragic murder of Detective Islam, the work of the DEA, the impact of recent legislation, and the ongoing struggle to retain and recruit detectives in New York City. Munro highlights the dwindling number of detectives due to retirements and the challenges posed by new laws and policies. The episode also touches on mental health initiatives, the importance of political support for law enforcement, and Munro's background in both...

On this episode of Cop Talk, with Ed Mamet away, retired NYPD officers David Giordano and Rory Capra join Kevin Schroeder to host a special roundtable featuring mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa. Sliwa shares his surge in the polls, his plans to crack down on shoplifting, restore NYPD morale, cooperate with ICE on public safety, and reinstate city workers fired over vaccine mandates. The conversation covers crime, corruption, animal welfare, and Sliwa’s signature subway-riding campaign style for an unfiltered look at the man who says he is ready to lead New York City.

On this episode, Kevin Schroeder interviews Penny Lancaster, a multi-faceted personality who is an author, supermodel, and the wife of rock star Rod Stewart, but also a dedicated police officer in London. Penny shares her journey from modeling to policing, explaining how her work on a TV show led her to volunteer as a special constable. She discusses her training, duties, and memorable experiences, including her involvement in high-profile events and her first arrests. Penny also opens up about the challenges of juggling her professional and personal life, managing mental health, and her commitment to making a difference in her...