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Police Shot His Life Was Saved By The Vest He Purchased. Special Episode. A Life-Saving Investment. Early in his career, as an officer with the Riverside Police Department in Illinois. Back then, it was common for police departments not to issue soft body armor, leaving officers vulnerable. But Tom, along with his wife, took matters into their own hands. They decided to purchase a bulletproof vest out of their own pockets, even though the price was steep. It was a considerable financial burden at the time, but little did they know that this investment would prove to be priceless. Be sure to check out the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and most all social media platforms.
On what seemed like just another routine day on duty, everything changed. Tom found himself in a life-threatening situation when he was shot with a shotgun while responding to a call. The vest he had bought was the only thing standing between him and a fatal wound. It absorbed the impact of the shotgun blast, allowing him to survive the attack. The vest had done its job, shielding him from death and giving him the chance to recover. Rather than allowing the harrowing experience to derail his career, Tom made a courageous decision—he would return to the force, more determined than ever to protect and serve. The interview with Tom Weitzel is available as a free podcast on our website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and most major podcast platforms.
In the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois, where crime and safety dominate conversations, the story of one man’s resilience and foresight shines through. This is the story of Tom Weitzel, a police officer who made a life-altering decision to invest in his own protection—one that ultimately saved his life and propelled him to the role of Police Chief. In an age where news spreads rapidly across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and podcasts on Apple and Spotify, this story serves as a reminder of the everyday sacrifices and split-second decisions that law enforcement officers must make to protect themselves and their communities. Police Shot His Life Was Saved By The Vest He Purchased. Special Episode.
The Journey to Becoming Chief
After surviving such a traumatic incident, many might have chosen a different path, but not Tom Weitzel. He continued his service with the Riverside Police Department, his dedication only growing stronger with time. His bravery and leadership during this period of recovery did not go unnoticed. Over the years, Tom’s determination, combined with his passion for public safety, earned him the respect of his peers and superiors alike.
Eventually, Tom was promoted to Chief of Police. It was a position he had earned through his unwavering commitment, not just to the department but to the principles of public safety and officer protection. As Chief, Tom led by example, inspiring not only those under his command in Riverside but also police officers throughout the greater Chicago area. Listen to this interview as a free podcast on our website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and most major podcast platforms.
Sharing His Story Through Social Media, Police Shot His Life Was Saved By The Vest He Purchased. Special Episode.
Tom’s story of survival, recovery, and ascension has resonated with people far beyond the Riverside Police Department. Through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, he has shared his experiences, becoming a vocal advocate for officer safety and community engagement. Social media has allowed him to connect directly with citizens and other law enforcement officers, breaking down barriers between the police force and the public they serve.
His story has gained traction across these platforms, where his message of investing in personal safety and preparedness reaches wider audiences. Through his posts and conversations on Facebook and Instagram, Tom highlights the importance of proper equipment for police officers, while also promoting the power of community partnerships in enhancing public safety. Keep informed by following the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, MeWe, Pinterest, Newsbreak, Medium and other social media platforms.
A National Look at Police Safety, Police Shot His Life Was Saved By The Vest He Purchased. Special Episode.
Tom Weitzel’s personal story is a compelling reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily. His life was saved by a piece of equipment that, at the time, was not standard issue. While Tom's foresight was exceptional, it also points to a broader conversation about officer safety, one that is especially relevant given recent trends in law enforcement fatalities and assaults.
According to the 2023 Special Report on Officers Killed and Assaulted in the Line of Duty, the past three years have seen an alarming rise in the number of officers killed while on duty. Between 2021 and 2023, 194 officers were feloniously killed, the highest number seen in a consecutive three-year period in the last two decades. These numbers highlight the dangers officers face, particularly in an era when assaults on law enforcement have also been on the rise. Police Shot His Life Was Saved By The Vest He Purchased. Special Episode.
In 2023 alone, there were over 79,000 reported assaults on officers, marking a record-breaking year. Firearms, like the one used in the attack on Tom, were involved in over 460 of these assaults. The data shows that while fatal shootings of officers have declined over the decades, non-fatal incidents and assaults are increasing, raising the need for improved protective measures. The urgency of providing officers with body armor and other safety tools cannot be overstated, and Tom’s story underscores the importance of investing in this vital equipment. The interview is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, our website and most major podcast Platforms.
Social Media and Community Building
For retired Chief Weitzel, social media has become more than just a tool for sharing his story—it’s a platform for building relationships between law enforcement and the community. Tom recognized early on that bridging the gap between the police and the public was key to improving safety and trust. Through his efforts, he has fostered open communication and transparency, encouraging residents to view officers not just as authority figures, but as members of their community.
His ability to humanize law enforcement through his social media presence has resonated with people across Chicago and beyond. Whether sharing safety tips or engaging in dialogue with citizens, Tom has leveraged platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram to create a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect between the force and the people they serve. Follow the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, MeWe and other social media platforms. Articles about this are on Newsbreak and Medium.
Reaching National Audiences Through Podcasts, Police Shot His Life Was Saved By The Vest He Purchased. Special Episode.
Tom Weitzel’s insights into police work, leadership, and officer safety have extended beyond the realm of social media. As a frequent guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and podcast, Tom has been able to share his journey with listeners across the country. The show, which broadcasts to millions of people each week through 125 U.S. AM-FM stations, dives deep into law enforcement stories, true crime, and human interest topics.
The podcast, available on platforms like Apple and Spotify, has become a trusted voice for law enforcement officers, veterans, first responders, and their families. In his interviews, Tom frequently highlights the importance of preparedness, emphasizing how his decision to buy a bulletproof vest saved his life. His message, that officers must take personal responsibility for their safety when resources are scarce, has resonated with listeners who understand the dangerous situations officers face on a daily basis.
A Legacy of Leadership and Safety, Police Shot His Life Was Saved By The Vest He Purchased. Special Episode.
Tom Weitzel’s story is not just about surviving a close call with death—it’s about leadership, foresight, and dedication. His decision to invest in his own safety ultimately allowed him to continue serving the Riverside community for years. His journey from a life-threatening incident to becoming Chief of Police is a testament to the courage and commitment that law enforcement officers demonstrate every day. Available as a free podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, our website and most major podcast Platforms.
In an era where officer safety remains a critical issue, Tom’s story has inspired not just fellow officers, but the general public as well. His advocacy for officer safety on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and podcasts has spread his message far and wide. His life-saving decision to purchase body armor serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation and personal responsibility in law enforcement.
As a retired Chief, Tom continues to influence the next generation of officers and safety advocates. His legacy of leadership and resilience will undoubtedly inspire law enforcement officials for years to come, serving as a powerful example of how quick thinking, community building, and a commitment to safety can make all the difference. Check out the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, MeWe and other social media platforms. Articles about this are on Newsbreak and Medium.
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Background song Hurricane is used with permission from the band Dark Horse Flyer
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Police Shot His Life Was Saved By The Vest He Purchased. Special Episode.
Attributions
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Retired Police Sergeant, Music Radio Personality, Talk Radio Show Host, Podcaster and Producer
John J. Wiley is a retired Police Sergeant turned radio personality. He has been a full time FM Music Radio DJ since 2005. In 2017 he founded the Law Enforcement Today Podcast, in a partnership with Robert Greenberg of Law Enforcement Today. The show is now named the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast.
Within a couple months a radio station heard an episode of the podcast and asked him to create a radio version, which he did. It has been syndicated since the Spring of 2017 and has numerous affiliate radio stations across the US.
