East Hampton seems like such a small town sometimes, but make no mistake: our police department is no small-time operation. Sixty-five full time offices serve the town and keep us safe, and that doesn't include Traffic Control Officers, administrative and backup staff. Behind it all, Police Chief Mike Sarlo works tirelessly to make sure it all runs smoothly. Mike joins us in the cafe and we dig in to some serious issues facing the town's department: staffing shortages, improving community relations, exploring alternative programs to enforcement that may help place more effective resources where they're most needed, without "defunding the police". Chief Sarlo also gives us a little glimpse into what it's like to approach a traffic stop, alone, late at night in a remote area, not knowing what to expect. And after is all said and done, what's the best part about being a cop, whether it's a rookie on the street, or the chief of department.
