In this powerful episode, Paul speaks with retired police officer Colin Dixon, who shares the reality of nearly 30 years on the frontline—both the highs of the job and the devastating personal toll it can take.

From joining the police in 1990 with no qualifications, to working major investigations, drug operations, and proactive policing roles, Colin built a career defined by determination, instinct, and experience.

But behind the commendations and successes was a very different story.

Colin opens up about:

• The realities of frontline policing in the 90s vs today
• Major investigations and proactive policing work
• The importance of “the devil in the detail” in catching offenders
• Workplace conflict, bullying, and feeling targeted within the job
• The impact of stress, depression, and reaching breaking point
• Hitting rock bottom and the moment that changed everything
• Rebuilding himself and finishing his career with pride

This is an honest and raw account of policing—showing both the purpose it gives and the pressure it creates.

Colin’s story highlights an uncomfortable truth: sometimes the biggest battles officers face aren’t on the streets… but within the job itself.

Colin's book, Out of the Storm available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/OUT-STORM-JOURNEY-Veteran-Officers/dp/B09L3R79VB

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of mental health, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a trusted person or professional service.

🎧 Listen now to hear a story of resilience, experience, and survival against the odds.

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Purchase Sh*t Magnet: A Frontline Officer's Stories Of Madness And Mayhem

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In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Paul speaks with former police officer Vicki, who shares her harrowing experience of abuse, survival, and what happened when she turned to the very system she once served.

After meeting a man on a dating app, what began as a relationship quickly spiralled into control, violence, and sexual abuse. Despite gathering the courage to report what had happened, Vicki’s case was never even passed to the CPS. Instead, she found herself facing disbelief, inaction, and a system that left her feeling abandoned.

This episode explores:

• The reality of coercive control and abusive relationships
• The psychological toll of trauma and isolation
• Failures in the police response to domestic and sexual abuse
• What happens when a police officer becomes the victim
• The fight for accountability and change

Vicki speaks openly about the impact on her mental health, her family, and her career—ultimately leading to her leaving the police after 17 years of service.

This is not just one woman’s story. It raises serious questions about trust, accountability, and whether the system is equipped to deal with cases like this—especially when it involves one of their own.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of rape, sexual assault, domestic abuse, and trauma.

If you or someone you know is affected by issues raised in this episode, please seek support from a trusted person or a specialist organisation.

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.

Who would you like to see on the podcast? Send us suggestions!

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Purchase Sh*t Magnet: A Frontline Officer's Stories Of Madness And Mayhem

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In this episode of the Pocket Sergeant Podcast, former custody sergeant Lee Jones shares his experience of being criminally charged following a use of force incident in custody.

Lee describes the events of that day, the split-second decision he made while dealing with a highly volatile detainee, and how the situation escalated into a full criminal investigation. Despite no injury being caused and no formal complaint being made, Lee was charged with common assault.

What followed was months on bail, repeated appeals, and a misconduct process that had a profound impact on his mental health and family life. The criminal case was ultimately dropped, and he was later found to have no case to answer at gross misconduct.

This conversation explores:

• Use of force in custody
• Professional Standards investigations
• The impact of prolonged investigations on officers
• Opposing charges and CPS decisions
• The psychological toll of being accused
• Life after policing

Lee also discusses writing his book The Other Side of Police Corruption, where he documents the full experience and reflects on what he believes needs to change within the system.

This episode offers a candid insight into what it feels like to be on the other side of an investigation — and the long-term consequences that can follow.

Link to Lee's book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Other-Side-Police-Corruption/dp/B0DHK3S5KX

Who would you like to see on the podcast? Send us suggestions!

Download the Pocket Sergeant app today

Purchase Sh*t Magnet: A Frontline Officer's Stories Of Madness And Mayhem

Purchase From Trauma To Triumph - The Pocket Sergeant Journey