Behind the Badge
Jerrod Hardy • February 16, 2022

Community Policing at it's best is Community Involvement

Seeing stuff likes this warms my heart and puts a smile on my face!

Cole Zempel, the School Resource Officer at a middle school in Colorado was at the wrestling meet to support his school's program and community.

What happened next is the kind of stuff legends are made of and far to often the world does not hear about.

They were short a referee to get the matches going.

What most of the parents in the stands did not know was that Cole also happens to be a former Division 1 wrestler at the University of Northern Iowa.

Off comes the uniform and in steps the new referee.

I don't know if he made all the right calls that night, but I'm sure these kids will never forget the night the police officer refereed their middle school match.

By Jerrod Hardy August 6, 2026
You Don't Finish Alone - A 100 Mile Journey | Copper Kings 100 Ultra Marathon Copper Kings 100 is a documentary following a father and son as they take on one of Montana’s toughest 100‑mile ultramarathons. Set in Butte, Montana, this ultra running film explores what happens when a race doesn’t go according to plan—and how unexpected acts of kindness can change everything. In June 2026, Jerrod and Trey Hardy arrived at the start line of the Copper Kings 100 with one goal: finish together. With nearly 14,000 feet of elevation gain across the Continental Divide Trail, the course pushes every runner to their physical and mental limits. But not every race unfolds the way we imagine. When injury forces Trey to make the heartbreaking decision to end his race early, Jerrod is left to face the toughest miles alone. What follows isn’t just a story about endurance—it’s a story about friendship, resilience, and the people who step in when someone needs them most. From long nights on rugged Montana trails to unforgettable moments at remote aid stations, this film captures the highs, lows, and quiet moments that define ultrarunning. More importantly, it’s a reminder that while we may start our journeys with a plan, it’s often the people we meet along the way who shape how the story ends. Why this story matters: Because ultrarunning isn’t just about finishing—it’s about who helps you keep going. Watch the full documentary on YouTube. Link below.
Desert sunrise trail with golden light and saguaro cacti, symbolizing clarity, peace, and movement
By Jerrod Hardy April 13, 2026
A leadership reflection inspired by Desiderata, reminding us to find clarity, steadiness, and purpose in the noise — and to keep peace in our soul as we lead.