We are excited to share our fifth edition of 2026 for the NCJTC Compass Newsletter! This issue includes Episode 4 of TUYS and upcoming opportunities to register for. We take a look back at impactful events, newsworthy stories, and NCJTC trainings that occurred in May.
Expand on key insights from Episode 1 in the *Tell Us Your Story* series featuring Amanda Leonard of Missing Child Center-Hawai'i. [Read it now](ncjtc-static.fvtc.edu/resources/RS02744100.pdf) for additional context, actionable tips, specific challenges and reflections that complement [Leonard's video interview](ncjtc-static.fvtc.edu/resources/RS02700353.mp4)!
*From Scarce Resources to Lifesaving Impact* **Episode Length:** 11:19 **Summary:** In this episode, Amanda Leonard, MAILE (Minor Abducted in Life-threatening Emergency) AMBER Alert Coordinator for the state of Hawai'i, sits down with NCJTC's Kathryn Bracho to share how her team transformed their approach to protecting vulnerable children. By leveraging NCJTC training and technical assistance and remaining committed to their mission, they overcame resource limitations, fostered interagency collaboration, and implemented cutting-edge systems to safeguard missing and endangered children. Amanda’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of partnerships. Listen now to uncover strategies for overcoming obstacles in endangered, missing and abducted children cases! In addition to Amanda's short video interview, you can also find a detailed case study [linked here](ncjtc-static.fvtc.edu/resources/RS02744100.pdf).
*Digital Evidence, Critical Training and a Case That Swept the Nation* **Episode Length:** 12 minutes **Summary:** In this episode, Greg and Missey Smith, founders of the Kelsey Smith Foundation, join NCJTC’s Kathryn Bracho to share how their personal tragedy led to national change. After losing their daughter Kelsey to abduction, they championed the Kelsey Smith Act - improving law enforcement’s ability to access vital cell phone data in life-threatening cases. The Smiths highlight how digital evidence, strong agency partnerships, and specialized NCJTC training work together to strengthen response to missing persons cases. Their story is a powerful reminder that saving lives takes more than technology, it takes collaboration, preparation, and action. Listen now to explore how training and digital tools are transforming missing persons investigations. And, be sure to read the Smith's full *[Story-Behind-the-Story](ncjtc-static.fvtc.edu/resources/RS02870505.pdf)* for more!
Build on key insights from Episode 2 in the *Tell Us Your Story* series, featuring Greg and Missey Smith of The Kelsey Smith Foundation. Read the Story-Behind-the-Story now for additional context, actionable tips, specific challenges and reflections that complement the Smith's video interview.
*How One Team Transformed Their Missing Child Response and Recovered a 5-Year-Old* **Episode Length:** 12 minutes **Summary:** In this episode of Tell Us Your Story, we highlight how Adam DeCamp, Special Agent in Charge with Iowa DPS and his team took a hard look at the gaps in their child abduction response and used training, creativity, and connection to rebuild it from the ground up. See how they formed a stronger CART structure, built a critical network of law enforcement peers across the state, and developed essential skills to recover a missing 5-year-old Iowa child just hours after the report came in. Their story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when agencies work together, train with purpose, and **refused to settle for "good enough."** Listen now to see their creative adaptation to the traditional CART model, and see if it could work for your agency! And, be sure to read the *[Story-Behind-the-Story](http://ncjtc-static.fvtc.edu/resources/RS02963441.pdf)* fo
Build on key insights from Episode 3 in the Tell Us Your Story series, featuring Adam DeCamp, Special Agent in Charge with the Iowa Department of Public Safety - Division of Criminal Investigation, Major Crimes Unit. Read the Story-Behind-the-Story now for additional context, actionable tips, specific challenges and reflections that complement the Adam's video interview.
In Episode 4, Sgt. Brian Barber with the Erie Police Dept. shares how he applied training to a real child abuse case just three days after class. He specifically shares what made the difference in the field—leaning on a multidisciplinary team, knowing how to speak with grieving parents, and choosing words carefully in every interview. Barber also opens up about what's behind the rising number of child abuse reports and how his unit has evolved to keep pace with growing caseloads and complexities. For investigators, prosecutors, and MDT members—well worth the 13 minutes. *Content note:* Includes discussion of child abuse. Viewer / Reader discretion advised. Don't forget gain additional insight into his story. Read the featured write-up today.
Go deeper into Episode 4 of the Tell Us Your Story series, featuring Det. Sgt. Brian Barber, with the Erie Police Department - Major Crime Unit. Read the Story-Behind-the-Story for added context, actionable tips, and reflections that expand on Brian's compelling video interview. Content note: Includes discussion of child abuse. Reader/Viewer discretion advised.
