Reducing Crime #90 (Obed Magny)
Dec 26, 2025
Dr. Obed Magny, former Sacramento police officer and researcher in police leadership, now coaches agencies on emotional intelligence. He explains what emotional intelligence means for policing. He shares practical de-escalation tactics used on domestic calls. He discusses EQ training gaps, leadership signals that shape culture, and ways to build EQ with assessment and coaching.
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Co-Founding Evidence-Based Policing
- Obed and Renee Mitchell helped start the American Society of Evidence-Based Policing.
- They organised early conferences and built a community focused on improving policing practices.
Emotional Intelligence Is Core Policing Skill
- Emotional intelligence is reading people and managing emotions during conflict situations.
- Obed Magny says it explains why officers are sometimes labelled as 'assholes' and is essential for policing.
Stepped In To Prevent A Use-Of-Force
- Obed describes stepping in during a probation search where a mother was shouting and almost became physical.
- He validated her feelings, calmed her, and the search proceeded without force.