Episode 20 | Kyle Dinkheller

In this episode of the Two Chiefs One Mic podcast, Chief Mike Hawkins and Scott Hughes welcome Kirk Dinkheller, who shares the tragic story of his son, Kyle Dinkheller, a police officer who was murdered during a traffic stop in 1998. The conversation delves into the harrowing details of the incident, the impact it had on law enforcement, and the lessons learned from Kyle's experience. Kirk reflects on his son's dedication to policing, the circumstances surrounding his death, and the long-lasting effects on the community and fellow officers. He emphasizes the importance of mental health and family support for law enforcement personnel, urging them to prioritize their loved ones amidst the challenges of their profession.

Title: The Legacy of Courage: Remembering Officer Kyle Dinkheller

Introduction: In the world of law enforcement, every day is a testament to bravery, sacrifice, and the unpredictable nature of the job. In the first episode of season two of the Two Chiefs One Mic podcast, hosts Chief Mike Hawkins and Scott Hughes delve deep into the heart-wrenching story of Officer Kyle Dinkheller, who paid the ultimate sacrifice on a routine traffic stop. This episode not only recounts the tragic events leading to Kyle's death but also serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers officers face daily.

Main Content:
1. The Life of Kyle Dinkheller
Kirk Dinkheller, Kyle's father, paints a touching portrait of his son, describing him as a typical kid who found his calling as a police officer later in life. Kyle started his career working alongside his father in air conditioning installation, which led to an encounter with the sheriff of Lawrence County. This pivotal moment set him on the path to becoming a deputy, a role he cherished deeply. Kirk shares, "He loved protecting and serving like every officer does. He just did it for the people of Lawrence County until he couldn't do it no more."

2. The Day of the Tragedy
On January 12, 1998, Kyle was on duty for only about a year and a half when he initiated a traffic stop that would change everything. The suspect, driving at 98 miles per hour in a 55 zone, lured Kyle into a dangerous situation. Kirk explains how the suspect’s intention that day was to kill a cop. This shocking revelation underscores the unpredictable dangers officers face while serving their communities.

3. The Incident Unfolds 
As the podcast unfolds, Scott and Kirk detail the harrowing moments of the traffic stop. Kyle's professionalism is evident as he communicates his location over the radio, trying to manage the situation. However, the suspect’s erratic behavior escalates, culminating in a violent confrontation. Kirk reveals that Kyle let the suspect up after gaining control, a decision influenced by a previous incident where he faced backlash for his actions. This heartbreaking choice had devastating consequences.

4. Aftermath and Impact
The aftermath of Kyle's death was not only tragic for his family but also served as a pivotal learning moment for law enforcement. Scott emphasizes how Kyle’s story has been shared in training sessions across the country, helping officers to recognize the signs of danger during traffic stops. Kirk reflects on how the screams heard in the video resonate with him, serving as a constant reminder of that fateful day, stating, "I hear 24 hours a day and I could tell you what each scream was like."

5. The Pursuit of Justice
The court proceedings following Kyle's death were lengthy, spanning over two years. Kirk shares how through a documentary, he uncovered the truth behind an apology letter Kyle was forced to write, revealing the political pressures faced by officers. This insight adds depth to the narrative, illustrating the complexities of law enforcement and the challenges they navigate.

Conclusion:  
Kyle Dinkheller's story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers every day. His legacy lives on not just in the hearts of his family but also in the training and awareness of countless officers who have learned from his tragic experience. As we reflect on this story, let us remember the courage it takes to serve and protect, often in the face of unimaginable danger.

Key Takeaways:  
- The unpredictable nature of law enforcement can lead to tragic outcomes.  
- Training and awareness can save lives by learning from past incidents.  
- The personal stories of officers like Kyle Dinkheller emphasize the human side of policing.