NYPD Detective - The Job Up Close | Tom Smith
In this episode, we sit down with retired NYPD detective Tom Smith for a real conversation on law enforcement, investigations, communication, and what it actually takes to work the job at every level. Tom shares how his journey began, how his career took him from street patrol to international counter-terrorism work, and what he learned from decades of policing in an ever-changing world. From investigative mindset and street-level experience to communication, leadership, and the evolution of crime over time, this episode is packed with insight for anyone who cares about service, discipline, and the realities of the job.
Host Gold Shields | NYPD Detective
Tom Smith began his career with the NYPD in 1990 after graduating from the Police Academy. He was
assigned to the 30th Precinct in West Harlem, then one of the busiest and most dangerous commands in
New York City. While there, he served in the Anti-Crime Unit (plainclothes), conducting gun arrests,
responding to violent felonies in progress, and investigating robbery patterns.
From 1996 to 1999, Smith was assigned to the Bronx Narcotics Unit, where he participated in numerous
large-scale investigations. In a joint operation with the DEA, he helped seize 125 kilograms of cocaine
originating from Venezuela, the largest cocaine seizure in the history of the Bronx Narcotics Division.
Between 1999 and 2000, he served in the Bronx Gang Unit, helping lead the federal investigation and
arrest of “OG Mac,” founder of the East Coast Bloods. He was also the lead detective in the
apprehension of “Santana,” leader of the Nietas street gang, dismantling major street gangs during his
service.
From 2000 to 2003, Smith served in the 52nd Precinct Robbery Squad and later the 41st Detective
Squad, investigating major felonies throughout the Bronx, including homicides, armed robberies, and
sexual assaults.
In 2003, he was selected for assignment to the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, where he served until his
retirement in 2020. During his 17-year tenure with the JTTF, Smith worked on numerous international
and domestic terrorism investigations and regularly briefed senior government officials. He conducted
investigatio…Read More