A new book is shining a spotlight on the lives and experiences of women in law enforcement, and it is already being hailed as a groundbreaking contribution to the national conversation on policing. She Wears the Badge explores the challenges, victories, and evolving role of women in the profession through in-depth research, real-life stories, and expert insight from two accomplished voices in the field.
The book is co-authored by Dr. Jean Kanokogi, a retired U.S. Special Agent, and Dr. Anastasia Pytal, a board-certified clinical psychologist based in New Jersey who specializes in working with first responders. Together, they offer readers a rare dual perspective: Kanokogi brings years of firsthand experience as a trailblazer in law enforcement, while Pytal provides the psychological framework to help readers understand the complexities of resilience, stress, and perseverance among women serving in uniform.
At the heart of She Wears the Badge is a collection of stories that trace the professional journeys of women across different ranks and regions. From rookies stepping into the academy for the first time to seasoned leaders commanding units, the narratives highlight both the systemic challenges and the triumphs that define women’s contributions to policing. Key themes include the ongoing need for mentorship and guidance, the importance of validation in a male-dominated profession, and the way women officers have transformed the culture of law enforcement over time.
Dr. Pytal’s connection to New Jersey adds a strong local dimension to the book. As the founder of the First Responders Resilience Center in Little Falls, she has worked extensively with the New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association (NJSPBA) Peer Response Team, providing critical mental health support to officers. Her work underscores the importance of wellness and emotional resilience in a career that often demands both physical endurance and psychological strength.
The book is designed for a wide audience. Law enforcement professionals will find it validating and inspiring, while academics studying policing, sociology, or gender dynamics will appreciate its depth of research. Policymakers looking to strengthen recruitment, retention, and support programs for women officers will find it an invaluable resource. Beyond the professional world, anyone interested in the evolving landscape of policing and the vital role women play in shaping safer communities will find it a compelling read.
Released in New Jersey in September 2025, the book has quickly gained attention as a best-selling new release. With its mix of lived experience, clinical expertise, and captivating storytelling, She Wears the Badge is poised to become essential reading in the conversation about law enforcement, gender equity, and the future of public safety.
As New Jersey continues to thrive as a hub for culture, ideas, and impactful storytelling, works like She Wears the Badge highlight the state’s contributions to important national dialogues. Readers looking to dive into more stories that explore identity, resilience, and the arts can explore additional features in our entertainment section.
