HomeMy WebLinkAbout1994 City of Lansing Police Department Annual ReportRECFIVFD
JUL 1 9 1995
"Police and Community Partnerships for Progress-andlExcellence"
1994 ANNUAL REPORT
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
120 W. Michigan Ave.
Lansing, Michigan 48933
(517) 483-4600
The Honorable David Hollister
Mayor, City of Lansing
City Hall - Ninth Floor
124 West Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
Dear Mayor Hollister:
The Board of Police Commissioners is pleased to forward to you this
1994 Annual Report of the Lansing Police Department which outlines
activities and accomplishments.
A major reorganization of the department is being implemented to
divide the city into two precincts and to follow through on lessons we
learned from our successful community policing program. We believe
these changes will take us into the 21 st century as we strive to
become a world -class city.
As a board, we want to express our appreciation to you and the
City Council for the increased funding for the 1996 fiscal year
which will assist the department during this period of increased
retirements.
We commend all employees of our Police Department and Chief of Police,
Jerome Boles, for their efforts and dedication to make Lansing
a great place to live.
As we proceed to serve as the Lansing community's liaison to the
Police Department, we pledge to serve to the best of our ability in
this important role.
Since y,
Sharon L. Kellogg,4;aCirpeson
Board of Police Commissioners
"Equal Opportunity Employer"
POLICE BOARD COMMISSIONERS
SHARON KELLOGG
CHAIRPERSON
ARMIDA VALDEZ
JAMES PERSON
In
WILLARD WALKER
JOHN WEIS
NOLAN OWEN
VICE -CHAIRPERSON
LEE CANADY
SHERRI HICKS
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF
1994 presented many interesting and difficult challenges to the Lansing Police Department.
The year started with the inauguration of a new administration which hit the ground running
and never slowed down. The transition was quick and very positive as Mayor Hollister
visited many of our LPD work groups in an effort to gain as much operational knowledge
as possible. Almost immediately, Mayor Hollister was witness to three major situations
involving the Department. They included rallies by the Ku Klux Klan and the Michigan
Militia, plus our extensive (and intensive) work in neighborhoods. Throughout all three, he
clearly was an advocate for the Department, the personnel and its diversity of services
being offered to the citizens of Lansing.
The Department's greatest challenge during 1994 was that of keeping fully staffed. Due
to budget limitations and thirty retirements, we operated at reduced staffing levels much
of the year. And while the fiscal future looks brighter, it will be several months before we
are able to return to the staffing levels of early 1994. While we miss the many years of
loyal service and experience provided by our retirees, we wish them well in their new
"assignments".
The Department's technological progress in 1994 is something of which we are all very
proud ... and is only the beginning of a trend which is planned for years to come. This year
saw the installation of a computer aided dispatch (CAD) system as well as a video imaging
system which replaced our older "mug shot" system. Plans were begun which will result
in a paperless report system by the year 1996. We firmly believe that an abundance of
efficiencies which benefit both citizens and officers lie in our ability to move forward as
rapidly as possible with the introduction of new technologies.
Finally, a group known as the Reorganization Committee spent 1994 analyzing the
Department's ability to attain its goals and objectives. The Committee ultimately
determined that a restructuring of the Department was necessary if we were to more fully
carry out our mission and goals. As a result, 1995 will surely offer an equal number of
interesting and difficult challenges as we implement the new plan.
I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to each member of the Department for their
service to the citizens of Lansing and dedication to the Department's mission and goals.
Because of their efforts we are truly making Lansing a better city in which to live, work and
visit.
Sincerely,
Jer Mcles
Chief of Police
MISSION STATEMENT OF THE LANSING POLICE DEPARTMENT
The Lansing Police Department's mission is to maintain order, preserve public
safety, and foster a better quality of life. It is our intent to make our City a
better place to live, work, and visit. To accomplish this mission, we must:
As a Law Enforcement Agency:
Acknowledge the citizens as the source of police authority. Administer
the law without bias. Recognize the dignity and worth of all people.
Encourage cooperation and support at the neighborhood level as well
as with the greater community. Provide services in a sensitive and
effective manner. Seek to gain the respect of all people.
As an Employer:
Provide a work environment which stresses teamwork, recognizes the
value of diversity, and encourages professional development. Employs
aggressive management techniques emphasizing ethical behavior,
leadership by example, respect for all employees, and a standard of
excellence.
GOALS OF THE LANSING POLICE DEPARTMENT
Deliver quality police service in a lawful, sensitive, and
professional manner in order to protect life, property, and
maintain public peace.
L,
Prevent crime and maintain order through police action, targeting
specific problems.
Enhance organizational excellence through education, training,
and technology.
Identify and analyze problems, explore alternative solutions, and -
encourage regional cooperation.
Create and maintain open lines of communication to promote
partnerships with our community.
Encourage and support citizen involvement and leadership to
improve the quality of life at the neighborhood level.
Employ personnel that meet standards of professional excellence
and represent the diversity of our community.
Promote job satisfaction, open communication, and team building
through employee participation in decision making.
Maximize the use of available resources.
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LANSINO POLICE DEPARTMENT
LAW ENFORCEMENT CODE OF ETHICS
AS A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER, my fundamental duty is to serve
mankind; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against
deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation, and the peaceful
against violence or disorder; and to respect the Constitutional rights of all men
to liberty, equality and justice:
I WILL keep my private life unsullied as an example to all; maintain
courageous calm in the face of danger, scorn or ridicule; develop
self-restraint; and be constantly mindful of the welfare of others. Honest in
thought and.deed in both my personal and official life, I will be exemplary in
obeying the laws of the land and the regulations of my department. Whatever I
see or hear of a confidential nature or that is confided to me in my official
capacity will be kept ever secret unless revelation is necessary in the
performance of my duty.
I WILL never act officiously or permit personal feelings, prejudices,
animosities or friendships to influence my decisions. With no compromise for
crime and with relentless prosecution of criminals, I will enforce the law
courteously and appropriately without fear or favor, malice or ill will, never
employing unnecessary force or violence and never accepting gratuities.
I RECOGNIZE the badge of my office as a symbol of public faith, and I accept
it as a public trust to be held so long as I am true to the ethics of the police
service. I will constantly strive to achieve these objectives and ideals,
dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession —law enforcement.
WE REMEMBER
When a police officer dies in.the line of duty it is a tragedy for
the entire community, but it is forever a memory of fellow police
officers and their families.
While on duty September 2, 1932, Patrolman Lang, 51, died instantly
when struck by a car. He became a sworn of f icer on October 8,
1920.
Patrolman Sohn, 61, died of an apparent heart.attack on May 23,
1943, during an altercation with a subject he was attempting to
place under arrest. He became a sworn officer on May 16, 1919.
During a bank robbery in June 16, 1977, Officer Donnelly, 35,
heroically sacrificed his life in a successful attempt to save the
lives of four civilian hostages. He became a sworn officer on May
6, 1968.
Officer Whitehead, 30, died in the line of duty on May 9, 1985,
during an accidental crash of Air 80, the Lansing Police
Department's helicopter. He became a sworn officer on November 28,
1977.
While on a routine complaint call on February 12, 1988, Officer
Engelhardt was shot and died in the line, of duty. She became a
sworn officer in July, 1974.
DAVID E. SINCLAIR
ASSISTANT CHIEF
0
JAMES COOK
CAPTAIN
UNIFORM DIVISION
Paul Teszlewicz
CAPTAIN
Special Operation Division
DIVISION COMMANDERS
JAMES RAPP
CAPTAIN
Technical Services
FA
RICHARD FOX
CAPTAIN
INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
DONALD DAWSON
CAPTAIN
ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT
INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
Between April - November, 1994 ten detectives retired from the division.
The amount of knowledge lost through these retirements created a Large
training need. All new detectives are receiving ongoing and continuous
training to fill that need.
The division used the following programs to provide service to the
community.
Auto Theft Grant
Michigan Auto Theft Prevention Authority renewed their grant for 1994.
Detectives from Ingham County Sheriffs Department and Lansing Police
continue to work as a team investigating auto theft's county wide. This
grant provides 75% of the funding with the remaining 25%. provided by the
city.
Crime Scene Investigators
In October, the investigations' division began supervising the crime scene
investigation unit. Efforts focused on expanding the unit and locating
sufficient training for the officers. The goal is to increase the knowledge
and capabilities of the unit.
CSI officers responded to most burglary crime scenes to obtain more
quality evidence.
Crime Stoppers Program
The crime stoppers program generated 145 crime tips for 1994. 91 tips
were for Lansing crimes, with the remainder covering the Tri-county area.
A trial arrangement with WLNS-Channel 6 as the Crime stoppers'
television sponsor is working well. The crime stoppers board also
developed a "no guns in our schools"' program to develop a safe
atmosphere for students.
OPU (Open Unassigned Case) Letters
When cases are forwarded to the division for follow-up, some do not meet
the assignment criteria. We mailed letters to the victims explaining why we
did not assign their cases. This program resulted in fewer calls from
victims asking about the status of their cases.
CASE HIGHLIGHTS
In 1994, we assigned cases using our established case assignment
guidelines. The quality follow-up investigations helped maintain a high
clearance rate for Part 1 crimes.
Crimes Against Persons
The crimes against persons squad investigated and closed a total of 2118
cases during 1994. This squad investigated twelve homicides during the
year. Detectives solved nine cases and three remain under investigation.
One homicide investigated proved extremely controversial. The case
involves the death of a newborn and parental rights. This case may be
precedent setting for the State of Michigan.
Detective James Kus investigated an assault with intent to commit great
bodily harm case at Sexton High School in January. The victim's hair was
set on fire by another student. About one foot of hair burned before
another student extinguished the fire.
In February Detective Steve Early investigated the death of a prematurely
born infant. The father disconnected the life support connected to the
infant. Death classification was homicide by the medical examiner. The
prosecutor's office charged the father with manslaughter. On February 2,
1995 the jury found the defendant not guilty.
Detectives Steve Early & Bob Delamarter investigated the homicide of a
5-year old boy in June. The victim died during a drive by shooting. An
adult male also was shot. Two accused are in custody with one accused
trial in progress.
In October Detective Mickey Debnar investigated the death of two people
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found in a railroad car. Death was due to exposure and/or dehydration.
No identification was found with the subjects. The detective believes they
boarded the train in Mexico and were unable to get off at their intended
destination.
Detective Owen Deatrick investigated a group of subjects pulling armed '
robberies in the Tri-county area. Lansing had a total of 16 robbery charges
on several accused. These subjects were also involved in robberies
outside the city and charged in other jurisdictions.
Detectives closed several other armed robberies and bank robberies
investigated through out the year. Several arrests helped clear up many
crimes.
Several car jacking cases occurred during the year., Some incidents
involved narcotics and others proved to be real car jacking. Detroit police
arrested one subject in the Victirh's vehicle and we arrested another in
Lansing.
Crimes Against Property
The Crimes against Property Squad maintained the highest number of
reported cases. This squad investigated and closed 1418 crimes during
the year. Work continued to decrease the level of property crimes through
neighborhood involvement and education.
The division took over entering the pawn property information in October.
Pawn stores report all property sold in the city to the department. A
computerized pawned property program compares pawned property with
stolen property and records any matches. Several investigations occurred
due to these matches. Civilian Murray Britton discovered an employee
theft case while entering the data.
In January a theft of over $5,000.00 in riding equipment occurred at the
Beekman Center. Investigation linked the theft to several other incidents
happening through out Michigan and the mid -west.
In March Detective Larry Thelen investigated a breaking and entering
artist on the southwest side of the city. A victim and her neighbors caught
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and detained the subject during a break in. The accused cleared twenty
residential breaking and entering. He also identified two people buying
and selling the stolen property.
Fraud/UDAA/COMMUNITY POLICING
This squad contains fraud, auto theft, and community policing detectives.
In 1994 detectives investigated and closed 497 fraud/UDAA cases, along
with 157 community policing cases.
During the early months of 1994 we experienced a rash of auto thefts
within the city. Investigations proved juveniles were committing most of
the thefts. The UDAA squad began a series of public education projects,
along with increased curfew and juvenile apprehension programs. The
thefts decreased and have remained at a lower level since then.
Detective Rick Gearhart held an identification etching clinic for the
citizens of Lansing. Many vehicles had the vehicle identification number
etched in the vehicles windows because of this program.
The Fraud Squad moved their office to the Network Center due to space
restrictions at the Prosecutor's office. The unit worked several large,
complex fraud cases during the year. Computer fraud is on the increase
with monies wired all over the United States.
Detective Tom Wilson investigated an embezzlement case at the City
Treasurer's office. Over $4100 was discovered missing.
In January Detective Dave Castelein investigated a $50,0004100,000
embezzlement case involving a local business. This case involved people
from all over the United States.
Detectives Dave Castelein and Tom Wilson investigated a $129,000
bank fraud case in April. The accused had a connection with a $170,000
fraud in New York City.
In July Detective Dave Castelein investigated a counterfeit check case.
With the subject's arrest, the detective seized over $10,000 in computer
equipment and software programs used to make the checks. The
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department's computer programmer, Brinton Butler, helped in retrieving
the data.
The community policing detective works with three community policing
areas. Follow-up investigation on cases in these areas remains successful
and well received by the citizens. Increased community involvement with
Detective Mark Wilson has helped in solving cases.
Youth/Sex
This squad investigated and closed 1081 cases in 1994.
The Rose Larner missing person case generated much attention in the
media during the year. Detective John Caudy investigated all tips
received. At this time she is still missing.
In March Detectives Bill Backus and Dean Crispin obtained warrants for
a subject involved in two criminal sexual assaults. Victims were unable to
identify the accused. In the first case of its kind in Lansing detectives used
DNA testing to identify the accused. This subject's connection to another
sexual assault case is a possibility.
Detective Jim Kus investigated a complaint in September of Laotian
parents selling minors into arranged marriages. The accused minor and
adult were engaged but had no plans to marry until the minor reached 18
years. Detective Kus worked with Refugee Services to begin education
programs within the Laotian community on American laws and customs.
The squad continued working with Protective Services on case referrals
involving child abuse and neglect.
In the early months of 1994 we experienced a rash of auto thefts within the
city. Investigations proved most of these thefts were being committed by
juveniles. The UDAA squad begin a series of public education projects,
along with increased curfew and juvenile apprehension programs. The
thefts were reduced and have remained at a lower level since then. The
Auto Theft Grant was again renewed for 1994 and we continue to work
with the Ingham County Sheriff Department investigator.
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The Community Policing Detective position has continued with excellent
results. Increased community involvement with this detective has helped
in solving cases.
The Fraud Squad moved their office to the Network Center due to space
restrictions at the Prosecutor's office. The unit worked several large,
complex fraud cases during the year. Computer fraud appears to be on
the increase with monies being wired all over the United States.
The Sexual Assault Squad used DNA testing to identify an accused for the
first time. Warrants were obtained in 2 different incidents where the victims
were unable to identify the accused.
The Crimes against Persons squad investigated a homicide that has been
extremely controversial so far. The case involves the death of a newborn
and parental rights. This case may be precedent setting for the State of
Michigan.
The Crimes against Property Unit maintains the highest number of
reported cases. One investigation tied 20 residential burglaries to one
accused. Work continues to decrease the tide of property crimes through
neighborhood involvement and education.
CRIME AND ASSIGNMENT STATISTICS
The following table illustrates that the case intake continues on the
increase, along with the case assignment rate. The percentage of cases
closed is falling somewhat as a result of these increases.
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TABLE 1
TOTAL
NUMBER
CASE
TOTAL
ASSIGNED
CASE
OF CASES
ASSIGNMENT
CASES
CASES
INTAKE
ASSIGNED
RATE
CLOSED
CLOSED
1983
15,513
4,323
27%
3,320
76%
1984
15,173
4,822
32%
4,172
86%
1985
15,921
5,319
33%
4,607
86%
1986
18,641
67687
36%
5,558
83%
1987
17,490
7,138
41 %
6,137
85%
1988
17,124
7,298
43%
57902
81 %
1989
17,344
77581
44%
5,870
77%
1990
18,178
7,791
42%
5,790
72%
1991
18,165
7,668
42%
5,564
72%
1992
17,230
7,322
42%
5,739
78%
1993
16,767
6,973
41 %
6,022
86%
1994*
18,695
7,155
38%
6,110
85%
*1994 data is projected for the entire year.
Table 2 below compares Part 1 crime statistics from January through
September, 1993 with the same period in 1994.
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TABLE 2
NUMBER OF PART 1 CRIMES
PERCENT CLOSED
1993
1994
1993
1994
Murder/Manslaughter
8
11
100%
64%
Criminal Sexual Conduct
122
109
57%
50%
Robbery
198
249
33%
32%
Felonious Assault
865
898
61 %
62%
Burglary/Forced entry
1015
1120
16%
12%
Non -forced entry
17
22
12%
5%
Larceny
3891
4484
14%
12%
UDAA
451
833
23%
21 %
Arson
56
51
25%
8%
TOTAL PART ONE CRIMES 6623
7777
22%
20%
15
YEAR
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994*
20
15
F-
5
0
Ir_r30m
CASELOAD RATE
TOTAL INTAKE NUMBER ASSIGN ASSIGN PERCENT
15513
4323
15173
4822
15921
5319
18641
6687
17490
7138
17124
7298
17344
7581
18178
7791
18165
7668
17230
7322
16767
6973
18695
7155
CASELOAD SUMMARY
TABLE 1
1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994*
TOTAL CASE INTAKE ® NUMBER CASES ASSIGNED
I-J TOTAL CASES CLOSED
PART 1 CRIMES
* projected
TECHNICAL SERVICES DIVISION
Service Desk
Quartermaster
TECHNICAL SERVICES DIVISION
The Technical Services Division consists of three (3) Bureaus. They are
the Records Bureau, Detention Bureau and the Radio Maintenance
Bureau. The automated Data Operations function is included in the
Records Bureau.
Records Bureau
Employees of this bureau processed over 20,000 traffic citations, and over
6,000 accident reports. Nearly 7,000 warrants were processed, along with
approximately 2,400 Freedom of Information requests. Personnel took in
over $48,000 in fees.
Our personnel finger -printed 2,000 citizens and processed over 2,500
criminal finger -print sets. Nearly 1,610 permits to purchase a handgun
were issued, and 1,350 handgun registrations were completed. We now
have a directed link to the Michigan State Police Gun files to help speed up
gun permits and registrations. Furthermore, over 14,000 subpoenas were
processed and served by personnel from this division.
The Crime Scene Investigators were transferred to the Investigations
Division.
A Service Desk was added to this division in 1993. This makes it possible
to have a uniform officer at a work station in the police building lobby
during the hours the building is open to the public. This officer made over
10,000 citizen contacts, in addition to taking over 900 written police
reports.
Our Quartermaster personnel received over 8,500 articles of
evidence/property, and disposed of more than 7,300 items.
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Automated Data Operations
Detention Bureau
Automated Data Operations
The Automated Data Operations unit is responsible for providing computer
services to the entire Department. Toward that end, this unit engaged in a
great deal of PC -related assistance in the form of setting up PC'S,
providing help toward configuration and use of software packages, and
troubleshooting problems. This unit also provides longer -term automated
solutions to ongoing strategic or operational goals through computer
project development. Projects worked on during the past year included the
purchase, configuration, installation and successful implementation of a
computerized prisoner photo imaging system, a system which allows for
instantaneous identification of prisoners brought into our jail; assistance
and participation in the new county -wide computer -aided dispatch and
regional criminal records sharing projects; participation in the city-wide
"Enterprise Information Technology Planning" project; participation and
support for the Department's reorganization; and continuation of the effort
to redesign our LEMS system to meet with the State's modified UCR
requirements. Current activities revolve around further supporting the
Departmental reorganization by providing communication systems via an
electronic bulletin board and Electronic Mail, while attempting to streamline
criminal data collection through the elimination of some paper flow and
multiple data handling.
Detention Bureau
The Detention Bureau operates 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. The
major responsibilities of the lock -up include: booking, fingerprint,
arraignments, interim bonding, and the operation of a LEIN terminal. The
Lansing Police Department Detention Bureau by statute provides a 72 hour
` Lock -up by correctional definition.
During 1994, 14,700 adult prisoners and 1,257 juveniles were processed
through the Detention Bureau. The Court Officers arraigned 5,447
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prisoners and obtained 8,982 complaints and warrants, along with 3,141
prisoners being sent to the Ingham County Jail.
The Detention Bureau in cooperation with 54A District Court has started
the process by which all warrants will be entered into LEIN and held by the
Court, instead of Detention. This electronic warrant system is the start of a
paper -less system between the District Court and the Lansing Police
Department. In the future the District Court Quad Tran computer system
and the Lansing Police Department LEMS will be integrated, sharing data
and saving duplicate data entry. During the year the first step was taken
with all traffic warrants being moved and entered by the District Court.
During 1995 criminal misdemeanor and felony warrants will be transferred
and entered into LEIN by the 54-A District Court. Also the cooperation
between the Detention Bureau and the District Court continued in the area
developing video arraignments. The video arraignment program is
scheduled to be operational early in 1995 and will save large numbers of
prisoners from being transported in the jail elevators up to the Court and
down the Court hallways in front of the public, to be arraigned. This
change in arraigning prisoners will increase safety in operation of both
Detention Bureau and the District Court.
During the year the Detention Bureau has improved the efficiency of its'
operation through the use in modern technology by: placing in -line a video
imaging system, installing Quad Tran from 54A District Court, improved
lighting and intercom system in the jail hallways, and completion of a State
Grant for Live Scan. The Live Scan will be on-line early in 1995.
Radio Maintenance
Radio Maintenance personnel accomplished numerous tasks over the past
year. Radio Lab Technicians recorded 2,353 calls for service, installed 40
radios in police or fire vehicles and removed 38 radios from various police
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and fire vehicles. Close to 1,200 hours were spent servicing the Lansing
Fire Department, Lansing Township Police and Lansing Community
College Office of Public Safety, radio systems. In addition to maintaining
the integrity of the various communications systems, numerous special
projects were accomplished. They include:
1. replacement and installation of a new radio transmitter for LPD
channel #1
2. replacement of the final for LPD channel #3
3. research -recommendation and installation of electronic entry locks in
6 of the Community Policing Offices
4. installation of a new wireless public address system for the Firing
Range
5. complete rewiring of all computer and printer terminals including
cables associated with the Live Scan finger printing system was done
6. START Team received their own radio frequency for portable to
portable radio use
7. modifications were made to the stand by power supplies for the
dispatch consoles central electronics bank -alarms were also added
8. firmware for dispatch consoles was rewritten for several positions
making them more user friendly
9. alternate LEIN dispatch position was added to the 5th floor of LPD
10. coded electric lock was installed on the first floor of LPD providing
selected access between City Hall and the Police Department
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11. coded electric lock with camera monitoring capabilities was added to
the detention area to monitor traffic between the doors separating the
elevators
12. color camera system/intercom was installed to monitor vehicles
entering through the police garage door
13. new console addition which was started last year was completed at
the fire department end
14. license was obtained for the Police Department to operate a trucking
radio system
15. two local government radio licenses were obtained for the police
department (these captured licenses were ones that the City had let
lapse)
16. Radio Lab assumed the responsibility of maintaining the camera
system which monitors detention cell activity, 4 camera and monitors
were installed in detention - one to monitor the basement door, lobby
door, print room, and the hallway in front of the intended new booking
station
17. 9 additional radios were- secured and assigned to detention'
personnel an -intercom/audio monitoring system was installed
throughout the Detention area.
Currently, we are in the process of evaluating the radio systems for both
police and fire. This will allow for recommendations to migrate towards a
trunking radio system. The equipment considered
during this evaluating process are forty new portable radios, and 10 new
sirens, which were secured for the Police Department, and 10 new sirens,
26 portable, and 7 new mobile radios which were secured for the Fire
Department.
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911 COMMUNICATIONS CENTER
As part of the Communication Center's effort to support regional
cooperation and cost-effective sharing of public resources, the new
Computer Aided Dispatch System was merged with operations on
September 9th, and we are now supporting Computer Aided Dispatch
operations for East Lansing, Meridian Township, the Ingham County
Sheriff Department and their Delhi office. Attention is now being focused
on bringing the Mobile Data Terminal phase of the new computer system
to fruition.
All Center personnel have attended Community Policing Philosophy
Seminars to help assure that the citizen's first point of contact with their
public safety resources are efficient, reliable, responsive, and professional.
Also, a Total Quality Management Team was begun to identify areas that
need to be addressed in every aspect of the operation, so that we can
meet and exceed citizen expectations. This provides a forum for
Supervisors and Technicians to participate together in decision making and
improved working environments.
Pen . .
rim
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SPECIAL OPERATIONS DIVISION
SPECIAL OPERATIONS DIVISION
The Special Operations Division has completed a major upgrade in the
office computer systems which allow better access and availability of the
equipment. The system is now completely networked and officers are able
to perform functions on all PC's which were previously limited.to each
terminal. Additionally, the Quad-Tran system from 54-A District Court and
the Sierra System from Building Safety are available in the Special
Operations Division Office.
The REACH Unit initiated 101 cases in 1994 resulting in 368 arrests on
drug related charges and other warrants. There were 101 raids conducted
on drug houses. The Unit conducted 5 "knock and talk" operations at local
hotels and motels and made 196 prostitution related cases. As a result of
the efforts of the Landlord/Tenant Detective, 200 residents were- removed
who were identified as drug dealers without the cost of a search warrant
being conducted. The forfeiture Detective reported $200,403.92 in illegal
drug profits seized during the year.
The installation of the S.T.A.T.I.S. Intelligence System is near completion.
The final stage is the interfacing of the Michigan State Police's Intelligence
System (S.T.A.T.I.S.) with the Law Enforcement Information Network
(LEIN). This system will allow our personnel to enter and retrieve
information on known criminals and incidents from other jurisdictions
across the State of Michigan.
Through the efforts of the Special Operations Division in conjunction with
the Uniform Division, ten community offices have been equipped with
PC/LEMS terminals. This allows the officer in the field direct access to the
Departments mainframe computer as well as making it possible for the
officer to complete reports in the field. Officers are also encouraged to
remain in the neighborhoods instead of driving to the station to complete
reports.
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The grant funded position of "Community Landlord Organizer" was filled by
Ms. Priscilla Holmes. The office has been located in the Network Center
where it is accessible to the community. The objective of this office is to
' 1) establish three -person committees in each Community Policing area, 2)
Assist these committees in identifying all rental properties and owners in
the neighborhoods, 3) develop training, 4) establish a working relationship
with Building Safety, 5) provide each committee with pertinent materials
relating to landlord/tenant rights, rental agreements, repair specialists,
assistance programs and other identified needs, 6) assist committees with
organizing meetings with landlords and 7) to decrease the number of
problem landlords and tenants, through a cooperative effort with the City of
Lansing and the Lansing Police Department, by 25% in the first year.
A new Drug House Reporting Form has been produced by the
Landlord/Tenant Detective which is more efficient and easier to complete
by citizens who wish to report the presence of a drug house in their
neighborhood. Attached is a copy of the revised Drug House Reporting
Form.
The Crime Analysis Unit provides a variety of specialized services to
the Department consisting of intelligence analysis, distribution of
crime/intelligence bulletins, personal computer programming, computer
training and special data requests. All of these areas of intelligence provide
a direct link between the Uniform and Investigation Divisions.
The major accomplishment of 1994 was the development of the AGIS
Mapping software. This software enables the Analysis Unit to provide
current maps of reported crime locations. Census data can be utilized with
the crime data to depict crime rates based upon population and land area,
for example.
Various bulletins are disseminated'throughout the Police Department.
Wanted Bulletins notify departmental members that a warrant has been
issued for a subject's arrest. .I -Bulletins inform the Uniform Division of
individuals that are involved in criminal activity. Sixty-five I -Bulletins were
disseminated in the year 1994. Because of the collaborated affords of the
23
Crime Analysis Unit, Uniform, and Investigations Divisions, 80% of
Wanted bulletins, maps and analysis of reported crime locations, and I-
• Bulletins result in arrests and 100% proactive deterrents of crime.
Contacts Cards are entered into the Department's LEMS System. The
contact cards contain updated address, vehicles, areas frequented and
associate information on subjects who are contacted by Uniform Patrol
Officers. Over 4,500 contacts were entered in the year 1994 as compared
to over 2,100 in 1993.
The Tri-County Metro Squad initiated 257 cases in Ingham, Eaton and
Clinton and several other Mid -Michigan counties in 1994, resulting in the
arrests of 240 people on 373 drug and other related charges. The total
street value of drugs seized by Metro investigators in 1994 totalled
$1,177,401. Metro officers seized 985 pounds of Marijuana and 1500
grams of cocaine from the streets of .the Tri-County area this year.
Additionally, 158 units of LSD, 38 grams of Heroin, two grams of
Methamphetamine, and 133 fluid ounces of other dangerous drugs were
removed from the streets. Metro investigators executed 36 search warrants
and seized 18 firearms during the course of the year. During 1994 Metro
investigators arrested 48 class on violators, a 140% increase over 1993.
24
UNIFORM DIVISION
UNIFORM DIVISION
The Lansing Police Department's Uniform Division has spent the past year
incorporating the Department's "Community Policing Philosophy" into all
aspects of its operations. Initial planning has begun regarding bringing this
philosophy into the mainstream of the police community. Officers assigned
to each shift, the Traffic Unit, the K-9 division, and the Community Bureau are
working more closely with the community than ever before. The officers are
dealing with a variety of "quality of life" issues, how to be more effective in
reducing crime, and empowering residents to become more effective
advocates for themselves and their neighborhoods.
An important part of this effort has been the Department's continued
emphasis on decentralizing programs and services. Several committees
have been established to study the possibility of two (2) decentralized
precincts offering complete police service at two separate locations (one north
& one south).
An ongoing goal within the Uniform Division has been to get officers who have
traditionally used the current police building for much of their work to utilize
offices within the community (schools, neighborhoods, and businesses). To
assist in accomplishing this goal in our current organization, the southend
substation at the corner of Holmes Rd. & Washington Ave. has extended its
hours of operation. A variety of services are now offered to the public from
0700 hours to 2200 hours each day. This provides citizens who live on the
south side of our community a way to conduct business with us without
having to make a trip to downtown Lansing.
The Department now has a total of twenty-one community offices located
around the city. They can be found in various residential areas, schools, and
business districts. Some of these offices are used by community policing
officers (C.P.O.'s) assigned to specific neighborhoods and housing
developments. Other offices are used by district patrol officers to meet with
citizens, write reports, access computer records, and conduct interviews.
Others are located in schools and are used by officers teaching D.A. R.E. and
other educational programs. It is our belief that these offices have helped
25
promote increased accessibility to police services, greater interaction between
citizens and police, and more effective coordination between police and
various other city service providers.
Retirements, promotions, and transfers have created many changes within
the Uniform Division over the past year. This has created a new pool of
police officers within the Department. This new influx of personnel, combined
with the transfer of many senior officers and command, has resulted in a
climate throughout the Division that is change- oriented, innovative, and
enthusiastic.
During the past year officers from the afternoon and night shifts have become
more active in setting up meeting with various neighborhoods. This type of
initiative shows the officers are taking a more active role in community and
neighborhood planning and problem solving.
Recently the day shift command and officers have worked hard to deal with
problems in and around a senior citizens apartment complex in the south end.
Vandalism, juvenile trouble, and trespassing have become a concern for
these members of our community. The officers coordinated with school
officials and students from the adjacent middle school, management from the
complex, and Officer Paul Arnold (Department's Crime Prevention Officer), to
solve the problems and build a better relationship between young people in
the area and the senior citizens living in the complex.
During this past summer and early fall, the officers were faced with a large
number of "loud party" and "disorderly subjects" complaints. These types of
calls always seem to occur at the busiest time of the night. The night shift
met with the 911 Center and began a new type of response for these calls.
Instead of holding party complaints for what sometimes turned out to be
lengthy periods of time, a specific unit was designated as the "party car." This
unit was assigned to respond to all the "loud party" and other "noise"
complaints in the city. This method cut response times to such calls by 50%
and reduced return calls by nearly 75%.
These are just a few examples of an overall approach that is being
implemented throughout the Division to reach out to the community in new
26
and creative ways. The Division continues to try new suggestions and
creative strategies for problem solving. A new emphasis on coalition building
and team work within the Department and the City overall has proven very
effective in fighting crime and coordinating services to the citizens of our
community.
PATROL
As described above, patrol officers within the Division have greatly increased
their mission and responsibilities over the past year. Officers do far more
than just respond to calls and make arrests as shown by the following
examples:
The Day Shift has continued its successful Truancy Abatement Program
(T.A.P.). This involves a coordinated enforcement effort with the Lansing
School District and the Division to deal with truants. Officers work -with school
officials, parents, and various social agencies to identify and apprehend
truants. The goal of this program is to get kids back into school and off the
streets.
A team of officers working the east side of the City on the Afternoon Shift
began monthly meetings at the Network Center earlier this year. The mission
was to coordinate law enforcement and social services in an effort to assist
"problem people." It also addressed other negative problems (i.e. trash
removal, prostitution, etc.) within this specific area of the community.
During the summer months, the afternoon shift officers utilized a golf cart to
enhance their presence and mobility while patrolling the City's Riverwalk Trail.
This innovative patrol strategy helped increase citizens' sense of safety while
using the trail. It also discourages crime and provides an opportunity for
officers to interact with residents in a non-traditional setting.
There were also some neighborhood concern over problems with increased
fighting, assaults, weapons violations, and drug activity in the parking lots of
several nightclubs throughout the City. The night shift beefed up liquor
inspections and enforcement activities in and around a number of these clubs
and bars. Two establishments (Neo's & Club Chameleon) had an usually
27
and bars. Two establishments (Neo's & Club Chameleon) had an usually
high number of these types of complaints and were ultimately shut down for
• the summer. Twenty-eight violations brought by the night shift against
Society Nightclub on the south side were sustained by the State Liquor
Control Commission. Since then, cooperative efforts between the
Department and club management have reduced these types of problems in
and around the business.
PATROL STATISTICS JANUARY - DECEMBER 1994
Calls for Service ................................. 117,876
Felony Arrests ....................................
2,158
Misdemeanor Arrests .........................'.....
9,449
Appearance Tickets .................................
950
Moving Citations ...................................
3,765
Non -Moving ......................................
8,887
Parking Citations ..................................
8,855
Investigative Reports .............................
15,350
Accident Reports .................................
4,768
Bar/House Checks ..................................
681
Stolen Vehicle Recoveries ............................
640
Drunk Drivers (O.U.I.L.'s) ..................... :.......
450
Adult Contacts ...................................
9,446
Juvenile Contacts .................................
3,531
COMMUNITY BUREAU
The Community Bureau remained in the forefront of the Department's
decentralization efforts. Officers involved in School Safety Programs and
both officers assigned to Neighborhood Watch, (Officer Patty Luciano &
Officer Dave Stacey) moved into their new offices away from the main police
• building.
Community Policing Officers continued to achieve new levels of citizen
participation and community building within their neighborhoods. In the FAB
Acres neighborhood, Officer Ray Hall & William Fabijancic worked diligently
with residents to create the "Barb Dean Tot Lot," a new park and playground
area located at the corner of Garden and Martin streets. A special dedication
ceremony for the lot was held at its completion. It featured the unveiling of a
sculpture that symbolized diversity within the area.
C.P.O.'s made good use of the V.I.S.T.A. workers during the City's. "Summer
of Safety Program." This program was run and organized by Lt. Rick Cook,
Sgt. Steve Luciano, and Sgt. Mark Alley. The C.P.O.'s and V.I.S.T.A.
personnel kept young people from community policing neighborhoods
involved in a variety of recreational activities. Sports programs such as the
Lansing Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) and other community projects kept
everyone busy over the summer and fall month.
COMMUNITY BUREAU STATISTICS JANUARY - DECEMBER 1994
K-12 Programs in Schools .......................... 1,269
School Visits ...................................... 1,329
D.A.R.E Programs ............................... 28,366
Neighborhood Watch Contacts ........................ 3,.038
Business Cards Obtained/Updated .................... 3,067
Crime Prevention Programs ............................ 88
Alarm Investigations ............ ................... 428
29
K-9 UNIT
The Department's K-9 Unit has had a particularly successful year despite the
retirement of two (2) dogs and one (1) handler. K-9 "Chase," one of the
Department's original and best animal, retired because of medical problems
after eight (8) years of service. His partner Officer William Burtch is now
working on the night shift on regular patrol duties. K-9 "Mitch" was retired
after three (3) years of street duty when his partner, Officer Dave Joppie,
retired from the Department last fall with twenty-five (25) years of. service.
The Unit has had two (2) handlers and two (2) dogs successfully complete
a thirteen week Basic K-9 School that concluded in December. Officer Matt
Ramsey is assisting Trainer Craig Desonia with this school. Upon completion
of this training, Officer Ramsey will be certified as the Department's second
K-9 Trainer.
K-9 STATISTICS JANUARY - DECEMBER 1994
Building Searches ................................... 481
Area Searches ..................................... 204
Tracks............................................ 493
Weapons Searches ................................... 21
Demonstrations ...................................... 37
Felony Apprehensions ...............................: 86
Misdemeanor Apprehensions ........................... 68
30
TRAFFIC UNIT
. As Michigan's Capitol City, Lansing is the location for numerous special
events, cultural activities, rallies, and demonstrations that require special
planning, coordination and crowd control services. These types of functions
are handled by the L.P.D. Traffic Unit. Here are some examples of the forty
(40) special events and twenty-eight (28) parades that were handled by the
unit this past year, i.e., K.K.K. rallies, the Gus Macker Basketball
Tournament, Riverfest, the Downtown Art Fair, the Safety Patrol Picnic, the
Tour De Michigan Bicycle Race, the Michigan Run, the Y.M.C.A. Corporate
Challenge, and many other events. Every division within the Department
contributed manpower to make these celebrations a success.
The Traffic Unit is also responsible for the daily traffic enforcement, accident
investigation, and abandoned vehicle complaints within our boundaries.
Enforcement and prevention continue to be a top priority with the unit. Traffic
enforcement activity remains high even though officers from this unit have
been utilized on an almost daily basis to help cover the Day Shift manpower
shortages (due to retirements and training needs).
TRAFFIC UNIT STATISTICS JANUARY - DECEMBER 1994
Accident Reports ................................
Hit & Run Accident Investigations ....................
Accident Related Citations .........................
Radar Citations .......... :.......................
Other Moving Citations .........................:. .
Non -Moving Citations .............................
Parking Citations .................................
Abandoned Vehicle Complaints .....................
31
1,256
1,370
... 713
. 2,034
... 794
1,151
1,028
1,922
DIVE TEAM
The City's renewed interest in the Grand River as a recreational and
environmental focal point has caused the Department's Dive Team to upgrade
its equipment, coordinate training with other agencies, and patrol the river in
new and creative ways.
During the past year, the Dive Team has purchased a new underwater
communications system. Team members have trained over the past summer
with the Ingham County Dive Team. The department has also acquired a jet
ski donated by Shep's Motor Sports. Its primary function is to patrol the river
during special events and access areas that were previously
difficulth m possible to reach. These jet ski patrols have proven very popular
with the public and have helped to improve boating/water safety during
special events.
DIVE TEAM STATISTICS JANUARY - DECEMBER 1994
TrainingDives ........................................ 9
Evidence Dives ....................................... 4
Body Recoveries ...................................... 3
Vehicle Recoveries .......:............................. 4
Community Events .................................... 5
Boat Accidents ....................................... 1
SPECIAL TACTICS & RESCUE TEAM (S.T.A.R.T.)
Protection of the public and police personnel in dangerous/high risk situation
continues to be the primary purpose of the Team. Highly trained personnel,
sophisticated equipment, and a commitment to safety first are just a few of the
• reasons why its members are considered to be one of the best tactical teams
in the nation.
32
In 1994 the Lansing Police Special Tactics And Rescue Team, completed it's
21 st year of service to the Greater Lansing Community. A total of 117
incidents were resolved without any serious injury to officers or any other
persons. The types of incidents resolved by the team included, barricaded
gunmen, mentally incapacitated person, drug raids, high risk search
warrants, and suicidal persons.
The team is comprised of 30 volunteer officers who serve on the team in
addition to their regular duties. There are 6 sergeants, 18 tactical officer, and
6 crisis negotiators. Team training methods developed over the last two years
were continued, including a liaison with Lansing Community College and the
West Michigan Tactical Officers Association. This allows interactive training
with other agencies. Many of our own members serve as instructors with this
system.
New capabilities were developed during 1994. A low lethality response
system for mentally incapacitated persons and two officers were trained and
certified as Explosive Handlers/Explosive Entry Technicians. Both these
capabilities enhance officer and citizen safety.
For 1995, we will be exploring possible grant options for training facility
improvements. We are also in the planning stages of a Tri-County Tactical
Team, training session. This is the first step to organizing the mutual aid
departments into a consolidated response for even the largest of incidents.
In 1995, we are also working with Sheriff Wrigglesworth on a method of
integrating paramedics, who have tactically trained with S.T.A.R.T., into our
team responses.
As we enter 1995, S.T.A.R.T. is prepared to employ it's equipment and
expertise towards the safe resolution of high risk incidents. We exist for the
purpose of saving lives.
During the past year, the Team was utilized as an entry team for all of the
departments' raids. The Tri-County Metro Narcotics Squad has also utilized
the Teams expertise during similar operations throughout the area. The
Team was also called in to safely conclude several incidents involving
barricaded subjects and to assist with the execution of five (5) search
33
warrants.
The Team received four (4) commendations from Ingham County Sheriff
Gene Wriggleworth for resolving four (4) separate out -county barricaded
gunman incidents.
S.T.A.R.T. STATISTICS JANUARY - DECEMBER 1994
Raids............................................ 101
Barricaded Subjects ................................... 5
Search Warrants .................................... 5
Other Incidents ....................................... 5
34
ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT DIVISION
ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT DIVISION
PERSONNEL AND TRAINING
The Personnel and Training Bureau had the responsibility of filling 32
sworn and nonsworn positions vacated during 1994. This required that our
personnel officer, Officer Richard Holm administer or supervise over 400
selection instruments to complete those hiring processes.
To fill the sworn vacancies with the best candidates possible, our recruiting
officer, Officer Darin Larner conducted 239 office interviews, over 1300
telephone interviews and attended over 40 job fairs, high school
assemblies and other recruiting related presentations. Other highlights
from the recruiter's desk included the new color recruiting pamphlet, the
establishment of a new recruiting team, and participation in the Joint
Committee on Police Recruitment.
1994 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Twenty-one departmental and twenty seven citizen awards were presented
at the 1994 Awards Banquet. The following is a summary of the
departmental awards and recognition of civilians receiving awards this
year.
35
CERTIFICATE OF MERIT - Awarded to an officer for outstanding
performance of duty under unusual or difficult conditions. The action need
not involve the protection of life or property and must involve unusual
thoroughness.
Officer Mark Wilson
On April 23, 1994, Officer Mark Wilson was assigned to the "Bravo
Company" of the Mobile Field Force for the Ku Klux Klan rally. At 3:15
p.m. the Bravo Company was deployed to the intersection of Allegan &
Walnut for a disturbance. As the company set-up a line formation in the
intersection, a mass of protesters ran west from the front of the Capitol
Building toward Allegan and Walnut. Within seconds the Bravo Company
was surrounded by approximately 400 protesters. The angry crowd began
chanting and yelling profanities at the officers.
.....................................................
The crowd grew in number and refused to back -off. A barrage of rocks
and pieces of cement were thrown by the protesters at the officers. A 3 to
5 pound piece of cement was hurled from the crowd and hit Officer Wilson
in the back. Officer Wilson wavered, but to the amazement of everyone he
did not go down. He held his place in line and kept the protesters back.
Several minutes later the back-up units arrived and assisted the Bravo
Company in dispersing the crowd.
When the incident was finally over, Officer Wilson was treated by Lansing
Fire Department personnel for a contusion on his back.
0
INDIVIDUAL COMMENDATION - Awarded to departmental personnel who
have performed efficient and valuable service to the Department, either in
carrying out a specific task, or in the performance of general duties over an
extended period of time.
Sergeant Greg Ventre
From January 1990 through March 1993 Sgt. Ventre was assigned to the
Special Operations Division as an undercover officer in the REACH Unit.
He was involved daily in undercover narcotics buys of crack cocaine
throughout his tenure with the unit. His work ethic and dedication to his job
resulted in over 425 narcotics cases assigned to him for investigation.
Included in these investigations were over 275 hand to hand narcotics
buys Sgt. Ventre did with drug dealers.
Sgt. Ventre was also involved in several major investigations of drug
dealers. One of these major investigations lead to the execution of 5
search warrants on 5 different houses. A total of 17 individuals were
arrested and charged with various drug charges during a day long sweep.
The sweep also netted the seizure of crack cocaine, powder cocaine,
heroin, marijuana, over 1,000 dollars in cash and a vehicle.
Sergeant .Chris Magnus
In January of 1993 Sergeant Chris Magnus was given the assignment of
rewriting the Department's Report Writing Handbook. Sergeant Magnus
immediately went to work on this project and spent a year collecting and
37
cataloguing information from a long list of sources. Much of the time
required to successfully complete this project was his own, since Sgt.
Magnus was assigned to the night shift and many of the sources needed
were only available during regular working hours. As a result of Sgt.
Magnus' efforts and dedication to duty, the Lansing Police Department has
a comprehensive, easy to use, and up -dated report handbook.
Officer William Burtch and K-9 Chase
For the past 8 years, Officer Burtch and K-9 Chase have teamed up to be
a formidable opponent against crime. During this 8 year period, Officer
Burtch has not only been a K-9 handler, but also a K-9 trainer of the
Department's K-9 Unit. In addition to being a dedicated and
knowledgeable K-9 handler and trainer, Officer Burtch and K-9 Chase has
made numerous public appearances, showcasing their talents.
Officer Burtch's dedication and expertise is such that in his last 2 years as
a K-9 handler, he and Chase have received no less than 16 letters of
recognition from this and other Departments for their work.
Officer Linda Doherty -Wright
In June of 1991, Officer Doherty -Wright was assigned to the Cherryhill
neighborhood and the downtown area as a community policing officer.
She was one of the original officers assigned to the newly formed
Community Policing Unit. Sgt. Andrew George said that Linda's
contributions have been made with a high degree of professional
excellence and because of that, the department has received a
tremendous amount of positive credit.
Officer Doherty -Wright has been able to balance law enforcement,
community building and youth programs in an extraordinary manner. A few
Kc :
examples of the activities and community problems she has dealt with are
hosting annual Christmas parties which provided the youth in her
neighborhood with bicycles, coats, hats, mittens, and food. Planning trips
-to Cedar Point, Splash Mountain, Summer Camps, and ice skating at
MSU. She changed River Street Park's name to Cherryhill Park with
neighborhood youth raising money to place a volleyball net and basketball
court in the park. She has conducted neighborhood clean-ups, paint
blitzes and summer picnics.
Officer Doherty -Wright has also worked to get the drug interdiction and
prostitution out of the Bus Station. She has worked closely with the
Building and Safety Code compliance officer to eradicate the neighborhood
from absentee landlords and she has worked closely with the courts on
problem people from her neighborhood. These are just a few of the
activities Officer Doherty -Wright has been involved in since June of 1991.
Lieutenant Paul Teszlewicz, Sergeant Mark Burns, Officer Brian Ellis,
Officer John Prince, Officer Lynn Kentner, Officer Mark Wilson, Detective
Lucius Hayward, Detective John Caudy, Center Supervisor Daniel
McCullough, and Dispatcher Kim Gray.
On September 27, 1993, at 11:30 a.m. a plane crash occurred in the area
of Waverly Road and Hunters Ridge. The personnel involved worked in
unison to effectively handle the incident. Until one has been at the site of a
plane crash and viewed the wreckage, one can not comprehend the
destruction both to the physical area as well as the human beings involved.
Lt. Teszlewicz was in charge of the entire incident and coordinated all of
the events intra departmentally as well as with other government agencies.
Sgt. Burns set up the perimeters and photographed the bodies for the
medical examiner. Officers Ellis, Prince, and Kentner assisted in the
removal of the bodies and were assigned to crowd control. Officer Wilson
was the first officer on the scene and confirmed the fatalities. He also
39
located a key witness to the crash and calmed this person until they could
be interviewed. Detectives Hayward and Caudy took statements from
numerous witnesses and did all of the investigative follow-up. Center
Supervisor McCullough coordinated all phone messages and acted as a
liaison between the FAA and Lt. Teszlewicz. Dispatcher Gray handled all
radio traffic and kept track of all units and made the necessary phone calls.
DEPARTMENTAL UNIT COMMENDATION - The Departmental Unit
Commendation may be awarded in recognition of outstanding police
services performed by any departmental unit.
Officer Donald Gilbert and Officer Ronald Dishaw
The DARE program started in our City in 1991 as a pilot project. Officers
Gilbert and Dishaw were the first pioneers of this project through a Federal
Grant. Both of these officers worked very hard at making this a top notch
program in the Lansing Schools. They have fought the many battles
needed to move the DARE program to the forefront of Lansing's war on
drugs. They have spent countless hours of their personal time -to make
sure the program would be a success. The program has been so
successful that it is now seen nation wide.
LIFE SAVING AWARD - Awarded to a citizen or officer for the saving of a
human life. This award is intended for all citizens or officers, directly
responsible for the saving of a human life, which can be supported by
M
evidence such as statements by physicians, witnesses and or officers at
the scene. The citizen's or officer's actions must have led to the sustaining
of human life, until the victim was released to the care and custody of
proper medical authority. Recipients are eligible to receive this award,
even though the victim may have expired at a later time.
Officer Marcel Holloway
On December 15, 1993, at approximately 2:00 a.m. Officer Holloway
responded to an attempt suicide in the 800 block of W. Holmes. A
distraught subject had climbed 85 feet up a radio tower and was
threatening to jump. Officer Holloway initiated verbal contact with the.
subject and talked to him for approximately 30 minutes. The subject was
intoxicated and distraught over his domestic problems. The subject made
several threats to jump, however each time he did, Officer Holloway calmly
talked the subject out of jumping.
Officer Holloway finally convinced the subject to come down: The subject
took 20 minutes to come down, as he slipped several times on the wet
metal tower. Each time he would slip, Officer Holloway calmly told the
subject to rest and take his time coming down. The subject made it safely
to the ground and Officer Holloway sought psychological counseling for
him. Officer Holloway showed extreme patience and calm during this
trying event.
Officer Mary Stevens
On November 4, 1993, at approximately 10:30 p.m., Officer Stevens
responded to a report of a man hanging over the edge of the Kalamazoo
St. Bridge at Cedar and River streets. Upon her arrival, she found a
subject who was clinging to the outside of the railing over the river.
41
Relying on her negotiator training and experience, she was able to work
her way close enough to him to engage in a conversation.
During the 20 minute conversation, Officer Stevens was able to learn that
the man had become despondent over an argument he had with his
girlfriend. Officer Stevens displayed compassion and understanding. She
was able to gain the trust of the subject and subsequently convinced him
to climb over to the safe side of the railing. He was eventually transported
to the hospital so he could speak with a therapist.
Officer Stevens' display of patience and concern for the subject was a
significant factor in the outcome. Had the subject fallen into the freezing
waters, his existence would have certainly been jeopardized.
DEPARTMENTAL CITATIONS - Awarded to departmental personnel for
outstanding contributions to law enforcement through the success of
difficult police programs, projects, or situations, such contributions being
made with a high degree of professional excellence.
Captain James Rapes
In 1988 the City of Lansing witnessed an invasion of crack cocaine and
related violence associated with street level crack cocaine sales. Captain
James Rapp took on the difficult task, of dealing with this growing problem.
Captain Rapp's first plan was the creation of the REACH Unit, which was
developed to deal with street level crack cocaine problems as well as crack
houses in neighborhoods. The REACH Unit quickly went to work on
closing down drug houses and making hand to hand buys from street
dealers. The impact was quick, thus accomplishing the goals of improving
the quality of life in many neighborhoods.
Captain Rapp continued.,his innovative methods by developing a Landlord
Tenant Program, assigning a Detective to work forfeitures and developing
a Hotel -Motel program where members of the unit would go out and talk
42
with managers of hotels and motels requesting their help in identifying drug
dealers.
Captain Rapp also secured many grants including funding for a City
Attorney for the handling of drug cases and forfeitures, additional officers
for the community policing program, and a new crime analysis unit. In
addition to securing grants, Captain Rapp worked with the City Attorney's
Office, the Mayor's Office, and the City Council in establishing the City's
tough ordinances against drug loitering, prostitute loitering and the Drug
House Ordinance. Without a doubt, Captain Rapp has distinguished
himself in the Department's efforts to make Lansing a world class city.
43
U
0
Twenty seven civilians received awards this year. The awards were
received as follows:
CIVILIAN CITATIONS - Awarded to citizens whose actions resulted in the
prevention or solution of a serious crime, the apprehension of a dangerous
criminal, or other meritorious action such as life saving, or assistance to an
officer with disregard for the recipients personal safety.
Veronica Moore
James Koon
William Abfalter
Scott Slee, Dustin Shelp, Tom Beard
Tami Nearing -Keller
Tom Elred
Darnell Ishmel
Harley Hood, Louis Tallarica, Mihai Horj,Joshua Scott
Ruth Hallman
Loretta Kalla, Rich Rushton, Bob Perhna
Gordon Lunsted, Albert Smith
Craig Brown, Tim Bridenbaker, Steve Ulman, David White
Jay Rioux
Tanika Williams
LIFE SAVING AWARD - Awarded to a citizen or officer for the saving of a
human life. This award is intended for all citizens or officers, directly
responsible for the saving of a human life, which can be supported by
evidence such as statements by physicians, witnesses and or officers at
the scene. The citizen's or officer's actions must have led to the sustaining
of human life, until the victim was released to the care and custody of
proper medical authority. Recipients are eligible to receive this award,
even though the victim may have expired at a later time.
Lester McMahan
CITIZENS MEDAL OF VALOR - Awarded to a citizen who voluntarily
comes to the aid of a police officer or another citizen at great personal risk
of their own lives in situations arising out of criminal activity wherein the
citizen involved has no personal motive or stake in the outcome.
Tracy Stuer
*Chief and Assis Chief photos were captured by the new Photo Imaging System
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