Benicia Police Department 2011 Annual Report

2011 ANNUAL REPORT BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT

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Message from the Chief Welcome to the Benicia Police Department’s 2011 Annual Report.

I am very proud of the men and women of the department, including our volunteers, who do such a great job providing for the safety and security of our community. This report reflects their commitment and serves as a tribute to the citizens of Benicia by recognizing your on-going support of the department.

Together, we have tackled some difficult challenges this past year while achieving efficiencies through resource deployment and planning. We have reduced costs through job restructuring and overtime controls. We have improved communications and transparency through public initiatives such as Coffee with the Cops and the publication of monthly community reports. Most notably, the community achieved a twenty-five-year record low annual crime rate.

As a result, Benicia continues to be the safest community in Solano County.

In this report you will read about our current accomplishments. But first, in the interest of marking the department’s 70th year of operation, we wish to recognize the hard work of our predecessors who built the foundation on which our organization and community stands. In this spirit, I direct you to the previous and distinguished Benicia Police Chiefs listed on the bottom of the next page.

Thank you for your interest in our annual report. We encourage our residents, businesses, and visitors to communicate with us about any issue or concern. Please visit our website at www.ci.benicia.ca.us/police.

Sincerely,

Andrew Bidou Chief of Police

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

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Celebrating 70 Years

Benicia Police Department

1941-2011

Benicia Police Chiefs

2011 Personnel Retirements

Officer Craig Bloch

New Hires

Officer Travis Aspegren Officer Brian Collins Officer Frances Hernandez

Promotions

Andrew Bidou - Chief Mike Greene - Lieutenant

Officer Brian Collins’ kids assist with his new badge

Officer Travis Aspegren

Former BPD Chief Pierre Bidou with son and current Chief Andrew Bidou

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

Lieutenant Mike Greene

2011 Employee Recognition Public Safety Dispatcher Angela Knight Dispatcher of the Year

The Dispatcher of the Year award is based on nominations by police and fire personnel and a subsequent review by department supervisors, with the final selection being made by the Chief of Police. Public Safety Dispatcher Angela Knight, who has been with the department since February of 2007, was selected for 2011. Angela was nominated and chosen due to her excellent police and fire dispatching capabilities along with her participation in developing and implementing a tactical dispatching unit to work with the joint Benicia-Vallejo SWAT team. Last year’s Dispatcher of the Year, Quinn Colvin, was Angela’s partner in developing this unit. Angela’s nomination also spoke to her outstanding efforts as a “team player” and her reliability when it comes to working additional shifts when needed.

Detective Ted Criado Solano County Rotary Officer of the Year & City of Benicia Public Safety Award

Detective Edward (“Ted”) Criado had an exceptional year as the Youth Services Detective and did an outstanding job with his heavy case load. In 2011, Det. Criado was directly responsible for the implementation of a new diversion process within the police department for first-time juvenile offenders. He developed a process to track each juvenile’s diversion status, giving officers in the field the ability to check the status of all juveniles on diversion via the department’s computer system.

Ted also developed a lesson plan and conducted a one-day training class for all school administrators and psychologists entitled “Best Practices in Responding to Sexual Assault Cases.” He is also responsible for the minor Alcohol and Tobacco compliancy checks funded through the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs (ATOD) grant.

Additionally, Ted is part of the forensic interviewer team for child abuse interviews within Solano County.

He conducted many serious child abuse investigations in 2011, and removed several children from dangerous environments for placement in protective custody. Officers within the department come to Ted regularly seeking advice and direction based on his expertise. Although dealing with abused children is a very difficult assignment, Det. Criado is always willing to help and is a team player with a positive attitude. He has also done an excellent job on elder abuse cases within the city as well as handling all missing person cases.

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Employee Recognition (continued) Chief’s Coin Awards

Awarded for exemplary dedication while performing duties, the Chief’s Challenge Coin is a hard-earned honor.

Receipt of this award demonstrates strong commitment to the Benicia Police Department’s core values of Respect, Integrity, Pride, Professionalism and Honor.

Officer James Laughter Seizure of Illegal Weapons and Narcotics

On September 19 and 23, 2011, Officer James Laughter was involved in two separate, significant narcotics cases, resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of illegal weapons and narcotics. James was assigned these details due to his experience working with the Solano County Narcotics Enforcement Team. One search warrant was served and over 200 marijuana plants were discovered growing inside a business. The suspect, who rented the warehouse, was arrested later that evening on charges of cultivating marijuana and interfering with an electric utility line which could have caused a significant public safety hazard. In the other case, the suspect was arrested for possessing methamphetamine, marijuana packaged for sale and a loaded 9mm handgun. James’ specialized experience and training was evident in these cases. He was able to complete the investigations, write and serve the search warrants and identify the suspects all while working his assigned patrol shift. Officer Laughter’s actions in these cases demonstrates his dedication and commitment to the Benicia Police Department. Award bestowed on November 29, 2011.

Dispatcher Quinn Colvin, Dispatcher Christina Ensley, Information Technology Analyst Sandy Ayala & Records Clerk Kelly Botello Evacuation of Police Department due to Ruptured Gas Line

On Monday, October 3, 2011, a construction crew ruptured a gas line on East K Street at 2nd Street, directly behind the police department, sending natural gas into the air and directly into the police department. An evacuation of the police department, including the critical Emergency Communications Center, had to occur immediately. This is the first time a complete evacuation of the center was performed.

Not only did this team of four employees work to evacuate the Communications Center, but they also set up a temporary Communications Center in the Fire Department’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This all had to occur within a matter of minutes, including switching 911 lines to the Vallejo Police Department, transferring non-emergency phone calls to the EOC, and setting up portable laptop computers. During this time, they maintained dispatch responsibilities for the critical incident at hand, including initiating a Community Alert and Notification on our local radio and television stations. Each of these employees put the community and organizational communication needs above their own personal safety, staying in the police department until ordered out to ensure all coordination with the EOC was complete and no citizen’s call would go unanswered. Award bestowed on November 29, 2011.

Laughter

Colvin

Ensley

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

Ayala

Botello

2011 Employee Recognition (continued) Chief’s Coin Awards Officer Damiean Sylvester Illegal Weapons Arrest

On October 27, K9 Officer Damiean Sylvester responded to a harassing phone calls detail. This is the type of call that officers handle regularly and routinely, but in this instance extra effort and follow-up on Damiean’s part resulted in a significant case and helped to secure the safety of the citizens of Benicia. By interviewing all parties involved, Damiean was able to determine that the suspect in this case was a convicted felon from Utah, who was possibly in possession of weapons, some of which were reported to be illegal in California.

Damiean used his persuasive skills to convince the suspect to not only admit to possessing these weapons, but also to surrender them peacefully. The result of this case was that 59 firearms—46 long guns (shotguns & rifles, one an illegal sawed-off shotgun), and 13 handguns (including an illegal 9mm UZI)—along with miscellaneous ammunition for the weapons, were removed from the community. The suspect was subsequently arrested for numerous felony violations. Award bestowed on November 29, 2011.

Officer William Patterson Selling Alcohol to Minors Investigation, Sex Crimes Investigations, Forgery Case, Child Abuse Case Throughout 2011, Officer William Patterson performed his duties as a School Resource Officer in an exemplary manner, pursuing numerous investigations to protect and enhance the safety and quality of life in Benicia. In August, Will initiated the investigation of a local store after a high school student was found in possession of alcohol. Utilizing a juvenile decoy, he determined the owner of the store was knowingly selling alcohol to minors.

He arrested the owner, who was later convicted of the offense. Will coordinated his efforts with the City Attorney’s Office, and determined that the owner had violated provisions of the business license. Will’s testimony at a suspension hearing assisted in the City’s decision to suspend the store’s business license for 30 days Will also investigated several significant sex crimes during 2011. Crimes of this nature are always sensitive cases; Officer Patterson was compassionate toward the victims and assisted them and their families throughout these difficult situations. With thorough interviewing techniques, he was able to secure confessions from suspects and worked effectively with school officials on sensitive issues. His professionalism, discretion and ability to handle confidential matters were key in allowing the victims and the school community to move forward after the conclusion of the investigations.

While investigating a unique criminal matter, Will arrested a suspect who submitted forged documents in an effort to get her child into the school district. The investigation was conducted methodically and in a thorough manner and led to the filing of felony charges.

Officer Patterson invested the time and effort to create a sense of trust with one of the victims in a serial abuse case where the mother of three youngsters had the children so afraid that they would not cooperate with the police. The mother remains incarcerated and is facing over a decade in prison for victimizing her children. Without his efforts, these children may have continued to be victimized and subjected to neglectful conditions. Award bestowed on December 31, 2011.

Sylvester

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Patterson

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Employee Recognition (continued) Chief’s Coin Awards Management Analyst Jeff Tschudi BZPP Grant Management

Management Analyst Jeff Tschudi was part of a department team put together to organize and apply for a federal Buffer Zone Protection Program (BZPP) grant. Benicia Police Department’s grant allotment was to be $194K, and Jeff’s initial role was to help organize some of the budgetary information for the grant. This grant provided for significant radio communication upgrades to comply with federal law, as well as new equipment for the SWAT Team, Investigations Unit, Crime Scene Technician, and Patrol Officers.

Over a period of two years, Jeff’s role grew and expanded to one of prime importance for the successful implementation of this important grant. Throughout the course of these two years, a number of grant requirements changed, equipment requests changed, and many other issues and obstacles arose.

Jeff developed an excellent working relationship with the County Office of Emergency Services coordinator and the primary communications company. As the primary point-of-contact and problem solver, Jeff worked diligently and professionally to overcome each issue, problem, and obstacle. Ultimately, each item that the BPD requested was approved and purchased. The successful implementation of this federal grant will positively affect the department for many years to come. Award bestowed on December 28, 2011.

Police Aide Ron “Doc” Uhlman Programming/Installation of Mobile & Portable Radios

Over two years ago, the Benicia Police Department organized and applied for a federal Buffer Zone Protection Program (BZPP) grant. Although not initially involved in this grant, over time Police Aide Doc Uhlman took on the responsibility of equipping patrol units and overseeing some of radio communication efforts. As radio equipment began to arrive, he was asked to oversee the programming and installation of mobile and portable radios. Additionally, he helped document and tag each piece of grant equipment. Doc worked closely with the communications company to ensure the proper programming and installations were completed in a timely manner, and volunteered to assist with other aspects of the BPD’s narrow banding radio project to ensure all tasks were performed properly before this transition took place. His work ethic and role in this project will positively affect the department for many years to come. Award bestowed on December 28, 2011.

Uhlman

Tschudi

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Department Goals Annual goals provide focus and direction to all members of the Benicia Police Department. Each and every BPD employee participates in helping to identify and establish the final set of goals found in this Annual Report.

By selecting goals that involve all employees, the organization ensures the buy-in and team performance that supports the primary purpose of the department’s goal setting: to continue the excellent community service historically provided by the Benicia Police Department.

Budget Reduce operating costs

Implement fleet management processes

Continue overtime controls

Review vendor expenses

Maximize resource sharing (internal & external)

Update organizational structure

Maximize grant resources & funding opportunities Succession Planning, Professional Development & Training Supervisory Leadership Institute

FBI Academy

Tactical Dispatcher Training Course

Westpoint Leadership Program at Los Angeles PD

CIT - Crisis Intervention Team Training (focus on management of mentally disturbed individuals)

Command College

CSTI Officer Safety Course Community Outreach National Night Out

911 Cares

Torch Run

Safe Schools Team

Safe Routes to School

Every 15 Minutes

Citizen Police Academy

D.A.R.E.

Department Reduce overall Part 1 Crimes, vandalism and graffiti through continued implementation of the Benicia Policing Strategy

Continue and expand Explorer Program and increase Explorer participation in special events

Continue Patrol’s involvement in the investigation of crimes (focusing on case management, up to and including prosecution) that is consistent with the Benicia Policing Strategy

Encourage promotional training/classes for those Officers/ Corporals/Sergeants looking to promote; hold Department leadership/supervisory/promotional workshop

Continue and expand involvement in county and state collaborative programs such as Avoid the 10 (DUI reduction/ sobriety checkpoint campaign involving ten Solano County law enforcement agencies), VSET (Vehicle Theft Suppression Enforcement Team), Click It or Ticket (seatbelt campaign), the California Law Enforcement Challenge, Safe Routes to School and Bike Rodeos (bike safety awareness campaign)

Through the Benicia Policing Strategy and community feedback, continue to look for opportunities to improve level of service in areas outside direct crime reduction

Continue Citizen Police Academy (add two classes this year)

Institute an RP (Reporting Party) follow-up program to identify areas for improved services

Integrate Hostage Negotiators into the Joint Benicia/Vallejo SWAT Team

Continue Traffic Safety Awareness Program intended to reduce number of traffic collisions

Implement communication upgrades to meet federal narrow band requirements

Install Motorola Ambassador Radio cards to ensure county interoperability via county funds or grant funding

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Department Goals (continued) Department (continued) Maintain high closure rates for serious felony crimes

Perform at least one comprehensive parole sweep / one probation sweep

Monitor the current 290-registrant Contact Program and improve as needed

Increase Benicia Cal-MMET (California Multi-Jurisdictional Methamphetamine Enforcement Team) investigations

Coordinate and complete one Active Shooter training scenario w/Benicia Police Department & Benicia Unified School District personnel

Purchase investigative equipment through federal grant

Implement follow-up strategies on domestic violence cases where children live in the home (work with Child Protective Services, Family Resource Center, and other resources)

Maintain pro-active investigative approach to residential burglary cases and their prevention

Maintain pro-active approach to the use of FRC (Family Resource Center)

Strengthen work relationship with Benicia Unified School District

Complete Per Diem agreement with Vallejo PD

Update Basic Dispatch Training Program

Analyze and refine various clerical tasks completed

Fully implement Tactical Dispatch with Joint SWAT Team and attend all trainings

Recruit additional Patrol & Clerical volunteers

Implement Citation Data Entry Program (citation processing/ data entry to be reassigned from Dispatch Department to clerical volunteers)

Fully incorporate Explorer Program into the department

Re-establish victim notification program through Investigations

Continue to support the Benicia Youth Action Coalition (BYAC) and county/city grant partnership programs to help reduce the underage use of Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs (ATOD)

Continue to support the Police Chaplain Program / maintain involvement with the Liberty High School Mentor Program

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Professional Development Training for sworn and non-sworn staff is critically important as it relates to officer safety, career development, and professional public relations. Being current on crime trends, crime prevention, investigation and officer tactics allows the Benicia Police Department to provide its community with a higher level of service and safety.

P.O.S.T. Certification - Completed in 2011 (Commission on Peace Officer Standards & Training) Intermediate

• Officer Sam Peterson • Detective James Rouse • Dispatcher Stephanie Barreto • Dispatcher Christina Ensley • Dispatcher Sarah Schooley • Dispatcher Lauren Teel

Advanced

• Officer Sam Peterson

Supervisory

• Lieutenant Bob Oettinger • Sergeant Roger Yokoi

Manager

• Lieutenant Bob Oettinger

Notable Professional Development Completed • Senior Executives in State & Local Government Program John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University Chief Andrew Bidou • Supervisory Leadership Institute Sergeant Roger Yokoi

• Tactical Dispatcher Course Dispatchers Michelle Foley & Sarah Schooley • Basic Motorcycle Training Course Officer Fred Ayala

• CSTI Officer Safety & Field Tactics Corporal Mark Hassler & Officer Aldo Serreno • Supervisory Core Course Officer Pat Tracy • Management Course Lieutenant Mike Greene

• Sexual Assault Investigations Course Detective James Rouse

• CALNENA Training Conference (California Chapter of the National Emergency Number Association) Dispatchers Lauren Boyd & Sarah Schooley • Traffic Collision Investigation Course Officer Mark Simonson

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Significant Cases Murder (February): A suspect murdered his live-in girlfriend after a physical altercation. Suspect was arrested approximately eight hours after police were notified and is currently awaiting trial.

Robbery (March): The victim had posted his iPhone for sale on Craig’s List, and prearranged a meeting with the suspect. At this meeting, the suspect took the phone for inspection, pushed the victim out of the way and drove off. The 34-year-old suspect was arrested the following day.

Vandalism/Handgun Possession (March): A 23-year-old male was arrested for vandalism and unlawful possession of a handgun after it was reported that he caused substantial damage by driving his pickup onto the ball fields at Community Park. The suspect attempted to leave the area by traveling into the open space over the hills. Officers sealed off the area, hiked into the open space and arrested him.

Theft/Resisting Arrest (March): Three suspects were arrested for metal theft and resisting arrest after an officer on routine patrol witnessed them loading large metal pipes into a U-Haul truck. Prior to their arrest, they attempted to flee on foot. The business owner estimates the loss at approximately $11,000.

Vandalism (May): Two suspects were arrested for vandalism after latent prints, returned from the crime lab, linked them to a December 2010 graffiti case.

Arson/False Reports (June): A 15-year-old male was arrested for arson after setting fire to a window covering in his garage. Upon further investigation it was determined that the juvenile was responsible for making numerous false 911 calls dating back to April. In addition to arson, the juvenile was charged with 21 counts of making false police reports.

Armed Robbery (June): Officers responded immediately to a call from US Bank, and surrounding cities’ police departments were notified. Three suspects were apprehended, arrested, and charged with armed robbery and conspiracy.

Child Pornography (August): A 36-year-old male was arrested after a probation search of his residence. The suspect, a sex registrant, was arrested for possession of child pornography and violation of his probation.

Grand Theft/Auto Theft (September): A woman and two men were arrested for grand theft, auto theft and possession of stolen property after being observed by a citizen loading metal pipes, valued at over $4,000, onto a trailer.

Drug Possession/Sales (December): An 18-year-old male was arrested for possession and selling of ecstasy to students on the high school campus.

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Community Outreach Coffee With The Cops

The Benicia Police Department hosted its first Coffee with the Cops neighborhood/business meeting in November at the First Street Cafe. Chief Bidou invited citizens to meet members of the police department for an informal discussion on crime trends in the neighborhood. BPD staff answered questions, offered tips and provided information on topics of interest, such as enhancing Neighborhood Watch Programs and other strategies to reduce crime and improve public safety. With the success of the meeting, the BPD plans on scheduling future meetings.

Citizen Police Academy

The BPD’s Citizen Academy is an extremely popular program. Open to all Benicia residents over 18, the Academy offers the opportunity to learn more about police work in a two-month long free course.

Safe Routes to School

This BPD program encourages students to walk and bike to school safely with educational events like Bike Rodeos, Walk and Roll and the Walking School Bus. Events are held on location at the local elementary and middle schools and the program is funded by the Solano Transportation Authority (STA).

• Bike Rodeos

Bike Rodeos promote bike safety with helmet fittings, reviews of rules of the road and practical bike obstacle courses on site for kids to practice what they’ve learned. Those with defective bike helmets or without helmets are given new ones.

• Walk and Roll

Walk and Roll is a week-long event where the goal is to get kids to walk or ride bikes to school.

It is aimed at healthy living and reducing traffic. The week usually ends with a Bike Rodeo.

• Walking School Bus

The Walking School Bus initiative promotes a healthy lifestyle and traffic safety by inviting students to walk as a group with other students, teachers and parents to school from a safe, pre-determined drop-off location.

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Community Outreach (continued) D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education)

A successful national substance abuse prevention and education program, D.A.R.E. empowers children to lead safe and healthy lives.

Neighborhood Watch

Neighbors organize to reduce criminal activity through signage, observation and reporting of suspicious activities.

National Night Out

NNO is an anti-crime program that strengthens neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. National Night Out events include block parties, cookouts and visits from local police and sheriff departments, with awareness extending well beyond the one night.

Safe Schools Team

The Benicia Unified School District and Benicia Police Department have assigned personnel to the Safe Schools Team who work together to address safety issues on campuses throughout the school district.

Prescription Medication Take-Back Program

In association with the DEA, BPD accepted more than 300 pounds of unwanted, expired, or unused prescription medications from Benicia and Vallejo residents this year. This proactive program addresses vital public safety and public health issues—medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. The Take-Back Program provides those with unused prescription medications a safe and legal way to dispose of them.

Citywide Disaster Drill

BPD employees and volunteers participated in a disaster drill that simulated organizing a city-wide shelter due to a dangerous vapor cloud.

Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run Members of the Benicia PD, Martinez PD and Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office ran 3.6 miles in this annual event supporting the Special Olympics of Northern California.

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Community Outreach (continued) Anti-Bullying Student Awareness Campaign

In coordination with the Benicia Unified School District and Benicia Youth Action Coalition, the BPD held a week long anti-bullying student awareness campaign. The program provided students with valuable tools to respond to bullying situations.

9/11 Memorial Event

BPD officers attended a 9/11 Memorial Event hosted by First Baptist Church. Children at the event were given rides in the SWAT Humvee.

Substance Abuse Forum

In these times of increased substance abuse among students, the Benicia Unified School District in cooperation with the Benicia Police Department held monthly forums consisting of students, a school psychologist, a chemical dependancy and recovery specialist, a member of the investigations unit of the BPD, a physician, and an additional expert pertaining to the topic. The purpose of these meetings was to provide accurate information regarding drug use in a venue that encourages respectful communication, to influence youth to refrain from substance abuse, and to provide information from experts in discussing choices with students.

Relay for Life Event

Relay for Life events help communities celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. Members of the BPD participated by walking for the team, working the booth, and providing K9 demonstrations as well as general education about the police department

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 County Collaborations & State Grants The Benicia Police Department makes the most of its resources by partnering with other agencies in the county and state. Following are some of the collaborative activities in which the BPD participates.

• Avoid the 10 DUI Campaign

The Avoid the 10 Program is an ongoing awareness campaign coordinating ten Solano County law enforcement agencies with the goal of reducing the number of deaths and injuries caused by alcohol related crashes. Funding provided by grants from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) allows counties to add overtime hours to deploy officers in areas with high occurrences of DUI-related traffic collisions and conduct public awareness media campaigns during the increased enforcement periods.

The overall goal of this campaign is to let drivers know about the countywide increased enforcement periods and warn drivers that the only way to “avoid” the county’s law enforcement officers is to drive sober. Increased enforcement periods are planned during high-traffic holiday periods such as Memorial Day weekend, July 4th weekend, Labor Day weekend and the Winter holidays. Additionally, funding is available for special operations such as Super Bowl Sunday, St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, Halloween, and other local festivals with identified DUI problems where media campaigns with heavy enforcement can reduce deaths and injuries caused by drunk drivers.

• Vallejo/Benicia/Suisun SWAT Team (Special Weapons & Tactics) • CAL-MMET (California Multi-Jurisdictional Methamphetamine Enforcement Team) • Emergency Communication Radio Interoperability • K-9 Training with Solano County Sheriff’s Office • Vehicle Theft Taskforce • Mobile Field Force • Parole Sweeps

Benicia/Vallejo SWAT Team with Shouka at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Volunteer Program The Benicia Police Department encourages the participation of citizen volunteers within the organization through our Volunteers in Police Services program (VIPS). VIPS is a partnership between volunteers from the community and the BPD. Benicia’s award-winning VIPS program was recognized as an “Outstanding Law Enforcement Program” in 2008 by the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

Volunteers bring their experience and skills to enhance the services provided by local police. Specially trained volunteers work to make our community a safer place in which to live. Volunteer assistance allows our police officers more time to protect our citizens and deter crime. Citizens can participate in several volunteer programs: Police Explorers: Youth 15 to 20-years-old can participate as uniformed police explorers (cadets). Explorers volunteer their time and assist the department in a number of tasks. In 2011, five Explorers trained in a variety of areas from conducting building searches and traffic control, to lighting flares and weaponless defenses.

Patrol Volunteers: Citizens participate in our field services which support our patrol officers by providing extra patrol, traffic control, support for the residential Vacation Watch Program, parking enforcement, vehicle transport, special events support and other field duties. This year, patrol volunteers conducted 1,176 residence checks for the Vacation Watch Program, and assisted at 104 community events.

Police Interns: College students majoring in Criminal Justice can serve as interns and earn volunteer hours required to complete their degrees.

Evidence Services: Volunteers provide assistance in our Evidence Room, helping to review and purge old evidence items.

Investigations Services: Volunteers also provide assistance for our Investigations Unit, and clerical support for the Youth Services Officer.

Support Services: Citizens volunteering for these important behind-the-scenes services assist with data entry, clerical tasks and administrative assignments within the Records and Investigations division of the Benicia Police Department.

Chaplains: Citizens from the faith community serve as Police and Community Chaplains. The Chaplaincy Program provides assistance to crime victims and their families, assists police officers on notification visits, and serves all aspects of the VIPS during critical incidents.

Program

Volunteer Hours 2011

Explorers

337

Patrol/Interns

2,922

Evidence

480

Investigations

140

Support

655

Chaplains

139

Total

4,673

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Family Resource Center Family Resource Center Collaborative Assistance for Families - Keeping Children Safe & Families Strong Benicia’s Family Resource Center (FRC) is a community-based center that focuses on providing information and referral services to families and children. The FRC maintains a wide range of programs to serve the needs of families in the community, including support services and parent education. These programs are designed to make families feel welcome and supported. The FRC and Benicia Police Department work closely together, ensuring that parents and children get the support and assistance they need. Despite the economic downturn, the FRC has been able to continue to provide a high level of support for families in the community.

In 2011, the FRC: • Served 293 families with 504 children between the ages of 0 and 18 • Received 64 referrals from the Benicia Police Department • Provided 42 families with financial assistance for emergency basic needs • Offered two sessions of the the 10-week-long Parent Project class In 2011, the top 5 FRC service referrals were: 1. Utility assistance

2. Parent education 3. Food assistance

4. Housing assistance

5. Therapy/counseling (mental health)

FRC Coordinators Susan Ferdinandi and Blanche Hillman

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 K9 Units Police canine Jazz ended his nine-year-career with the Benicia Police Department in September. Jazz had three handlers during his time in the department, the last being Officer Jake Heinemeyer. Jazz is now a family dog, living ‘the good life’ in retirement with the Heinemeyer family.

Officer Kirk Keffer was awarded a K9 position in September 2011. Deputy Mike Waller of the Solano County Sheriff’s Department assisted BPD in locating Keffer’s new K9 partner, Bak. Bak is a 2-year-old German Shepard hailing from the Netherlands. Keffer and Bak trained and earned their certification in the fall. Bak is now certified in all aspects of patrol (protection, apprehension, tracking) and narcotics. Since Bak has been in service he has logged 60 hours of patrol training and 61 hours of narcotics training. Bak has located over eight grams of narcotics and apprehended one subject in the three months he has been on the street. The apprehension involved a robbery suspect who fled on foot from Vallejo after a vehicle pursuit. Keffer and Bak responded, and after a lengthy track Bak located the suspect in a residential backyard.

Damiean Sylvester and his K9 partner, Mirco, had a very productive year. They logged nearly 600 hours of patrol and narcotics training, including 40 hours of SKIDDS (SWAT & K-9 Interaction During Deployment School). Training hours included competing in eight K9 competitions—placing twice in 1st place, twice in 3rd place, and twice in 4th place. In addition, Sylvester and Mirco conducted 12 separate K9 demonstrations for the local schools, Relay for Life, Solano County Ag Day (an event for agriculture-related businesses), and for the local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. Mirco had two apprehensions this past year, one of which was a subject wanted for vehicle theft. The subject fled prior to police arrival and hid in the foliage near an apartment complex.

Mirco tracked and located the subject who was then taken into custody without incident. The second subject was tracked after running from an officer following a copper wire theft. Mirco again tracked the subject, locating him a quarter-mile away. Mirco also located approximately 30 grams of narcotics throughout the year.

Thanks to the generosity of the Syar Foundation, the “Cover Your Canine” program, Pet Food Express and the Solano County Sheriff’s Office, many costs associated with police canines have been offset.

Through Susan Syar and the Syar Foundation of Napa, the BPD purchased new police canine, Bak, and provided training for Officer Keffer and Bak. Both Bak and Mirco were outfitted for protective vests, as police canines now need the same protection against violent criminals that officers have. Mirco’s vest was donated by “Cover Your Canine” through the Police and Working K9 Foundation. Benicia’s Pet Food Express also partnered with the BPD in donating Bak’s dog house, and providing free bathing and pet food at a discounted price for both dogs. Deputy Mike Waller and the Solano County Sheriff’s Office provided the canine training services.

Officer Sylvester and Mirco Officer Keffer and Bak

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

Officer Heinemeyer and retired police canine, Jazz

2011 Service Statistics The Benicia Police Department prides itself on being a full-service department. In addition to the traditional response by patrol officers to various calls for assistance, other members of our agency also provide vital daily services to the community. Following are some statistics highlighting the importance of these crucial “behind-the-scenes” services. These statistics represent only a portion of the duties for which these roles are responsible.

Animal Control & Vehicle Abatement Officer In 2011, Officer Darlene Jelonek responded to 544 animal-related calls and investigated 284 vehicles, 27 of which were abated.

Records Clerk In 2011, Records Clerk Kelly Botello released 59 vehicles, responded to 158 discovery requests from the District Attorney’s office, and released 973 records.

Community Service Officer I In 2011, CSO Suzie Kaluza performed 19 car seat safety inspections, created 196 fingerprint records, and processed 1,180 subpoenas.

Community Service Officer II/Evidence Technician In 2011, CSO/Evidence Tech Laura Williams logged 700 cases with over 2,000 pieces of property, received more than 100 firearms for safekeeping, and destroyed 78 seized/unclaimed firearms.

Dispatch In 2011, the Communications Center responded to 4,786 emergency (9-1-1) calls, 99.7% of which were answered within 10 seconds. (Due to technical issues, three months of data was unavailable. Averages for this period were used to calculate the year-end call total.)

Annual Dispatchers Luncheon

Animal Control & Vehicle Abatement Officer Darlene Jelonek

19

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Upgrades Benicia Police Department upgrades were partially or fully underwritten through grant funds. Grant sources include local (Association of Bay Area Government’s Risk Mitigation), state (Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Funds) and federal funds (Department of Justice, Recovery Act Justice Assistance Grant, Homeland Security).

Equipment & Technology Narrow Band Communication System Upgrade Federal Communications Commission (FCC) law mandated that public safety agencies narrow band their radio frequencies by January of 2013. Taking advantage of federal grant funding, the Benicia Police Department embarked on an ambitious two-year mission to complete this requirement. By December of 2011, all the department’s wide band communication infrastructure—some as old as 30 years—was replaced with modern narrow banding equipment. This upgrade will provide communication services to Benicia’s Police and Fire Departments well into the next decade.

Mobile & Portable Radio Improvements With the implementation of narrow band communication equipment, the BPD was able to acquire new mobile radios for police cars and portable radios for officers to carry. Two mobile radios and six portable radios have the capability to be programmed to various frequencies around the Bay Area—so as interoperability expands in the region our officers will have the ability to communicate in emergency situations.

Solar Powered Traffic Radar Trailer with Sign Board In 2011, the BPD purchased a new solar powered radar trailer with message board. The radar trailer is placed in areas where complaints have been received about speeding vehicles. In addition to displaying the speed of approaching vehicles, the sign board can be programmed to warn vehicles to slow down should they be traveling at an excessive speed. The new radar trailer has enhanced the Traffic Unit’s ability to help educate the motoring public prior to enforcement efforts by the police department.

The radar trailer also has the ability to record and download vehicle speeds by date and time. Traffic officers can use the data collected to determine if and when there may be a speeding issue in a certain neighborhood or area of the city. This information can also be used to educate neighborhood residents as to the validity of the reported traffic problem.

With the solar power panels, there is no need to re-charge the internal battery pack. The solar power panel will allow the trailer remain on location and does not require an officer to be taken away from other duties to deploy and pick-up the trailer each day.

20

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Upgrades (continued) Equipment & Technology (continued) IT Projects • Upgraded in-car video systems (Arbitrator) to allow for newer patrol car cameras, better search capability, and increased encryption.

• Upgraded department’s digital video system (Pelco) to extend storage of videos from 15 days to over four months at no cost to the department.

• Prepared records management system for upgrades in 2012.

• Migrated dispatch and crime mapping to new program, resulting in more stable connections to the server and greater ability to plot cell phone callers’ latitude and longitude.

• Continued development of ARIES integration, including the ability to search additional fields for offense type (vehicle, firearm, property). Contra Costa’s ARIES Project (Automated Regional Information Exchange System) was the impetus for updates to BPD’s dispatch, briefing and investigations computers, allowing personnel to search for similar contacts (other cities who have run the same subject and jail mugshots).

Vehicles • 1 Administrative Car (Taurus) • 3 Patrol Cars (Interceptors) • 1 Investigations Car (Escape) The Taurus and Escape were acquired via grant funds. In 2010, the Department utilized grant funds to purchase a police-package, pursuit-rated Chevrolet Tahoe for use as a mobile command center to be assigned to the on-duty patrol sergeant. In 2011, additional grant funding was used to outfit this vehicle with special equipment such as state-of-the-art communications hardware and the specialized tactical tools necessary to manage complex police operations.

Buildings Additional security upgrades were made to the police facility this year. A side glass door leading into the department was replaced by a high grade metal door, consistent with other doors around the facility.

Also upgraded was the security camera, and the addition of a sound system in the holding cell.

BPD Tahoe’s new command center

21

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Crime Statistics UCR (Uniform Crime Reporting) is an FBI program compilation of annual crime statistics for the United States.

In 2011 Benicia had its lowest crime rates in more than 25 years.

UCR Totals - Benicia

566

2007

2008

464

471

500

526

546

549

559

600

571

599

605

700

400

300

200

100

0

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2009

2010

2011

Historical UCR Crime Totals 1200

Twenty-Five-Year Record Low

1000 800 600 400 200 0

1985

1990

1995

22

2000

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2005

2010

2011 Crime & Arrest Statistics Classification

Number of Offenses

% Change

2010

2011

+/-

Homicide

1

1

—

Rape

7

7

—

Robbery

15

11

-27%

Aggravated Assault

27

21

-22%

Burglary

136

144

+6%

Larceny

269

211

-22%

Stolen Vehicle

67

58

-13%

Arson

4

11

+175%

Total

526

464

-12%

Simple Assault (not included in UCR totals)

173

129

-25%

Total, including Simple Assault

699

593

-15%

700

648

Misdemeanor Arrests

400

369

386

500

394

492

600

0

2007

2008

124

100

71

100

102

200

136

300

2009

2010

2011

ADULT JUVENILE

Felony Arrests 700 600 500

0

2007

2009

23

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2010

60

243

217

251

2008

35

30

100

43

198

200

57

300

273

400

2011

ADULT JUVENILE

2011 Citation Statistics

All Citations by Year

4,300

4,301

4,400

4,200

4,100

3,945

4,000

3,900

3,696

3,800

3,700

3,512

3,600

3,500

3,400

3,238

3,300

3,200

3,100

2007

2008

2009

24

2010

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011

2011 Citation Statistics (continued) 2011 Citation Totals by Type 11%

9% 38%

9%

9%

2% 4%

8% 4%

6%

REGISTRATION VIOLATIONS SPEEDING NO PROOF OF INSURANCE STOP SIGN VIOLATIONS WARNING PARKING VIOLATIONS SUSPENDED DRIVERS LICENSE CELL PHONE USE WHILE DRIVING SEAT BELT VIOLATIONS (Adult & Child) ALL OTHERS

Traffic Citation Warning Program A new Traffic Citation Warning Program designed to educate drivers who commit minor traffic offenses began in 2011 as the Benicia Police Department continues to work toward reducing traffic violations and accidents in the community. As a result of this program, motorists committing minor traffic violations may be issued a written warning instead of a costly citation, with the goal of changing drivers’ behavior and reducing the occurrence of speeding and accidents. The warning citation will replicate the experience of receiving an actual citation. However, warning citations will not be sent to the courts and therefore will not affect driving records or accrue fines. The BPD is tracking warning citations issued so that motorists who have been issued a warning and commit a subsequent similar offense could be issued a conventional traffic citation which could result in a fine or appearance in court.

25

BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Budget This year again presented a number of budget challenges due to the state’s difficult fiscal situation. Turning these challenges into opportunities, the Benicia Police Department continued pursuing efficiencies and innovations that reduce costs while maintaining the outstanding level of service the community has come to expect. The BPD especially recognizes the flexibility and professionalism of staff that has allowed the department to maintain and improve service levels with consecutive reductions in resources.

• Approximately 40% of the operating budget goes toward critical maintenance of computer records systems/data and fuel.

• Training funds remain a priority to protect.

Budget Reductions Implemented • Overtime controls and reductions resulted in a ten-year low (as shown on next page, Historical Overtime Costs chart) • Reduced sworn staff to 34 full-time officers • Delayed hiring of new officers • Delayed hiring of Administrative Secretary • Increased efficiency through partnerships • Continued utilization of volunteers

Fiscal Year 2011-2012 $296,270 $563,390

7%

Operating Budget Detail

4%

$2,295,337

27%

Training $71,475

$5,192,997

Fuel

62%

$98,715

Critical Systems Maintenance $125,850

SALARY Remaining Operating Budget

BENEFITS

$267,350

OPERATING BUDGET INTERNAL SERVICE FUND CHARGES

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2011 Budget (continued) The chart below demonstrates the outcome of overtime controls and reductions, resulting in a ten-year low of $267,052, which is just over three percent of annual expenditures.

Historical Overtime Costs

8.0%

$490,897

$600,000

$500,000

7.0%

5.0% $267,052

$400,000

$335,405

6.0%

$300,000

4.0%

3.0%

$200,000

2.0% $100,000

$0

1.0%

2001-2002

2002-2003

2003-2004

2004-2005

2005-2006

2006-2007

2007-2008

YEAR END TOTAL % OF EXPENDITURES

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

2008-2009

2009-2010

2010-2011

0.0%

In Memoriam

Vallejo PoliceOfficer James L.Capoot November 2, 1966 - November 17, 2011 The Benicia Police Department wishes to honor Officer James L. Capoot.

As a neighboring agency, Benicia PD staff were among the first responders to the incident on November 17, and were greatly impacted. The Benicia PD offers its continued support and condolences to Officer Capoot’s family and friends.

In the Line of Duty

Officer James Lowell Capoot, 45, of the Vallejo Police Department, was killed in the line of duty on November 17, 2011, while apprehending a bank robbery suspect. A loving devoted father, husband, son, brother, uncle, officer, coach, neighbor and friend, Jim lived a full and extraordinary life.

A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Jim joined the Marines after high school Vallejo Police Officer and was stationed at Mare Island in Vallejo, where he met and married James L. Capoot Jennifer, the love of his life. In 1990, he joined the California Highway Patrol and started his career as a peace officer, joining the Vallejo PD in 1993. For 19 years Jim distinguished himself as a Vallejo officer while endearing himself to the Vallejo community. In addition numerous he received two Vallejo PD Medals of Courage and one Life-Saving In theto Line of commendations, Duty Medal. In 2000, Jim received the Officer of the Year Award.

For a number of reasons we want to honor the passing of Officer Capoot, including that the Vallejo is a neighThroughout his service, he was also busy coaching youth sports teams for his three daughters. As coach for borhing agency and Benicia PD staff were among the first responders to the incident Vallejo High School’s varsity girls’ basketball, he led the team to a division II championship. He left the coaching on 11/12. bench in 2011 to welcome into his home the two children of close friends who were killed in a motorcycle accident.

Jim lovedJames his work, butCapoot, adored his and daughters. often said,was “I’mkilled dedicated to my to Officer Lowell 45, wife of the Vallejo Police He Department, in the line of job, dutydevoted on November my family.”

He is truly missed by all—family, friends and colleagues in both the Vallejo and Benicia communities.

12, 2011, while apprehending a bank robbery suspect. A loving devoted father, husband, son, brother, uncle, officer, coach, neighbor and friend, Jim lived a full and extraordinary life.

A native Training of Little Rock, Arkansas, Jim Trauma for PD Trauma Training forBenicia Benecia PDjoined the Marines after high school and was stationed at Mare Island in

Vallejo, where he met and married Jennifer, the love of his life. In 1990 he joined the California Highway Patrol In response response to Office Office Capoot’s Capoot’s death, death, Chief Chief Bidou Bidou assembled assembled aa group group of of four BPD BPD employees employees to to participate participate in In and startedtohis career as a peace officer, joining the Vallejo PD in 1993. four For 19 years Jim distinguished himself in the Traumas of Law Enforcement training presented by Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.).

C.O.P.S. the Law while Enforcement training presented

by Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.).commendations, C.O.P.S. trains as Traumas a Vallejo of officer endearing himself to the Vallejo community.

In addition to numerous trains agencies to be prepared to handle the trauma of law enforcement death, with sessions covering topics agencies to be prepared to handle ofand law one enforcement death, withInsessions covering topics such of he received two Vallejo PD Medalsthe of trauma Courage Life-Saving Medal.

2000, Jim received the Officer such as surviving family and agency personnel support, organizing financial matters, officer safety issues, and as surviving family and agency personnel supporta, organizing financial matters, officer safety issues, and the Year Award. identifying the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Through this program, the BPD has established identifying the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Through this program, the BPD has established team with with the the appropriate training and knowledge to implement procedures and protocols in dealing dealing withfor hisappropriate service, he training was alsoand busy coachingto youth sports procedures teams for his three daughters.

As coach aaThroughout team knowledge implement and protocols in with future internal and external tragedies.

Vallejo High School’s varsity girls’ basketball, he led the team to a division II championship.

He left the coachfuture internal and external tragedies. ing bench in 2011 to welcome into his “The Traumas Traumas program program was was excellent—intense, excellent—intense, difficult difficult material, material, but but presented presented in in aa clear, clear, home the“The two children of close friends who were killed in a logical way. way. Of course you never want to be in that situation—losing a colleague, and logical motorcycle accident.Of course you never want to be in that situation—losing a colleague, and then then trying to balance helping the family, handling and necessary paperwor, and trying to balance helping the family, handling mediamedia and necessary paperwork processes, acknowledging your own grief.

But it’s a reality in our work, and the more we have in Jim lovedand hisacknowledging work, but adored hisown wifegrief. and daughters.

He in our work, and the more we have in your But it’s a reality the way of knowledge and tools, the better off we’ll thebe event of event a tragedy.” often said, “I’m dedicated to my job, devoted to my family.” the way of knowledge and tools we have, the better be off in we’ll in the of a tragedy.”

He is truly missed by all—family, friends and colleagues in - Detective Gregg Rouse, Benicia Police Department both the Vallejo and Benecia communities. - Detective Gregg Rouse, Benicia Police Department Source: xx in xx Newspaper, 11/xx/12

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BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

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Benicia Police Department 200 East L Street Benicia, CA 94510 ____

(707) 745-3411 www.ci.benicia.ca.us/police