Concord NC Police Annual Report 2022

POLICE DEPARTMENT 2022 ANNUAL REPORT

CORE VALUES COMPETENCE

We are prudent stewards of the public’s grant of authority and resources. We are accountable for the quality of our performance and the standards of our conduct.

COURAGE

We place the safety of others before our own and accept our moral responsibility to take action against injustice and wrongdoing. Coworkers are expected to take prudent risks on behalf of the public.

INTEGRITY

We recognize the complexity of police work and exercise discretion in ways that are beyond reproach and worthy of public trust. Honesty and truthfulness are fundamental elements of integrity. It is our duty to earn public trust through consistent words and actions. We are honest in word and deed.

LEADERSHIP

We seek to influence human behavior to achieve organizational goals that serve the public while developing individuals, teams and the organization for future service. We accept our responsibility to be leaders, both within the community and among our peers, and for the actions of our colleagues and ourselves. We are all responsible for the performance, reputation and morale of the department.

RESPECT

We hold life in the highest regard. We treat all citizens and colleagues with dignity and respect, and are fair and impartial as we perform our duties. We openly and effectively communicate with the public and each other by sharing information and soliciting feedback to accomplish the department’s vision and mission.

RESTRAINT

We use the minimum force and authority necessary to accomplish a proper police purpose. We demonstrate self-discipline, even when no one is listening or watching.

MISSION

In partnership with the community, we will reduce the levels of crime, fear, and disorder through evidencebased community policing strategies. We embrace transparency and accountability, provide exceptional service, and are committed to a culture of excellence.

VISION

A community where citizens and police work together, in harmony, to achieve the highest standards of public safety.

Jason Shuping Memorial Bridge dedication 

MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF OF POLICE

Thank you for taking the time to review the Concord Police Department’s 2022 Annual Report. It feels like I just wrote 2021’s message a few months ago, and here it’s that time again. Another year has passed. Much work was accomplished in 2022 and yet, there is still a lot of work to do.

On May 16th Deputy Chief Jimmy Hughes and I attended a Medal of Valor ceremony at the White House. Master Police Officers Kyle Baker and Paul Stackenwalt, former Officer Kaleb Robinson, and Haylee Shuping – on behalf of her husband and Fallen Officer Jason Shuping – received this most prestigious award for

the personal bravery they exhibited on December 16, 2020. It was truly an honor to witness the President of the United States recognize these local heroes.

After a few years of hard work and dedication, the department finally realized its goal of national accreditation at a Chicago conference in late July. The Commission on the Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) unanimously awarded the Concord Police Department with its first accreditation. We are now part of the less than 5% of law enforcement agencies in the U.S. who achieve this level of performance.

In last year’s report I mentioned the ABLE Program – Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement. We not only completed the initial peer intervention training in 2022, but we also completed the first annual refresher training and even rolled out the curriculum to our civilian employees. The department will continue to invest in cutting-edge and evidence-based training to its employees in order to better serve the community.

I was appointed to serve as a member of two important groups – the North Carolina Task Force for Racial Equity (TREC) and the North Carolina Center for Law Enforcement Use of Force Reporting and Analysis Research Project. I appreciate the faith and trust that NC Training and Standards Director Jeff Smythe and NC Attorney General Josh Stein placed in me. These organizations are working hard to assess and operationalize police reforms, standardize professional best practices across the state, and provide police officers with the training and resources they need to better serve the citizen of North Carolina.

While overall Part 1 Crime declined in 2022, we continued to see increases in certain categories of crime. In an overwhelming number of aggravated assault and sexual assault cases, the victim and suspect were known to each other. While the familiarity between suspect and victim helps us solve these crimes more easily, we’re seeing a trend of unhealthy and dysfunctional relationships driving criminal activity. In other cases, such as larceny from motor vehicles and motor vehicle thefts, avoidable victim behavior has contributed to increases in crime. Leaving valuables inside unlocked vehicles, leaving valuables in clear view in even a locked vehicle, and leaving unoccupied vehicles running are all attributes that criminals look for when they target vehicles. We will continue to message best practices in hopes that we can reduce these types of crime through simple changes in behavior.

Over the last few years, the department added new technologies, information systems, and analytical capacity to be more effective at solving crime. The latest technology we’re pursing is hardware that allows a forensic investigator to analyze firearms and ballistic evidence, such as casings, at a microscopic level. Firearms produce unique signatures, similar to a fingerprint, that allows investigators to link a particular weapon to a particular crime. The National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) serves as a clearinghouse for these ballistic signatures, similarly to how AFIS serves as a clearinghouse for fingerprints.

The Concord Police Department will be one of only ten law enforcement agencies in the state with the capability to analyze ballistic evidence and enter information into NIBIN for investigative leads.

Another technology that’s on the horizon is Rapid DNA. Rapid DNA is an automated process of developing a DNA profile from a reference sample mouth swab in 1-2 hours, without the need for a DNA laboratory or scientific interpretation by a laboratory technician. I’m serving on a statewide working group, along with the North Carolina Crime Lab, to develop policies and procedures for law enforcement agencies to operationalize their own in-house Rapid DNA programs. I’m confident that in the near future the Concord Police Department will have its own Rapid DNA program, and be able to solve crimes through DNA analysis that would otherwise go unsolved.

Lastly, the Concord Police Foundation held its Second Annual Awards Dinner at Great Wolf Lodge on February 23, 2023. It was another sellout event where the greater Concord business community publicly recognized Concord officers for their accomplishments in 2022. You can learn more about the foundation by going to cpdfoundationnc.org and following the foundation on social media @CPDFoundationNC.

I hope you enjoy reviewing this annual report. Be safe, and be well. #ForwardTogether

Gary J. Gacek Chief of Police Concord, NC

2022 ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

Watch Command Lieutenant Denan Sabanija Lieutenant Kevin Berg Lieutenant Ramon Gonzalez

Chief of Police Gary Gacek

Administration Manager

Executive Assistant

Deputy Chief James Hughes, Jr.

Patrol Bureau Major Robert Ledwell

Operations Bureau Major Todd McGhee

Code Enforcement Manager Greg Walters

Community Outreach & Education

Criminal Investigations Captain Larry Hubbard

Forensics & Property Control

Major Crimes

Special Operations Captain Jeremy Baggarly

Public Safety Unit

Street Crimes Vice & Narcotics

Administration Bureau Major Keith Eury

Crime & Strategic Analysis Katie Congel

Information Technology John Lord

Professional Standards Division Lieutenant John Parker

Accreditation Unit

Mounted Patrol

Effective March 7, 2022

Mobile Field Force SWAT

Training Unit

Support Services Division

Lieutenant Kelly Seagraves

Customer Service Unit

Planning & Logistics

Recruiting Unit

Adam District Captain John Tierney

Charlie District Captain Alan Lee

Baker District Captain Patrick Tierney

Airport Unit

David District Captain Cydney McGhee

2023 DEPARTMENT GOALS

„ Continue to reduce crime and disorder using evidence-based policing strategies.

„ Continue to use grant funds and seek alternative sources of funding to: conduct strategic traffic enforcement to reduce traffic crashes; improve traffic safety; lower the city’s crime rate; enhance officer wellness; operationalize a peer support program; and provide de-escalation training through Virtual Reality technologies.

„ Implement National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) technology to analyze firearms and

ballistic evidence in an effort to be more effective and efficient at solving crime.

„ Implement Rapid-DNA technology to develop DNA profiles internally in order to identify suspects in crimes that would otherwise go unsolved, thereby enhancing the safety for the citizens of Concord.

„ Maintain national accreditation.

„ Reorganize and restructure the department’s evidence and property control section, ensuring best practice policies and professional standards are met.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT CONCORD

DEMOGRAPHICS

108,229 Population (Source: State of NC Demographer - 2021)

9TH LARGEST Municipality in NC by population

CONCORD TOURISM 85% City’s Share of Lodging in Cabarrus County

CITY GROWTH

63.8 SQUARE MILES

Total Area

0.65 SQUARE MILES

Annexations (2019 – 2022)

7TH LARGEST Municipality in NC by land area

41,083 Total Housing Units

37.7 Median Age

12.1% Increase in Room Demand

97,425 Officer-Initiated Calls

36,046 Warnings Issued

46,479 Dispatched Calls

143,904 Total Calls For Service

3,735 Accident Reports

2,327 Parking Citations: 1,393 PAID 68 VOIDED 866 UNPAID

DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2022

 Officers and Community Members

 Civic Education

 Special Olympics Group Run

 2022 Slime Day

 National Night Out  Litter Sweep

 Baby Grinch at Tree Lightening Ceremony

 Jason Shuping Memorial Bridge Dedication

 City Government Day

CALEA

In July 2020, CPD began what is typically a three-year process of obtaining national accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., (CALEA), also known as “the gold standard in public safety”. Over the past two years, staff have completed a rigorous self-assessment, requiring a review of policies, procedures, practices, and processes against 180 internationally accepted public safety standards and best practices.

In March of 2022, CPD completed an assessment by independent CALEA assessors with significant public safety experience. Additionally, public feedback was sought to promote community trust and engagement, and structured interviews were conducted with select agency personnel, community members, external agency partners, and others with knowledge to assess CPD’s effectiveness and overall service delivery capacities.

In July of 2022, key accreditation staff attended the CALEA conference, which was held in Chicago, IL. Chief Gacek testified before a subcommittee of CALEA Commissioners in a public meeting. Later that same day, the full governing body of twenty-one CALEA commissioners awarded Law Enforcement Accreditation to the Concord Police Department.

FBI NATIONAL ACADEMY: DEPUTY CHIEF JAMES HUGHES

Deputy Chief James Hughes graduated as a member of the 283rd session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on September 13, 2022. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.

The 283rd session consisted of two hundred and thirtyfive law enforcement officers from forty-nine states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from twenty-one countries, five military organizations, and five federal and civilian agencies.

POLICE CHAPLAIN PROGRAM

The Police Chaplain Program is designed to provide a source of emotional and spiritual support to department coworkers, their immediate family members, and the community. The police chaplains are present in the workplace and actively listen with empathy and experience, advising calmly in the midst of turmoil and danger, and offering assistance when appropriate or requested. This support is offered to all coworkers regardless of one’s religion, race, gender, or sexual orientation and without cost.

CONCORD POLICE FOUNDATION

The Concord Police Foundation (CPF) is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to support Concord Police Department employees and their immediate family members; and, to supplement department funding for innovative community policing programs, equipment, and technology to make Concord a safer community to live, work, and visit.

The Foundation was established in the Spring of 2021 with an initial strategic objective to support officers and their families in the event of a line-of duty-death or serious bodily injury. Concord Officer Jason Shuping was tragically killed in the line of duty on December 16, 2020. While the greater Concord community rallied around the Shuping family and Concord Police Department, it quickly became apparent there was a need for a non-profit like CPF to strategically organize that community support.

The CPF Board is comprised of civic-minded community and business leaders with a passion for supporting first responders and public safety professionals. Board members volunteer their time and talents to ensure that the Foundation is positioned, willing, and able to accomplish its mission.

Since establishing the board the Foundation has hosted the Concord Police Department annual awards dinner each year, which recognizes the officers and their families that have gone above and beyond for our department and community.

To support the Concord police officers, families and retirees, the Foundation has been working on providing a wellness app to help with the cumulative stress and emotional trauma. This app is confidential, and customizable and gives proactive wellness support in one wellness platform. This app is currently active and available for officers, their families and retirees.

 Police Chaplins Michael Cowen and Lonnie Clouse interact with officers

OPERATING EXPENDITURES

$26,862,692 Total 2022 Expenditures

10 YEAR COMPARISON

 Police Appreciation Week

3 YEAR COMPARISON

PATROL BUREAU

The Patrol Bureau is the first line of response provided by the Concord Police Department. Under the command of Major Robert Ledwell, the Patrol Bureau is responsible and accountable for leadership, performance, efficiency, and general good conduct of the department. DC Hughes delegates responsibilities of patrol as prescribed by the Chief of Police.

WATCH COMMANDERS

Watch Commanders shall be responsible for oversight of all department field operations to include: oversight of patrol activities by ensuring basic police functions are efficiently and effectively carried out; inspecting staffing to ensure the department can meet service demands and taking corrective action when deficiencies are noted; monitors response to calls for service to ensure timely response and proper disposition; ensures all personnel perform their duties in a timely manner and follow prescribed policies and procedures; ensures departmental equipment is being utilized as intended

and is properly maintained; monitoring overtime usage and reducing unnecessary overtime expenditures; conducting an initial review of administrative investigations as directed by the Chief of Police; and other duties as prescribed by the Chief of Police.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH & EDUCATION

The Community Outreach and Education Unit is comprised of two sergeants and 22 school resource officers. The unit’s ultimate responsibility is to ensure a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, and others who work and visit our schools while providing educational programs to the students. Community Outreach officers during school also provide operational support to the Patrol Bureau during periods when school is not in session.

 Christmas Tree Lighting

Lieutenant Kevin Berg Watch Commander

Lieutenant Ramon Gonzalez Watch Commander

Lieutenant Denan Sabanija Watch Commander

 2022 Youth Police Academy

Major Robert Ledwell Patrol Bureau

K-9 s

The Concord Police Department Canine Unit serves the department and community in several different areas. Each patrol rotation is assigned a Canine Unit that works to assist patrol. The unit also performs several hundred public demonstrations throughout the year.

All canines are trained and tested in obedience, aggression control, tracking, building search, area search, and narcotics detection. Each canine is assigned to one officer and stays with that officer throughout his career. When a canine retires, the officer/handler usually keeps the canine.

ADAM DISTRICT

The Adam Patrol District has an area of approximately 8.60 square miles and a residential population of approx. 18,445. Within the district, there are 9 educational institutions and 7 recreational parks and facilities. With 29 officers assigned to the patrol district, Adam District has community partnerships with 8 established neighborhoods. Major employment and economic facilities within the district include ACN, Atrium Health – Cabarrus, and the Carolina Mall.

29 OFFICERS 8.60 SQUARE MILES

18,445 POPULATION

57% INCREASE IN VIOLENT CRIMES

15% DECREASE IN PROPERTY CRIMES

The Baker Patrol District encompasses an area of approximately 18.67 square miles and has a residential population of approximately 31,510 residents. There are 7 educational institutions within the district as well as 6 recreational parks and facilities. Baker District has 1 active neighborhood partnership and has 29 officers serving the district. Baker District is home to the majority of Downtown Concord where several major projects are currently underway. At projects end there will be three new buildings containing both commercial and residential space, the Streetscape will be transformed and the brand new 250,000-square-foot Cabarrus County Courthouse expansion will be operational.

29 OFFICERS 18.67

SQUARE MILES

31,510 POPULATION

47% INCREASE IN VIOLENT CRIMES

29% DECREASE IN PROPERTY CRIMES

Captain Patrick Tierney Baker Patrol District

Captain John Tierney Adam Patrol District

BAKER DISTRICT

Concord Police K-9 Training 

CHARLIE DISTRICT

Charlie Patrol District has an area of approximately 20.98 square miles and a residential population of approximately 36,254. Charlie district added 1 public school this year with Roberta Road middle opening up in August bringing the total to 6 public (2 high, 2 middle, 2 elementary) and three private schools. We are also home to Cabarrus Virtual academy and Performance Learning center.

We also added 5 more recognized communities bringing the total to 31 with the majority of them being active. We currently have 27 officers assigned to the district with 2 of them currently in training.

We are experiencing enormous residential growth with 81 single-family homes and 221 2-story townhomes in the Piper Landing neighborhood off of Rock Hill Church Road. Concord Parkway near Pitts school road will have Evolve at Parkway apartment homes opening in April 2023 with 300 luxury apartments available.

Charlie district will also be home to the new Eli-Lilly research and pharmaceutical manufacturer that is scheduled to open in 2024.

27 OFFICERS

20.98 SQUARE MILES

36,254 POPULATION

12% DECREASE IN PROPERTY CRIMES 100% INCREASE IN VIOLENT CRIMES

DAVID DISTRICT

David District has an area of approximately 15.38 square miles and a residential population of approximately 22,021. With 37 officers assigned there, David District contains one high school and one middle school. David District has community partnerships with five established neighborhoods. David district is home to several larger spectator events and attractions along with local communities. The Charlotte Motor Speedway hosts several events throughout the year such as concerts, NHRA, NASCAR, and Motor Cross. We also have one of the largest tourist attractions with Concord Mills Mall with over 200 stores and amenities as well as Sea Life.

Along with these, David District fully staffs Concord Regional Airport with 4 officers and 1 supervisor. Allegiant Airlines flies to destinations to include Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. Great Wolf Lodge is also an indoor water park and resort for the whole family.

37 OFFICERS

15.38 SQUARE MILES

22,021 POPULATION

13% DECREASE IN VIOLENT CRIMES

0.3% INCREASE IN PROPERTY CRIMES

Captain Alan Lee

Charlie Patrol District

Captain Cydney McGhee

David Patrol District

OPERATIONS BUREAU

The Operations Bureau is responsible for providing operational support to the Patrol Bureau via specialized teams, intervention strategies, and tactics. Commanded by Major Todd McGhee, this bureau partners with patrols, schools, and the community, and works collaboratively to reduce the levels of crime, fear, and disorder in neighborhoods; improve the quality of life for Concord’s citizens, visitors, and businesses; and have a positive and lasting impression on the lives of student-aged youth.

CODE ENFORCEMENT DIVISION

The Code Enforcement Division consists of one manager, a senior code enforcement officer and seven enforcement officers. The Code Enforcement Division is responsible for planning, developing, coordinating, and executing the enforcement of the city code and ordinances as set forth by City Council. Other duties of the division include: conduct field inspections of properties and public facilities for violations of minimum housing, zoning, and historic preservation standards, receive and investigate complaints regarding substandard housing conditions, hazardous conditions, improper use of dwellings and commercial structures, nuisance conditions, and other code related issues on public and private property within the city.

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION

The Criminal Investigations Division is comprised of a captain, three sergeants, and 10 investigators. The division is responsible for providing the patrol bureau with operational support

CODE ENFORCEMENT

through the investigation, relentless follow-up, and case management of felony crimes that are complex and severe in nature; providing forensic and other crime scene services; assisting in the collection and storage of evidence and other property coming into the department’s possession; managing property control and identification processes and records; conducting vice and narcotics-related investigations; and, investigating any other crimes as directed by the chief of police. In 2022 the division was assigned 364 cases, which included incidents of homicide, serious assaults, and crimes against women and children.

FORENSICS & PROPERTY CONTROL

A key component of Forensics & Property Control is maintaining the security and integrity of all property and evidence that comes into the police department.

Two coworkers are assigned to Evidence and Property Control. The Police Department subscribed to evidenced-based best practices, and as such, both coworkers are trained and certified through the International Association for Property and Evidence.

In 2022, 5,749 individual pieces of evidence were submitted to the department’s Property Control section. Of those items of evidence, 410 firearms were seized and 1,744 were narcotics.

Greg Walters Code Enforcement

Captain Larry Hubbard Criminal Investigations

Major Todd McGhee Operations Bureau

CID ASSIGNED INCIDENT CASES

forensic crime scene investigations while providing training and equipment to crime scene technicians assigned to the patrol bureaus.

A crucial responsibility of Forensics & Property Control is maintaining secure custody of property and evidence that comes into the possession of the department. In 2022, 5,749 individual pieces of evidence were submitted to the department’s property control section. Out of those numbers, 410 guns were seized and 1,744 drug items were seized.

MAJOR CRIMES UNIT

The unit is responsible for investigating major criminal cases such as homicide, sexual assault, serious assaults, crimes against children and the elderly, and any crime deemed to be exigent in nature.

SPECIAL OPERATIONS DIVISION

The Special Operations Division is responsible for providing operational support by utilizing a variety of special teams, intervention strategies, and tactics. In 2022, Special Operations continued to partner with the Patrol Bureau to achieve the overall goal of reducing the levels of crime, fear of crime, and disorder while improving the quality of life for citizens and visitors. The division is comprised of three units: Public Safety Unit, Street Crimes Unit, and Vice & Narcotics.

PUBLIC SAFETY UNIT

Captain Jeremy Baggarly Special Operations

This unit consists of one sergeant, two traffic officers, and two park patrol officers, along with nine crossing guards.

STREET CRIMES UNIT/VICE & NARCOTICS

For the 2022 year, the VICE and Street Crimes Units of the Special Operations Division focused on the seizure of Fentanyl and Heroin due to the rise in overdoses. Obviously, these are not the only drugs contributing to crime in the city. However, they are responsible for a large portion of overdoses nationwide. In particular, the ones resulting in death. Vice, along with the assistance of the Street Crimes Unit were able to seize over 230 grams of these drugs over the course of last year. Other items seized by the unit were over 1,600 grams of cocaine, approximately 183 grams of methamphetamine, 108 pounds of marijuana, 15 firearms, and cash in

 Swearing in new class of cadets, February 2022

the amount of $190,476.00. These investigations and seizures resulted in the arrests of over thirty individuals associated with these investigations. Also, the city had a 19% decrease in reported overdoses from 2021 to 2022.

SWAT

The SWAT team consists of one team commander, one team leader, two assistant team leaders, eighteen operators, and four snipers, one of them being a sniper team leader. The team is responsible for evaluating

TRAFFIC PARTICIPATED IN THESE CAMPAIGNS

3/14-3/20

ST. PATRICK’S DAY BOOZE IT & LOSE IT

4/11-4/17

SPEED A LITTLE. LOSE A LOT.

5/23-6/5

MEMORIAL DAY CLICK IT OR TICKET

6/27-7/10

OPERATION FIRECRACKER BOOZE IT & LOSE IT

8/29-9/11

LABOR DAY BOOZE IT & LOSE IT

search warrants and assessing the risk associated with executing the warrants as codified by department policy and procedure. The team also executes search warrants deemed “high risk” and any other warrants as directed by the chief of police. Finally, the SWAT Team provides the department with a highly motivated, technically and tactically proficient special operations team capable of responding to a variety of critical incidents and resolving them with minimum risk to officers, suspects, and innocent parties.

9/19-9/25

CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY WEEK

10/3-10/9

OPERATION CRASH REDUCTION

10/24-10/31

HALLOWEEN BOOZE IT & LOSE IT

11/21-11/27

THANKSGIVING CLICK IT OR TICKET

12/12-01/02

HOLIDAY BOOZE IT & LOSE IT

ADMINISTRATION BUREAU

Commanded by Major Keith Eury and support staff, the Administration Bureau is responsible for numerous aspects of the department outside of normal patrol and investigative functions. The bureau reviews policies and procedures to ensure they are up to date with current laws and court rulings. Budget oversight remains a major component of the Administration Bureau, as it continues to be responsible for budget management and preparation. Other responsibilities of the Administration Bureau include: staffing, grants, facilities management, information and vehicle technology, strategic planning, career development program, secondary employment and the administering and planning of promotional processes.

CRIME & STRATEGIC ANALYSIS UNIT

The crime analyst is responsible for collecting, collating, analyzing, disseminating, and evaluating crime data to identify emerging trends, patterns, and changes in criminal activity using mapping and analytical software. The analyst prepares crime data that is used to make recommendations for deployment and resource allocation, measures and forecasts long-term public safety activities related to problem solving, intervention, and crime reduction efforts.

SUPPORT SERVICES DIVISION

As head of the support Services Division, Lt. Seagraves is responsible for recruiting new officers, conducting the hiring process, coordinating career development, and managing secondary employment through extra-duty solutions.

The Support Services Division also oversees records management, Center City, planning and logistics and the customer service unit.

PLANNING AND LOGISTICS

This component is responsible for planning, scheduling, and coordinating department personnel and resources

for secondary employment, special events, and any other gatherings or events as directed by the Chief of Police. This component also provides uniformed presence in and around the Center City area as well as a District Court Liaison Officer. This officer acts as a liaison between the district attorney’s office and the department officers during district court proceedings.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

The Customer Service Unit conducts fingerprints, assists people who come in the police department lobby, as well as analyzing and managing reports that are completed by officers.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS DIVISION CALEA

Maintaining CALEA accreditation is a continuous process and serves as the foundation for a successful, well-managed, transparent, community-focused public safety agency. CPD is required to maintain its accredited status by remaining in compliance with all 180 CALEA standards – at all times – while being subject to annual CALEA assessments.

TRAINING

The Training Division is responsible for managing all officers’ training, including state-mandated in-service training. Stated mandated training consists of 24 hours, including firearms and departmental choice training. The Concord Police Department mandates all officers to take Active Bystander Law Enforcement Training, Fair and Impartial Training, and Crisis intervention Training to strengthen their skills and address situations that each officer will encounter in their career.

Major Keith Eury Administration Bureau

Lieutenant Kelly Seagraves Support Services Division

Lieutenant John Parker Professional Standards Division

PERSONNEL INVESTIGATIONS

The Professional Standards Division is responsible and accountable for the governance, leadership, performance, efficiency, and general good conduct of the department. As directed by the Chief of Police will coordinate and conduct personnel investigations.

2022 COMMENDATIONS

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: OFFICER JAMES BAUMGARTEN

On January 12, 2022, Officer James Baumgarten responded to a check welfare call. When he arrived on the scene, he encountered an elderly female having some issues with her vehicle. Officer Baumgarten spoke to some citizens who had stopped to help her. He was told that the female’s vehicle had broken down and she had no way to get back home. The female had no money, and without hesitation, Officer Baumgarten looked up a Lyft ride on his cell phone. He advised the female that he was going to pay for the ride out of his own pocket in order to get her back home. The female was extremely grateful for this kind gesture. Officer Baumgarten’s actions demonstrate a commitment to the welfare of the community beyond the normal call of duty.

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: MASTER POLICE OFFICER JOHN COX

On August 6, 2022

MPO Cox, along with other members of the police department and fire department, coordinated a meeting at a local business (Java Island Coffee Hut) to help celebrate a young child’s birthday who loves both the police and fire department.

MERITORIOUS CONDUCT AWARDS: OFFICER JEREMY HOWARTH AND OFFICER MARIA WESTPHAL:

On August 31, 2022, Officer Jeremy Howarth and Officer

Maria Westphal were investigating a larceny of a credit card fraud committed by several males. During the encounter, one of the males threatened them by pointing and firing a gun at them. During this time shots were exchanged between the officers and the suspect. The actions displayed by Officer Jeremy Howarth and Officer Maria Westphal during this deadly force encounter showed exceptional courage, bravery,

extraordinary decisiveness, keen presence of mind, and lastly compassion. Officers Howarth and Westphal acted above and beyond the call of duty, putting their own lives at great risk during this encounter.

MERITORIOUS CONDUCT AWARD: MPO JAMES HAMILTON:

MPO Hamilton and other officers responded to a check welfare call, where there was a suicidal subject. During the call shots were fired by the subject. MPO Hamilton’s experience allowed him to recognize the dangerousness of the call, and prevent a probable deadly encounter. His ability to remain calm while putting himself at risk in a stressful situation allowed him to provide protection for everyone involved as he coordinated getting both officers and the man’s family members out of harm’s way. MPO Hamilton demonstrated exceptional courage, decisiveness, and keen presence of mind above and beyond the call of duty.

LIFE-SAVING AWARD: OFFICER SAMUEL WIMBROW

On June 4, 2022 Officer Wimbrow and his training officer were eating lunch at a local restaurant. As they were eating, a female stumbled over to their table and began grabbing her throat. Officer Wimbrow immediately recognized that the female was choking. Without hesitation, Officer Wimbrow performed the Heimlich maneuver on the choking female. Officer Wimbrow’s actions represent the dedication and commitment our Officers display on a daily basis to the safety and well-being of our citizens.

LIFE-SAVING AWARD: OFFICER PALIN, OFFICER PHILLIPS, AND MPO LOPEZ

On June 24, 2022, Officers Palin, Phillips (not pictured), and Lopez responded to a motor vehicle

crash that involved several vehicles at the intersection of Poplar Tent Rd. and Derita Rd. It was reported that the driver of the truck involved appeared to be trying to leave the scene of the motor vehicle crash and drove through a nearby field. The officers responded to the scene where they found the truck had been driven through a field and crashed into a tree. To make matters worse, the engine was still running and the vehicle was in drive. The cab of the truck was filling with smoke, making it difficult to see in the vehicle.

City of Concord Fire Department personnel were at the scene but would not approach the vehicle because they were unsure of the driver’s intentions. Officer Palin reacted quickly and used one of the fireman’s Halligan tools to breach the window of the truck so officers could get a better view inside. Officer Phillips provided cover, while Officer Palin breached the window. Officer Palin was able to unlock the truck door and turn the engine off. Officer Palin, along with MPO Lopez, were able to remove the male from the vehicle where he could be treated by EMS.

It was later determined that the driver had overdosed. He was given Narcan by EMS and transported to Northeast Atrium for treatment. The driver later admitted to drinking and taking cocaine and was charged with DWI by Officer Palin. Given the fact that the vehicle was still running and in drive, combined with the potential for fire and the driver’s state of impairment, this could have easily resulted in his death if not for the quick selfless actions of each of the officers involved.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD:

MPO LINDSIE YOUNGO AND SGT. BRAD PARKER:

On Monday, May 30, 2022, the Concord Police Department responded to a report of gunshots at one of the city’s local apartments When officers arrived, they discovered one victim deceased from multiple gunshot

wounds and a second victim in the next apartment suffering from a gunshot wound to her hand and arm. While everyone in the Criminal I investigations Division was instrumental in bringing this case to a successful· end, Detective Young and Detective Parker in particular exemplify the core values of Competence and Leadership and are an asset not only to the Concord Police Department but to the citizens of Concord as well. In this case, they were able to identify, locate and apprehend four violent criminals and did so with minimal leads and in a relatively short period of time.

EXCELLENCE IN POLICE SERVICE AWARD: DETECTIVE CHRISLYNN HARTSELL

On Monday, May 30, 2022, the Concord Police Department responded to a report of gunshots at one of the city’s local apartments When officers arrived, they discovered one victim deceased from multiple gunshot wounds and a second victim in the next apartment suffering from a gunshot wound to her hand and arm. Detective Hartsell volunteered to work beyond her normal duties showing exceptional energy and teamwork. She worked over 32 hours during the first two days and never complained about coming in early or staying late to make sure the job was completed.

Detective Hartsell has exemplified the core values of Competence and Leadership and exhibited exactly what a supervisor desires in an employee and what the citizens of Concord deserve from their police officers. She worked tirelessly to make sure that the other detectives assigned to the homicide had everything they needed to bring this case to a successful conclusion. Detective Hartsell demonstrated exceptional service in the performance of her duties as a crime scene technician.

CHIEF’S SUPERIOR LEADERSHIP AWARD: MPO LARISSA SHAVER

Officer Shaver has been instrumental in the department’s pursuit of national accreditation through CALEA. For the last two years, she’s effectively and professionally worked with internal and external law enforcement staff as well as CALEA staff. MPO Shaver worked tirelessly to bring the department into compliance with 180 CALEA standards, transitioned the department to a new information system for directives sharing (Power OMS), and prepared the department to successfully complete a comprehensive self-assessment as well as a virtual site assessment with CALEA auditors.

2022 COWORKERS OF THE MONTH:

January

Sergeant Kenneth Marckese and Officer Timothy Larson

February

MPO Brandon Banker

March

MPO Spencer Ward

April

Officer Bradley Oppy

May

Sgt. Pizzino and Chris Jurczak

June

MPO Amanda Mayberry

July

MPO Paul Stackenwalt

August

MPO Rachel Collins

September

MPO Thiago DeSouza

October

MPO Andrew Kelemecz and MPO Marty Barnhardt

November

MPO Joel Patterson

December

MPO Andrew Kelemecz and MPO Hollified

2022 RECIPIENT OF THE SID TALBERT FINANCE CORE VALUES AWARD!

Each year, The City of Concord’s Finance team honors Sid Talbert, Purchasing Manager for the City of Concord from 2001 – 2017, by recognizing a coworker who displays fairness, dedicated service, honesty, and trust! Way to go, Officer Quinn!

ON THE MOVE: 2022 PROMOTIONS

PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF MAJOR

PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF CAPTAIN

CIVILIAN

RETIRED

Ricky Olomua

Brian Phelps

Jeff Howell

Brian Schiele

Timothy Mullins

Todd McGhee

PROMOTIONS

Katanya Kelly Senior Customer Service Representative

Chrystal Romero Administrative Assistant

Christmas Treelighting 

Cydney McGhee

Larry Hubbard

 Touch A Truck

PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF SERGEANT

Jason Collins

Caleb Garrow

Christopher Gorman

Matthew Jamieson

Bradley Parker

Joshua Shaver

Julia Soares

PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF LIEUTENANT

Kevin Berg John Parker Kelly Seagraves

PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF MASTER POLICE OFFICER

Nicki Buffum

Henry Collins

Curtis Cruz-Cline

Chrislynn Daugherty

Thiago Desouza

Ronald Dorsey

Erin Errington

Marc Hanna

Benjamin Little

Edward Watkins

 Christmas Parade