Everyday Heroes
ICIA ENEST. B 1941 PO LICE
2010 ANNUAL REPORT BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT
Message from the Chief On behalf of the hard-working women and men of the Benicia Police Department, it is with honor that I present the department’s 2010 Annual Report. As expected, 2010 presented a number of challenges, most of which were directly related to California’s difficult fiscal situation. The police department turned these challenges into opportunities by pursuing efficiencies and innovations that reduced costs while maintaining the outstanding level of service our community has come to expect. Benicia continues to be the safest community in Northern California’s Solano County. I attribute this to the unprecedented participation of our community, great work of our employees, proactive planning by our Department, and effective policing. There will, no doubt, be more challenges in the future. In fact, many additional changes have occurred since the beginning of 2011 that are not capsulated in this report. These changes demonstrate the Benicia Police Department’s commitment and continual effort to maximize its resources, find creative solutions, and build additional partnerships to enhance our service to the community. 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
RESPECT • INTEGRITY • PRIDE • HONOR ROFESSIONALISM • RESPECT • INTEGR • PRIDE • HONOR • PROFESSIONALISM • RESPECT • INTEGRITY • PRIDE • HONOR ROFESSIONALISM • RESPECT • INTEGRI ENICIA B EST. 1941 PO LICE
Everyday Heroes
Year in Review 2010 Employee Recognition
Everyday Heroes
Dispatcher of the Year Public Safety Dispatcher Quinn Colvin Solano County Rotary Officer of the Year Officer Gregg Rouse City of Benicia Public Safety Award Officer Kirk Keffer MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Awards Officer Kirk Keffer & Officer Damiean Sylvester ASIS (American Society for Industrial Security) Officer Recognition Award Officer Kenny Hart Child Abuse Prevention Officer of the Year Officer Ted Criado American Red Cross Hero Award Officer Sergio Cruz
ICIA ENEST. B 1941 PO LICE
Colvin
Rouse
Keffer
Sylvester
Hart
Criado
Cruz
1 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Department Goals Annual goals provide focus and direction to all members of the organization. Each and every employee of the Benicia Police Department participates in one way or another 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. Goal
Status
Operations Reduce overall Part 1 Crimes, vandalism and graffiti through implementation of Benicia Policing Strategy
Completed
Continue to expand 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
Ongoing
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) and Click It or Ticket (seatbelt campaign)
Ongoing
Through Benicia Policing Strategy, seek opportunities to improve level of service beyond direct crime reduction
Ongoing
Increase traffic safety programs
Ongoing
Through individual training plans, identify employee training needs specific to promotional goals
Completed
Offer promotional training courses
Completed
Appoint 4th Corporal
Completed
Recruit, train and integrate Hostage Negotiators into the Joint Benicia/Vallejo SWAT Team
Pending
Establish Mentoring Program
Completed
Establish Honor Guard Program
Pending
Replace aging patrol car computers with faster, up-to-date computers and wireless communications consistent with officers’ recommendations
Completed
Institute an RP (Reporting Party) follow-up program to identify areas for improved services
Pending
Create a Sleep Room and Administrative Sergeant/Training Manager Office
Completed Goals continued on next page
2 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Department Goals (continued) Goal
Status
Services – General Develop assignments for Patrol Program volunteers within new Benicia Policing Strategy
Completed
Increase volunteer work force
In Progress
Support Acting Dispatch Supervisor Program
In Progress
Identify employee goals and training needs in order to develop individuals’ skills and prepare for succession planning
Completed / Ongoing
Implement quality control measures in all aspects of record management
Ongoing
Services – Investigations Review all current practices and procedures to identify areas for possible improvements
Completed
Maintain quality control procedures to ensure that adequate attention is given to all cases
Improved Upon
Assist Patrol as needed / serve as a Patrol resource
Ongoing
Review Patrol-related cases for investigative assistance
Completed / Ongoing
Attend Patrol briefings more often in order to increase information sharing
Completed / Ongoing
Determine short-term and mid-range employee goals; develop appropriate training / education planning
Completed
Work with Patrol Officers who express interest in specialized positions within investigations (enhance these individuals’ abilities to perform in possible future positions)
Ongoing
Reinstate victim notification procedures on non-assigned cases to improve services
Incomplete
Remain abreast of advances in crime scene investigation techniques and equipment (CSO)
Completed / Ongoing
3 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Chief’s Coin Awards Awarded for exemplary dedication while performing duties, the Chief’s Challenge Coin is a hard-earned honor. ENICIA Receipt of this award demonstrates strong commitmentB 1941 to the Benicia Police Department’s core values of POLICE Respect, Integrity, Pride, Honor and Professionalism.
NICIA BE 1941 POLICE
Officer Kenneth Hart Armory Suspects Captured
On February 23, 2008, the Benicia Police Department responded to a shooting outside a party at the National Guard Armory. Officers found that a 17-year-old victim had been shot in the chest and died as a result. The suspects fled in a getaway vehicle and the victim was with a group of associates that provided no leads to pursue. The investigative unit was called out and Officer Hart was assigned as the lead investigator. From the onset, the investigation was beset by uncooperative and disinterested witnesses. Through extremely hard work, perseverance, and professional desire to solve this case, leads were followed and many witnesses and possible associates of the suspects were interviewed. In June of 2009, credible statements from enough witnesses were obtained to identify and charge both the shooting suspect and the getaway driver with the homicide. Officer Hart’s hard work, tenacity and ability to work with multiple agencies resulted in solving this serious crime. Award bestowed on January 20, 2010.
Corporal Dave Howes & Public Safety Dispatcher Quinn Colvin Implementation of Peer Support Program
After Corporal Dave Howes’ personal involvement in a fatal shooting incident, he recognized the need for additional departmental support for employees involved in critical incidents. With this in mind, Corporal Howes researched peer support programs and made a recommendation to implement such a program at the Benicia Police Department. The department embraced Corporal Howes’ idea and committed to implement a peer support program. Dispatcher Quinn Colvin also volunteered to help develop the program and customize it for the BPD. In December 2008, Corporal Howes and Dispatcher Colvin attended training and began to build a foundation for the future success of the BPD Peer Support Program. Dispatcher Colvin developed a newsletter to provide information to employees about a variety of topics related to employee well-being and the stress associated with police work. On June 14, 2009, Corporal Howes and Dispatcher Colvin were called upon to utilize their training in a shooting incident involving Benicia’s officers and dispatchers. Their participation in the aftermath of this event cemented the value of this program. As a result of their success, the program’s lead team has been expanded to four members. The program has also been incorporated into the department’s major incident response plan. Successful programs are most often those that are developed and implemented by employees. The BPD’s Peer Support Program is certainly an example of this. Corporal Howes and Dispatcher Colvin demonstrated strong dedication to employee wellbeing in their quest to improve the BPD’s response to critical incidents. Award bestowed on January 20, 2010. Chief’s Coin Awards continued on next page
4 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Chief’s Coin Awards (continued) Officer Sergio Cruz Life Saving Support
On January 7, 2010, Officer Cruz was dispatched to a report of an 85-year-old female choking and turning blue. Upon arrival, he met the victim’s daughter who frantically reported that her mother was upstairs and unconscious. Without delay, Officer Cruz quickly entered the residence and found the woman lying on her stomach, her face bluish purple in color. She had lost consciousness because her airway was blocked. He applied back blows and dislodged the foreign object obstructing the elderly woman’s airway. She began coughing, started breathing on her own and regained consciousness soon thereafter. There is no doubt that this woman is alive today as a result of Officer Cruz’s assertive and heroic actions. Award bestowed on May 4, 2010.
Sergeant Roger Yokoi, Sergeant John Daley & Volunteer Coordinator Patti Baron Re-Instatement of Police Explorer Program
In early 2010, as part of the Operation Division’s 2010 goals, the Benicia Police Department initiated a project to re-instate the Police Explorer Program. Although the department previously had an Explorer Program, it has been inactive for the past 10 years. To incorporate today’s best practices, it was quickly determined that the program would have to be created from the ground up. This was a complex project requiring the coordination and collaboration of many resources. Included in these tasks was contacting other agencies, reviewing successful programs, recruiting police and dispatch explorer advisors, developing policies, procedures and training documents, acquiring equipment and uniforms, recruiting explorer candidates, and conducting interviews and background checks. With very little guidance, Sergeant Yokoi, Sergeant Daley and Volunteer Coordinator Baron worked together and resolved each and every issue as it arose. As a team they were diligent and dedicated to this task, often working outside regularly scheduled hours and never neglecting other assigned duties. BPD now has a modern, professional Explorer Program which will benefit the department and community for years to come. Reinstating this important succession planning and community relations project demonstrates tremendous dedication and teamwork. Award bestowed on October 4, 2010.
Officer Fred Ayala Implementation of Citizen Police Academy
In 2009, the Operations Division set a goal to create a Citizen Police Academy Program as a means of community engagement and outreach. Using existing models from other departments and modifying them to reflect the unique nature of the Benicia Police Department, Officer Fred Ayala volunteered to take on this complex and time-consuming project. With the goal of fostering good police and community relations, this project required the coordination and collaboration of many resources. It would also require volunteer participation by a number of employees to act as instructors and role players throughout the academy’s eight weeks of instruction. The first Benicia Citizen Academy class graduated on April 21, 2010 and the second class graduated on November 3, 2010. There were many challenges and obstacles to overcome during the creation of this program. With very little guidance, Officer Ayala resolved each and every issue. Diligent and dedicated to the task, he often worked outside regularly scheduled hours and never neglected his other assigned duties. The Department now has a bi-annual Citizen Academy which has become a model program with such widespread community interest that there is now an enrollment wait list. This accomplishment demonstrates tremendous dedication and teamwork. Award bestowed on November 3, 2010.
5 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 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 (Commission on Peace Officer Standards & Training) Intermediate
Advanced
• Officer Kevin Barreto • Officer Sergio Cruz • Officer Kevin Rose
Supervisory
• Officer Sergio Cruz • Corporal Mark Hassler • Officer Kevin Rose • Officer Aldo Serrano
• Sergeant Scott Przekurat • Sergeant Roger Yokoi
Department Training Hours Total Hours
Percentage of Training
Number of Staff
Average Hours per Person
SWORN STAFF*
1,121
76%
26
43
NON-SWORN STAFF*
351
24%
16
22
Notable Professional Development Completed • Homeland Security Post Graduate Chief Sandra Spagnoli • FBI Academy Chief Andrew Bidou
• Supervisory Leadership Institute Sergeant Scott Przekurat
• Tactical Dispatcher Course Public Safety Dispatcher Dana Marin
• CSTI Officer Safety & Field Tactics Officer Jimmy Laughter & Corporal Jeff Harris
• Deputy Leadership Institute Sergeant Chris Bidou & Sergeant Mike Greene • Supervisory Core Course Corporal Mark Hassler
* Sworn staff members are peace officers who carry
a firearm and badge and have power of arrest. Non-sworn staff members are those who handle departmental duties other than those of peace officers (ie: do not carry a firearm or badge and do not have power of arrest).
• FTO Update (Field Training Officers) Corporal Mark Menesini
• USC Delinquency & Control Institute Officer Ted Criado
6 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Mentor Program The goal of the Mentor Program is to provide a smooth transition for new employees into the Benicia Police Department. Each new staff member is teamed up with an experienced member of the department to assist in a variety of ways. The mentoring process prepares new hires for successful completion of their probationary period. This Program was developed as a tool to support new employees as they begin successful careers with the Benicia Police Department. Following are additional goals of the Program: • Increase employee retention • Facilitate professional development for employees • Teach organizational culture (values, mission and standards) to new employees Program Coordinator: Sergeant Mike Greene Mentors: Officer Kevin Rose & Officer Gregg Rouse
7 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Significant Cases Murder / Suicide: Detective Rouse was the lead investigator in this murder/suicide case. Detective Hart assisted. CSO Laura Williams handled evidence collection at the crime scene. Attempted Murder, Kidnapping and Robbery: With the assistance from the entire Investigations team, lead investigator Detective Rouse arrested three parolees for this case that could have easily been a homicide. Attempted Murder: Officer Barreto made the car stop that led to the arrest of the reported suspect in this east side shooting investigation. Detective Rose handled the investigation and determined that the victims had lied. After a preliminary hearing, the two then-victims now face perjury charges for lying in court. Child Molestation: Detective Criado investigated a sexual abuse case where the 12-year-old suspect had been molesting his younger half-brother, resulting in a conviction in juvenile court. Child Molestation, Multiple Victims: Detective Criado investigated a sexual abuse case in which the victim was 9-years-old and the suspect was 19-years-old at the time of the incident. During his investigation, Detective Criado was able to identify a total of five victims that the suspect, who is now 23, had sexually molested over a four to five year time period. Child Pornography: Based on information obtained from the Martinez Police Department, Detective Rouse conducted and completed a child pornography investigation resulting in an arrest. CSO Laura Williams also assisted, collecting computers and other electronic media from the suspect’s residence. Robbery on High School Campus: School Resource Officer McFadden and Detective Criado teamed up on patrol’s leads and arrested four suspects who had taken money and a cell phone at Benicia High School during the Homecoming Game. Firearms/Narcotics Possession: Detective Laughter conducted an investigation into a series of neighborhood complaints, and was able to gather enough information to obtain a search warrant. As a result of the search, firearms and narcotics were confiscated and arrests were made. ENICIA B EST. 1941 PO LICE
8 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Personnel Retirements Sergeant Mark Alkire Corporal Dave Howes Traffic Officer Pat Yosick
New Hires
Sergeant Mark Alkire
Officer William Febel
33 years
•
Officer Mark Thompson
Promotions Kenny Hart - Sergeant Jeff Harris - Corporal Mark Hassler - Corporal Pat Tracy - Corporal Corporal Dave Howes
Mitchell Alvarez - Field Training Officer
•
24 years
Kirk Keffer - Field Training Officer
ICIA ENEST. B 1941 PO LICE Traffic Officer Pat Yosick
9 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
•
26 years
Year in Review 2010 Community Outreach • Citizen Police Academy
The BPD’s bi-annual Citizen Academy has become a model program with such widespread community interest that there is now an enrollment wait list. Open to all Benicia citizens over 18 years of age, the Academy offers the opportunity to learn more about police work in a two-month long free course.
• Safe Routes to School
This 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. Community Outreach continued on next page
10 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Community Outreach (continued) • Every 15 Minutes
The Every 15 Minutes Program is designed to dramatically instill teenagers with the potentially dangerous consequences of drinking alcohol and texting while driving. This program challenges students to consider personal safety and the responsibility of making mature decisions when lives are involved.
• 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
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.
• 911 Cares
The 911 Cares project was originally designed as emotional support for the emergency professionals who worked in the aftermath of the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001, and now extends to most public safety organizations.
• Torch Run Each year, the Benicia Police Department proudly participates in the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run through the city.
• 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.
11 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Volunteer Program The Benicia Police Department encourages the participation of citizen volunteers within the organization through our Volunteers in Police Services Programs (VIPS). VIPS is a partnership between volunteers from the community and the Benicia Police Department. 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. Police Interns: College students majoring in Criminal Justice can serve as interns and earn volunteer hours required to complete their degrees. Patrol Volunteers: Senior 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. 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 Chaplains, Community Chaplains and High School Resource 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. The Benicia VIPS is registered with National Volunteers in Police Service. VIPS is one of five Citizen Corps partner programs. The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) manages and implements VIPS in partnership with, and on behalf of, the White House Office of the USA Freedom Corps and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, and U.S. Department of Justice.
Program
Volunteer Hours - 2010
Explorers
147
Patrol/Interns
3,799
Support Services
859
Chaplains/Mentors
494
Total
5,299
12 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 FRC & Peace Officers’ Memorial 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. In 2010, the FRC: • Served 257 families with 381 children between the ages of 0 and 18 • Received 94 referrals from the Benicia Police Department • Provided 32 families with financial assistance for emergency basic needs • Offered two sessions of the the 10-week-long Parent Project class
California Peace Officers’ Memorial California Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremonies have been conducted annually since 1977. These events honor the officers who have fallen in the line of duty the preceding year, recognizing the sacrifice of those loved and left behind. In 2010, eleven California Peace Officers gave their lives in the line of duty. In a show of support, a small group from the Benicia Police Department attended services for Officer Christopher Wilson of the San Diego Police Department.
San Diego Police Officer Christopher Wilson End of Watch: 10/28/10
13 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 K9 Competitions The K9 competitions are hosted by the Western States Canine Association (WSCA), a nonprofit organization. Referred to as “trials,” these competitions promote professionalism and safety for working police K9 teams while emphasizing the importance of control and safety tactics during real-life scenarios. K9 teams compete in Narcotics Detection, Evidence Searching, Obedience, Agility, and Search & Protection scenarios. At the trials, the officer handlers also have the opportunity to exchange ideas, information, case law, and current topics in the K9 world. The top five K9 teams in each category receive awards. Benicia PD’s two K9 teams won six awards in 2010 (Officer Damiean Sylvester with Mirco and Officer Jake Heinemeyer with Jazz). Damiean & “Mirco” - Awards • Lodi P.D. Narcotics Trial • South Lake Tahoe P.D. Narcotics Trial Jake & “Jazz” - Awards • South San Francisco P.D. Narcotics Trial • South San Francisco P.D. Patrol Trial • Lodi P.D. Narcotics Trial • Lodi P.D. Patrol Trial
2010 Animal Control & Vehicle Abatement The City of Benicia employs one full-time Animal Control Officer, Darlene Jelonek. Officer Jelonek works directly out of the police department and has a variety of responsibilities including enforcing state laws and local ordinances; impounding stray and unwanted animals; transporting and providing treatment for injured stray animals; and investigating animal bite, cruelty and neglect reports. In addition, Officer Jelonek handles vehicle abatement (storage/removal logistics for abandoned vehicles) and parking complaints. In 2010: Animal Control Calls: 559 Vehicle Abatement Investigations: 311 Towed Vehicles: 50
14 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 County Collaboration & 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.
• Sobriety Checkpoints
3 checkpoints funded through California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) grant • 2 checkpoints funded through “Avoid the 10,” an on-going campaign involving ten Solano County law enforcement agencies •
• Vallejo/Benicia/Suisun SWAT Team (Special Weapons & Tactics) • Click-It-Or-Ticket Grant • 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
15 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Upgrades Upgrades marked with an asterisk are 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).
Equipment & Technology Patrol Car Laptops* The Department’s eleven patrol car laptops were upgraded for faster processor speed, increased RAM and new wireless modems that allow officers to take the laptops from the cars seamlessly. Adding touch capability to the higher resolution screens enabled the elimination of outdated PDRC (Permanent Display Remote Computer) equipment.
Patrol Car Set-Up* The Department made significant changes to the patrol fleet computer set-up in 2010. The entire laptop system was moved into the front of the vehicle, along with new radio equipment. This saved the expense of replacing eight-year-old remote monitors and keyboards. Officers are now able to close laptops when not in use and “swivel” the mount into their seat for a more ergonomic typing environment.
New Radio System Installation* Because of technical issues with the Smartlink radio consoles, a county-wide decision was made to replace the entire system. After a discussion with Solano County Communications, the Department found that the Motorola Gold Elite radios were already being used by the majority of Solano County’s PSAP’s (Public Safety Answering Points). In the interest of County interoperability, the Department made this purchase, and the new installation has allowed Benicia to make a connection to the Embassy switch in Vacaville. County grant money will supply Benicia and Vallejo with an Ambassador card allowing both agencies to make the connection needed for interoperability between the agencies in Solano County.
Evidence Room Security Camera* A new security camera covering the area outside the entrance door to the Evidence Room has been installed. This camera was recommended in the Property Room Audit report. Activity at the room’s entrance is now recorded and is tied into the department’s Digital Video Recording system.
Body-Worn Traffic Cameras* After substantial research, command staff determined VieVu body-worn video cameras to be the best solution for efficient, accurate recording of traffic activity. VieVu allows traffic officers to record up to four hours of video and audio during a shift. The back-end software allows officers to download video to a secured network drive and retain it for court. Upgrades continued on next page
16 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Upgrades (continued) Equipment & Technology Solano County ARIES Project Continuing to build on Contra Costa’s ARIES Project (Automated Regional Information Exchange System), Benicia PD’s Records Management System was mapped to Solano County allowing the future search option for neighboring cities. Dispatch, briefing and investigations computers were updated allowing personnel to search for similar contacts (other cities who have run the same subject and jail mugshots). Updated jurisdictions include: Alameda County, San Joaquin County, San Mateo County, Santa Clara County, Suisun City, Solano County Probation, Solano County Records and BART.
Vehicles • Command Vehicle* (Tahoe) • Administrative Car (Taurus) • Patrol Car (Interceptor) • Animal Control Truck (F250)
Buildings • Sleep Room
Converted storage area into a sleep room to ensure that officers working graveyard shifts that have daytime court appearances receive adequate rest before returning to work.
• Administrative Sergeant Office*
Open office converted to private office.
• Reserve/Storage Room
Upgraded equipment to coordinate with the restarting of the Reserve Program.
• Bike Garage/Evidence Garage*
Upgraded garage areas based on security audit.
• Prisoner Security Door/Administration Hallway*
Enhanced security between holding cell and employee offices.
17 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Crime Statistics UCR (Uniform Crime Reporting) is a compilation of annual crime statistics for the United States. As the chart below demonstrates, Benicia’s last two years have yielded the lowest numbers over a nine year period.
UCR Totals - Benicia
47 1
500
526
566
546
549
559
600
57 1
599
605
700
400
300
200
100
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
18 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
2009
2010
Year in Review 2010 Crime Statistics (continued) Classification
Number of Offenses
% Change
2010
2009
+/-
Homicide
1
0
—
Rape
7
5
40%
Robbery
15
20
-25%
Aggravated Assault
27
22
23%
Violent Crimes Subtotal
50
48
4%
Burglary
136
139
2%
Larceny
269
230
17%
67
47
43%
4
8
-50%
Property Crimes Subtotal
476
428
11%
Total
526
471
12%
173
156
11%
699
627
11%
Stolen Vehicle Arson
Simple Assault (not included in ucr totals) Total, including Simple Assault
2010 Call Statistics Response time to emergency calls for service is a key measurement when analyzing service to the community. The Benicia Police Department has assigned high priority to decreased response times, as the figures below demonstrate. 9-1-1 Call Volume
9-1-1 Answer Time
4,931 calls received
99.5% were answered within 10 seconds 14 calls answered in over 10 seconds
19 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Arrest Statistics 2009
2010
616
2008
369
0
adult
juvenile
adult
juvenile
18
57
52
15
total
70
102
217 43
53
35
16
52
68
100
68
100
124
198
233
251
300
274
294
400
200
471
486 386
500
492
600
total
adult
MISDEMEANOR FELONY WIC 5150 (“danger to self & others”)
20 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
juvenile
total
Year in Review 2010 Citation Statistics 2010 citation totals by type
3,945
all citations by year 4,000
13%
3,900
36% 12%
3,696
3,800
3,700
10%
6%
4% 4%
3,600
3,512
5%
5% 5%
SPEEDING
3,500
REGISTRATION VIOLATIONS NO PROOF OF INSURANCE
3,400
STOP SIGN VIOLATIONS PARKING VIOLATIONS 3,300
SEAT BELT VIOLATIONS CELL PHONE USE WHILE DRIVING
3,200
2008
2009
SUSPENDED DRIVERS LICENSE
2010
UNLICENSED DRIVER ALL OTHERS
21 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Year in Review 2010 Budget This year presented a number of budget challenges due to the state’s difficult fiscal situation. Turning these challenges into opportunities, the Benicia Police Department will continue pursuing efficiencies and innovations that reduce costs while maintaining the outstanding level of service the community has come to expect. • Approximately 35% of operating budget goes toward critical maintenance of computer records systems/data and fuel. • Overtime controls have been effective in minimizing overtime costs. • Training funds remain a priority to protect.
Budget Reductions Implemented • Overtime controls and reductions have resulted in a savings of over 20% compared to the historical overtime costs of the past five years • Delayed hiring of new officers/police officer position hiring freeze • Employee concessions • Job sharing (Management Analyst job sharing with the Fire Department extended indefinitely) • Increased efficiency through partnerships • Increased utilization of volunteers $611,640
6.87%
$2,870,425
32.24%
$5,420,735
60.89%
SALARY BENEFITS OPERATING BUDGET
22 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
The Year Ahead 2011 Department Goals Looking ahead to the coming year always provides an opportunity to reflect, continue the momentum gained on certain projects and initiatives, and identify additional areas for growth and improvement. Throughout the year, department goals provide focus and direction to all members of the organization. Each and every employee participates in helping to identify and establish this set of goals. 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.
Operations 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
Goals continued on next page * Descriptions of these Community Outreach programs on pages 10 & 11.
23 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
The Year Ahead 2011 Department Goals (continued) Services – General Implement communication upgrades to meet federal narrow band requirements
Install Motorola Ambassador Radio cards to ensure county interoperability via county funds or grant funding
Services – Investigations 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
Services – Dispatch 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
Services – Volunteers 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
24 BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT • 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Acknowledgement On behalf of the Benicia Police Department and the citizens of Benicia, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Chief Sandra Spagnoli for her dedication and leadership as the Department’s Police Chief during this annual reporting period.
Andrew Bidou Chief of Police
RESPECT • INTEGRITY • PRIDE • HONOR ROFESSIONALISM • RESPECT • INTEGR • PRIDE • HONOR • PROFESSIONALISM • RESPECT • INTEGRITY • PRIDE • HONOR ROFESSIONALISM • RESPECT • INTEGRI ENICIA B EST. 1941 PO LICE
Everyday Heroes
Benicia Police Department 200 East L Street Benicia, CA 94510 ____
(707) 745-3411 www.ci.benicia.ca.us/police