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July 26, 2026

Lt. Unruh takes a selfie with fans of Team Algeria

Rich Lockhart LKPD Chief of Police

As we send this edition of your City Beat to the press, I am breathing a heavy sigh of relief. A busy few weeks of World Cup activities ended, and your Lawrence Police Department was a part of a city-wide effort to not only make the Algerian National Team feel welcome but also to ensure that all of those participating in the many events were safe. Hundreds of hours went into this effort and officer vacations were put on hold; now we can all take some time off and celebrate Team Lawrence’s win. In this edition you will hear about how your SRO’s spend their summer away from school. No, they don’t get summer off, but they do transition to other duties. Rosie will also tell you about her summer break. LKPD has a motorcycle squad, again. It has been several years since LKPD officers rode motorcycles, and we are looking forward to introducing the new motorcycles and the motorcycle officers to the community. The primary purpose of the new squad will be neighborhood and school zone speed enforcement, community engagement, and handling parades. You will also hear from one of our crash investigators. Do you know what the #1 thing you can do to prevent accidents? Read the story featuring PO Daniel Palen to find out. Here’s a hint, it is a really simple thing only you can control. Lastly, are you frustrated with roundabouts? Your frustration is probably because most people don’t know how to drive in them. This edition will finally reveal all the secrets of navigating a roundabout.

The “Lawrence Way”: How Empathy and Transparency Created a WorldClass Welcome for Algeria LKPD Communications Manager

Lawrence, KS - When the Algerian national soccer team arrived in Lawrence for the World Cup, they weren’t just bringing in athletes. They were bringing a global, passionate fanbase and a celebration that would be seen worldwide. Lieutenants David Ernst and Mark Unruh were charged with leading the team of officers who would create a secure environment for the welcoming celebrations many around the world would ultimately watch in awe. It was the result of work the two commanders have been doing for nearly two years. Many may not know another staggering result: At the Lawrence DoubleTree hotel officers wrote no citations and made no arrests. As an agency with years of experience managing large crowds of bas-

Lt. David Ernst meets a young fan at the DoubleTree Hotel.

ketball fans, the strategy is to trade secrecy for transparency and policing for partnership. With that mindset, LKPD helped turn the team’s stay into a global celebration. Setting the Stage for Joy While LKPD handled the day-today security and team movement logistics, Explore Lawrence’s Ruth DeWitt led the World Cup welcoming efforts city-wide. According to DeWitt, the police didn’t just maintain order; they actively shaped the atmosphere of the entire city. “I honestly believe they set the

Lt. Unruh is taking the jokes from his wife and co-workers in stride after this post on “Kougars of Kansas”

July 26, 2026

tone in reinforcing the radical hospitality that people experienced.” DeWitt said, “The police were just in it with everybody.” The many social media posts of officers dancing, taking selfies with fans, and clearly having a lot of fun, broke barriers. DeWitt said visitors from around the country and world arrived expecting challenges, only to be met with openness. “They were so surprised at how nice everyone was, and the kindness extended to them—very visibly through the police,” DeWitt noted.

By Laura McCabe

From Touchdown to Takeoff From the moment the Algerian team touched down at Kansas City International Airport, it was clear their fans were a passionate crew. While crowds were gathering at the airport, Ernst heard radio traffic that a caravan was already on K-10 heading toward Lawrence. Standard security tactics often rely on keeping team movements entirely secret. Once Lt. Ernst witnessed and understood the Algerian fan base, he chose the path of transparency. “Instead of being secretive, we just sort of tempered or leveled the expectations with the crowd and told them what was going to happen,” says Ernst. ALGERIA, Continued on page 7

Photo courtesy of eXplore Lawrence

Page 1

Preventing the Next Crash: Safety Tips from Officer Palen By Officer Molly May LKPD Investigations Unit

Every time Officer Palen is called to investigate a serious traffic crash, he knows he’ll likely find twisted metal, shattered glass, and lives forever changed. As a veteran accident investigator, his job isn’t only to interview witnesses and photograph the damage – it’s to piece together evidence to determine how a routine drive turned into a tragedy. “Traffic enforcement is a key tool law enforcement uses to prevent crashes,” Palen said. In 2025, Douglas County had 194 crashes with suspected serious injuries and 35 fatalities according to the Kansas Department of Transportation’s “Drive to Zero” dashboard. Few understand just how many of these crashes could be prevented better than

The driver of this vehicle was going 119 MPH less than three seconds before striking a round-a-bout and going airborne for a few hundred feet. The driver survived and was not found to be under the influence.

This Jeep was struck by the Mercedes while legally crossing 12th and Tennessee. The driver of the Mercedes was convicted of aggravated battery.

Palen, a ten-year officer who has been part of the Lawrence Police Department’s Accident Investigation Team for over six years. Palen cites driving under the influence as a well-known preventable cause of many crashes but goes on to say, “DUI is known to be deadly, but failing to yield is also a big one, and speeding really can kill people and destroys families.” The Kansas Traffic Safety and Resource Office cites 1,100 injuries and 83 deaths as a result of alcohol-related crashes in Kansas

in 2024. However, Palen notes an increase in driving under the influence of other substances as well. Impairment isn’t the only action putting Lawrence drivers at risk. Aggression on the roads can be just as dangerous. “Speeding,” Palen cautions, “can make the difference between life and death – especially when pedestrians are involved.” Failing to yield when turning left is another factor officers often see causing crashes. “If you are trying to turn left across two lanes, and someone stops to wave you through, make absolutely sure both lanes are clear before you make that turn,” Palen said. “I

have seen countless examples of good people trying to help someone quickly turn into a crash because the driver didn’t check the second lane before completing their turn.” Officer Palen hopes most people never meet him at a crash scene. Whether he is investigating a crash or on a normal patrol shift, his goal is always the same: preventing the next tragedy before it occurs. Palen urges everyone, including his own family, to take a little extra time to be alert. “Slow down, look both ways in an intersection when your light turns green, and pay attention,” Palen encourages. “It could very well save a life.”

This silver Mercedes was racing south on Tennessee from 9th Street and struck the Jeep crossing east on W 12th Street. All survived. The driver was convicted of aggravated battery.

Roundabouts make intersections safer, so why does everyone hate them? And Why are People so Bad at Them? By Laura McCabe LKPD Communications Manager

Is it a roundabout or is it a traffic circle? Lawrence has both, according to Sgt. James Miller who supervises LKPD’s Accident Investigations Unit: “Roundabouts are more robust, with pedestrian crosswalks, signage and other traffic related engineering. The traffic circle will not have any pedestrian crosswalks or signage, but no matter which you’re entering, you have to yield to vehicles already inside the circle. The fundamental disconnect for many drivers is lack of familiarity, fear of yielding and merging, and poor lane discipline. People just aren’t used to them or don’t use them often enough to feel confident. Roundabouts require you to plan ahead and maintain Page 2

continuous movement.” Miller also says the main problem they see is drivers turning left into a traffic circle to avoid having to go around the entire thing. “That will get you a ticket,” says Miller. Here are some tips from the Kansas Highway Patrol: Roundabout Rules Slow Down: Be prepared to stop if necessary. Watch for pedestrians. Yield to Vehicles in the Roundabout: Yield to traffic coming from the left, but do not stop if the way is clear. 1-Way Travel to the Right: Always make right turns into and out of the roundabout. Use Your Turn Signals: Signal a right turn when you’re about to leave the roundabout If Your Street is on the Left: Do not turn left. Instead, turn right and go. July 26, 2026

By Drew Fennelly LKPD Sergeant

Q: My neighbor’s dogs bark every night. Does anyone have any experience with this issue or any idea what to do? A: Barking dog issues are handled the same as a general noise complaint, it’s just under a different ordinance specific to barking dogs (as opposed to a loud party or loud stereo, but not a car stereo, that is yet another ordinance). Officers have discretion whether to issue a warning or a citation if it is determined the amount of barking is unreasonable. Q: I’m looking to move to Lawrence and wondering how safe it will be to leave my motorcycle outside. A: Leaving your motorcycle outside isn’t necessarily a “safety issue” but it’s advisable to take reasonable steps to protect yourself against theft. Motorcycle security features are often easily overcome, and once a motorcycle disappears it’s very easy for the thief to part it out quickly. Even if the forks are locked, sometimes the thief will just drag the motorcycle onto a trailer. The smaller the motorcycle, the easier this is to do. If your motorcycle must be left in an open area, try to leave it parked in a well lit area (covered by security cameras is even better), lock the forks, and, obviously, don’t leave the keys with the bike. Q: Are you allowed to park a horse trailer on a neighborhood street for several days? A: Unattached trailers may not be parked on the street unattached to a vehicle. Even if they’re attached to a vehicle, as an oversized vehicle, they’re limited to 2 hours.

LKPD Hits the Streets on Two Wheels By Rich Lockhart LKPD Police Chief

If you’ve heard a new rumble on the streets of Lawrence, it probably isn’t NASCAR coming to town. Most likely, the rumble is from a new police motorcycle. The Lawrence Kansas Police Department will have police motorcycles for the first time in decades. The 2026 Harley Davidson Road Glides and the 2025 Harley Davidson Road Kings will be rumbling with that familiar Harley sound on the streets of Lawrence. It was May 22, 1996 when then Chief Ron Olin showed off the BMW motorcycles the department purchased to the Lawrence Journal World. The four BMW’s would be replacing the four 1986 Honda motorcycles the department was using. The BMW’s were the last motorcycles the department would deploy until the new Harley’s were purchased this year. Doing some research on the history of police motorcycles, I was able to find that the city had them as far

back as 1950. While there may have been police motorcycles before that, I wasn’t able to confirm it. I found an LJ World story from October of 1950 reporting that a police motorcycle caught fire at 19th and Massachusetts. According to the story, “Patrolman John Davis and Patrolman Arthur Shirk were returning to the station … after escorting a funeral procession… (when Davis’) motorcycle burst into flames.” Chief John Ingalls told the LJ World the motorcycle was purchased for $900. It was reported to be a total loss. Police motorcycles date back to the early 1900’s to combat speeding automobiles that easily outran officers on horseback or bicycles. Detroit, MI and Evanston, IL are reportedly the first departments to purchase motorcycles in 1908. These early units were mostly Harley Davidson and Indian motorcycles. Their use was as a rapid deployment squad, getting places quicker than a car, and they focused mostly on traffic enforcement. The department purchased three

2026 Harley Davidson Road Glides from Twister City Harley Davisson and two 2025 Harley Davidson Road Kings from the TEEX Motorcycle School. The Road Glides will be the primary motors deployed to handle police duties and the Road Kings will be primarily used for training. All motor officers complete a police motorcycle school consisting of 56 hours of advanced motorcycle handling skills, much of that training is done at speeds of less than 10 MPH. All officers are required to complete at least 8 hours a month of continuing training, using drills to reinforce the skills learned at the basic police motor school. The department has 6 trained officers and hopes to have more trained next year. One of the most frequent complaints I receive is about speeding cars in neighborhoods and school zones. These are areas where it can be difficult for a police car to conduct enforcement. A motorcycle is able to conduct enforcement in these areas better than a car and will help make our neighborhoods safer for kids and pedestrians. We will also use them for team escorts for football and traffic enforcement around the stadium on game and event days. Community engagement will also be a focus for motor officers. We are already getting a lot of looks, comments and waves from our community since the motors were deployed this past month. In case you are wondering, our motor officers will give you the “motorcycle” wave.

Kratom and 7-OH Now Illegal in Kansas By Laura McCabe

LKPD Communications Manager

Kratom and 7-OH, once sold in convenience stores and smoke shops everywhere, are now illegal in Lawrence. Maybe you’ve never heard of Kratom, but it’s been around for decades. About 10 years ago, it started gaining attention online with marketing slogans like, “a legal and natural” high. Soon after, it was widely available. With its popularity came “improvement” and the substance billed as natural, got stronger. 7-OH hit store shelves in mass within the last few years and experts say it can be up to 13 times more potent than morphine.

July 26, 2026

What are Kratom and 7-OH? Kratom is derived from a tree found in Southeast Asia and contains two psychoactive compounds. Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. The latter compound is now known as 7-OH. The FDA issued an official warning about 7-OH’s health and addictive risks in 2025. What Lawrence is Doing Lawrence Kansas Police Chief Rich Lockhart is working with community addiction experts to determine an appropriate enforcement strategy based in support and understanding. “Our goal is to educate people about the

law so they can avoid legal consequences,” says Lockhart. Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health experts are reaching out to retail stores and distributing flyers produced by DCCCA to inform the community about what resources are available to help safely stop using Kratom and 7-OH. Statewide statistics suggest that kratom sent more than 150 Kansans to the hospital last year. If you need to get off kratom or a derivative, DCCCA can help. Go to DCCCA’s website, dccca.org/kratom, or call the Statewide Substance Use Treatment Referral Line at 866-645-8216.

Page 3

The ECC just moved into their new space next to the Douglas County Correctional Facility.

The Partners: Douglas County Emergency Communications and Lawrence Kansas Police Department Anthony Brixius LKPD Deputy Police Chief

How it works: Established in 1994, the Douglas County Emergency Communications Center serves as a centralized hub, providing enhanced 911 telephone services and radio dispatch for 23 law enforcement, fire, and medical agencies. This consolidation eliminates delays in call transfers, ensuring swift coordination during emergencies. Why it matters: Centralizing 911 services enhances operational efficiency, reduces response times, and improves coordination during multijurisdictional events. It maximizes resource allocation and cost efficiency by sharing advanced technology expenses across multiple jurisdictions.

Outcome: The unified approach results in faster response times, seamless mutual aid, and consistent training standards for all telecommunicators, ultimately leading to more effective and life-saving emergency operations. The non-emergency number to dispatch is (785) 843-0250. For emergencies, always dial 911.

An Inside Look at Law Enforcement Through the Eyes of a Teenager Laura McCabe LKPD Communications Manager

The future of community leadership is looking bright as several Lawrence teens successfully completed this summer’s LKPD Teen Police Academy (TPA). For two weeks, beginning July 13th, teens ranging in age from 14-18, traded their typical summer routines for an immersive, hands-on dive into the world of law enforcement. This is the 7th TPA class to graduate after the Lawrence Kansas Police Department (LKPD) started hosting two Academies each summer since 2023. World Cup staffing needs only allowed for one class this summer, but next summer LKPD plans to return to two. TPA gives students a rare, behind-thescenes look at what it takes to protect and serve. Rather than just sitting in a classroom, the teens actively engaged in real-world scenarios. Beyond the tactical demonstrations,

the academy focuses heavily on building essential life skills. School Resource Officers (SROs) lead the effort and rely on support units and outside agencies to develop interactive lessons on internet safety, First Aid/CPR, search and seizure concepts, crisis negotiations, and more. The curriculum also tackled vital social issues like anti-bias and anti-bullying training. Through rigorous team-building exercises, teens learned the importance of collaboration, self-awareness, and maturity. Teens walk away with a deeper understanding of the legal system, improved decision-making skills, boosted self-esteem, and a head start on career development—all while having a blast. LKPD’s 2026 Police Camp, for children ages 9-13, begins July 29th and ends with a family picnic July 31st. That camp is full and registration is closed. We generally open registration in March on our Facebook page at: https://www. facebook.com/LawrenceKansasPolice/

CONGRATULATIONS ON THE NEW MOTORCADE!

Page 4

July 26, 2026

Keeping LKPD’s K-9 Partners Safe in the Summer Heat

Corporal Josh Doncouse and K9 Shadow

Laura McCabe LKPD Communications Manager

The sweltering summer heat is a brutal challenge for police officers,

whose heavy equipment vests can add an extra 20 to 25 pounds to their daily load. While officers know the importance of staying hydrated, ensuring the safety of the Lawrence Kansas Police

Rosie’s Summer Break Translated by Officer Lindsay Bishop / Rosie’s handler

Hi! I’m Officer Rosie, the therapy dog for the Lawrence Police Department. You’ve heard from me before about my adventures at school with School Resource Officer Bishop, but today I want to catch you up on my summer. At first, I slept...A LOT. As anyone in education knows, the last few weeks of school are exhausting. Even for a professional napper like me, it took more than a few catnaps to recover. On June 18, I celebrated my 7th birth-

Detective Meghan Bardwell Radio: #475 Hired: 06/02/2014 In each “City Beat”, we ask the same 5 questions to a different law enforcement employee. Detective Bardwell seems a fitting candidate this quarter after a video of her went viral as she conducted traffic control during a World Cup celebration. She’s now fondly known to many as the “dancing detective Here’s little more about her in this quarter’s “Behind the Badge”. Assignment: General Investigation Unit What is your superpower? Making people laugh or smile. Tell us a weird fact you happen to know for no reason? That one of the most common phrases in movies is “Let’s get out of here.”

day with Ben & Jerry’s Doggie Dessert ice cream. Officer Bishop had Blue Bell Bunny Tracks. She claimed it was because I LOVE chasing rabbits, but let’s be honest—we all know ice cream is her favorite treat. Now that summer is underway, I’m rested up and ready for another school year. Officer Bishop tells me she sees many of our students while she is working Foot Patrol downtown, but hearing about them is much different than smelling them. I miss the pets, the laughter, and most of all, all those wonderful middle school smells. Every student has their own unique scent, and sometimes they even smell like their dogs from home. I hope their pets sniff them when they get home and think, “Hey... you’ve been hanging out with Rosie!” I want them to know I took excellent care of their favorite human while they were at school. Last summer, Officer Bishop had what can only be described as a terrible idea. She decided I should go swimming in a lake. The lake smelled incredible—fish, mud, and decaying leaves. Dog heaven! Then she strapped me into a bright yellow life jacket that made me look like a floating banana. Now, I’m many things. I’m a therapy dog. I’m a reading buddy. I’m an expert squirrel observer. But I am not a Labrador. The moment my paws could touch the bot-

Department’s (LKPD) four-pawed partners is just as critical. Fortunately, LKPD has gear in place to keep their K-9 heroes safe during these dangerous July temperatures. Every K-9 equipped vehicle is outfitted with the F3 K-9 Deployment and Heat Alert System. It constantly monitors the interior temperature of the vehicle to ensure it stays safe for the dog. But it doesn’t just watch the thermometer—it also serves as a vital lifeline for the officer. The system includes a remote control carried by the handler. If an officer finds themselves unable to return to the vehicle, they can press a button to automatically open the car door, deploying the K-9 to find and assist them. While out in the field, Corporal Josh

K9 Mack “off duty”

Doncouse, Shadow’s Handler, says they always have fresh water available. “We train with these dogs regularly and they live in our homes,” says Doncouse. “We watch them and can tell what they need to keep working as hard as they do, and we give it to them.”

tom, I made a very quick exit. I’ll happily leave the swimming to the ducks. My favorite part of summer is the FOOD! During our walks, the smell of hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill is so good I swear my paws barely touch the ground. I love the crunch of a freshly sliced cucumber and the juicy sweetness of watermelon. Those tasty treats help pass the time, but I’m still counting down the days until I get to see all my favorite kids again this fall. See you soon! Officer Rosie

What would be your walkup song? Thunderstruck – AC/DC. It’s a great hype song! What is your favorite place in Lawrence? Clinton Lake and the trails surrounding it. What do you most enjoy about your job? The ability to help people who have been victims of crimes by giving them a voice. I want victims to know they have been heard, supported, and treated with dignity, no matter what the final outcome may be in the courtroom.

Thank you for keeping Lawrence safe. July 26, 2026

Page 5

By the Numbers: A Mixed Picture on Crime Numbers in Lawrence

Local NIBRS data shows persistent property and society offense increases, but a glimmer of hope emerges for crimes against persons By Adam Heffley LKPD Deputy Chief

If you follow crime reports on any form of media – particularly social media – you will rarely get the whole story or much perspective at all. And to be frank, crime statistics are just one contributing factor about how safe people feel on a daily basis. But, it’s worth looking at the numbers because trends or dramatic changes can help guide enforcement and prevention efforts. As we’ve done in previous reports, we’re drawing on data from the National Incident Based Reporting System — better known as NIBRS — to get a monthly snapshot of what’s happening around town. These figures are compiled each month and submitted to the FBI for inclusion in national crime statistics, making them one of the more reliable windows into local public safety trends. The headline this month carries some unwelcome news for Lawrence residents: for the third consecutive month, the city has reported increases over the same period last year in both “Property” and “Society” offense categories. Property crimes cover a broad range of offenses including burglary, theft, and criminal damage to property. Society offenses encompass drug violations, certain alcohol-related charges, and similar crimes that, while not always involving a direct victim, reflect broader community conditions. The streak of year-over-year increases in those two categories is worth watching, even if no single month’s numbers tell the whole story. On a more encouraging note, the picture looks somewhat brighter when it comes to crimes against persons. While that category remains elevated compared to 2025 overall, the second quarter showed signs of improvement — two of the three months came in better than the same months a year ago. It’s a modest but meaningful trend in the right direction, and one everyone hopes will continues into the second half of the year. As always, monthly crime statistics capture reported incidents only and can fluctuate for a variety of reasons. We’ll continue tracking these numbers and reporting back as new data becomes available.

Crime Statistics 2020-2025

5000 4500

4631

April 2026 1. Union At the Loop 3250 Michigan St. 69 Calls for Service 2. Lawrence Community Shelter 3655 E. 25th St. 31 Calls for Service 3. Tamarind Apartments 1515-1517 W 9th St. 27 Calls for Service 4. 519 Eldridge St. 26 Calls for Service 5. Lawrence Memorial Hospital 325 Maine St. 24 Calls for Service May 2026 1. Union At the Loop 3250 Michigan St. 68 Calls for Service 2. Easy Living Mobile Home Park 3323 Iowa St. 35 Calls for Service 3. Edgewood 1600 Haskell Ave. 32 Calls for Service 4. Hawks Landing Apartments 2411 Louisiana St. 28 Calls for Service 5. Lawrence Memorial Hospital 325 Maine St. 24 Calls for Service June 2026 1. Union At the Loop 3250 Michigan St. 60 Calls for Service 2. Hawks Landing Apartments 2411 Louisiana St. 34 Calls for Service 3. Lawrence Memorial Hospital 325 Maine St. 31 Calls for Service 4. Tamarind Apartments 1515-1517 W 9th St. 31 Calls for Service 5. Edgewood 1600 Haskell Ave. Lawrence Community Shelter 3655 E. 25th St. Links at Kansas 5400 & 5800 Rock Chalk Drive 28 Calls for Service for each

Page 6

4573

4000

4228 3867

3500

3812

3806

3000 2500 2000

1853

2,128

2,036

2028

2026

1849

1500 1000

500

714

527

520

532

539

473

1 2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Property 2025 - 1544 2026- 1674 People 2025 - 1000 2026 - 1026

Society 2025 – 339 2026 - 486

0 2025

Group A Property Crimes

Group A Person Crimes

Group A Society Crimes

Arson, Theft, Burglary, Bribery, Embezzlement, Forgery, Extortion, Criminal Damage, Robbery, Fraud

Homicide, Kidnapping, Assault/Battery, Rape, Fondling, Incest, Sodomy, Intimidation

Drugs, Drug Paraphernalia, Obscene Material, Gambling, Weapons Violations, Prostitution

Safe and Secure KPI 1: Residents who perceive Lawrence as safe or very safe The Lawrence Kansas Police Department is committed to openly communicate information to help everyone feel more safe and secure. Total calls for service and top call location measurements help guide our work. Total calls can assist in appropriate staffing, proactive education, and determining the most efficient and effective use of resources.

During the first half of 2026, Officers responded to a total of 20,666 calls from citizens and initiated 24,007 calls for a total of 44,673. First Quarter 2026 Total Calls for Service

9000 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

3508

4201

4728

3432

3631

3709

3586

Mar-26

Apr-26

May-26

Jun-26

Citizen Initiated

Officer Initiated

3592

3722

3111

3197

Jan-26

Feb-26

270

268 247

250

236 200 150

100 50

Crimes Against Society 2025 Crimes Against Society 2026

January

174

155 97

88 76

February

March

April

130

192

185

38 0

188

272

254

161

154

131

Crimes Against People 2026

295

179

164

163

Crimes Against People 2025

Property 2025 = 1544 2026 = 1674

284

251

217

First 2 quarters of 2025 vs. 2026

318

306

Crimes Against Property 300 2025 Crimes Against Property 2026

4256

Group A Crimes month by month Q1 and Q2 2025 vs. 2026

350

May

180

Persons 2025 = 1000 2026 = 1026

Society 2025 = 339 2026 = 486

June

147

Safe and Secure Key Progress Indicator 5: Number of calls handled by service alternatives to traditional public safety response.

Top 5 Call Locations Initiated by Citizens Knowing where officers are repeatedly called can help department leaders work to address issues before crimes occur, educate community on how to prevent becoming a crime victim, provide resources and services, and encourage community partners to get involved in providing solutions.

2026 statistics halfway through the year for comparison

Total First and Second Quarter Alternative Responses = 2,482

Community Service Technicians County Mental Health Response Team

600

Local Mental Health Team

527

Total

500

516

447

423

400

348

366

331

313

300 235

226 195

200

100

136

117

104

101

The Lawrence Kansas Police Department, along with county partners, continue to provide alternative responses to calls for service. The data is a key performance indicator of LKPD’s commitment to community members to use resources efficiently and effectively. In 2023, the Lawrence Kansas Police Department and Douglas County emergency response agencies were selected to participate in the Harvard Kennedy School’s Government Performance Lab. It’s a consortium designed to support city and county leaders in developing, improving, and expanding alternative responses to 911 calls.

January

February

March

April

May

June

Safe and Secure Key Progress Indicator 7: Percentage of Investigations resolved with an arrest, notice to appear, or referred to prosecutor for charging.

Investigations Unit

Patrol Unit

Arrest, NTA, or DA Referral

802

1046

No Arrest, NTA, or DA Referral

109

No Arrest, NTA, or DA Referral

1018

1040

First Quarter

Second Quarter

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Investigations Unit Year to Date = 34.8% Patrol Unit Year to Date = 47.3% LKPD measures the number of investigations resulting in an arrest, notice to appear in court, or referral for prosecution as a progress indicator in equity and inclusion. The numbers include cases with no possible law enforcement action such as death investigations, cases where victims choose not to participate in the judicial process, or missing persons investigations where the person returns home, etc. They are not clearance rates. To move closer to the goal, the department will identify demographically disproportionate numbers and provide community based education and solutions. Partnerships and collaboration with community organizations will assist in this work along with officer training efforts such as de-escalation training and fair and impartial police training.

July 26, 2026

From left to right: Officers Taylor Zook, Dan Affalter, Eric Dawon, and Lindsay Bishop.

No Classes, No Problem: LKPD’s School Resource Officers Boost Downtown Patrols By Lindsay Clark LKPD Intern

A summer program brought School Resource Officers (SRO’s) out of the classrooms and onto the streets. Officers Lindsay Bishop and Dan Affalter enjoyed the temporary transition. Once the final bell rang, these officers headed downtown to serve the community by supplementing the dedicated downtown patrol officers. With all the excitement the World

Cup celebrations brought, downtown officers appreciated the back up to help ensure everyone was safe. They all worked together, getting to know the business owners and downtown visitors “This summer has been one of the best summers in a long time… really enjoyed working with Zook and seeing all the relationships he has formed with these business partners,” says SRO Lindsay Bishop. You may have seen these officers walking, biking, or driving by in

their patrol vehicles in the downtown area, keeping the community safe and secure. The extra hands in the downtown area have allowed for there to be a full week’s worth of coverage, increasing safety. As for the officers who work downtown on a regular basis, Officer Eric Dawson says, “It’s been busy, it’s been hot, but it’s been nice having the SROs with us. The extra coverage during FIFA was incredibly helpful.” Officer Taylor Zook, also dedicated to downtown, appreciates Bishop’s

ALGERIA

Continued from page 1 The DoubleTree Dynamic and Beyond The parking lot of the DoubleTree Hotel quickly became a global tourist attraction. The space inside resembled a secure, self-contained campus where the team strategized, ate meals, had team meetings, and enjoyed the occasional downtime. “They were mostly confined to the convention area space where they played ping-pong, cornhole, and an assortment of other board games,” recalls Ernst. “That area became their living room. I rarely went back there because I wanted to respect their privacy and help them feel at home.” Unlike most teams, Team Algeria didn’t buy out the entire hotel, so LKPD officers and private security had to meticulously vet incoming guests while keeping the atmosphere light and welcoming. Ernst says keeping fans accurately informed was best for everyone. “Many times I just say, ‘Hey, I know it’s noon, it’s hot out here. You will not see anyone right now. Cool down and come back here at about 5 o’clock.’ They really appreciated that,” he says. This approach immediately established relationships and built trust so police and fans could safely celebrate together. July 26, 2026

A Night Out on the Plaza The department’s flexibility extended well beyond the hotel walls. When a transportation glitch left the team with no bus one morning, LKPD officers stepped up, loading individual team members into patrol vehicles to get them to the practice at Rock Chalk Park. They also drove players to some necessary medical appointments. One evening, the team was granted a rare window of complete downtime and LKPD escorted them to Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza. “We did not advertise that the team was heading to the Plaza,” Lt. Ernst revealed. “Before dinner, they went out on their own and walked around

the plaza like any other college kids in town, taking photos with fans who recognized them.” While the team was eating dinner at Prime Social, officers spent 45 minutes chatting with a young Algerian woman who had moved to the area a few years prior. Recognizing she had an earnest desire to simply meet her team, officers let her know they’d be coming out soon. They chatted some more and the team’s exit resulted in a flurry of photos and pure joy. Managing the Madness: A Happy Crowd is a Safer Crowd The true test of LKPD’s philosophy came as crowds increased leading up

unique experience as a former social worker saying, “It’s been amazing getting to work with the different people in our department. Officer Bishop has an incredible skillset; she took a completely different path than I have and she is incredibly knowledgeable.” The SROs have enjoyed the change of pace and a fresh setting as well. SRO Dan Affalter says, “Getting to see all of the kids you work with in schools out and about in their daily lives has been so cool.”

to the Algerian game against Austria. The excitement exploded, and a massive crowd descended on the DoubleTree the night before the game, launching vibrant fireworks. Outnumbered and facing a potentially chaotic situation, the department relied on the trust they had built over the previous weeks. Rather than moving in with heavy-handed enforcement or making arrests, officers worked with crowd influencers to find a safe middle ground—moving fireworks out from under the hotel’s roofed entry and asking for compliance. Fans understood. In fact, Ernst says the Algerian fanbase consistently self-policed, even picking up their own trash and fireworks debris before leaving. Put on the Global Map Ultimately, the collaboration between Ruth DeWitt’s organizational leadership, the Algerian team’s warmth, and LKPD’s security strategy left a lasting impression that resonated far beyond Kansas. From Ruth DeWitt’s perspective, “ The department made themselves one of the crowd, and it was brilliant. The way they interacted on the street was pitch perfect.” For Ernst’s part, he says the strategy has a long history of tested success. “Our department lived up to expectations,” said Ernst. “The community’s embrace of the Algerian team and the fan base has put us on the map, globally. It’s just about showing the ‘Lawrence Way.’” Page 7

How an All-American Wrestler Protects and Serves Lawrence Laura McCabe LKPD Communications Manager

When you see a police officer, it’s easy to only see the uniform, badge and equipment. But behind the wheel in every patrol car is a person with a history, a unique set of skills, and a life outside the shift. Corporal Jon Inman’s story is defined by a lifetime of international mat time, discipline, and a deep desire to give back. He’s now using those skills to train new recruits and advocate for his colleagues. Corporal Inman joined the Lawrence Kansas Police Department (LKPD) in 2017 as a two-time All-American collegiate wrestler who grew up in Branson, Missouri. He now serves in LKPD’s Training Unit as an instructor in LKPD’s Basic Recruit Academy. “My whole life right now is coaching,” Inman says. “I coach people on the streets, I coach in the academy, I coach high school sports, and I love it. You get to see the process. You get to see people start from scratch, and where they are now, and it’s super fulfilling.” Can Failure Form a Foundation? Inman’s journey into wrestling was pretty rough. “I was terrible,” says Inman. “I lost every single match, and I cried and told my dad I never want to do it again,” he says. His dad, however, told him he made a commitment to finish the season and would keep it. Persistence paid off. By his third year, Inman won the Missouri Kid State Championship, became a two-time high school state champion, and a two time collegiate All-American by way

of an athletic scholarship to Fort Hays State University. Wrestling with Athletes in Action, allowed him to compete internationally in China, Ukraine, and Mongolia before earning a degree in Criminal Justice. High Expectations with Realistic Grace It was a wrestling coach—a police officer from Maryland Heights, Missouri—who originally mentored Inman and inspired him to join law enforcement. Today, Inman applies what he’s learned to the teenagers he coaches at Free State High School, where he has been an assistant coach since 2020. On duty or on the mat, Inman says connection is key, “I am a wrestling coach that’s also a cop,” he says. He uses his platform to instill morals, ethics, and a strong work ethic, keeping expectations high for grades and behavior. When teenagers inevitably make mistakes, his reaction mirrors the reality he sees every day. Inman simply asks: “’Hey, what hap-

Corporal Jonathan Inman

pened?’ I’m pretty reasonable because of the things I see out on the streets. I give it to them straight and say, ‘Hey man, come on, that’s pretty dumb.’ I’m not here to rib him for it, just give the expectation. This is the kind of person we want to be and here’s why.” It seems to work and Inman credits the tight-knit wrestling culture he was raised in. “Whatever magic we’ve got going on… we put out pretty good wrestlers, but even better kids,” he says. De-escalation Through Discipline One might assume a championship wrestling background means an officer is ready to throw their weight around, but Inman explains the truth is the exact opposite. He says his elite skills are the ultimate tool for de-escalation: “People with extensive experience in defensive tactics, use the least amount of force. There’s a level of confidence and competence. If somebody tries to hurt or threaten me, I’m calm. I don’t react out of fear. My movements are deliberate and safe. Wrestling teaches you how to reduce the threat in a controlled way. The goal is not to hurt anyone -just to control them so I get to go home to my family.” “A Coach on the Street” This passion for coaching directly shapes his professional ambitions at LKPD. While some officers climb the ranks with an eye on the Chief’s office, Inman has entirely different aspirations. His promotion to corporal has him setting his next goal, becoming a sergeant, for a specific reason: “I want to be a sergeant because I want to be a coach on the street for young cops and mentor them. To me, that sounds like an absolute blast,” says Inman. Opening the Closet Door: Leading the LPOA His willingness to step up when lead-

ership is required recently thrust him into a massive responsibility: President of the Lawrence Police Officers Association (LPOA). Initially, he joined as Vice President to help a colleague, but jokes, “You open the closet door and everything falls out.” That’s exactly what happened. The previous president stepped down upon getting promoted and Inman suddenly found himself speaking at commission meetings and diving deep into the city budget. When approaching his newest responsibility to his fellow officers, Inman uses a philosophy deeply rooted in mutual respect. He collaborates with leaders at city hall to learn and create mutual understanding. “I live in this town,” he says. “Being armed with information is key. So that’s all I try to do... It truly is a position of relationships, and I treat it as such, because I actually care about the people in this city.” Deep Roots in Lawrence Though he and his family briefly considered moving in the past, Corporal Jon Inman is now firmly committed to remaining in Lawrence to raise his two children. For him, uprooting his life would mean walking away from the very thing that makes his demanding career worth it: the people. And while Inman admits he regularly encounters people who aren’t happy to see law enforcement, he says that’s the time to change someone’s perspective, and maintains his trademark easygoing demeanor. “I love the people at our department. I love the people that I coach,” he says. “It’s all people, right? And that’s what builds the community anyway. It isn’t brick and mortar buildings. It’s the people. And that’s the thing that I’ve come to love and the thing that I won’t give up.”

Teens: It’s Your Turn to Learn Safety! By Laura McCabe LKPD Communications Manager

The Lawrence Kansas Police Department (LKPD) is proud to announce its upcoming schedule for a free Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) class for women 16 years of age or older. This class is specifically geared toward female High School Students and staff, although any women over the age of 18 are welcome to register. This crucial two-part course aims to empower women with practical self-defense techniques and vital awareness strategies in a safe and supportive environment. The RAD program is a national“We believe that education and empowerment are key components in personal

safety,” says Officer Bailey Salsbury, who is the lead instructor for the class. “By offering this RAD class free of charge, we hope to make these invaluable skills accessible to as many Lawrence women as possible.” Pre-registration is required to ensure adequate instructor-to-student ratios for effective training. Student participants may also invite their mothers, if interested. Parent signed waivers will be required for everyone under the age of 18. Upcoming class:Round #1: September 12, 2026 from 8:30am - 1:00pmRound #2: September 19, 2026 from 8:30am - 1:00pm To sign up, click the QR code. A link is also available in our Instagram bio: Lawrence_pd

PROUDLY SERVING THE LAWRENCE COMMUNITY

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July 26, 2026