Police Department
In Memory This inaugural Blaine Police Department Annual Report is dedicated to the memory of Officer Steve Nanney. Steve was a member of the Blaine Police Department for ten years, spending the last three years of his career as a school resource officer at Blaine High School. Officer Nanney was also the department’s Special Olympics representative. He had a passion for living a life in service to others. He was active in mentoring and educating our youth as to the dangers of distracted and impaired driving. Tragically, Steve and his wife Susie were taken from us too early when they were killed in an off-duty motorcycle crash by a distracted teenage driver. His heart of gold and genuine kind spirit will be forever remembered and greatly missed.
Steve Nanney 03/21/67—06/15/18
4 | 2018 Annual Report The City of Blaine is a rapidly growing metropolitan community situated 11 miles north of downtown Minneapolis. Blaine is the fastest growing suburb in the Twin Cities metro area and continues to rank high in new housing construction.
QUICK FACTS Founded 1877 Population 66,667 Households 23,946 Land Area 34 sq. miles Miles of Park Trails 75 miles K-12 Schools 13 Higher Education Facilities 1
AMENITIES National Sport Center Host to Target USA Cup TPC of the Twin Cities Host to the 3M Open PGA Tournament Anoka County Airport
Anoka County (Blaine in Orange)
Table of Contents City of Blaine Organizational Structure ...................................... 5 History of the Blaine Police Department ................................... 6 Blaine Police Department At-A-Glance Today ........................... 7 Mission Statement ....................................................................... 7 A Message from Chief Podany .................................................... 8 Highlights from the Year ............................................................. 9 Blaine PD Organizational Chart ................................................ 11 Meet our Command Staff ..................................................... 12-13 Community Connections ...................................................... 14-15 By the Numbers 2018 ................................................................ 16 Crime Statistics .......................................................................... 17 Department Photo ................................................................ 18-19 Administrative Services Division .......................................... 20-21 Patrol Division........................................................................ 22-25 Support Services Division .......................................................... 26 Special Operations Division ...................................................... 27 Emergency Management Division ............................................ 28 Awards......................................................................................... 30 Promotions ................................................................................. 31 Staff Roster ............................................................................ 32-33 City of Blaine Police Department 10801 Town Square Drive Blaine, MN 55449 (763) 785-6168 BlaineSafetyServices.com
Minnesota (Anoka County in Orange)
Blaine Police Department | 5
City of Blaine Organizational Structure Electorate
Boards & Commissions
City Attorney (Contractual)
City Council
City Manager
Administration
Finance
City Clerk
Finance
Communications
Information Technology
Human Resources
Safety Services
Police Department
Fire Department Community Standards
Public Services
GIS
Parks & Recreation
Community Development
Public Works
Planning
Economic Development Building Inspections
Engineering
6 | 2018 Annual Report
History of the Blaine Police Department It was 1877 when Blaine became a township and fell under the authority of the county sheriff and two constables for law enforcement. In 1954, the Village of Blaine was organized and the police department came soon after. The first part time officer was Fred Freeman. Freeman was also the first chief and served in an on call capacity until 1959. The first full time officer, Chief Billy J. Sarazin, was hired in 1961. Around the clock police coverage began in 1962 when three officers were hired full time. The last part-time officer position ended in 1963 and by 1965, Blaine had nine officers. The Blaine Police Department had a rather unusual office in 1962—the base of the water tower in Aquatore Park. One officer said it was like “working in a submarine with a million gallons of water above our heads.” 1963
Later, technology began to play a significant role in police work. In 1977, Blaine sent its first detective through a course on crime scene evidence collection and preservation with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Two police motorcycles, outfitted with flashing red lights, sirens, and radios were purchased in 1981 and become Blaine’s first motorcycle unit. In 1988, the police department’s offices moved out of the city hall building and into a garage that had been refurbished at a cost of $400,000. It more than doubled the size of the department’s previous headquarters. It was the sixth location of the Blaine Police Department, though they had always been in or near the city hall. As Blaine’s population continued to grow, the city council adopted specific goals to improve the police department in 1996. Some of the changes that occurred included the swearing in of six additional officers, establishing a district patrol plan to give the city better police coverage, expanding the school liaison program, and adding a crime prevention technician to focus on youth safety. The Blaine Police Department has been located in eight different offices in and around city hall until 2002 when it moved to it’s current location at 10801 Town Square Drive.
By 1971, Blaine had 21 police officers and the department was partitioned into two general divisions: detective work and routine patrol. Three policemen engaged in crime scene investigation, while the majority of officers carried out day-to-day beat work, focusing on crime detection, crime prevention, and medical emergencies. The department had four marked and two unmarked squad cars outfitted with radios and other essential equipment. Four years later, the department had grown to 26 officers, two clerks, and a canine unit.
1974
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Blaine Police Department At-A-Glance Today 69 19 38K 2 5
Sworn Personnel Civilian Personnel Calls for Service Canine Teams Divisions
Mission Statement As proud members of our community, we, the members of the Blaine Police Department, strive to enhance the quality of life in Blaine by serving with integrity, respect, and professionalism.
8 | 2018 Annual Report
A Message from Chief Podany On behalf of the members of the Blaine Police Department who serve others in our great Blaine community, it is my Integrity ~ Respect honor to present our 2018 Annual Report. This is the inaugural police department annual report, and we are excited to share it with you. Through a collaborative effort with the Mayor, city council, city staff, and unwavering support from others in our community, we have worked hard to provide the highest level of professional work and premier services to everyone fortunate enough to be a part of the Blaine community. Every member of the police department strives to demonstrate a commitment to our core values of integrity, respect, and professionalism.
The Blaine Police Department mission statement reads, “As proud members of our community, we, the members ~ Professionalism of the Blaine Police Department, strive to enhance the quality of life in Blaine by serving with integrity, respect, and professionalism.� This mission has been carefully crafted in its entirety. At our core, we believe that we are an intrinsic part of our community and not a separate entity. We have a large stake in what happens here, and believe in enhancing life for all those in Blaine, including residents, businesses, and visitors. We do this by utilizing our core values as a guiding principle in the service we provide. It is an incredible honor to be a part of the Blaine community, and we strive to serve with compassion in all that we do. We believe so strongly in making this a better place that many of us have chosen to reside here as well. We are your servants and your neighbors.
Core Values
We continue to make the people of this great city our greatest asset and partner. Through partnerships, we believe in a philosophy of community integrated policing and problem solving. It is based on the idea that we all work together in Blaine to prevent crime, hold criminals accountable, and enhance the quality of life. This relationship sets the stage for mutual trust and a belief that together we make Blaine the greatest city it can be. This report highlights the hard work of the police department professionals you have asked to serve. In this report, you will find information on crime statistics, accomplishments, divisions within the department, and other services we provide. The City of Blaine and the police department have a strong reputation in the region for setting the standards and truly demonstrating what it means to be a great community by working together to make Blaine exceptional. As this current year moves on to the next, I can assure you that we will continue to meet the needs of all residents and do so with a professional and dedicated staff. Please visit our website BlaineSafetyServices.com and become a follower of the Blaine Police Department Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.
Brian Podany Chief of Police Blaine Police Department
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Highlights from the Year Developed a new mission statement and core values. Greatly increased social media presence and capacity. Revamped personnel and organizational structure. Conducted first department meeting in 9 years; first awards ceremony in 14 years; first department photo in 7 years.
Developed new mentor program to provide guidance to CSOs. Developed CommunityConnect program. Including camera registry for residents and businesses. Developed administrative fee schedule and process for special events.
Revised and improved use of force reporting.
Created a dedicated Emergency Management position and division.
Hosted inaugural New Americans Academy.
Implemented Fieldwatch management and community camera locator/accessing.
Staff photo taken May 30, 2018
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Blaine PD Organizational Chart CHIEF OF POLICE/ SAFETY SERVICES MANAGER Brian Podany EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Gail Merten
DEPUTY CHIEF Dan Szykulski
PATROL DIVISION Captain Matt Carlson
SPECIAL OPERATIONS Captain Todd Olson
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Captain Mark Boerboom
A-SHIFT TEAM 1 Sergeant Gerhard 9 Officers
INVESTIGATIONS UNIT Sergeant Clark 7 Detectives
TRAINING/UNIFORMS & EQUIPMENT Sergeant Berg
A-SHIFT TEAM 2 Sergeant Warner 8 Officers
DIRECTED ENFORCEMENT 2 Officers
COMMUNITY OUTREACH 2 Crime Prevention Specialists
B-SHIFT TEAM 1 Sergeant Hatanpa K9 Unit 2 Officers Traffic/TZD Unit 3 Officers Retail Unit 1 Officer
DRUG TASK FORCE Sergeant Sadler 1 Officers
EVIDENCE 2 Property Technicians
ADMINISTRATIVE INVESTIGATIONS
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS 3 Officers
B-SHIFT TEAM 2 Community Service Officer 1 CSO Supervisor 8 CSOs FTO Coordinator Reserves/Park Patrol Explorers C-SHIFT TEAM 1 Sergeant Villegas 7 Officers C-SHIFT TEAM 2 Sergeant Johnson 7 Officers
PIO / SOCIAL MEDIA
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Captain Dan Pelkey
SUPPORT SERVICES Manager Wende Ferguson 1 Lead Record Technician 5 Record Technicians
12 | 2018 Annual Report
Meet our Command Staff Brian Podany Chief of Police Brian has over 20 years of law enforcement experience in training, mentoring, and leadership. He has been with the Blaine Police Department since November 2017. Prior to coming to Blaine, he was with the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office holding numerous positions in both the Criminal Investigations Division as well as the Patrol Division. He has a Master’s degree in Public Safety Administration, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Police Science, both from St. Mary’s University. He also has an Associates degree in Law Enforcement and is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. Brian is on the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association Board of Directors and has previously served on the Board of the Minnesota Sex Crimes Investigators Association (MNSCIA). He has been active with coaching youth athletics and is a member of the Blaine-Ham Lake Rotary Club. Brian loves spending time with family, as well as bicycling, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
Dan Szykulski Deputy Chief Dan has been with the Blaine Police Department for 35 years and has been a staple within the department. He started his career as a police reserve and has received many promotions, starting with patrol officer to sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and currently the deputy chief. He has managed all divisions within the department; overseeing many areas and functions throughout his career. He received an Associate of Arts degree from North Hennepin Community College and is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. Dan loves to cook, spend time with family and friends, and get away to his cabin as much as possible.
Wende Ferguson Manager, Support Services Wende has over 30 years of law enforcement experience. She started her career in law enforcement as a records technician with the Fridley Police Department and was there for 17 years. She has been with the Blaine Police Department for 15 years, and has been in her current role of support services manager for the last 8 years. Wende has an Associate of Arts degree in General Education from Anoka-Ramsey Community College, a Business Management Certification from the University of Minnesota, as well as a Legal Secretary Certification. Wende likes to camp, paddle board, sew, and spend time with family.
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Dan Pelkey Captain, Emergency Management
Dan began his career with the Blaine Police Department in 1993 as a volunteer explorer. He has been with the department for 26 years. He has received many promotions along the way, including detective, instructor, team leader, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and currently the city emergency management director. He has a Masters degree in Police Leadership from the University of St. Thomas and a Bachelors degree in Law Enforcement from Metropolitan State University. He is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command and the MN Chiefs Association Command. Dan enjoys biking, hiking, and spending time with his family.
Matt Carlson Captain, Patrol
Matt joined the Blaine Police Department in 2001 as a reserve officer after changing careers from electrical engineering. He has been with the department for 18 years. After becoming a sworn police officer, he was promoted to sergeant, coordinated the police reserve and field training units, and oversaw and implemented the retail unit. He was promoted to captain in 2018. He has a Law Enforcement degree from North Hennepin Community College and Minneapolis Community and Technical College. He is also a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. Matt’s passion is his children and their sports (hockey, softball, and volleyball.)
Todd Olson Captain, Special Operations
Todd’s law enforcement career spans 29 years; 27 years with the Blaine Police Department. He has received many promotions over the years from drug task force detective to background investigator, field training officer, patrol and investigations sergeant, lieutenant, and most recently to captain of the special operations division. He has an Associate of Arts degree in Law Enforcement from Alexandria Technical Institute. He is also a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. Todd enjoys traveling, outdoor activities, and spending time with his grandbabies.
Mark Boerboom Captain, Administrative Services
Mark was born and raised in Blaine. He started his law enforcement career in Menasha, WI. He returned to Blaine in 2007, when he was hired as a patrol officer. He has been with the Blaine Police Department for 12 years working as a field training officer, school resource officer, drug task force detective, provisional detective, and a patrol and investigations sergeant, before being promoted to captain in 2018. Mark graduated from North Hennepin Community College and the Center for Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement with an Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice. Mark enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and working on projects around the house.
14 | 2018 Annual Report
Community Connections Coffee with a Cop Chief Podany talking with a resident of Blaine at McDonalds at a Coffee with a Cop event.
Polar Plunge Staff plunged into icy cold water to raise money for Special Olympics.
Night to Unite (N2U) Pictured left is Officer Allen, bottom left is Officer Wiens, and below is Officer Ross and CSO Traffie. All are enjoying time with kids from several N2U neighborhood parties.
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Torch Run for Special Olympics Staff biked, walked, or ran with other law enforcement partners to carry the torch for Special Olympics.
Heart Safe Blaine joined an international movement to reduce deaths from sudden cardiac arrest.
Heroes and Helpers Blaine PD partnered with other public safety officials and community youth for a holiday shopping spree at Target. Pictured to the right is Sergeant Berg and Deputy Chief Szykulski. Bottom right is Chief Podany and Officer Ross.
16 | 2018 Annual Report
By the Numbers 2018
38,295 Calls for Service
5 Min.
66,667 Policing Population
719
0
Homicides
16
Emergency Response Time (Avg.)
Animal Complaints
Robberies
1,881
2,687
Total Arrests
Medicals
157
Burglaries
4,851
477
600
Citations Issued
Gun Permits Issued
Crimes sent for Prosecution
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Crime Statistics Part 1 Crimes
Part 2 Crimes
Part 1 crimes are the most serious offenses.
Part 2 crimes are less serious offenses.
Part 1 Crimes
1,908
2,431
2,010
1,968
2014
Part 2 Crimes
1,799
2015
2,403 2,144
1,786
2016
2018
2017
2014
2015
2,264
2017
2018
2016
Part 2 Crimes are DOWN
Part 1 Crimes are DOWN
Part 1 Crimes
2,292
11.14%
1.22%
From 2017 to 2018
From 2017 to 2018
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
Part 2 Crimes
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
Homicide
0
1
2
0
0
Simple Assault
236
240
189
207
187
Manslaughter
1
0
0
0
0
Forgery
104
121
84
162
110
Rape
11
13
28
16
23
Fraud
328
382
377
401
407
Robbery
18
18
22
19
16
Vandalism
453
503
350
402
371
Assault
16
29
27
23
27
Weapons
11
18
29
23
14
Burglary
183
136
198
159
157
Sex Offenses
50
71
44
63
37
Larceny Theft
1,622
1,695
1,475
1,707
1,480
Drug Violation
292
151
244
302
217
Vehicle Theft
53
66
42
79
78
DUI
136
109
149
167
258
Arson
4
9
5
7
5
Disorderly Conduct
560
463
375
307
343
Human Trafficking
0
1
0
0
0
All Others
261
345
303
258
320
1,908
1,968
1,799
2,010
1,786
2,431
2,403
2,144
2,292
2,264
TOTAL
Data from the BCA Crime Reporting System
TOTAL
Data from the BCA Crime Reporting System
1 Police Chief 1 Deputy Chief 4 Captains 8 Sergeants 7 Detectives 48 Police Officers 1 Records Manager 1 Executive Assistant
6 Records Technicians 2 Community Outreach 2 Evidence Technicians 1 CSO Supervisor 8 CSOs 7 Reserves 20 Explorers 2 Park Patrol
20 | 2018 Annual Report
Administrative Services The Administrative Services Division is led by Captain Mark Boerboom and is responsible for department training, the hiring process, school resource officers, evidence, community outreach, and all our department’s social media communications. It is comprised of one sergeant, four school resource officers (SROs), two community outreach specialists, and two property evidence technicians.
Training
Administrative Services is responsible for facilitating, coordinating, and maintaining all department trainings as well as verifying all sworn officers maintain minimum MN POST required training. They are also responsible for all uniforms and duty equipment. In 2018, there were 107 trainings/classes which resulted in staff participating in 6,941 total hours of training.
Evidence
The Evidence department is responsible for receiving and maintaining the chain of custody for all evidence that is taken in by our officers. The department includes one full time and one part time evidence technician. In 2018, there were 1,423 cases with evidence/ property, 5,549 items taken in, 3,652 items destroyed, 445 items returned to owner, 769 digital media discovery requests, and 3.33 TB of mobile video downloaded and packaged for discovery.
School Resource Officers (SROs)
We currently have four SROs serving in two high schools and two middle schools in three different school districts (Anoka-Hennepin, Spring Lake Park, and Centennial.) They are responsible for working with school administrators, security staff, and faculty on developing comprehensive safety plans to ensure schools are safe places for students to learn. Each spring the SROs coordinate a high school program called Arrive Alive. The program challenges high school students to think about the dangers of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, distracted driving, texting and driving, and the responsibilities of making mature decisions. The program shows that just one bad decision to drive distracted can not only have tragic results, but affects the entire community.
Community Outreach
Our two community outreach specialists are responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing a variety of crime prevention, safety, and community relations programs for the police department. They are kept very busy throughout the year with the following events: Bike Helmet Fitting and Sales (2 events
Evidence Handled in the Property Room
5,549
3,652
445 Items Received
Items Destroyed
Items Returned
annually) Safety Camp School Patrol Trainings/Assemblies (15) Home Alone Safety Class (3 events annually) Child Safety Seat Clinics and Individual Inspections (12 countywide clinics / approximately 30 individual inspections) Arrive Alive NetSmartz Program (32 classroom visits) Heroes and Helpers Tours (approximately 8) Community Connect Appreciation Event Daycare/Pre-School Visits (approximately 8) Classroom Visits (approximately 10)
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Citizen’s Academy Night to Unite (N2U) Senior Safety Fair Home Security Surveys Coffee with a Cop New Americans Academy Scout Presentations/Tours (2)
Senior Building Visits (3) Aveda Safety, Health, and Wellness Fair
PIO—Social Media
Captain Mark Boerboom is the department’s Public Information Officer (PIO), and oversees all social media communications. He works in conjunction with the city’s communication department to produce high quality publications, graphics, and videos. The goal is to keep the public informed about incidents or events in the community. The department continues to expand social media communications to reach as many community members as possible. The department currently uses Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, Twitter, and YouTube.
Stay Connected
Stay connected with the Blaine Police Department on social media. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, Twitter, and YouTube for up to date information. @BlainePoliceMN
22 | 2018 Annual Report
Patrol Division The Patrol Division is led by Captain Matt Carlson, and is comprised of five sergeants and 48 patrol officers who bring a passion and dedication to serving the community each day and are the most visible division within the department. Besides conducting self initiated activities such as traffic enforcement, routine patrols, warrant arrests, attending community events, and providing security at city sponsored and private events, the patrol division responded to over 38,000 calls for service. Eight patrol officers were hired in 2018, with an emphasis towards hiring experienced officers from other agencies. That experience helped expedite the field training process and got the department closer to full staff.
K9 Unit
The canine unit consists of Officer Reggie Larson with his partner Rex and Officer Mark Allen with his partner Remy. The unit was supervised by Sergeant Ben Johnson until September, at which point Sergeant Nate Hatanpa was promoted and took over supervisory responsibilities.
The K9s were deployed 208 times, which accounted for 41 felony arrests. Their tracking find rate was 40 percent. The national average is 20 percent and the gold standard is 44 percent. They performed 16 K9 demonstrations to 346 kids and 297 adults. They also performed eight school sniffs and assisted the drug task force with 15 search warrants. K9 Average Tracking Find Rate
Overtime Program
A new web based overtime management program was introduced in 2018, that allows officers to sign up for overtime remotely and for that overtime to be distributed equitably. With shift coverage needs and numerous city events throughout the year, the program has been instrumental in improving department efficiency and eliminating the need for staff to commute to the office to sign up for a shift.
Body Worn Cameras
In 2017, the department introduced Axon Body Worn Cameras (BWC), to the patrol division. Full implementation for BWC took place in 2018, for every police officer. The bulk of the policy writing, testing, and implementation, was performed by Sergeant Ted Berg. The cameras and online user interface have become an integral component of the patrol officer’s daily activities, recording interactions, and the fine work that the patrol staff does on a day-to-day basis.
44%
40%
20% National
Gold Standard
Blaine PD
Some notable finds for the year was a missing nine year old that had been out in the winter elements for over an hour. Rex was able to locate the child in less than a minute. Remy located over two pounds of marijuana on a vehicle sniff. Rex also had a find of one pound of meth on a vehicle sniff. The dedication of both Officers Larson and Allen to a successful K9 program have created a program that is renowned within the tri-county area. Awards in 2018: USPCA Region 12 Narcotics Trial: Remy placed third in vehicle search. Rex and Remy placed third as department team. USPCA Region 12 PD1 Trial: Rex won third over all in Agility.
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Field Training Officer Program
The Field Training Officer program was tasked with moving eight officers through a rigorous training regimen including a two week academy, use of force/firearms course and approximately 16 weeks of field activity training. Sergeant Joe Gerhard became the coordinator in September when the department was reorganized. Gerhard brings many years of experience and has managed and scheduled this 12 officer team with a steady hand and a dedication to having a well trained department.
The CSO team underwent a number of staffing changes in 2018. The year began with three CSOs (Klimisch, Adamski, and Traffie). In February, Jaden Johnson and Jennah Justen joined the team. In April, TJ Brownell was added to the team. TJ was barely out of his classroom training when Caleb Link and Garrett Johnson came on board, increasing our staffing up to eight CSOs. By the end of the year, Samantha Klimisch was promoted to police officer. As is typical of most years, the CSO division assisted in a number of events, including: Blaine Garage Sales
Mentor Program
A mentor program was developed in 2018 that aims to provide guidance to the community service officers (CSOs) through working with experienced sworn staff. Mentors are selected and paired up with CSOs for the duration of their employment. The relationships that develop between mentor and CSO during that critical developmental phase helps the CSO navigate that transitional phase between CSO and sworn police officer.
Community Service Officers (CSOs)
The Community Service Officer team is comprised of part time employees who are working towards earning a degree in law enforcement. They handle a variety of non-emergency calls for service (7,858), and help manage many of the day to day functions within the police department that keep things running smoothly. The team is supervised by Joey Zuehlke who also manages the department fleet of 63 police vehicles.
3M Championship Blaine Festival Blaine Festival Parade Arrive Alive Safety Camp Joyful Noise Jefferson Jaunt Mustang-a-thon Bark in the Park (first year) Blaine Block Party City Hall Open House Citizen’s Academy
The program added a two week academy that gave staff a better opportunity to succeed with a firm knowledge base of department and county operations. The CSO team held three divisional meetings in 2018 with in-service training. They visited the Raptor Center in December and the Wildlife Science Center in May. Both field trips were helpful in developing processes for instructing residents on how to deal with wildlife issues that they are often called about.
Back Row: Caleb Link and Sergeant Ben Johnson Front Row: Joey Zuehlke, Jennah Justen, Justin Adamski, and Nick Traffie with Leonberger.
24 | 2018 Annual Report
Patrol Division Traffic/TZD Unit
The Blaine Police Department established its first Traffic Unit in June 2017, after several high profile traffic related incidents raised a concern among residents. The first officers selected to fill this important position were Zach Johnson and Matt Langreck, supervised by Sergeant Jeff Warner. Sergeant Nate Hatanpa was promoted and took over the supervision and guidance to the officers while working directly with the newly formed Traffic Commission to establish effective remedies to traffic concerns. Both officers brought energy and a commitment to traffic safety that is reflected in the statistics they generated in their first full year. Together they conducted 2,211 traffic stops and wrote 1,488 traffic citations. There were Traffic 735 distracted Stops driving violations Traffic department Citations wide.
2,211 1,488
The Office of Traffic Safety was looking for candidates to send to the 2019 Life Saving Conference in Louisville, KY. Officer Langreck was selected due to his achievement of surpassing his personal goal of issuing 500 texting and driving citations. In 2018, Officer Langreck alone wrote almost six percent of the statewide texting and driving citations.
DWI Grant Officer
In October, the City of Blaine received a state grant to fund a position dedicated to reducing impaired driving incidents. Officer Stefczak was selected as he had already demonstrated his commitment to making our roadways safer by focusing his unallocated patrol time to enforcing DWI laws. His success is apparent in the 75 DWI arrests he made in 2018. Officer Stefczak received an award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving for his DWI arrests. Citywide, the department made 258 DWI arrests, undoubtedly saving lives by removing impaired drivers from the roadway and discouraging other impaired drivers by making high visibility traffic stops during traditionally busy times in the evening.
Retail Unit
The Blaine Police Department’s Retail Unit was established to address the disproportionately high volume of calls for service in the dense retail sector at Northtown Mall and the surrounding area. The unit was initially staffed by two officers and expansion of the retail focused approach is currently underway with the assignment of a full time detective. Officers Travis Hale and Wes Villegas staffed the unit and made a tremendous impact right away, allowing patrol staff to remain focused on crime prevention and response in their own assigned areas throughout the city. Officer Hale became a board member with TCORCA (Twin Cities Organized Retail Crime Association) now known as MNORCA. Blaine was the host city for the winter MNORCA regional meeting, where 100+ people attended, including retailers and law enforcement, collaborating to share information on organized retail crime rings.
In 2018, the retail unit was responsible for making the following arrests: 115 for theft 11 for drugs 15 for warrants 2 for financial transaction card fraud
An additional 43 arrests were made for cases that involved fleeing on foot, disorderly conduct, obstruction of justice, forgery, use of theft tools, burglary and trespassing. The unit also worked 34 felony level cases. A few notable cases from 2018 include:
Identity Theft - Fraudulent credit opened at a pet store, search warrant in Bloomington resulting in 2 felony ID theft cases formally charged.
Red kettle theft at Cub Foods that made national news resulting in an arrest.
Kohls felony grab and run involving 6 people. They were apprehended because officer was waiting.
Total of 8 Shoplifters who fled/fought/assaulted and
would likely not be apprehended if officers were not on scene during stop, (1 charged with robbery for assaulting Loss Prevention staff).
FTC fraud in progress turned vehicle pursuit. Two suspects apprehended in Mounds View.
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Reserves
The Police Reserves Unit is comprised of volunteers who donate their time to supplement the Patrol Division with uniformed patrols of the city and assisting with traffic direction and crowd control at larger city events. Our reserves receive in-service training including use of force, report writing, and patrol tactics. Attendance at monthly meetings is required. Reserves are often asked to assist with non-emergency calls for service such as vehicle lockouts, motorist assists, and animal control calls. In 2018, the Reserves Unit donated over 500 hours of volunteer time but generally average over 1,000 hours per year. The unit is comprised of members of the community who wish to be a part of an organized team that can contribute to the well being of Blaine and surrounding agencies. Reserve Officer Tim Cyson, has been a volunteer and one of the biggest contributors since 1981.
Park Patrol
Park Patrol is a seasonally staffed program that oversees city parks from May through October. The unit is staffed by members of the Reserves Unit who have demonstrated a particular aptitude for patrol work and are looking to gain experience in their career path toward becoming a community service officer or sworn member of our patrol staff. Park Patrols travel throughout the city each day except Sunday. They visit most city parks to look for equipment that requires attention, enforce park curfews, and other quality of life issues. They also enjoy meeting with people at Lakeside Commons Park and in other parks to further establish community connections with the police department.
Explorers
The Blaine Police Department established the Police Explorer Post in 1991. Their mission is to provide youth in the community the opportunity to learn about law enforcement through training, volunteering, and hands on experience. This mission is accomplished by attendance at weekly meetings in September through April, volunteering at numerous community events throughout the year, and riding along with officers to see first hand law enforcement at work.
Currently, the program has 12 active explorers with eight new explorers recently accepted for a total of 20. The organization is structured with a lead post advisor (Officer Mike Sommer), and associate advisors (Officers Travis Hale, Brandon Fettig, Josh Sundgaard, Brad Nordby and Jason Domino), who assist with training, managing finances, planning events, and recruiting. The explorers are organized with an explorer captain, three explorer lieutenants who are in charge of personnel, events, and administrative work, a sergeant who assists the administrative division, and a corporal who assists with personnel. In April, the explorers attended the 2018 Minnesota Law Enforcement Explorer Association Annual Conference in Rochester. Their training is put to the test each year in competitive scenarios where they are challenged to perform at a very high level. They earned 1st place in Domestic Response, 2nd place in Arrest and Search, 2nd place in Crime Scene Investigation, 3rd place in Crime Scene Investigation, 3rd place in White Collar Crime Investigation, and 4th place in Street Decisions/Use of Force. An explorer individually won 1st place in the Men's 5K and the post took 1st place in the Drill Team Competition and 4th place in an Academic training on Defensive Tactics in the 21st Century. The explorers also helped again with major city events such as the 3M Championship, the Blaine Festival fireworks show and parade, the KTIS Joyful Noise concert, and many other events in Blaine and surrounding communities. In 2018, the Explorers volunteered a total of 1,911 hours at community events.
26 | 2018 Annual Report
Support Services Records Unit
The Records Unit is led by manager Wende Ferguson and has six full time records technicians working Monday through Friday. Three records technicians work 7:00AM to 3:30PM for the main purpose of processing any priority/in custody arrests from the prior 24 hours, and the remaining three work 8:00AM to 4:30PM. The lead records technician has the most years of experience and is responsible for ensuring the workflow for report processing, training other technicians on changes to processes, ensuring accuracy for state reporting, and providing backup support to all other technicians. In addition to daily report processing, all technicians perform a variety of responsibilities including support to the detective division, officer training needs, data requests, and customer service both internally and externally.
In 2018, staff processed 27,737 incidents, 4,851 citations, transcribed countless hours of dictation, fulfilled endless requests for data, and met court deadlines all while providing excellent customer service to staff, the public, as well as other agencies. The records unit is continually attentive to and responsible for data practices issues related to the police department. Technology changes have included on going updates to the records management system, which is a countywide operated system, changes to state computer applications, and ergonomic equipment for sit/stand workstations.
27,737 4,851
Incidents Processed Citations Processed
Blaine Police Department | 27
Special Operations Investigations Unit
The Investigations Unit is led by Captain Todd Olson and Sergeant Russ Clark and has eight detectives, two of which are provisional serving a three year term. One detective is assigned to the Retail Unit, and one is assigned to the Anoka-Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crimes Task Force. They investigate all crimes from misdemeanor to felony level.
1,019 1,201
In 2018 the Special Operations Different Division Crimes investigated 1,019 cases that incorporated 1,201 different crimes. Of those crimes, 600 or 49.9 percent were sent for prosecution. The unit spent considerable time assisting the Brooklyn Center Police Department in a homicide investigation of an eight month old child. At the onset of the investigation, it was unclear if the incident occurred in the City of Blaine, where the family resided, or Brooklyn Center, the location of the daycare. It was learned that the incident did occur in the City of Brooklyn Center and the suspect was found guilty and received a 21 year sentence. Detective Tom Johann spent four hours on the witness stand while his statement taken of the suspect was played for the judge and jury. Cases Investigated
Directed Enforcement
The Directed Operations Group, (DOG) Unit works with particular properties or individuals in the city that are causing a negative impact within the community. They also assist the special operation division and complete ancillary tasks such as background investigations, inspections, and other compliance checks. Two officers are assigned to the unit, Brandon Fettig and Cory Schmidt. They completed 16 liquor license backgrounds, 51 tobacco compliance checks, 17 massage parlor compliance checks, 106 alcohol compliance checks, and 72 predatory offender checks.
Anoka-Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crimes Task Force
In 2018, the Blaine Police Department had Sergeant Joe Sadler and Detective Brad Norby assigned to the Anoka Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crimes Task Force (AHNVCTF). During the summer months a school resource officer is also assigned to assist the team. Blaine staff assigned to the AHNVCTF investigated a total of 157 cases. The cases consisted of 28 self generated investigations, 129 in custody investigations, and 35 search warrants. In April, Detective Nordby conducted an investigation utilizing an undercover officer to purchase methamphetamine from a suspect. Detective Nordby coordinated drug buys, the stop of the suspect, and recovery of 500 grams of methamphetamine in Blaine. A follow up search warrant was conducted and another eight pounds of methamphetamine were recovered. Starting in June, Detective Nordby conducted a three month investigation into a suspect selling large quantities of methamphetamine out of Park of the Four Seasons manufactured home community. Several controlled buys were conducted along with surveillance. Ultimately, a search warrant was executed at the Blaine residence and one pound of methamphetamine was recovered. In addition to case work, Detective Nordby sends out a Drug Task Force Newsletter updating staff on current drug trends, issues, and drug activity within the city for targeted enforcement by the patrol division and DOG.
28 | 2018 Annual Report
Emergency Management Captain Dan Pelkey is the Emergency Management Director and is in charge of coordinating the emergency preparedness for both the police department and the City of Blaine. The process consists of mitigating, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies. As part of those duties and responsibilities, the Blaine Emergency Management division seeks to prepare the community for coordinated and planned special events as well as disasters and emergencies. Preparation for both planned and emergency events take place through: Planning, training, and tabletop/ functional exercises. Coordinating emergency response with local, state, and federal public safety partners. Working with all stakeholders to minimize hazards and threats impacting life and property. Ensuring that the department has equipment, assets, and resources to recover from significant emergencies and disasters. In 2018, the city expanded the emergency management division to meet the growing needs of the City of Blaine. In October, the city modified the emergency management director position. Up to this point, this position was an added duty for a police captain. After a careful review and evaluation of factors like city growth and increase in the number of special events, it was determined that a change was necessary. A full time dedicated emergency management director was needed to ensure that the city is able to provide the services necessary to keep the residents of Blaine safe during both large scale planned events and emergencies. This position is still staffed by a police captain, and there are two additional city staff members that assist the emergency management division. Those staff members have full time duties in addition to their added emergency management responsibilities.
Some notable highlights from the year include: Hired a fulltime Emergency Management Director. Conducted a needs assessment for an emergency management software program. Once a program was selected, configuration of the software began. Maintained current outdoor civil warning sirens and conducted the replacement of one siren. Began the planning for the 2019 inaugural 3M Open golf tournament. Assisted a local church with a FEMA Shelter Grant application. Assisted in the planning of events and execution of the event action plans for; Joyful Noise concert, Patriot Ride, USA Cup, and Aviation Days. Conducted an emergency operations center functional exercise. The exercise was based around a tornado incident that included staff from the city, police department, and fire department. The city’s emergency operations center was activated and staffed just as it would have been if the incident were real. Conducted a needs assessment of the Incident Command Vehicle used by the city emergency management department, police department and fire department to assist in managing incidents. After the needs assessment was completed, began updates of equipment, which will continue into 2019. Collaborated with public works on the upgrade of the water system monitoring and controls. Emergency management team members attended the Annual Governors Emergency Management Conference, Association of Minnesota Emergency Managers (AMEM), and the Anoka County Emergency Management annual planning day. Collaborated with Anoka County Health and the National Sports Center on Anoka County Health's Point of Dispensing Plan. Completed City of Blaine Continuity Plan.
Joyful Noise Concert National Sport Center June 8, 2018
30 | 2018 Annual Report
Awards Department Commendation Medal of Valor
Officer Schmidt
Officer Farrell
Officer Koch
Sergeant Boerboom
Officer Rowe
Life Saving Award
Officer Hawley Officers Bigalk, Rygg, Stefczak, Sergeant B. Johnson, and Officer Christensen
Blaine Police Department | 31
Promotions Captain Mark Boerboom Matt Carlson
Sergeant Russ Clark Joe Gerhard Nate Hatanpa Wes Villegas
Officer Samantha Klimisch Chief Podany and Mark Boerboom
Chief Podany and Matt Carlson
New Hires Officers Strandberg, Arnsdorf, Bachman, Vollman, Promotions Captain Carlson, Sergeant Clark, Mayor Tom Ryan, Promotions Sergeants Villegas, Hatanpa, Captain Boerboom, and Sergeant Gerhard
32 | 2018 Annual Report
Staff Roster Safety Services Manager/ Police Chief Brian Podany
Deputy Chief
Daniel Szykulski
Executive Assistant Gail Merten
Captains
Mark Boerboom Matthew Carlson Todd Olson Daniel Pelkey
Support Services
Wende Ferguson, Manager Jean Andersen Jennifer Bedell Andrea Jordan Kelly Karas Kimberly Reinke Terry Wachtler
Sergeants
Ted Berg Russell Clark Joseph Gerhard Nathaniel Hatanpa Benjamin H. Johnson Gerald Newberger Joseph Sadler Wesley Villegas Jeffrey Warner
Detectives
Orin Christensen Paul Estby Karen Hamann Thomas Johann Benjamin J. Johnson Joseph Matzke David Minkel Brad Nordby
Patrol Officers Mark Allen Alex Arnsdorf* Trent Bachman* Jon Beck* Dale Bernardy Ryan Bigalk Mike Bozell Grant Breems Frank Caruso Jason Domino Tim Evens Mark Farrell Brandon Fettig Gordon Fiske Jake Green Travis Hale Angela Hawley Timothy Hawley Kelly Jahnke Zachary Johnson
Blaine Police Department | 33
Reserves
Samantha Klimisch Barry Koch Matthew Langreck Haley Larson* Reginald Larson Alex Moore Jason Oman Joseph Ramirez Laura Rolfes James Ross Michelle Ross Gregory Rowe Mychal Rygg Matthew Schlenker* Cory Schmidt Michael Sommer Daniel Stefczak Trent Strandberg* Joshua Sundgaard Michael Vollman* Katie Weinberg Brian Wiens
Andrew Benson Nicholas Bownes Timothy Cyson Mackenzie Foster Justin Fournier James Michael Cristiano Rosa
Community Service Officers
Joelle Zuehlke, Supervisor Justin Adamski Thomas Brownell* Caleb Link* Garrett Johnson* Jaden Johnson* Jennah Justen* Nicholas Traffie
Explorers
Carly Ahlers Hannah Belka Dmitry Bengtson Andrew Blilie Jonah Carlson Jake Doiron Haley Kraft Joshua Michael Alexis Peach Jeremy Peterson Paul Runkle Hailey Scheff Matthew Stuber James Tarbell Brooke Trabant Justin Weeden Nathaniel Wieczorek
Community Outreach Andrea Hunt Kimberly Kiley
Evidence
Glory Ann Boland Shawn Maloney
*New hires in 2018 Staff photos taken May 30, 2018
Wetlands Boardwalk Photo by Tom Stuart Impressions of Blaine Contest BlainePhoto Wetland Sanctuary
Integrity We will maintain the highest moral standards by embracing the principles of trust and honesty.
Respect We will treat others with dignity and guarantee the Constitutional rights of all.
Professionalism We will take pride in our actions, duties, appearance, and professional growth.
City of Blaine Police Department 10801 Town Square Drive Blaine, MN 55449 BlaineSafetyServices.com