Proudly Serving Since 1951
2011 ANNUAL REPORT
60 Years of Dedicated Service
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
2
Message from the Chief
1
Department Photographs
2-5
Organizational Chart
6
Budget Report
7
Community Service
8-9
Citizen Volunteers
10
Citizen’s Police Academy
11 - 12
Criminal Activity
13
Reported Crime
14
Crime Statistics
15
Patrol Division
16 - 18
Police Training
19
Citizen Feedback
20 - 21
Officers at Work
22 - 24
Traffic Unit Enforcement
25
Motor Vehicle Crashes
26 - 27
Investigations
28
Forfeiture Report
28
Use of Force
30
Support Services
31 - 32
Community Service Officers
33
Administration
34 - 35
Retirements
36 - 37
Employee History
38
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF Dear Council Members and Merriam Citizens, For some, sixty years is a long time. However, for the history of a city and a police department this may not seem like a long time, if you put it in perspective of our great nation’s history. For the members of the Merriam Police Department, sixty years is a big number and we wanted to recognize the efforts of all the officers preceding us. Therefore, we have included the photographs on the front cover that include members of the Merriam Police Department in 1967; this was the oldest group photo we could find. Also on the front cover is the most current group photograph of our department taken in December at Chief Bill Lietzke’s retirement reception. Our annual report document has evolved over the years. During the past few years the reports have contained much more than just information related to our department’s activity and calls for service. We have included our department’s commitment to the community through volunteerism, Citizen’s Police Academy training, and a sampling of letters provided by citizens to our officers for excellent service. Additionally, this year we included two significant retirements from our police department: Chief Bill Lietzke, after thirty-two years of dedicated service, and Sergeant Dan Kellerman, after twenty-seven years of dedicated service. Their years of knowledge and service to the community will be missed by all. As you read this report, 2011 was another active year for the police department. Our calls for service were down slightly along with reported crimes and Part One crimes. As a result the officers had more free time which enabled them to increase their self-initiated activity. This overall high level of activity again shows the professionalism of our officers. In an effort to better document the diversity of our calls for service we include the “Officers at Work” section. We encourage you to read these pages to understand the difficult situations our officers face on a daily basis and we should never underestimate the dangers associated with this profession. Our officers maintain quality standards while providing excellent service to our citizens and the community we serve. We are very proud of the fact that our current police staffing is one of the most educated group of officers to wear the Merriam Police uniform. Sixty percent of our officers have four-year college degrees and two officers have graduate degrees! Throughout our short history the Merriam Police Department has been a fun, interesting, and very active police department to work for. Numerous officers have worked here through the years and now we have a growing list of officers that dedicated over twenty years and retired from our department. For those officers and the knowledge and experience they passed on to the newer officers we are thankful. We should always remember the officers that came before us and the legacy they provided to our department. I recently was promoted to Chief of Police and now have the honor of leading a great organization into the future. In addition, I am now the most tenured officer on the department; proudly serving since 1982. In the past thirty years I have witnessed many changes and challenges for our department and the community. Our citizens, the City Council, and our city employees have always stepped up to the challenges facing Merriam and continue to make our city a better place to live and work. We look forward to that cooperation in the future. Sincerely, Chief Tim Burnett
1
DEPARTMENT STAFF
2
Chief William Lietzke Serving Since 1979
Captain Tim Burnett Serving Since 1982
Lieutenant Michael Daniels Serving Since 1987
Lieutenant Darren McLaughlin Serving Since 1989
Sergeant Todd Allen Serving Since 1996
Sergeant Troy Duvanel Serving Since 1995
Sergeant Dan Kellerman Serving Since 1984
Sergeant John Walton Serving Since 1998
Corporal Chris Brokaw Serving Since 2001
Corporal James Browning Serving Since 2006
Corporal Jason Reynolds Serving Since 2000
Corporal Jeremiah Waters Serving Since 2003
DEPARTMENT STAFF
Detective Wes Waller Serving Since 2005
Detective Steven Wechsler Serving Since 2006
Master Police Officer Larry Birt Serving Since 1988
Master Police Officer John DeMoss Serving Since 2003
Master Police Officer Phil Lewis Serving Since 2002
Detective Nick Weiler Serving Since 2005
Master Police Officer Gerry Eickhoff Serving Since 1991
Master Police Officer Mark Messbarger Serving Since 2001 3
DEPARTMENT STAFF
Police Officer Jeffrey Dixon Serving Since 2011
Police Officer Tim Filson Serving Since 2006
Police Officer Corey Herron Serving Since 2009
Police Officer Roxanne Kegin Serving Since 2009
Police Officer Jeff Magee Serving Since 1987
Police Officer Seth Mullis Serving Since 2010
Police Officer Todd Sparks Serving Since 1990
Police Officer Cara Stock Serving Since 2011
Police Officer Laura Naegele Serving Since 2010
4
DEPARTMENT STAFF
Community Service Officer Jamie Gilchrist Serving Since 2009
Community Service Officer Charlie Yocum Serving Since 2009
Records Clerk Lisa Aldrich Serving Since 1991
Records Clerk Ronda Brumbaugh Serving Since 1999
Crossing Guard Doris Hillhouse Serving Since 2002
Crossing Guard Cynthia Knapp Serving Since 1997
Records Clerk Karen Gibson Serving Since 1993
Crossing Guard Dave Thomas Serving Since 2009
5
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART Chief of Police
Captain
Shift 1 Sergeant
Shift 2 Sergeant
Shift 3 Sergeant
Corporal
Corporal
Corporal
Patrol Officers (3)
Patrol Officers (4)
Patrol Officers (5)
Investigative Lieutenant
Administrative Lieutenant
Detectives (3)
Community Service Officers (2) Records Clerks (3)
Relief Corporal
Property Clerk Crossing Guards (3)
Manpower Alocations
Traffic Officer
Traffic Officer
Administration Patrol
2
3
4
Investigation
2 Traffic
4
CSO
18
6
Records
BUDGET EXPENSE REPORT In 2011, the total police budget was $3,370,905. This amount includes all projected costs of personnel, contractual services, commodities and capital outlay purchases. Of the total budget, $2,981,893 (88.5%) is dedicated to employee salaries and benefits. During the 2011 budget year, the Merriam Police Department spent $2,778,353, which represents 82.4 % of the approved budget. Below is a breakdown of expenditures by major categories as of December 31st, 2011. Personnel: This budget item includes salaries, benefits, overtime costs, and other expenses. Budgeted– $2,981,893.
Spent– $2,778,353. Percent of budget spent– 93%.
Contractual Services: This budget item includes utilities, equipment rental and repair, custodial services, training expenses, vehicle repair, and building maintenance. Budgeted– $196,428.
Spent– $186,521.
Percent of budget spent– 95%.
Supplies and Equipment: Included in this budget item is office equipment, police equipment and uniforms, and gas and oil. Budgeted– $159,644.
Spent- $152,910.
Percent of budget spent– 96%.
At the end of 2011 the police department returned approximately $220,181— 6.5% of our total budget to the general fund.
Budget Track from 2006 to 2011
2011
$3,370,905
2010
$3,318,223
2009
$3,476,597
2008
$3,330,204
2007
$3,283,952
2006
$2,837,622 $0
$500,000
$1,000,000 $1,500,000 $2,000,000 $2,500,000 $3,000,000 $3,500,000 $4,000,000
7
COMMUNITY SERVICE CRIME PREVENTION: The department’s crime prevention specialist, Master Police Officer Larry Birt, manages a program that encourages people to have their home or business checked in an effort to protect them from criminal activity. An appointment is set up with Officer Birt and he meets with the resident, business owner or manager, and makes a full assessment of the building. A report of his findings is provided with suggestions for improvement. There is no fee for this valuable service. FINGERPRINT SERVICES: The Merriam Police Department provides fingerprint services during normal business hours. Many times a year, individuals need their fingerprints taken for financial bonds, the insurance industry or any other reason. We will provide this service by appointment by calling 913-322-5560 to set up a time. There is a fee for this service. NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH AND NATIONAL NIGHT OUT AGAINST CRIME: The Merriam Police Department believes crime prevention is a team effort. We encourage cooperation between the police and citizens. The National Night Out Against Crime is a national effort to get the citizens and their police departments together to discuss crime problems and most importantly solutions. In 2011 we held our first combined National Night Out Against Crime and Open House at the Merriam Police Department. The event included a question and answer period, division demonstrations, barbeque (cooked by Merriam Police Officers) and a Taser demonstration.
8
COMMUNITY SERVICE VOLUNTEER CHAPLAIN PROGRAM: Chaplains Mike Jacob and Charles Boyce volunteer their time to assist our officers. They assist the officers by providing support to grieving family members at accident and crime scenes. In addition to these critical duties, they offer spiritual guidance to police employees and routinely ride with the officers during their patrol shifts. Mike is a chaplain at Shawnee Mission Medical Center and a Merriam resident. Charles is a youth minister, a Merriam resident and a martial arts instructor with a 4th degree black belt in Tsuruoka Karate. Chaplain Charles Boyce Serving Since 2005 Chaplain Mike Jacob Serving Since 1998
POLICE OFFICER VOLUNTEERISM: The Merriam Police Department has been involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run since 1982. The Torch Run started in Wichita, Kansas and now has participants in all 50 states, Canada, Europe, Africa, China and Japan. The Merriam Police Department participates in events like the Polar Plunge, Cops on Top at Krispy Kreme, Popcorn Standoff at Cinemark, and the Torch Run itself throughout the year, to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics. In 2011, the Kansas City Polar Plunge raised over $120,000. Dear City Administrator Phillip Lammers, On behalf of the 5,300 athletes who participate state-wide in Special Olympics Kansas, we would like to thank you for your department’s dedication, passion and hard work in the Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run. The members of the Merriam Police Department are wonderful community members and selflessly give of themselves to help elevate our movement. Countless volunteer hours are dedicated to the Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run. In 2010, the Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run raised over $400,000.00 to support the Special Olympics Kansas program. Without the support of the Kansas LETR, Special Olympics athletes would not have the opportunity to compete in sporting events, receive health screenings through the Healthy Athletes programs or make new friends through sports. Through the power of sport and the partnership of the Merriam Police Department, we are creating a better world by fostering the acceptance and inclusion of all people and we are proud to have you as part of our movement. For 30 years, the Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics Kansas have walked side-by-side. We look forward to standing beside you for another 30 years! Respectfully, Chris Hahn President/CEO
9
CITIZEN VOLUNTEERS The police department has several volunteers who help out with a variety of projects. We have citizen volunteers who help in records, produce crime bulletins, along with helping during DUI check points and other city events. We wish to thank all of our volunteers for the hard work they put in. Ruth Terrones started volunteering in 2009 and works with the records department on statistical gathering and analysis. She works 2-days a week and has become a very valuable asset. Ruth demonstrates integrity, teamwork, professionalism, respect and compassion. We are forever grateful for all of her hard work.
Volunteer Ruth Terrones Serving Since 2009
Volunteer Suzette Mack Serving Since 2008
Suzette Mack is a graduate of the Merriam Citizen’s Academy. After her graduation she wanted to continue to stay involved. Since then she has been involved by producing the Merriam Crime Bulletin. The Crime Bulletin is full of safety tips and crime statistics. You can find copies of the Crime Bulletin on our webpage, www.merriam.org/MPD. At the end of 2011, Suzette relocated to Colorado. We will be forever thankful for Suzette and all of her help with the Crime Bulletin. We are currently looking for a volunteer who would be interested in helping produce our Merriam Crime Bulletin.
INTERN PROGRAM: The Merriam Police Department offers non-paid internships to college students who are seeking degrees in Criminal Justice. These students get the full experience of working in a police department. They work in all areas of the department. They help with data collection, statistical analysis, and general station duties. They observe the investigations and patrol functions by riding with the officers as they do their jobs. We had the pleasure of working with two Interns during 2011: Katherine Gianetto, a UMKC criminal justice student, and Jeremy Marrow from Johnson County Community College.
10
CITIZEN’S POLICE ACADEMY
In 2008, the Merriam Police Department introduced our first Citizen’s Police Academy. Since then we have found this program to very beneficial to the citizens, the officers and the department. The citizens get a ―first hand‖ look at what a police officer does on a daily basis. The police officers get a chance to learn what the citizens know about law enforcement, which will help them to understand why certain things happen the way they do. The classes are based off the job of a Merriam Police Officer. The citizens are given the opportunity to participate in as much of the training as they feel comfortable. These classes consisted of more than just watching videos and listening to lectures. Over half of the classes were actual handson training. The students went to the firearms range to shoot handguns and even fully automatic rifles. They learned and practiced defensive tactics and some even braved getting a shock from a Taser. In addition to all the classes, and probably the most informative, the students were able to ride with a police officer during an actual police shift. This gave them a better perspective on what they had learned and exactly how it is applied.
Good Job!! I recently completed the Merriam Citizens Police Academy. I have always respected their work and efforts to do their job. These officers are intelligent and dedicated to doing their job. In their own words to Serve, to Protect, with Respect. More cities should do these classes to better educate their citizens. Thank you for a job well done. Patti Daniels
11
CITIZEN’S POLICE ACADEMY The 2011 Citizens Police Academy classes started on September 13, 2011 and ran through November 15, 2011. Each of the Tuesday night sessions lasted for three hours. The following is a list of classes: Domestic Violence Use of Force Taser Firearms S.W.A.T. Demonstration Defensive Tactics DUI Enforcement Police Equipment Basic Patrol Procedures Traffic Stops Radar/Lidar Drug Enforcement Search and Seizure Investigations
2011 GRADUATES Todd Boyer Patricia Crabtree Mary Craig Patti Daniels Sarah Ford
Mark Korsten Mikki Massey Michael McCoy Joseph Newton Jennifer Snuggs
J.T. Taube Daniel Tetuan Edward Thompson Bradley VanFleet Angie Xu
Chief Lietzke, I am sending this letter to further express my appreciation to you, Captain Burnett, Lieutenant Daniels and the rest of the department for your coordination of the Citizen’s Academy. As I mentioned during last week’s ceremony-I not only learned a lot but the academy gave me more reason to be proud of our community. The professionalism of the officers, your embracement of technology (personal cameras) and high standards (Cooper test) and true engagement with the city make Merriam PD stand out. It should also go without saying that we are grateful for the basic services you provide us. Although what we learned about crime and safety was eye-opening. I have confidence that the PD is more than equal to those challenges. Additionally, please see that my appreciation is passed along to the following officers I was able to meet on my ride-along: Corporal Brokaw (for his showing me how thorough and engaged you all are to seemingly “normal” things), Sergeant Walton (for his insights on work-life balance and perspective as a long-time officer), and Sergeant Duvanel (for not immediately arresting me after it appeared I was on the terrorist watch-list). It was great to have this unique view of your department and a career field that has stirred quite a bit of envy. Thanks again. Gratefully, Todd Boyer
For more information or to sign up go to www.merriam.org/MPD 12
CRIMINAL ACTIVITY
A
Grid Map The red lines mark the boundaries of the grids. Note: Grid ―Q‖ is the Merriam City Hall Complex. *
B
U C T P
E
H
The chart below will give you information on the number of criminal reports taken in each grid. Persons Crimes include crimes like assault, battery, sex crimes, and other crimes that have people as victims. Burglaries/thefts include all burglaries to businesses, homes and cars, along with any theft. Auto Thefts include only stolen vehicles. Drug Crimes include all crimes involving controlled substances or drug paraphernalia. ―Other‖ covers all crimes not listed in the previous categories. Grid
D
F
S
The Merriam Police Department has divided the city into grids. This allows us to track criminal activity and crime trends. The grids have been laid out to separate, as much as possible, residential from business areas.
G
N
*
R O
M I
L
J K
Contact the Police Department for Crime Prevention Tips.
Burglaries/ Auto Thefts Theft
Persons Crime
Drug Crimes
Other
A
29
10
20
6
25
B
35
9
34
2
30
C
5
13
21
47
9
D
5
0
12
1
3
E
33
1
20
2
13
F
8
1
1
0
10
G
8
0
2
3
9
H
10
0
3
1
25
I
16
7
4
1
9
J
25
4
11
1
17
K
20
3
26
1
8
L
25
18
14
5
16
M
17
0
3
1
5
N
71
3
12
4
25
O
11
3
8
1
6
P
19
3
7
7
38
Q
2
0
3
0
0
R
10
0
4
1
16
S
18
3
10
4
12
T
117
6
14
13
33
U
4
1
1
1
5
13
REPORTED CRIME 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
TYPE OF CRIME Aggravated Arson
0
0
TYPE OF CRIME
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
2
0
0
Forgery
2
8
2
1
6
Arson
4
1
2
4
1
Furnishing Alcohol/Beer to Minor
12
8
2
1
0
Aggravated Assault
11
12
14
9
3
Gasoline Drive Off
3
0
0
0
1
Aggravated Battery
8
3
7
9
4
Habitual Traffic Violator
0
0
0
0
0
Aggravated Burglary
12
6
11
8
3
Harassment by Phone
40
29
19
25
13
Aggravated Sodomy Aggravated Indecent Liberties
0 6
0 3
2 5
2 8
1 3
Murder / Manslaughter Indecent Liberties with a Child
0 1
1 0
2 1
2 1
0 0
Aggravated Kidnapping
0
1
0
0
1
Indecent Solicitation of a Child
0
0
0
0
1
Aggravated Robbery
12
6
7
4
3
Identification Theft
19
20
13
12
11
Aggravated Sexual Battery
0
0
0
0
0
Intimidation of a Victim/Witness
0
0
0
0
1
Assault
3
5
2
2
6
Kidnapping
3
1
0
2
5
Attempted Murder
0
0
0
0
0
Lewd and Lascivious Behavior
2
1
1
0
3
Attempted Theft
13
5
6
9
4
Littering
1
1
1
1
1
Battery
104
102
114
91
109
Minor in Possession of Alcohol
25
7
5
10
2
Burglary to Auto
138
109
151
186
166
Obstructing Legal Process
5
12
13
15
13
Burglary to Business
20
12
27
17
20
1
2
2
2
6
Burglary to Residence
49
40
43
50
29
Prescription Fraud Controlled Substance Possession
44
45
56
51
37
Burglary to Storage Area
2
21
3
8
8
Drug Paraphernalia Possession
18
9
13
19
19
Child In Need Of Care
28
40
27
31
22
Drug Possession / Intent of Sale
4
12
19
18
4
Child Abuse
1
0
0
3
2
Possession of Stolen Property
13
6
4
9
4
Computer Trespass
0
0
1
1
1
Possession of Tobacco/Minor
1
4
2
0
3
Counterfeiting
0
0
2
0
0
Prostitution
2
10
24
39
0
Criminal Damage - Felony Criminal Damage - Misdemeanor Criminal Deprivation of Property
13 159 7
19 95 9
12 58 8
32 66 4
9 90 9
Rape Robbery Sexual Battery
6 4 6
6 2 5
3 3 1
4 4 1
5 3 3
Criminal Discharge of a Weapon
0
16
1
0
1
Theft of Lost or Mislaid Property
8
25
22
23
35
Criminal Threats
17
15
12
14
13
Theft of Services
3
8
6
7
0
Criminal Trespass
5
7
22
13
7
Theft of Auto
103
60
49
65
68
Criminal Use of a Financial Card
19
21
27
21
77
Theft of Auto (Attempted)
17
17
4
18
13
Criminal Use of a Weapon
3
6
3
5
1
Theft - Felony
52
56
40
84
24
Theft - Misdemeanor
351 240 229
Cruelty to Animals
0
0
4
5
8
200
234
Disorderly Conduct
56
30
21
49
40 Violation: Court Protection Order
13
16
8
5
14
Escape From Custody
0
0
0
0
0
Worthless Check
4
0
0
0
0
Falsely Reporting a Crime
1
0
1
1
1
Stalking
1
0
0
1
2
False Writing
19
8
9
3
6
Other Crimes Not Listed Above
116
17
24
25
38
TOTAL
1590 1220 1161 1300 1217
REPORTED CRIMES 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 0
14
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
1800
2000
CRIME STATISTICS PART ONE CRIMES IN 2011: Each year we report Part One crimes to the Kansas Bureau of Investigations. Part One crimes are determined by the FBI and used throughout the country as a benchmark for crime statistics. We are required to keep statistics on these crimes by the federal government to assist in tracking crime trends. Since the mid-1800’s police departments have been judged by their crime statistics. When the statistics are lower, then the theory is that the police departments are more effective. In reality, there are many factors out of the police department’s control that can alter crime statistics from year to year. Common influencing factors include: a shift in economic conditions, weather, gang activity, new businesses, etc. Before determining the police department’s effectiveness, it is important to understand what factors were at play and how they affected the statistics. While a downturn in criminal activity is always preferable, it may or may not be a direct reflection on the police department. Likewise, an active police department using all the proper crime reduction measures may suffer an increase in reported crime. CRIME TRENDS: We had a mixed outcome with our 2011 Part One crime statistics. We were lucky and did not have any murders in 2011. Assaults, auto thefts, and thefts were up, but robberies and arsons were down. The total number of Part One crimes were down in 2011.
10-Year Trends CRIME
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
MURDER RAPE
0 6
0 8
0 3
2 8
0 13
0 6
1 6
2 4
2 4
0 5
ROBBERY
13
16
10
20
18
16
8
10
8
6
ASSAULTS
20
26
20
9
27
125*
122
137
111
122
BURGLARY
331
255
232
237
244
221
188
235
269
57**
THEFT
342
427
420
526
467
414
345
303
323
473
AUTO THEFT
91
77
97
90
100
103
60
49
65
81
ARSON
8
7
1
6
1
4
1
4
4
1
Total by Year
811
816
783
898
870
889
731
743
786
745
Explanations: * This category was previously labeled “Aggravated Assaults” and only captured limited Part One crime information. In 2007 we decided to include assaults and batteries which more accurately reflects the FBI definition. ** In 2011 we stopped including “Auto Burglary” in the burglary category and putting them instead in the Theft category to accurately reflect the theft from a vehicle.
15
PATROL DIVISION When most people think about the police they commonly visualize a uniformed officer who is assigned to patrol. It is the most visible unit of the police department. It is also the largest unit with twenty-one officers (75%) assigned from a total of twenty-eight. Their primary duties include responding to calls for service, patrolling the neighborhoods and business areas looking for criminal activity, stopping traffic violators and assisting the public as needed. In addition to routine patrol duties the officers spend many hours each year in District Court, Municipal Court, Driver’s License hearings, and attending training classes. The dedicated officers of the Patrol Division provide the primary function of the police department, as highlighted below through calls for service and self-initiated activity.
CALLS FOR SERVICE: The primary duty of any police department is answering the public's calls for service (911 calls). A police officer must be ready to respond 24/7, 365 days a year. In 2011 the Merriam Police Department received 12,769 calls for service. The chart below represents a breakdown on the calls for service since 2002. Please note the fluctuation from year-to-year. Many factors affect the calls for service numbers and these factors may include, but are not limited to, crime rate/trends, changes in our response to certain calls for service (example: theft of gasoline, non-injury private property accidents), increase in retail businesses, inclement weather, road construction, etc.
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
15,600
15,997
15,753
14,412
15,639
14,342
14,185
12,769
13,233
12,769
SELF-INITIATED ACTIVITY: After calls for service, the patrol officers spend the remainder of their time on self-initiated activity and routine patrol. Self-initiated activity includes, but is not limited to, traffic enforcement, business checks (convenience stores, banks, bars, etc.), building checks, occupied and unoccupied vehicle checks, pedestrian checks, park checks, motorist assists and surveillance of problem areas for criminal activity. During the year our officers were involved in approximately 28,000 self-initiated patrol incidents. AN AVERAGE PATROL SHIFT: The level and types of activities vary from shift to shift. The day shift receives more business-related calls for service and traffic-related activity during the morning rush hour. The evening shift receives the traffic-related activity during the afternoon rush hour, call activity affecting businesses, and domestic violence calls. The midnight shift manages the heightened patrol for business burglaries, auto burglaries, routine patrol of our residential areas and sees more alcohol-related problems.
16
PATROL DIVISION There are no two eight-hour patrol shifts that are the same. Officers must come to work prepared to handle many different types of calls and activities during their shift including: weather related events, traffic accidents, surveillance, responding to high stress calls (i.e., armed disturbances, armed robberies, domestic disturbances, etc.), investigating residential and business burglaries, felony and misdemeanor arrests, directing traffic and being involved in community meetings. In addition to these various types of calls they also must routinely complete reports to document the above activity. On average, over one-fourth of a patrol officer’s regular shift is dedicated to writing police reports. Officers not responding to calls for service or writing reports are responsible for patrolling their district to promote high visibility, proactively look for criminal activity, and developing rapport with citizens and the business community. The City of Merriam has 65 miles of streets within its 4.5 square miles. The city is divided into three districts for patrol: North, Center, and South. During 2011 patrol officers drove approximately 149,066 miles while patrolling the streets of Merriam. IMPORTANT PATROL FACTS FOR 2011: July was the busiest month in which we responded to 1,319 calls. The police department writes, on average, 23 traffic tickets per day. The police department makes about 2.8 arrests per day. Each officer will: drive 34 miles per day. answer on average 2.1 calls for service each day. average 4.1 self initiated calls for service each day. write an average of 1.5 police reports each day. make on average 2 traffic stops.
Shift Call Load ft There are three shifts staffed by the Patrol Division.
Midnight Shift Day Shift
Midnight Shift 11:00 P.M.– 7:00 A.M. Day Shift 7:00 A.M.— 3:00 P.M. Evening Shift 3:00 P.M.—11:00 P.M.
Evening Shift 26%
Traffic 44%
23%
7%
Traffic Unit: Day or Evening Shifts as needed
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PATROL: TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT Traffic enforcement has always been a large part of the everyday duties of a Merriam patrol officer. Statistics and studies have shown that in areas where there is more traffic enforcement, there are also fewer accidents. Studies have also been done that suggest that aggressive traffic enforcement in an area can reduce crime overall. High profile cases like the bombing of the Federal Building in Oklahoma City, have been solved by an officer making a routine traffic stop. In 2011, Merriam officers made 5,877 traffic stops, issued 5,039 moving violation tickets and 3,460 non-moving tickets (total numbers including the Traffic Unit). TRAFFIC STANDARDS: For the past ten years there has been a minimum traffic standard in existence. The standard for each patrol officer is to write two tickets per eight-hour shift. Traffic officers have a standard of one ticket per hour. Fifty percent of the tickets issued should be for moving-violations. This standard was adopted in conjunction with our community-policing philosophy. 2011 Traffic Citations D.U.I. Speeding Inattentive driving Traffic light Stop sign No insurance Seat belt Drivers license violations Expired/illegal tag Parking All others
Court Statistics
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Total Filing:
9.958
10,641
10,867
10,159
8,913
8,913
8,163
$999,654
$1,162,087
$1,027,293
Fines Collected:
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81 2457 137 221 172 1524 785 805 497 113 1371
$835,280 $881,930 $912,467 $1,032,667
POLICE TRAINING The State of Kansas requires all police officers to complete a state sponsored police academy with a minimum of 560 hours of instruction. The Merriam Police Department also requires any new officer to complete a field training program consisting of 480 hours of additional instruction. Every certified officer is required to attend a minimum of 40 hours of training per year. Throughout 2011 the Merriam Police Department offered a variety of training classes for its officers and civilian staff to attend. Listed below are examples of some of those courses.
Defensive Tactics: Ground Fighting Use of Force Situational Training Handcuffing/OC Spray/ Baton
Detective Training: Child Sex Abuse Interrogation Death /Homicide Investigation Economic Fraud Training Gangs Clandestine Lab
S.W.A.T. Training: Barricaded Suspects Vehicle Assaults Firearms Training Advanced Tactical Operations Mobile Active Shooter Search Warrants Firearms Training Specialty Munitions Legal Issues for Tactical Operations Hostage Rescue
Supervisor Training: Sexual Harassment Supervision of Police Personnel Investigating Use of Force Cases Employee drug or alcohol abuse Applied Leadership Workmen’s Comp Law Reform Risk Management
Traffic Safety Training: Supervising a DUI Check Point Doppler Radar and Lidar Training Transportation Safety Conference Drug Impairment (ARIDE)
Patrol Training: I-Leads Records Management System ID Theft DUI Report Writing Street Survival Course Excited Delirium Emergency Vehicle Operation Course Legal Updates
Community Service Officer Training: Computer Training Animal Control Conference Use of Force Child Safety Seat Technician
Firearms Training: Handgun Skills and Qualification Rifle Skills and Qualification Low Light Shooting Skills
Every Merriam police officer received on average 84 hours of training in 2011. Officers assigned to S.W.A.T. received an additional 350 hours of specialized training.
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CITIZEN FEEDBACK Chief Lietzke, I want to commend two of your officers for their exceptional behavior on a call at Shawnee Mission Medical Center on February 1, 2011. Gerry Eickhoff and Todd Allen responded here on a call regarding a Child in Need of Care. It was the height of the worse snow storm in many years and I’m certain they had many other issues to worry about. They stayed for quite some time trying to resolve the issue with a grandmother who clearly had psychological issues and was very uncooperative. Although the woman yelled at them, cursed them, and obstructed them in many different ways they focused on the welfare of the child. They worked steadily and methodically through the problem despite the fact that most government agencies had shut down due to the storm. They eventually found a relative and safe place for the grandmother and child to wait out the storm despite her lack of cooperation. Then Todd Allen apologized to us for taking so long to solve the issue. We were impressed that they were able to resolve it all. Todd and Gerry were the very essence of calm and professionalism in a difficult situation. In my opinion they should be commended for their professionalism and for representing the Merriam Police Department in the most exemplary fashion. Respectfully yours, Steven A. Haynes Shawnee Mission Medical Center Security Services
To Whom It May Concern, To the Merriam Police Department, Thank you for all of your help, concern and work Monday night. I have never been in an accident and I am so thankful to have had each of you there when it happened. You showed true compassion for all involved. Thank you again for all you do. Happy Holidays—be safe! Megan Krier
On January 28th I was involved in a hit and run accident. I got the man’s license plate number and description of the car and he has yet to be caught. I feel completely insulted because I was the victim in the accident and I was made to feel that it was my fault. The police officer tried to make excuses for the man leaving and said that the damage to my car was not from the accident and this man deserved the benefit of the doubt. To All, I just want to say thank you to everyone involved in helping me resolve this case, especially Captain Burnett and Officer Waters for getting the information I needed and find the person who ran. I understand that sometimes things slip through the cracks and if that is what happened in this situation then I am sorry for any trouble I may have caused. I am deeply appreciative though. Thanks, Cristina
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CITIZEN FEEDBACK Jason and Dave, Thank you so much for sharing your time and expertise with us for the Women’s Self Defense Seminar. Your dedication to help keep women safe is much appreciated!! Your friends from United Methodist Church
Tim,
Dear Mr. Yocum, Thank you for your time, expertise and friendliness in installing our car seat. The service you provide is so valuable. I feel much better knowing that our car seat is installed properly. We will probably see you again when we turn the seat around. Very respectfully,
I just wanted to take a moment and thank you and your team (Larry and Corporal Walton) for the tour at the station. The scouts had a great time and I think the parents thought it very informative.
Sara Wallace
Thanks again, Steven Kenneke and Caleb To Whom It May Concern,
Jason, I just want to thank you and Officers Filson and Waller for your quick response to last night’s business check. My staff feel comfortable enforcing the open gym policies when they know that when we call...you will come to assist. Both Diane and Lori were impressed on just how fast you were there.
In early September I called on your department to assist me in an accident that occurred off Shawnee Mission Parkway. The officer that came was Larry Birt, Badge #4157. In my earlier life I served on the KCKPD for a few years and can appreciate all that goes into an officer’s day. I would like for someone there to give this officer a few kudos for his professionalism, just plain old good manners and consideration that was shown to me at a time of considerable aggravation in my day.
We also realize that your response times can vary but man, last night you were lightning quick!
I had not ever seen the title of MPO attached to an officer before but I can see why he has it, a good man and I hope you’re blessed with more.
Keep up the good work!
Sincerely,
Dave Smothers, Recreation Supervisor
Larry Elevier 21
OFFICERS AT WORK—2011 On 01/13/2011 a man tried to drive his car through the gate at Baron BMW which would have resulted in the vehicle going over a wall and falling 80 feet to the ground below. The driver was pulled from the car by MPO DeMoss. On 01/31/2011 an adult female attempted suicide by trying to jump off the 75th Street bridge over I-35. This was her second attempt to jump off the bridge. A combination of patrol and investigations officers were able to convince the woman to come off the bridge so she could go to the hospital for some needed help. This call was made even more dangerous by the cold, icy weather. On 01/21/2011 an adult male threatened his girlfriend with a knife at the Kings Cove Apartments and left before officers arrived. Officers and the Shawnee K-9 searched for the subject on foot while it was snowing. The suspect was found and arrested behind the apartment building. Luckily the victim was not injured. On 02/17/2011, Sgt. Duvanel was flagged down by two juveniles while driving down Merriam Drive. The juveniles were very upset and stated that they had been jogging along Merriam Drive when a grey passenger car drove past them. As the vehicle passed them, they heard a loud popping noise come from the car. They observed a male holding a handgun out of the window and thought that they had been shot at by someone in the car. Officers located the car a short distance away and conducted a felony car stop. The occupants were arrested and a BB gun was located in the car. (Sergeant Duvanel, Corporal Brokaw, Officer Lewis, MPO DeMoss, Officer Filson) On 02/20/2011 a female came to the station to report that her long-time boyfriend and father of her child had held her against her will at his residence, forced her to have sex with him and physically assaulted her over the course of a weekend. The female had multiple bruises to support these statements. An investigation was conducted and the male suspect was arrested and eventually pled guilty to aggravated battery and domestic battery. (Officer DeMoss, Detective Waters, Detective Browning, Detective Wechsler) On 03/05/2011 officers responded to the report of a verbal disturbance. While en route officers received information that the reporting party heard a gunshot and feared that her estranged husband had shot himself. The reporting party and her daughter were upstairs and would not come down. Upon arrival, officers established a perimeter and approached the house, finding the front door ajar. A male subject was found deceased on the living room floor, with a single gunshot wound to the chest. A handgun was laying nearby. Detectives responded and were able to determine that the man had shot himself. (11-00572/Sgt. Walton, Detectives Weiler, Browning, Wechsler and Waters)
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OFFICERS AT WORK—2011 On 04/24/2011 officers were dispatched to 9500 W. 67th Street in reference to an armed disturbance. Upon arrival, it was learned that a female had been kidnapped by her husband while at a storage locker at 7460 W. Frontage Road. The couple had been arguing during the day and the male forced the female into his truck while at the storage locker. When she resisted, he pointed a handgun at her and told her to be quiet. The female was able to break out the rear window of the truck as it was leaving the area and escape. The male was later arrested. (Officer Waller, Officer Kegin) On 04/24/2011 and 04/25/2011 two black males entered convenience stores and demanded money from the clerks at gunpoint. 7-11 was actually robbed twice in a span of two weeks by the subjects. Similar robberies were reported throughout the metro during the summer. (11-01066/ PO Mullis and Det. Weiler and 11-01072/PO Sparks and Det. Weiler) On 04/25/2011 an adult male who had been previously arrested for domestic battery decided to remove his house arrest monitor and break into his girlfriend’s apartment in the El Conquistador Apartments. He of course left the area before officers arrived. He was later located at a friend’s house. He refused to come out so members of the SWAT team made entry and found him trying to hang himself in the basement. The officers prevented him from hanging himself and took him into custody. On 04/30/2011 officers were dispatched to 5800 Antioch in reference to a robbery that had occurred in the parking lot. A black male approached two females that were loading groceries into the car. He grabbed their purses and got into a silver car. One of the females was pushed by the robber during the incident. The investigation is still on going into this incident. (Officer Waller) On 06/18/2011 officers were informed of a kidnapping victim that had been located in Shawnee. The victim stated that she had been staying at the Quality Inn in Merriam. Her ex-boyfriend called and wanted to bring some of her things and drop them off. She was waiting by the pool and saw him pull up in a black car. He was carrying the items to her, when she felt someone poke her in the back with a knife. The male subject forced her into the vehicle and they left the area. While they were driving, the subjects were looking through her purse and she was struck in the face several times. The males eventually dropped her off, where she was able to notify police. Officers with the Shawnee Police Department were able to locate the vehicle and arrest the suspects. The suspects later pled guilty to all charges. (Corporal Brokaw, Officer Mullis, Detective Weiler, Detective Waller) On 07/19/2011 officers received information from the DEA of two subjects that were traveling on I-35 with a large quantity of Oxycodone in their motorcycles. Corporal Brokaw and Officer Kegin were able to get the motorcycles stopped. Two prescription bottles were recovered and the prescriptions were for 180 and 170 pills of Oxycodone. The evidence was turned over to the DEA for their investigation. At the conclusion of their investigation over a million dollars was seized from the suspects’ illegal drug business. The Merriam Police Department will receive a portion of this seizure.
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OFFICERS AT WORK—2011 On 09/25/2011 an adult male tried to commit suicide by placing his head on the railroad tracks in the 6600 block of Carter. The train was equipped with a “cattle guard” and pushed him off the track with only a large cut on his head. On 11/26/2011 an adult male got into a fight with his adult male boyfriend and bit his eye, requiring seven stitches. The suspect was arrested when he was found hiding in the closet of the apartment. On 12/06/2011 an adult male abducted his girlfriend by pointing an AK-47 at her while they were driving down I-35. He was trying to force her to drive him while he conducted a “driveby shooting.” Cpl. Waters tried to stop the car, during a short pursuit the suspect threw his AK-47 out the window. The car slowed down and the suspect jumped out and ran. The victim was not injured and the suspect was caught a short time later. (11-03329/MPO Messbarger, Det. Waller and Cpl. Waters) On 12/16/2011 a woman came to the station to report that her boyfriend, who had a felony warrant would not leave. She told us that he was possibly armed with a handgun and would not be go back to jail. Officers surrounded the house and after 2 hours he was convinced to surrender. On 12/19/2011 a car jumped the median on Shawnee Mission Parkway just east of I-35 and struck a car waiting in traffic. The adult passenger who was not wearing a seatbelt died from his injuries. On 12/23/2011 officers responded to a residence in the 9800 block of West 51 Street about a physical disturbance. A male subject had strangled the mother of his infant child after they argued about the care she was giving the child. The lethality assessment indicated a high risk case. The suspect was arrested. (11-03544/PO Dixon, Det. Waller)
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TRAFFIC UNIT ENFORCEMENT The Merriam Police Department’s Traffic Unit is tasked with enforcing traffic laws within the city. Their efforts are concentrated in areas where there are a high number of accidents and traffic complaints. In addition, they participated in 2 DUI checkpoints and several saturation patrols for DUI and seatbelt enforcement. Listed below are statistics for 2011.
TEU Traffic Statistic Totals for 2011:
Traffic Stops Moving Violations Non-Moving Violations Total Tickets Issued Driving Under the Influence Arrests Speeding Other Moving Violations Seat Belts Accident Reports Shifts Worked Miles Driven
1,254 1,047 1,472 1,891 27 514 330 398 120 320 11,652
TEU Traffic Statistics for DUI/Saturation Patrols in 2011: Check Point Date April 15, 2011 September 26, 2011
Contacts 314 811
DUI Arrests 3 10
Other Arrests 2 3
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MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES TOP THIRTEEN CRASH LOCATIONS IN MERRIAM FOR 2011 TOP CRASH LOCATIONS ¨ Shawnee Mission Parkway and I-35
9
¨ 75th and I-35
9
9
¨ Shawnee Mission Parkway and Antioch
9
71
15
¨ Antioch & I-35 ¨ Johnson and I-35
16
¨ Shawnee Mission Parkway and Eby 18 ¨ 67th & I-35 47
20
¨ 75th & E. Frontage ¨ Shawnee Mission Parkway and Hadley
23
23
27
¨ Shawnee Mission Parkway and Mastin ¨ Johnson and Slater ¨ 75th and Kings Cove ¨ Antioch and Johnson Dr.
26
Shawnee Mission Parkway and I-35
71
75th and I-35
47
Shawnee Mission Parkway and Antioch
27
Antioch and I-35
23
Johnson and I-35
23
Shawnee Mission Parkway and Eby
20
67th and I-35
18
75th and E. Frontage
16
Shawnee Mission Parkway and Hadley
15
Shawnee Mission Parkway and Mastin
9
Johnson and Slater
9
Antioch and Johnson
9
75th and Kings Cove
9
MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES One of the fundamental duties of any police department is to investigate motor vehicle accidents. The City of Merriam has 65 miles of roadway within its borders, including approximately 3 miles of interstate highway. According to data provided by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) the portion of Interstate 35, just north of 75th Street, is the busiest section of highway in the State of Kansas. KDOT estimates that over 100,000 cars drive through the city each day. With the types of roadways that run through Merriam, coupled with the high number of businesses and general drive-through traffic, the problem of traffic control and accident investigation is a full-time challenge. A study conducted by the Kansas Department of Transportation indicated that the City of Merriam has the highest per capita accident rate of any city in the state. In 2002, the department began a more aggressive approach to traffic enforcement, which eventually led to the creation of our Traffic Enforcement Unit in 2005.
2011 CRASH FACTS There were 486 motor vehicle accidents reported to the Merriam Police Department. Of this total 113 of the accidents involved some level of personal injuries. This is a 7% increase from 2010. There were 138 accidents where damage was over $1,000. There were 26 accidents which were determined to be alcohol-related. This equates to approximately 5% of the total. Hit-and-run accidents reported and investigated in 2011 totaled 82, which is a 1% decrease from 2010. There were 37 private property and 89 minor accident reports taken in Merriam. This figure is a 57% increase from 2010. There was 1 reported fatality accident in Merriam. It was at Shawnee Mission Parkway and northbound I-35. There was not a statistical decrease in the number of accidents compared to 2010.
NOTE: The above statistics do not include accidents reported to KHP that occurred on I-35.
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INVESTIGATIONS In 2011, the Investigations Unit detectives were assigned 509 cases and solved 129 for a clearance rate of 25%. These cases included homicides, rapes, property crimes, financial crimes and other types of offenses.
Type of Cases Assigned by Year Total Cases Assigned by Year Year 510 Total Assignments 500 600
2008 509 287
365
400 300
2007 510 458
287
200 100 0 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Year
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Homicide
0
1
2
2
0
Burglary
65
39
46
43
29
Theft
135
98
95
101
106
False Writing Auto Theft Auto Burglary
19 79
3 25
2 20
1 27
22 38
16
10
49
49
45
Identity Theft
23
16
7
6
6
Robbery
14
8
11
6
6
Battery
13
17
33
30
17
Battery/DV
*
*
*
*
22
Felony Sex Offenses
20
15
9
15
13
Criminal Damage
57
12
12
13
29
Criminal Threats
10
6
3
7
7
Phone Harassment
11
9
5
10
6
Unattended Death
12
5
14
14
9
Child Cases (CINC)
10
15
4
12
17
Kidnapping
0
2
0
2
6
Arson
0
0
1
0
0
Assault
4
4
1
5
3
Credit Card Fraud
3
2
8
4
40
All Others
19
7
43
111
94
Total
510
287
365
458
509
* indicates these numbers are not available
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FORFEITURE REPORT According to K.S.A. 60-4117, law enforcement agencies are required to report the status of their Special Law Enforcement Trust Fund in an ―annual report.‖ The report must include the type and approximate value of the forfeited property received, the amount of any forfeiture proceeds received, and how any of those proceeds were expended. In order to ensure that the Merriam Police Department stays in conformance with K.S.A. 60-4117, this section is included in all annual reports. Any questions concerning specific details should be directed to the City of Merriam’s Finance Department.
DRUG FORFEITURE ACTIVITIES IN 2011: On January 1, 2011, there was approximately $31,942.49 in the Merriam Special Law Enforcement Trust Fund. During 2011, the Merriam Police Department received $6,497.38 from drug forfeitures and/or drug taxes. The account earned $185.48 in interest. During 2011, the following purchases or expenditures were made with funds from the Special Law Enforcement Trust Fund:
Northwestern School of Police and Command Staff
$3,600.00
District Attorney—For Filing of Forfeitures SWAT Breaching Tools
Ammunition
$1,512.43
$584.80
Bullet Resistant Vests
$3,287.99
$621.71
Fitness Supplies
$86.38
TOTAL EXPENDITURES IN 2011: $9,693.31 ACCOUNT CARRYOVER: As of 01/01/2012 = $28,931.64
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USE OF FORCE USE OF FORCE INCIDENTS All use of force incidents must be reported and are reviewed by the Patrol Commander. A specific report is used that details the circumstances that led up to the use of force, the amount of force used and the results. It is the responsibility of the Patrol Commander to evaluate each use of force used by an officer to make sure it was within department policy. Use of force reports are prepared each time an officer uses any type of force during an arrest or whenever an officer points a weapon at an individual and issues verbal commands. During 2011 there were 24 incidents where an officer deemed it necessary to use force to make an arrest. This number is up from last year. The number of use of force incidents in Merriam is extremely low considering the number of arrests (1,201) the officers made during the year. Highlighted below is specific information related to the use of force incidents in 2011. Type of Force Used During 2011 Incidents Service weapon pointed at individual Taser device pointed at someone Taser device used on individual Empty hand control techniques used
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13 2 1 8
SUPPORT SERVICES SPECIAL WEAPONS AND TACTICS (S.W.A.T.): The Merriam Police Department formed a team of 9 officers in 2000 that were specially trained and equipped to respond to high-risk calls that need a special approach. A high level of training has continued through 2011 to make sure they are equipped and ready to handle armed and other high risk situations. The S.W.A.T. officers are also expected to retain a higher than average level of physical fitness and firearms proficiency skills. During 2011 the Merriam S.W.A.T. team was utilized for two barricaded subjects.
EVIDENCE TECHNICIANS: The Merriam Police Department has officers who have received special training in evidence collection and processing. These trained technicians are assigned to the Patrol Division and are utilized while on duty. This has helped reduced overtime in 2011. These officers can also be called out on serious crimes to assist the detectives.
ALARM ORDINANCE: Each year hundreds of business, residential, and robbery alarms are received by the Merriam Police and Fire Departments. As a result a city ordinance was adopted that regulates these alarms. When too many alarms are received, the alarm owners can be fined. The purpose of the alarm ordinance is to make these alarm owners more responsible for their equipment. Invoices are sent out for those that have too many false alarms. The police department also works with the alarm owners to find ways to reduce the incidents of false alarms. When the program was started in 1999 we had 601 false alarms. In 2011 the number of false alarms were 304. This number has doubled from the 2010 number of 164. The city of Merriam collected $7450 in false alarm fines in 2011. TRAFFIC COUNTS: The Merriam Police Department operates two radar equipped traffic speed trailers. These devices are placed in areas where there are traffic complaints or frequent accidents. The information is used to increase enforcement and determine the scope and time of day of the traffic problem. Citizens having a problem with speeders in their neighborhood should call the Patrol Commander’s office at 913-322-5587 and discuss the available options to resolve the problem.
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SUPPORT SERVICES RECORDS MANAGEMENT: Our Records Unit is responsible for the handling of police records once taken by a police officer. These reports have to be verified, stored, and properly distributed to citizens, courts and other law enforcement agencies. Lisa Aldrich, Ronda Brumbaugh and Karen Gibson are currently assigned to our records unit. If you have any questions or need help call 913-322-5560. EVIDENCE MANAGEMENT: One of the community service officers is assigned to help manage the department’s recovered property and evidence. CSO Charlie Yocum is responsible for properly logging and storing all recovered property and evidence. He is also responsible for the safety and security of this evidence and must be available to respond to Municipal and District Court to testify concerning the evidentiary chain of custody. The property custodian is responsible for destroying evidence when it is no longer needed for court; disposing of other seized property by appropriate means or seeing that property is returned to the lawful owners. CROSSING GUARD UNIT: There are three school-crossing locations within the city. Part-time employees assist school children crossing the streets at these locations twice per day (one hour in the morning and one hour in the afternoon). This unit, supervised by Lt. Daniels, is responsible for child pedestrian safety. The crossing guards also assist the department during the Turkey Creek Festival. HOUSE WATCH PROGRAM: Each year, a number of vacationing Merriam residents will register their homes with the police department for extra patrol. The Merriam House Watch Program is a crime prevention program that is designed to reduce house burglaries and provide citizens with a since of security while they are away from their homes. The citizen completes a simple form and officers spend designated times checking these residences while the owners are away. In 2011, 14 Merriam citizens took advantage of this program. POLICE RIDE-ALONG PROGRAM: This is a community relations program that allows citizens to ride with a police officer during their normal shift. A citizen signs up to ride for two to eight hours on any shift they choose. They must complete a form that allows a records check to be conducted. The patrol shift supervisor coordinates with the citizen to schedule their ride-along visit. Persons under the age of 15 must have a responsible adult with them on the ride-along. In 2011, 40 citizens took the opportunity to ride with a MPD officer.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICERS The Community Service Officers are non-sworn members of the police department. Their job is to assist the public with various police-related functions that do not necessarily need to be performed by law enforcement officers. DUTIES:
CSO’s are assigned to many different tasks. They are ―jacks-of-all-trades.‖ They must be able to cover school crossings, perform records management functions, civilian fingerprinting, and routine walk-in reports. They are also act as the court bailiff. They can assist patrol with traffic control needs, motorist assistance, and other support functions. Their number one responsibility is animal control. This includes picking up strays, enforcing animal control ordinances, and helping control nuisance animals. Last year the Merriam Police Department impounded 266 stray animals, including 124 cats and 142 dogs. Only 6 of the impounded cats were claimed and 59 of the impounded dogs were claimed by owners. Please remember to have your pets licensed. Not only is it required by law, it will also help the police department to return your lost pet to you. Please call 913-322-5581 for information on registering your pets, or go to our website for additional information: www.merriam.org/MPD/Animal-Control/pet-registration.htm The following is a list of the average calls/activities per month of the two CSO’s: Answer 50 animal control calls. Write 25 animal control related reports. Confirm 6 warrants. Serve 4 warrants. Answer 85 phone calls. 27 hours per month in court related duties. Take 8 walk-in police reports. Perform 12 civilian fingerprint requests. In addition to these activities, the CSO’s are also required to attend various training classes throughout the year. These include but are not limited to: Taser, CPR/AED, Animal Control Conference, handcuffing, and records management training.
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ADMINISTRATION The Administrative Unit of the Merriam Police Department is responsible for a variety of different and important functions of the department. There are four administrative officers: Chief William Lietzke, Captain Timothy Burnett, Lieutenant Michael Daniels and Lieutenant Darren McLaughlin. These veteran officers have a combined total of over ninety years of police experience. Chief of Police: William Lietzke’s primary duty is the overall responsibility of the department. He works as the liaison with all elected officials, community leaders and residents. He is in charge of the budget and all department spending. It is his job to manage department liability and risk management. He also makes the final decision concerning employee hiring and termination. Captain: Tim Burnett is the commander of the Patrol Unit which is made up of uniformed officers. Manpower allocation and scheduling are his primary responsibilities. He must be familiar with all the current laws as well as contemporary police tactics and operations. He is also responsible for investigating all citizen complaints on officers, internal investigations and all use of force incidents. He is a current staff officer (Officer-in-Charge) for the Metro Squad and the Johnson County Officer Involved Shooting Investigation Team. Investigations Lieutenant: During 2011, Darren McLaughlin was responsible for supervising the Investigations Unit. He reviewed all written reports and assigned cases to the detectives based on available leads. He also managed cases followed-up by the uniformed officers. Administrative Lieutenant: Michael Daniels supervised the police department’s civilian staff which includes three records clerks, two community service officers and three school crossing guards. He is also responsible for of all the department’s training, the records management system and the property/ evidence room. He is currently the S.W.A.T. team commander and a staff officer (Lead) for the Metro Squad. The administrative Lieutenant also oversees many of the departments special events. Personnel Additions: Cara Stock started work with the police department on May 31, 2011. Officer Stock put herself through the Blue River Police Academy while working as a detention officer at the Jackson County Jail. Jeffrey Dixon started work with the police department on August 15, 2011. Officer Dixon was formerly a St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer.
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ADMINISTRATION PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS: Another important function of the Administrative Unit is professional standards. This function is primarily the responsibility of the Captain, who conducts internal investigations of department personnel when necessary. The Captain is also responsible for ensuring that officers follow proper procedure and all department rules and regulations. There are four main aspects of police work that the Merriam Police Department tracks and investigates: officer complaints, vehicle pursuits, foot pursuits, and use of force incidents. Officer Complaints: When a citizen makes a complaint against an officer it is documented and investigated by the officer's supervisor. If the complaint is serious in nature or can not be resolved by the supervisor it is forwarded to the Captain for further investigation. Once the investigation is complete it is forwarded to the Police Chief as founded or unfounded. If the complaint is founded the Captain recommends the appropriate disciplinary action. During 2011 there were four official complaints that were investigated, three were unfounded and one was substantiated which resulted in disciplinary action. Vehicle Pursuits: The department has a very strict vehicle pursuit policy because of the dangers associated with this type of driving. When an officer engages in a pursuit the on-duty supervisor closely monitors this incident. The officer has the direct authority to discontinue a pursuit at any time or the supervisor may direct the officer to end the pursuit. All vehicle pursuits are investigated by the on-duty supervisor and reviewed by the Captain to ensure all policies and procedures were followed. There were two pursuits during 2011. Foot Pursuits: In 2002 a foot pursuit policy was created that strictly regulates police officer foot pursuits because they have proven to be a very high-risk activity for officers. This is due to the extreme physical exertion and unforeseen obstacles. In addition, most people running from the police are violent and combative when captured. Because of these reasons, each foot pursuit is carefully reviewed by the shift supervisor and the Captain to ensure all policies and procedures were followed. There were two foot pursuits in 2011.
JUVENILE INTAKE AND ASSESSMENT CENTER: In 2011 the Merriam Police Department took 30 juveniles to the Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center. JIAC processes juveniles that are runaways or who have committed criminal acts.
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RETIREMENTS Sergeant Dan Kellerman June 10, 2011
Sergeant Dan Kellerman retired after twenty-seven years of dedicated service. During his tenure he served many roles including Field Training Officer, Records Custodian for the Intoxilyzer System, was promoted to Corporal and finally shift Sergeant. Dan was a valuable employee and his services will be missed.
Retirement: That's when you return from work one day and say, "Hi, Honey, I'm home - forever.� Gene Perret 36
RETIREMENTS Chief Bill Lietzke December 23, 2011
Chief Bill Lietzke retired after thirty-two years of dedicated service. He worked his way through the ranks and was promoted to Chief of Police in 2006. During his tenure as Chief, the department developed a Traffic Unit, a Special Enforcement Unit, the Citizen’s Academy, and enhanced our ability to communicate to the public through electronic media. Bill’s leadership and knowledge will be missed by our department.
The trouble with retirement is that you never get a day off. Abe Lemons 37
Celebrating 60 Years of Dedicated Police Service 1967 Merriam Police Department Pictured on Front Cover:
Standing left to right: Police Clerk Midge Wyrick, Chas Wilson, Albert Cowen,
Don Maupin, Barney Buchanan, George Whalen, Kenneth Cowen, Kenneth Boyd, and Gordon Haynes. Kneeling left to right: Frank Wilkinson, Jerry Bybee, and Chief Doug Haynes. Retired Members of the Merriam Police Department Serving 10 or More Years: Chief William Lietzke Sergeant Dan Kellerman Police Officer Charles Yocum Sergeant Albert Jones Sergeant Randy Davis Chief Kenneth Sissom Sergeant Robert Smith Sergeant Winfield (Syd) Tubbs Sergeant Jerry Bybee Chief James Browning Captain Gene Nicholson
December 1979 January 1984 July 1977 May 1983 January 1981 January 1979 June 1977 August 1979 October 1963 November 1979 June 1969
December 2011 June 2011 February 2009 December 2008 February 2007 December 2005 November 2002 September 1997 March 1992 June 1992 1984
32 Years of Service 27 32 25 26 26 25 18 29 12 23
Chiefs of Police Through the Years: Chief Tim Burnett Chief Bill Lietzke Chief Kenneth Sissom Chief James Browning Chief Donald Lemos Chief Douglas M. Haynes Chief Joseph “Mike” Donahue Chief Jack Dodson Chief Jack R. Sherman Chief Perry Sarver
2012 - Present 2006 - 2011 1992 - 2005 Currently Merriam’s Mayor! 1979 -1992 1977 -1979 1966 -1977 1962 -1966 1965 Chief’s salary was $650 per month! 1956 -1962 1955 -1956 1953 -1955
For more detailed history please view our website: www.merriam.org\MPD 38
Proudly Serving Since 1951
Celebrating 60 Years
Merriam Police Department 6190 Eby St. Merriam, KS 66202 (913) 322-5560