MA KI NG MOBI LE T HE S A FES T CI T Y I N AMER I C A WI TH RESPEC T F OR E V ERYON E
MPDTheBeat
Holiday Edition 2020, ISSUE 26
EMBRACING 2021 IN MPD STYLE: THE VISUAL REPRESENTATION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
Communications Unit donates to Wilmer Hall Children’s Home for Christmas
1ST PRECINCT ON THE CASE:
THE BIG BANG BURGLARY
“Operation Santa’s Helpers” plan well-executed Bohannon helps give lesson on gender equality
A MESSAGE FROM THE
Top Officer Recognition
CHIEF OF POLICE Lawrence L. Battiste, IV
Facing Uncharted Territory As solemn as the times are that we face today, I wish to extend my heartfelt hopes that each of you have enjoyed a great degree of holiday cheer during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons; and pray for health, peace, prosperity to each of you and your families, and a blessed posterity. I continue in my gratitude to you for your dedicated service as we continue to navigate our way through the difficulties that were presented to us in 2020 and that we strive to contend with at this very time in 2021.
Joseph Raebel, Central Precinct Officer of the Month, October 2020
Many of us have had to face the horror of coronavirus in our own lives; whether experiencing the virus individually, or through the lives of our loved ones. Some may have even experienced the death as a direct result of this virus. I am thankful that things are as well as they are and I continue to pray daily that you and your loved ones will be protected and/or recover from its affects. Although many of us face uncharted territory, navigating our way through what is uncertain with COVID-19, we also still face the challenges of dealing with everyday living and the stressors that are eminent in life. It is so important that you all, we all, know that none of us are alone in these battles. Indeed, we do have our individual families, friends, and others who we share our lives with. However, as men and women of law enforcement, please know that you can also rely on your brothers and sisters who wear the esteemed badge of law enforcement to help you to shoulder your burden. We are as I have said in the past, a law enforcement agency with many members, but one who shares one heartbeat that pumps blue blood and that blood runs deeply for all of our members.
Jabin Goldstein, Third Precinct Officer of the Month, November 2020
You continue to rise to the occasion and your commitment to protect and serve, even during such unprecedented times, always displaying your dedication, expertise, and love for the city of Mobile as you perform your duties as law enforcement officers. Thank you to all of our civilian employees who work behind the scenes to ensure that the department is always up to the tasks that lie before us daily. I am very proud to say that regardless of our differences of personal opinions, and we all have them, when performing the tasks that lead to fulfilling the mission and goals of the department, we truly do perform as one single unit that possesses a single heart. That heart is filled with a love for the service that we provide to our city. All of you make up the full definition of what “one heartbeat” means. These times can feel overwhelming, as we have had to make somewhat drastic changes to our routine such as limited or no visitations, entertainment, travel, etc. and it may even feel as though we are living in a SCI-FI nightmare, however we are not – this too will pass. And as much as it seems to be a cliché “team work does make the dream work”, your dedication redefines the nightmare into a somewhat livable and manageable dream that we will soon awake from. If you should ever feel overwhelmed and overly stressed, please seek console and know that you are of great value to us all. Congratulations to our officers and civilian employees of the month for October, November, and December 2020. I pray continually that God will continue to protect you, keep you in good health, and renewed spirit.
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Alexandre Olivier, Fourth Precinct Officer of the Month, December 2020
EDITORIAL CONTACT PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE Charlette Solis 208.1918
ON THE COVER:
Detective Stephen Sam Third Precinct GID
ISSUE CONTRIBUTORS:
Assistant Chief Godwin, Precinct Captain Charles Bagsby, Precinct Captain Kevin Rodgers, Lieutenant Chris Levy, Commander Heidi Robinson, Officer Gary Owens, Tonya Calhoun, Veronica Williams, Laurina Parker, Bradford Cooper Submit ideas and info for the next issue! EMAIL: charlette.solis@cityofmobile.org January 20132020 - Newsletter Template Holiday Edition | MPDTheBeat
Bohannon helps give a lesson on gender equality to young students First graders at Allentown Elementary School were instructed to draw a picture of a police officer. Each student made their police officer into character using a name and description. After the students completed their drawings, the teacher asked them if they wanted to meet a real police officer.
Officer Rachel Bohannon finishes a Zoom presentation with Allentown Elementary students where she talked about her job and showed the equipment that she uses.
Through Zoom, the excited students met Officer Rachel Bohannon of the First Precinct. According to the teacher, most of the students did not expect to see a female police officer. But, that is the lesson the teacher wanted to give about gender equality. She wanted the students to understand that females can pursue whatever career they want, just as men, without unfair treatment.
The Big Bang Burglary: First Precinct officers’ quick response to WKRG WKRG News 5 had an unexpected visitor on Wednesday morning, October 14. A male subject wearing a dress broke out the glass window to the front door of the news station with a tire iron. The subject then climbed through the broken glass door making entry to the lobby. He was yelling and began banging on the inner glass doors. Officer Mark Coombe, Officer Rachel Bohannon and Corporal Willilam Byrd with K9 Masco responded within minutes and took the subject into custody without incident.
From left, Officer Rachel Bohannon, Officer Mark Coombe, Corporal William Byrd, K9 Masco, Detective Brittany Black, Detective Raymond Grissett and WKRG News 5 Anchor Cherish Lombard.
The news station was appreciative to the officers who responded and recognized them with a “Smiles Behind the Shield” award the following week. The news director was thankful for how they took care of the situation. The subject was arrested and charged with burglary second degree. The accomplice was arrested two months later when caught shoplifting at Belk. Reporter Debbie Williams and News Director Chris Best talk with Officer Bohannon and Officer Coombe. January 2013Edition - Newsletter Holiday 2020 |Template MPDTheBeat
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Gulf Coast Brotherhood Ride honors fallen first responders On a mission to never forget, several police officers, EMTs and firefighters came together in the Gulf Coast Brotherhood Ride on bicycles to honor fallen first responders. The bike ride covered more than 400 miles across Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama with a total of 12 fallen first responders receiving honor. On Friday, November 6, they rode from Gulfport to Mobile to complete the bike ride. Corporal Adam Partridge represented the Mobile Police Department in the ride. Corporal Partridge and the other riders stopped at Public Safety Memorial Park to remember and honor the sacrifice of Fallen Officer Sean Tuder.
Motor Officers at the Iron Bowl
MPD motor officers were sent to the Iron Bowl to assist with escorts because all the Tuscaloosa Police Department motor officers were quarantined due to COVID-19 exposure. Lieutenant Angle takes a minute to watch the Iron Bowl game, which the Alabama Crimson Tide won 42-13.
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Holiday Edition | MPDTheBeat January 2013 2020 - Newsletter Template
Mobile Citizens Police Academy Graduation
The Mobile Citizens Police Academy Class #27 graduated on December 8. The class motto: “Seeing 2020 Through the Eyes of the Blue.” Pictured with the graduates include the Mobile Police Academy training staff: Lieutenant Sean Black, Corporal Ben Towarnyckyj, and Officer Ivan Norfus; Chief Battiste, Assistant Chief Godwin, and Chaplain Connick.
Domestic Violence Detail supports peace on earth begins at home
Supporting “Peace on Earth Begins at Home,” the Domestic Violence Detail participated in the Penelope House Domestic Violence Awareness Virtual Exhibit in October for National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The decorated house used in the exhibit was designed by the children of Detective Melissa Hollis of the Domestic Violence Detail. It promotes that a home should be a place filled with sweet love from the inside out and the place where a happy life begins. Photo: Allana Johnson and Kristen Murphree of Penelope House take a picture with the detectives after presenting gifts of appreciation. From left, Lieutenant Matthew James, Detective Melissa Hollis, Detective Katrina Frazier, and Sergeant Chris Reed.
MPD Praise & Recognition from the Community We had a fender bender yesterday (Monday, December 21, 2020). Officer Hogan assisted us. He could not have been more concerned, gracious and professional. We greatly appreciate his service to us, and he is clearly a credit to his calling, and to the Mobile Police Department. We are grateful. —Glen and Francis Davis Location of Experience: Airport Blvd./DIP January 2013 Edition - Newsletter Holiday 2020 Template | MPDTheBeat
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Coronavirus: Chief Gets Pfizer vaccine
According to the CDC, COVID-19 can have serious, lifethreatening complications and there is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you. And, if you get sick, you could spread the disease to friends, family and others around you. As the top cop for the City of Mobile, Chief Battiste received the Pfizer vaccine on December 22 to set an example for the MPD officers. Chief Battiste had the coronavirus in November. He described it as a mild case. Chief Battiste said he has not been able to hug his 77-year-old mom in over a year so getting the vaccine was also personal for him. The COVID-19 vaccines have been shown to be highly effective at preventing COVID-19. WATCH WKRG NEWS 5 COVERAGE on Chief Battiste receiving the vaccine.
Civilian Employees of the Month recognized at annual awards ceremony
Eric Schultz, Communications Unit, is one of the employees who attended the Civilian Employees of the Month Awards Ceremony held December 17. Schultz received a plaque, a gift certificate along with other tokens of appreciation and a personal congratulations from Chief Battiste and Captain Jonathan Lee.
Sergeant Dubose honored with Quilt of Valor A Quilt of Valor is awarded to a service member or veteran who has been touched by war. Recently, Sergeant LaDerrick Dubose of the Mayor’s Detail was honored with a Quilt of Valor. Sergeant Dubose served in the United States Marine Corps from 1988 to1992 and inactive from 1992 to 1994. He served in Okinawa, Japan; Camp Pendleton, California; Operation Desert Shield, and Operation Desert Storm during the Kuwait Liberation. During the Gulf War, he was a motor transportation operator with the 1st Marine Division, 1st Combat Engineers. Sergeant Dubose was a corporal when he ended his tour. He became interested in law enforcement toward the end of his military service. Sergeant Dubose said he felt a passion to continue serving and knew that being a police officer was one way he could do that. He added that he has always been the type of person who wanted to help someone if he could.
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Holiday Edition | MPDTheBeat January 2013 2020 - Newsletter Template
11 sworn personnel promoted in rank Promoting personnel is always a proud moment for any chief of police. It’s because those particular members of the organization earned a new rank because of their hard work and dedication. In the most recent promotion ceremony held October 23 at Government Plaza, Chief Battiste made 11 promotions. In his address, he congratulated the newly ranked officers and encouraged them to go out in joy, referencing the scripture Isaiah 55:12. “For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.” Salutes to Major Paul Prine, Captain Charles Bagsby, Lieutenant Christopher Levy, Lieutenant Lorenzo Matthews, Sergeant Nick Crepeau, Sergeant Michael Motykiewicz, Sergeant John Walstad, Corporal Eleni Conditt, Corporal John Jackson, Corporal Gregory Palmore and Corporal Jamal Pettway.
Sergeant John Walstad receives his badge.
Officer David Conditt gives congrats to Corporal Eleni Conditt.
Corporal John Jackson with wife and daughter.
Major Paul Prine with wife and children.
January 2013Edition - Newsletter Holiday 2020 Template | MPDTheBeat
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Embracing 2021 in MPD Style: The Visu There is a new style for law and order as we enter another decade of the 21st century. Not all crime fighters have the look of a soldier, which can unintentionally send a message of declaring war on the American public and fear, according to experts. Recent events of civil unrest has changed the climate of law enforcement and the professional air of policing. In 2020, case after case of law enforcement encounters with the public was brought to a national scene. There was the rise of protests by people from all walks of life looking at the responsibility of law enforcement in a different light. The question became: How can modern-day police officers help restore the mutual respect lost and help eradicate the negative perceptions of police? It can start with the visual representation of law enforcement. During a Q&A session, Detective Stephen Sam of the Third Precinct GID provided insight into how first impressions matter when engaging with the public. Q. Experts say that the uniform can instantly communicate authority and status. When the public looks at you in uniform, what message do you hope to send? A. When the public looks at me in uniform, I hope they see professionalism, honor and integrity. Being a young African-American male, I hope that they see diversity within Detective Stephen Sam standing in front of the Third Precinct. the department as well. I want the public to know that we are one and that they don’t have to be afraid or have stereotypes that all cops are white or racist. I want my younger brothers of the same ethnicity to see me and want to be the change in their community when they get older as well.
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Holiday Edition | MPDTheBeat January 2013 2020 - Newsletter Template
ual Representation of Law Enforcement Q. What does the uniform represent to you? A.The uniform and badge represent honesty and integrity. It represents a unified brotherhood/sisterhood. When putting on the uniform, I am perceived in a totally different way by the public. Q. How do you give repect and command respect in uniform? A. I give respect in uniform by always being transparent when dealing with the community. When in patrol, I would park my vehicle and walk around talking to citizens and getting to know the people I policed. This gained respect in the Campground Community and people in that area knew that they could count on me. Also, the crime in that area was very low whenever I was on duty and was assigned to that area. When in uniform and out in the public I try to be a positive reflection on the department and all of my brothers and sisters who work alongside me. I command respect in uniform by respectfully speaking with authority and carrying myself with an authoritative demeanor.
Get to Know Detective S.T. Sam Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Detective Sam lives by this motto: “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” He spent the early part of his professional career working as a contract electrician. He assisted in the building of naval ships in Pascagoula, Seattle and Wisconsin. In September 2016, Detective Sam joined the Mobile Police Department. He has been in GID going on two years now. Understanding that the caseload for detectives can stack up fast, Detective Sam was asked about which case in 2020 really stood out due to good investigative work. He said his best case was a burglary and auto theft incident that occurred July 17.
contacted and provided with the case information. Cyber soon spotted the suspect’s truck and provided me with a picture of the alledged suspect and his truck. I searched the tag number and discovered that a citation had been recently issued to the suspect with that tag.
My victim reported that his shed was broken into and someone stole his two vehicles. I heard this call go over the radio. I started en route so I could go ahead and start working the case as soon as possible. While on scene, I was able to obtain the victim’s vehicle information and other valuable information from a witness. Cyber was then
Within two business days, a search warrant was executed on the suspect’s residence. Investigators found narcotics, stolen guns and other stolen items inside the residence. The interview yielded a full confession of the suspect’s involvement. The case was waived to the grand jury where it was true billed.
January 2013 Edition - Newsletter Holiday 2020 Template | MPDTheBeat
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Communications Unit donates to Wilmer Hall Children’s Home at Christmas
The Communications Unit collected money and gifts to donate to the Wilmer Hall Children’s Home at Christmas. They had 29 children, ranging from the age of newborn to 22 years old, at home during the Christmas holidays. The Communications gifted each child a $20 Walmart gift card for them to choose a gift of their choice. In addition, the unit collected various items such as 31 sets of sheets, 11 pillows, snacks, cleaning supplies and an assortment of children toys and clothing. Special thanks to PSD II Kati Wigfileld and PSD I Andrea Atchison for their hard work in organizing the event.
MPD Praise & Recognition from the Community I just wanted to reach out to thank Officer Shelton for performing his duties as a protector of peace on November 13, 2020. I was speeding down Old Shell Road on my way to work and could’ve caused someone a bad day with one wrong move of my vehicle, but Officer Shelton stopped and cited me. He was polite and calm in addressing my situation, a demeanor needed more of in today’s police force. I was able to correct my driving going forward because he was able to flag what I was doing wrong. Please let Officer Shelton know that I’m thankful for him and I hope that he has a nice day. —Brantley Cook of Semmes Location of Experience: EB Old Shell Road
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Holiday Edition | MPDTheBeat January 2013 2020 - Newsletter Template
MPD Proud Parent Moment!
Top Civilian Employees of the Month Recognition
Sheena Ivey, Public Safety Dispatcher II October 2020
Hanna Levy is the daughter of Lieutenant Chris Levy of the Planning & Research Unit. On December 8, 2020, Hanna signed for her scholarship to play softball and study engineering at Coastal Alabama Community College.
Kirby Briggs, Public Safety Dispatcher November 2020
Optimist Club Fundraiser
The Mobile Midtown Optimist Club has launched a fundraiser in support of the club’s MPD Officer of the Month Recognition Luncheon and gifts provided for the honoree. The Optimist Club has sponsored the Officer of Month Luncheon for over 40 years. The Optimist Club is selling “Back the Blue Respect for All” yard signs (18X12 - $10); Bumper/Window Stickers (2X4 - $2) and police blue tumblers for $15. To purchase, contact John Weichman of the Crime Prevention Unit, 251-401-7246. January 2013 Edition - Newsletter Holiday 2020 Template | MPDTheBeat
Ashley Foster, Public Safety Dispatcher December 2020
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Communications Unit makes promotions
Angela Spurlock Promoted to RCO
Chante Jones Promoted to RCO
Kirby Briggs Promoted to Public Safety Dispatcher II
Carol Carroll Promoted to Public Safety Dispatcher II
Sheena Ivey Promoted to RCO
Olivia Bradley Promoted to Public Safety Dispatcher II
The Communications Unit has also hired five new operators. They are Chelsea Trentham, Victoria Reeves, Anne Steele, Morgan Reynolds and Amber Simon. They have completed their classroom training and are in the beginning phases of their on-the-job training. The Communications Unit will hire up to 12 more operators this year.
MPD supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
From left, Jennifer Wesson, Amanda Lutman, Kimberly Zirlott, Laurina Parker, Assistant Chief Godwin, Tonya Calhoun, Lori Smith, and Evon Etheridge.
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MPD supports the cause through fundraising and brings awareness to health topics vital to both women and men. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the net amount raised was $4,623. Laurina Parker, public liaison, was recognized for selling $7,404.25 in t-shirts. For No-Shave November, the department raised $1,150. The monies were donated to the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute and designated for patient services to help pay for travel, treatments and medications. Holiday Edition | MPDTheBeat January 2013 2020 - Newsletter Template
Third Precinct gets appreciation luncheon from AT&T volunteer groups OASIS (an AT&T Employee Group) and AT&T Pioneers Mobile Council delivered a catered lunch from Dreamland BBQ to thank Third Precinct officers for their service. The AT&T groups are part of a network of volunteers tasked with volunteering to help make a difference in local communities. The luncheon was held Friday, November 20. Pictured below, from left, Sidney Foster, Corporal Gregory Palmore, Detective David Draime, Dottie Steelreath, Captain Keith Stallings, Cathy Kelley, Sergeant Earl Adams, Detective Stephen Sam, and a representative from Dreamland BBQ.
MPD Praise & Recognition from the Community I would like to thank the Mobile POlice Department fo rthe way they handled the situation on Tuesday when searching for the fugitive [Todd Overstreet]. All of the officers were very professional and committed to the task at hand. Many thanks from all of us at Mobile Christian Middle School. —Principal John Evers 5900 Cottage Hill Road
Gibbs to the rescue in Hurricane Zeta
At least one father has Gibbs to thank for being the guy that never leaves the badge at the office and for Joshua Gibbs that is award enough. “To see the actual affects of helping people. It’s amazing and I think that’s enough reward alone.” WATCH WKRG NEWS 5 COVERAGE Smiles Behind the Shield of Sergeant Joshua Gibbs’ recognition. January 2013 Edition - Newsletter Holiday 2020 Template | MPDTheBeat
Five officers have teamed up with the Victim Services Unit to participate in an event geared to help children in our commuinity with life-changing opportunities. Performing for a purpose in the Fuse Project 2021 Ultimate Lip Sync Battle are Officer Darlene Looney, Detective Robert Harris, Officer Cherry Bonati, Officer Justin Lewis and Detective Kenyada Taylor. Although the state of the pandemic will determine when and how the event will take place, the team is already narrowing down performance concepts and scheduling practices. Their goal to take first place! For more information, contact Brandie Battiste (ext. 6061) or Emma Hancock (ext. 6386).
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Community Service Unit hosts a Thanksgiving luncheon and turkey giveaway
The Community Services Unit celebrated Thanksgiving early by hosting a Thanksgiving luncheon for staff and a turkey giveaway for the community on November 11. From left, Chaplain Connick and John Weichman make final preparations before everyone arrives. Pictured right: Volunteer Andre Doucet gives a free turkey to a community member. The turkey giveaway was made possible by Greer’s and other sponsors who donated 50 turkeys so that the police department could help reach those in need of a Thanksgiving meal. The families were selected through NEST of Mobile, the Senior S.A.I.L. Program, churches and other outreach groups.
Operation Santa’s Helpers plan well-executed
Through Operation Santa’s Helpers, the Mobile Police Department provided Christmas gifts to more than 50 children. On Monday, December 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., parents brought their children to pick up the gifts at the Community Services Unit. Operation Santa’s Helpers kicked off with the officers meeting parents at various stores to shop a week prior to the gift pickup date so that they could select the gifts their children would like. The gifts included toys such as scooters,
LEGO building sets, miniature hockey games, play kitchens and dolls as well as clothing. The ages of the children receiving the gifts ranged from 5 years old to 12 years old. Operation Santa’s Helpers is a project organized by the Community Services Unit. The support of donations from sponsors made the gift-giving opportunity possible. The sponsors were Gulf Coast Federal Credit Unit, Joe Bullard Automotive, Springhill Toyota and the Gulf Coast Association of Black Journalists. WATCH WKRG NEWS 5 COVERAGE of the Operation Santa’s Helpers event.
MPD helps celebrate woman’s 100th birthday in 2021 For Jacqueline Rice, letting the good times roll is her favorite thing to do. So, of course, Mardi Gras was the theme for her 100th birthday celebration. Major Linda Tims, commander of Support Services, pulled together officers from First Precinct and the Community Services Unit as well as motors from Special Operations so that the Mobile Police Department could help make her birthday most memorable. With the help of the Excelsior Band, it was one of the best drive-by birthday parties ever. WATCH FOX 10 NEWS COVERAGE of Jacqueline Rice’s 100th birthday. Mrs. Rice is a relative of Retired Lieutenant Sibil Thomas.
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Holiday Edition | MPDTheBeat January 2013 2020 - Newsletter Template
First Precinct celebrates the holiday season by delivering gifts to schools Captain Bagsby and officers of the First Precinct delivered Christmas gifts to Maryvale Elementary School, George Hall Elementary Schooland Craighead Elementary School on December 17. Officers helping with the distribution of gifts were Sergeant Charles Welch, Officer Willie Law, Officer Noah Anderson, Officer Jacob Allen and Officer Mark McCormick. At each school the officers took a group picture with the students around the Christmas tree. Most of the students selected to receive the Christmas gifts were those who had achieved top scores. Captain Bagsby greeted each of the students and encouraged them to keep up the good work.
A heart for humanity MPD Praise & Recognition from the Community I want to thank all the officers that responded to the calls related to my husband, Alvin Wiggins Sr. Every officer was so understanding and kind. I have never gone through an experience like this but they made me feel like they understood and wanted everything to turn out alright. After every encounter, they said, “call us if you need us to come back.” That brought me a lot of comfort. Keep up the good work!!! —Karen Montgomery Wentworth Court
January 2013 Edition - Newsletter Holiday 2020 Template | MPDTheBeat
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Second Precinct collects toys to give to families in need
Planning ahead for the Christmas season in order to be give back to the community was a goal for the Second Precinct. The shelves were filled from the toy drive and toys were distributed by the social workers to area children.
Third Precinct gives Christmas presents to local schools
The Third Precinct also delivered Christmas gifts to local schools during the holiday season. Officer Steven Guidry, Crime Detail, and Ronwick Thomas, FIT Team, distributed the gifts to Spencer-Westlawn Elementary School, Chastang Elementary School, Florence Howard Elementary School and Just Four.
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Holiday Edition | MPDTheBeat January 2013 2020 - Newsletter Template