2010 Annual Report - Post Falls Police

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TMission StatementThe Post Falls Police Department is committed to provide a safe, secureenvironment for the community and our employees. We exist to serve thecitizens of Post Falls and visitors to our community with respect, fairnessand compassion. The Department is dedicated to the prevention of crime,the protection of life and property, the maintenance of law and order, theenforcement of laws and ordinances, and upholding the constitutional rightsof all those within our jurisdiction.Core ValuesValue: Commitment to value our employees and volunteers and haveconfidence in their skills and abilities.Integrity: Commitment to uphold our positions of trust by maintaining thehighest ethical standards as set forth in the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics.Community Safety: Commitment to public safety through communitypartnerships, preparedness, crime prevention strategies and steadfastenforcement of violations of the law.Service: The Department will provide prompt, professional, and courteousservice, unbiased and effective in our response to community concerns. Wevalue courtesy, compassion and respect.Quality: We are committed to the highest standards of excellence throughrecruitment, training, teamwork, leadership, innovation and accountability.1

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TOrganizational Chart2

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TInvestigation DivisionDIVISION COMMANDER: CAPT. GREG MCLEANCarol Prosser - Investigation and Evidence TechnicianDETECTIVESDave Beck – Detective SergeantRod Gunderson – DetectiveMark Goodwin – DetectiveJohn Mason – DetectiveBob McDonald – DetectiveBrian Williamson – Task ForcePaul Farina – DARE/School Resource Officer/Juvenile DetectiveNeil Uhrig – Campus Police Officer/Juvenile DetectiveO.A.S.I.S.(Officers and Advocates Sharing Intervention Services)Bridget Eismann – Crime Victim AdvocateChristine Jones – Crime Victim AdvocateCODE ENFORCEMENTCurtis Exley – Community Services OfficerAshleigh Schild – Community Services AdministratorVOLUNTEERS IN POLICE SERVICE (VIPS)Mary Button Gary Bohne Carol NettlesJackie Kirk James Knepshield Jerry SpreenJack Jordan Kevin Gentry George GrismerElaine Hannah Bob Hannah Bob HubofMaurene Humphrey Lori Nelson Rita BrewerAnitta Peyton Nate Greenwood Sylvia KoehlerCarol EmeryLaura Somerton3

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N THigh School Resource OfficerOfficer Neil Uhrig has returned for a second year as the School ResourceOfficer (SRO) for Post Falls High School. The job of SRO requires Officer Uhrigto be a police officer, a counselor and teacher. It is not uncommon to findOfficer Uhrig in a classroom and an hour later handling a student issue inhis office. In the same day, you may find him arresting someone for dealingdrugs to our children. Over the summer, Officer Uhrig attended SRO school inBoise, the Alcohol Enforcement Conference in Utah, and recently completedtraining in Child Abuse Injury Reconstruction and Investigation.Neil taught in as many classrooms as possible at Post Falls High School. Thisyear Officer Uhrig began providing presentations to community groupsand parents. In his interactive presentation, he covers topics such as “spice”,energy beers, prescription drug abuse, sexting, clothing trends, and violentmusic. Hundreds of community members have attended these presentations,including juvenile probation officers, mental health providers, and schoolteachers in the Post Falls and Lakeland School Districts. In 2011, Officer Uhrigwill continue to offer this presentation to groups by request.OFFICER NEIL UHRIG WITH THESPOKANE INDIANS MASCOTAs a police officer, his primary duties are to provide a safe learning environmentfor students. In 2010, Officer Uhrig investigated and built five cases againstpeople dealing drugs to students. Some of these offenders were studentsthemselves, while others were adults preying on children. Keeping drugs outof our schools remains a top priority.5

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TDARE2010 continued to be a busy year in our schools as enrollment continued toclimb to an all-time high of 5,620 students. Unfortunately, child abuse andchild sheltering also continued to increase. There is no easy answer. It hasbeen suggested the economy may be a cause. School Resource Officers (SRO)cleared approximately 500 cases this year. Several cases involved juvenilerunaways fleeing out-of-state. SRO’s located runaways in Montana, Texas,Washington and California. It is believed the relationship built with SRO’s,DARE Officers, students and faculty are a direct result of the success of out-ofstaterunaways being found.OFFICER PAUL FARINA WITHDARE GRADUATESSRO’s continue to participate with the Kootenai County juvenile staffingprocess. The SRO’s, Juvenile Probation, Juvenile Diversion, Juvenile Detentionand Kootenai County Prosecutors collaborate to use a balanced approachto ensure community protection holding the juvenile offender accountable.One primary goal is to provide juvenile offenders an opportunity to makepositive choices in their lives.The DARE program continues to be a success in our schools. Over 500 fifthgrade students graduated from the program in 2010. The DARE Programrecently teamed with the American Heart Association to include T.A.T.U.students, which is Teens Against Tobacco Use. Our DARE Officer, Officer PaulFarina, was named to the Board of Directors for Idaho Drug Free Youth in aneffort to continue with the drug free message for our youth.6

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TCommunity ServicesCommunity Services continues its commitment to be proactive in bringingproperties into compliance. Community Services has been working withother City employees in reviewing and re-writing several City Ordinances tomake them less confusing to the public.One of the larger cases handled in 2010 involved a citizen of Post Falls whohad unsightly conditions occurring on his property for over a decade. He hadbeen in this community for years and was very agreeable to working withCommunity Services bringing his property into compliance.Over six dump trucks full of debris were removed from the property. Thehomeowner removed vehicles, trailers, motors, tires, wood, metal scraps, andother random debris taking nearly five months to complete. The progress onthe property greatly improved the appearance of the neighborhood.OFFICER CURTIS EXLEY WITHASHLEIGH SCHILDThe Post Falls Police Department added a second team member to theCommunity Services group. Officer Curtis Exley is a retired officer with 28years at the Idaho State Police. Officer Exley is a sworn officer with the PostFalls Police Department, enabling this Department to issue citations andenforce State Statues and City Ordinances.7

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TO.A.S.I.S.(Officers and Advocates Sharing Intervention Services)O.A.S.I.S. is the Victim Services Unit of the Police Department. It is staffed withtwo full time Crime Victim Advocates who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 daysa week. Bridget Eismann and Christine Jones fill these two positions. CaptainGreg McLean is the acting Program Director for O.A.S.I.S. Detective SergeantDave Beck continues as the direct supervisor of the program; Detective JohnMason is the Domestic Violence Detective and Carol Prosser serves as thefinancial grants advisor. Maurene Humphrey is a volunteer for the program.Program Highlights:• Grants: O.A.S.I.S. was awarded $144,218.75 in grants.• Support Groups: Our adult support group saw 580 people attend. A newteen program was started in October, called H.O.P.E. FOR TEENS. At no costto the attendees, this group meets for 8 weeks.CHIEF HAUG WITHBRIDGET EISMANN• Donations: Two large donations were received by the youth of ourcommunity. The first being a 5th grader from Mullan Trail Elementarywho collected and donated school supplies and food. These items weredistributed to victims of crime and local schools. The second donation camefrom the Post Falls High School FCCLA Club who collected food for ourdomestic violence shelter. We also received over $3,747.00 dollars in cashdonations allowing us to assist victims of crime.• Silent Witnesses: The River City Leadership Academy made 30 new silentwitnesses• Hands are Not for Hitting: 995 students attended• I Can Handle Bullies: 527 students attended• No Means Know; Teen Dating Violence: 557 StudentsLooking forward to 2011: O.A.S.I.S. will be using the title “Victim Services Unit”to better identify our services within the communities we serve.8

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TDrug Turn-In ProgramThe Drug Turn-In Program continues to be a big success. We had 131 incidentsduring the year of 2009, where individuals brought medication to the PoliceDepartment for destruction. There were 178 incidents of medication turn-inas part of the Drug Turn-In Program for the year 2010. The Police Departmentalso participated in the National Pharmaceutical Drug Take-Back day onSeptember 25, 2010 where individuals could stop by and drop any over thecounter or prescription medication in a container for destruction.Volunteers In Police Service(VIPS)DRUG TURN-IN PROGRAMThe Post Falls Police Volunteers are a team of highly trained volunteers whoenhance our agencies abilities in the prevention services of crimes andcommunity awareness through pro-active law enforcement principles. Sincethe inception of the Volunteer Program in 2003, our members have donatedliterally thousands of hours toward our agencies continual promise to keepour citizens safe.Our Volunteers provide weekly shifts, on a regular basis, where their patrolvehicles are seen throughout the community watching homes that are vacant,making sure those who are traveling have secure homes to return to, andassist officers with property watch duties. Our Volunteers assist with vehiclesthat are left abandoned, unregistered, broken down or are illegally parked.Volunteers provide extra patrol in the summer around our community parkswhere they meet with our residents acting as a liaison, providing informationto the Department which is vital in keeping vandalism down and ourcommunity healthy.VOLUNTEER JACKIE KIRKEach Volunteer has the opportunity to work in the various sections of thePolice Department where they receive training on a wide variety of jobs.They continue to be an integral part of our record keeping for the PoliceDepartment. Through their time and efforts we are able to store recordselectronically, making information more accessible to officers and the public.9

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TChaplainsThe Chaplain’s program was expanded in 2010 by adding a new Chaplain to theunit. Chaplain Jim Grassi joined Chaplains Dan Lynch and Mark McWhorter inoffering their services to the Police Department. Our Chaplains are a tremendousasset to the Department, performing death notifications, counseling andassisting in watching children until proper agencies are notified.PICTURED LEFT TORIGHT: CHAPLAINS JIMGRASSI, DAN LYNCH, ANDMARK MCWHORTERThe Chaplains spend many hours at the Police Department and riding alongwith officers during their shifts. The Chaplains visit members of the Departmentwho are sick or in the hospital; they help provide meals and rides for thosewho have been hospitalized, as well as, needed assistance once they returnhome. They also serve as an excellent resource for employees experiencingdifficult times in either their professional or personnel lives.In 2010, the Chaplains joined the new Critical Incident Debriefing (C.I.D.) Teamreceiving training relevant to the needs of the Police Department.We are truly blessed to have an active group of Chaplains.PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:CHAPLAIN DAN LYNCH, SERGEANTPAT LEONARD, ECO JENNEENIXON, CHAPLAIN JIM GRASSI,ECO LORI BORDERS, CHIEF SCOTHAUG, OFFICER NEIL UHRIG,CHAPLAIN MARK MCWHORTER,Critical Incident Debriefing(C.I.D.) TeamIn early 2010, the Post Falls Police Department created the Critical IncidentDebriefing (C.I.D.) Team. The team consists of three Chaplains, oneSergeant, two Senior Patrol Officers, one Detective, and two EmergencyCommunications Officers.The C.I.D. Team was created to assist employees of Post Falls Police Departmentin dealing with a traumatic incident. The basic philosophy of the C.I.D. Teamis that of peer support. This team provides a safe, confidential arena in ourdebriefings for personnel to vocalize their concerns, question, thoughts andfeelings related to a critical incident.The C.I.D. Team trains to look for early warning signs of those severely affectedby a critical incident and who may be in danger of harming themselves orsomeone else. The C.I.D. Team trains in active listening skills, its primary focus.OFFICER SCOTT HARMON, ANDOFFICER DENNIS SANCHEZ.1 0

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TPatrol DivisionFront Row, Left to Right: Pat Leonard, Gary James, Pat Kenner, Scot Haug, Pat Knight, DaveMarshall, Mark Brantl, Kathy EshooSecond Row: Chris Thompson, Scott Hildesheim, Brett Chapman, Neil Uhrig, J.D. Putnam,Frank Bowne, Dennis Sanchez, Hope Tucker, Paul FarinaThird Row: Joshua Payton, Steve Prosch, Louis Acosta, Pat Eismann, Troy Moss, ScottHarmon, Josh Cass, Peter McManusFouth Row: Ian Johnson, Jason DeWitt, Aaron Ogle, Dale Harvey, Todd Flood, KevinSchmeckpeper, Jason HuntFifth Row: Kristi Williams, Roger Huntman, Christine Weeks, Dennis Stoeser, LauraSomerton1 1

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TPatrol DivisionDIVISION COMMANDER: CAPTAIN PAT KNIGHTPatrol SergeantsGary James – Administrative SergeantKathy Eshoo – Patrol SergeantMark Brantl – Patrol SergeantDave Marshall – Patrol SergeantPat Leonard – Patrol SergeantPat Kenner – Patrol SergeantPatrol OfficersLouis Acosta Frank Bowne Brett ChapmanJason DeWitt Pat Eismann Todd FloodScott Harmon Dale Harvey Marcy BlackIan Johnson Steve Kiehn Jason HuntPeter McManus Troy Moss Bob McDonaldJosh Payton J.D. Putnam Aaron OgleKevin Schmeckpeper Brenda Smith Dennis SanchezHope Tucker Chris ThompsonAnimal SafetyChristine Weeks Kristi Williams Roger HuntmanAnimal Safety Officer Animal Safety Officer Animal Shelter Mgr.Vehicle MaintenanceJohn Grafe – Fleet Maintenance1 2

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TPatrol Vehicles & MotorcyclesThe Post Falls Police Department was fortunate to purchase five (5) newChevy Impala patrol vehicles this past year. Four of these vehicles will allowus to remove high mileage vehicles from our fleet. One of the new patrolvehicles is outfitted for patrol work and has been painted with the Post FallsHigh School colors of orange and black. This vehicle is assigned to the HighSchool Resource Officer Neil Uhrig.The Department was able to purchase two new Kawasaki Concourse 1400’s thisyear to replace the 2001’s the two motor officers were currently riding. Thesenew Kawasaki’s are the latest and greatest with three stage traction controland three stage ABS braking systems. They are equipped with Panasoniccomputers in the trunks and e-citations with Blue Tooth printers.Special Equipment/GrantsThe Police Department applied for and was awarded a grant to purchase a newYamaha Rhino 4 x 4. The new Rhino is used to patrol the Centennial Trail andour parks, providing additional safety to our community. Due to the numberof parks and trails throughout our City, the Rhino is a valuable tool for ourOfficers and Volunteers. By owning this vehicle, the Police Department is ableto utilize it all year long in various capacities such as: plowing parking lots anddriveways of the Police Department during the winter months, special needsduring community events, patrolling remote areas of the Centennial Trail, andalso utilized for incidents where a regular police vehicle is unable to go.An additional grant was secured for the purchase of a 20 foot enclosed trailerto be utilized as a Special Response Trailer. This trailer was purchased locally atInterstate Trailer. The trailer will be outfitted with Police Department graphics,computers, televisions, dry erase white boards, gun racks, benches, shelving,fire extinguishers, and much more. This trailer will serve multiple disciplines.It will be utilized as a Command Post for SWAT call-outs, major case/crimescenes, and utilized for the firing and training ranges. It is truly a multi-purposetrailer and one that we are very proud of.1 3

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TUniform UpgradesThe Post Falls Police Department rolled out a new look in uniforms! Jumpsuits have been a hot topic among patrol officers allowing the officer to workin comfort. These suits are washable and very durable, cutting down on drycleaning costs and representing an overall savings in uniform costs. Officersare allowed to wear the jump suits while on routine patrol. During specialevents, such as court, Post Falls Days, Parades, etc. the Officers will continueto wear their Class B style uniforms.DUI Top Cop AwardThis award is given out each year to the top DUI officer from their respectiveagencies. For the second year this was awarded to Officer Chris Thompsonfrom the Post Falls Police Department. Officer Thompson had 82 DUI arrests, upfrom 61 last year and he is continuing to excel in this area of law enforcement.Officer Thompson takes great pride in making our roadways a safer place tobe. He is very dedicated to the safety of the Citizens of our Community.OFFICER CHRIS THOMPSONTraffic SchoolThe Post Falls Police Department conducts a Driver/Safety Education trainingclass two to three times a month. This class enables a Kootenai County citizenwho is contacted for a traffic violation the opportunity to attend this schoolin lieu of receiving a Uniform Traffic Citation at the officers’ discretion. Theschool consists of four hours of instruction including videos relating to trafficlaws and educating the driver. These topics range from seatbelts to causes ofaccidents and discussions about traffic laws.When a citizen agrees to attend this school, a summons is issued and theviolation is not added on their driving record, and does not affect theirinsurance. The student must complete a class within 30 days from the day ofthe summons.OFFICER JASON DEWITTTEACHES TRAFFIC SCHOOLTO 30+ STUDENTSDuring the past year each class consisted of approximately 30 to 35 people inattendance. This year Rathdrum Police Department offered the same optionutilizing our Driver/Safety Education training classes. Additionally, the countycourt system referred approximately six people to attend our traffic school inorder to adjudicate a citation issued by another agency.1 4

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TReserve Officer ProgramWe started 2010 with three active reserve officers. We brought on threemore that attended and graduated from North Idaho Reserve Academy.We will end the year with 5 reserve officers on staff.Our Reserve program consists of Officer Greg Blish, Officer Steve Prosch, OfficerBrad Johnson, Officer Brian Michels and Officer John Hatcher. Combined,these reserve officers have contributed over 750 hours of service to the Cityof Post Falls, most of which is unpaid time.Reserve officers assist with the City’s major events doing an excellent job. ThePolice Department is able to depend on these reserve officers during majorevents which allowed for adequate coverage both at the event and on thestreet. They assist on many special surveillance details when patrol staff wasat minimum deployment, allowing patrol to remain on the streets.Our reserve officers participate in monthly meetings, training and ranges andassisted full-time patrol officers in their duties as a two man unit. The Post FallsReserve Officer program provides an opportunity for qualified individuals toserve the City in a law enforcement capacity while preparing them for a fulltime career in law enforcement.OFFICER BRAD JOHNSON1 5

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TAnimal SafetyIn April 2010, a 12’x12’ dog run was donated for a disabled lady and herdaughter. Many neighbors had called and addressed concerns for the familypet and its living conditions. Darrin Shibley with Inland Fence was contactedand graciously donated and installed the dog run. Since then neighbors havestopped calling with concerns for the animal.Shelter Manager Roger Huntman opened communications with a Canadianrescue group in April, 2010. After thoroughly researching this group we arenow able to send dogs to Canada for rescue and adoption.We have worked diligently in the past several years to get more dogs licensedin the City of Post Falls. Part of this endeavor was to find a local vet that wouldallow citizens of Post Falls to license their dogs. In September, Animal Safetyand Kootenai Animal Hospital (KAH) came to an agreement that KAH wouldnow offer dog licensing at their facility. We have found that a “one stop shop”really does work. When a citizen visits their facility, they are able to purchasea dog license. This program is working very well and has generated over 400dollars in dog licenses. KAH also provides information educating local citizensregarding certain ordinances concerning their pets and licensing.OFFICER FRANK BOWNEWITH KODAK-9 ProgramThe Post Falls Police Department K9 unit was founded in September 2009.Officer Frank Bowne and Koda hit the streets in December 2009, assigned to thePatrol Division, commanded by Captain Pat Knight. Officer Bowne and Kodahave worked very hard at receiving their Idaho State Tracking Certification.In September, they completed a 6 week Basic Narcotics Detection Coursehere in Post Falls held by Ralph Ansel, a former Adlerhorst instructor. OfficerBowne and Koda successfully earned their Idaho State Narcotics DetectionCertification. Koda has been called upon to use his detection ability by multipleagencies such as the Idaho State Police, Kootenai County Violent Crimes TaskForce, and our agency. They have been involved in over 80 incidents this yearand have participated in over 400 hours of training.During this year Post Falls Police began a Facebook page for Koda and the K9Unit. To date, we have 250 fans and the page is updated weekly with newsand photos. The page is maintained by Officer Brenda Smith who is headingup a team planning a 5K run that would benefit the K9 program. This fun runis known as Leashes & Laces and is scheduled for March 27, 2011.1 6

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TS.W.A.T.Post Falls Police Department S.W.A.T. (Special Weapons and Tactics) Team iscomprised of 11 members from patrol and investigations. The team consistsof 9 entry members and a 2-man sniper element. The team is commandedby Captain Pat Knight and trains on a monthly basis. Each member of S.W.A.T.attends a Basic S.W.A.T. school after being selected to the team. The teamis trained and equipped to handle and resolve incidents exceeding thecapabilities of first responders. These incidents would include, but not limitedto, hostage taking, barricaded suspects, snipers, terrorist acts and other highrisk warrants.The team goes through yearly training needs assessment, along withcontinuous and scenario based training, all of which has to be documented.Post Falls Police S.W.A.T. has been called upon to assist Kootenai CountyS.W.A.T. on extended incidents.In 2010, Post Falls Police S.W.A.T. assisted Idaho State Police Investigations withthe execution of a search and arrest warrant on a narcotics distribution suspect.The execution of the search and arrest warrant was to be done at the sametime as Kootenai County S.W.A.T. was executing a warrant in another part ofthe county with regards to the same investigation. This kind of collaborationis very common, and requires extensive planning and experience. We arepleased to report all suspects were secured and locations were made safe forthe investigators to take over.In March 2010, the team was called upon by the Kootenai County Sheriff’sDepartment to assist their SWAT element searching for a homicide suspect whohad fled into the national forest east of Hayden. We received a complimentaryletter from Sheriff Rocky Watson for our participation in a successfully resolvedincident (next page).In late July, members of Post Falls Police S.W.A.T. were called to assist on abarricaded kidnapping suspect in Post Falls that was reportedly armed insidea residence. The suspect was able to escape the residence prior to the team’sarrival. After investigation, the suspect was located at a local bar and wastaken into custody by members of the team.1 7

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P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TCommunications DivisionThe Communications Division includes both the Dispatch and Records Centersof the Police Department and is supervised by Communications DirectorCharlene Holbrook. This Division consists of two Shift Supervisors, elevenEmergency Communications Officers (ECOs) and two Records Specialists. TheDispatch Center operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Front Row, Left to Right: Lindsey Castles, Laurie Sutton, Amanda Hughes, CharleneHolbrook, Scot Haug, Hillory Wichman, Joanie Huska, Michaela ThompsonBack Row: Jennee Nixon, Lori Borders, Brianne Pitt, Suzi Koep, Carrie Wade, Shannon Coder,Vicky Dowd (Picture taken in August 2009)DIVISION COMMANDER:Charlene Holbrook – Communications DirectorEmergency Communications OfficersJoanie Huska – Shift SupervisorLaurie Sutton – Shift SupervisorLori BordersJennee NixonMichaela ThompsonEmily McEvoyNancy RayAmanda HughesAmy RasmussenHillory WichmanAnnette ClarkLaura ClaffeyRecords DivisionShannon Coder – Police Department SpecialistCarrie Wade – Police Department Specialist1 9

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TPriorities of theCommunications CenterEach of our Emergency Communication Officers (ECOs) takes great pride inthe service they provide to the Police Department and the communities theyserve. They embrace their duties with confidence and professionalism. Thoseduties include:• To insure the safety of the public, police, fire, and EMS personnel by makingdiligence, speed, accuracy, and professionalism a priority when gatheringinformation and dispatching calls.• To greet those who call us for assistance with courtesy and compassion,keeping in mind the caller is often under stress and completely unaware ofwhat information we need from them, why we need it, and how busy wemay be when they call.• To never forget that we represent the public, the City of Post Falls and City ofRathdrum, and the opinions formed of the City’s entire emergency servicemay hinge on how they are treated by our ECO.• To receive and relay information in the shortest, most accurate form.The Communications Center plays an important role in the Police Department’sability to serve the community. Emergency Communications Officers (ECOs)are a vital link between citizens and resources. The duties of an ECO are broad.In addition to performing a variety of record keeping and administrative tasks,ECOs perform both call taking and dispatching duties. They answer citizen’semergency and non-emergency calls for service and dispatch Police Officersfor Post Falls and the Rathdrum. Their performance directly contributes to thesafety and well-being of officers, citizens, and visitors of our community.The job of the ECO can be very stressful. On many occasions, a call is receivedfrom someone in a crisis situation in need of police, fire or EMS assistance.The ECO must be able to calm the caller, so the necessary information can beobtained, then effectively relay the information to responding police officers,units and agencies.During 2010, the Communications/Records Division handled approximately138,127 phone calls, including 9,395 Emergency 911 calls and 30,467 calls forservice for the Cities of Post Falls and Rathdrum.2 0

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TGoals of theCommunications Center• Hiring and retaining qualified employees who can perform the job. ProvideCommunications related training to our staff.• Facilitate the development of highly trained, proficient, dedicated, and selfmotivatedpersonnel.• Begin transition into NG911 – future media and communication technology.• Maintaining complete and accurate public records. Using LaserFiche scanningtechnology in the maintenance of records.2 1

Calls For Service 2000-2010Red Indicates Busiest HourBlue Indicates Quietest Hour2 2

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TNew EmergencyCommunication OfficersWe are pleased to welcome three new Emergency Communication Officers(ECO’s) in 2010:Annette ClarkAnnette has been employed by the Post Falls Police Department since May2010. Prior to her starting at the Police Department, she served 8 years in theUnited States Air Force as a Staff Sergeant in the Security Forces field. Annettespent her Air Force career at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana.While serving in the Air Force, she received an Associate’s Degree in AppliedScience, Criminal Justice, from the Community College of the Air Force.Emily McEvoyEmily graduated high school in Elko, Nevada in 2003 and moved to Boiseshortly after graduation. She lived in the Boise area for four years, whereshe attended Boise State University and worked two years for JC Penny LossPrevention. Emily began her Asset Protection career with Cabela’s in August of2006, then moving to North Idaho in September 2007 to open the Post Fallsstore. She was promoted to Asset Protection Manager in April of 2008. Sheheld that position until she started with the Post Falls Police Department onMay 24th 2010. Emily is an avid outdoors woman and spends her free timeenjoying North Idaho hiking, hunting, fishing, camping and exploring thebackcountry on horseback.Laura ClaffeyLaura started working as a dispatcher with Post Falls Police Department(PFPD) in April 1990. She worked as a dispatcher for eleven years and as theManagement Assistant for 5 years subsequent to a one year furlough tocare of her family. Laura left PFPD in February 2006 to try some new thingsand get more involved with her community (Sandpoint). After working as adog groomer, construction site assistant, and a medication specialist for theVeterans and Indigent Services of Bonner County over the course of two years,she decided that nothing was as fulfilling as working in law enforcement.Laura started working for Bonner County 911 in September 2008 and was anAssistant Supervisor six months later. Laura became aware of an opening indispatch for PFPD, applied and was re-hired almost 20 years to the day thatshe first started her career with Post Falls. Laura is very glad to be back andanticipates that she will be employed with the Police Department for manyyears to come.2 3

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TEmployee of the 3rd Quarter Amy RasmussenAmy was named Employee of the Quarter by her peers. Amy has been withthe Post Falls Police Department since November 2009. Amy is a well roundedEmergency Communications Officer and she works well with our team. Priorto coming to Post Falls Police Department, Amy worked at River City PhysicalTherapy as a Medical Administrative Assistant, while attending North IdahoCollege. Amy received her Associates Degree in Applied Science.Employee of the 4th Quarter Jennee NixonJennee was named Employee of the Quarter by her peers. Jennee has been withthe Post Falls Police Department since January 2007. Jennee is a well roundedEmergency Communications Officer and she works well with our team. Priorto coming to Post Falls Police Department, Jennee worked for Kootenai County911, where she was a Communications Officer for approximately 3 years.POST Academy – Hillory WichmanHillory Wichman attended the Idaho Peace Officer Standards and Training(POST) Basic Academy in October. Hillory successfully completed 80 hoursof course work. The Idaho POST Academy provides the knowledge and skillsnecessary to function effectively as an Emergency Communicators Officer.Saying Goodbye – Suzi KoepWe bid farewell to Suzi Koep, who retired in March of this year with twentythree years of service. Suzi will be missed by many who worked with her.She began her career with the Post Falls Police Department in May of 1987. Suzicame to the Department with an Emergency Medical Technician backgroundand was able to utilize her medical experience at the Police Department.She became an instructor of Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD). When Suziretired, she passed on her knowledge of the EMD System and encouragedLori Borders and Laurie Sutton to become EMD Instructors. Lori and Laurie arenow certified APCO-EMD Instructors.2 4

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TTelecommunications WeekIn 1992, Congress designated the 2nd week of April as “National TelecommunicatorsWeek” honoring the men and women in emergencycommunications. Post Falls Police Department hosted the one day eventhonoring Emergency Communications Specialist in our region to thankthem for the work that they do each and every day. We had guest speakers,lunch and door prizes for all those who attended. We are able to meet otherTelecommunicators from surrounding agencies and put a face to the names ofthose that we work with throughout the year.RecordsThe Records Specialist’s primary responsibilities include maintaining publicrecords, files, and reports. These records provide key information pertainingto cases under investigation and many times are used in court as evidence.They are also responsible for collecting fees and fines associated with PoliceDepartment transactions and coordinating the Traffic School classes.Our Records Specialists are responsible for reporting accurate information tothe National Incident Base Reporting Systems (NIBRS). NIBRS is an incidentbased reporting system which requires data to be collected on each singlecrime occurrence. The primary objective is to establish a reliable set ofcriminal statistics for use in law enforcement administration, operation, andmanagement.The Records Center offers and provides the citizens, community, and otheragencies with a number of other services.• Records requests• Traffic School sign ups• NIBRS• VIN Inspections• Animal Safety License• Alcohol Licenses• Youth Awards• Scanning• Bicycle License• Processing SubpoenasRECORDS SPECIALISTSSHANNON CODERAND CARRIE WADEWe are currently in the process of digitizing all police records dating backto 1974. We are scanning all documents to help preserve the records andensure the history of the Post Falls Police Department is captured throughthis process.2 5

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TInformation Technology (IT)John Mittmann – IT AdministratorVictor Fansler – Information Analyst2010 was a year directed at updating Information Technology infrastructure.In June we upgraded the Windows Domain and Forest structure. This allowedfor increased performance, stability, and availability for users in performingtheir daily tasks. In addition to the domain upgrade, the Email server wasrebuilt, and reconfigured which increased its performance and reliability. ThePolice Department, as well as most business and government agencies today,rely heavily on its Windows based computers and Email server. Performanceand reliability of these systems is critical to the proper and efficient operationof the organization on a daily basis.The security firewalls were replaced with Fortigate firewalls. A firewall is thesingle most important point of defense against email spam, computer viruses,and computer hackers. The Fortigate firewalls process information muchquicker than the old ones and are installed in a “cluster”. If one firewall fails,the other firewall responds automatically without any human intervention.Utilizing this feature is critical in a Law Enforcement and 911 environmentswhere downtime and loss of service needs to avoided.The Police Departments backup strategy has also been strengthened andupgraded. Two Dell backup servers were installed. One server was placed in thePolice Department and the other in an offsite location. All of the Departmentcritical data files are backed up to the server in the Police Department andthen replicated offsite to the other server. In the event the server in the PoliceDepartment fails, data can be accessed from the offsite location.Digital Evidence storage was another area that was upgraded. Prior to thisyear digital evidence was stored in several different servers and locations.All digital evidence was consolidated and moved into one application whichmakes access and retrieval more efficient.Seconds matter when serving the public in emergency situations. Keepingtrack of time and documenting events as they occur accurately is also veryimportant in solving crime. The Police Department installed a GPS time serverwhich synchronizes all the time clocks on every computer in the agency.A new surveillance camera site was installed along the Centennial Trail. This areahas experienced a high amount of graffiti and vandalism in the past. Installingthe surveillance cameras allows Dispatch to monitor the area and alert patrolofficers of potential crimes in progress. This area is also a popular entry pointto the Centennial Trail where trail users park and leave their vehicles. If a crimeoccurs in the parking area of the trail, the surveillance information can bereviewed for possible suspects and evidence aiding in their apprehension.2 6

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TFinally, during the summer two new police motorcycles were purchased. Eachmotorcycle was outfitted with a mobile data computer and E-Citation software.The mobile data computers enable the motor officers to do their jobs moreefficiently by giving them access to information just like in their patrol cars. E-Citation software allows the officer to issue a citation quickly and more safelyas well. Installing the computers on the motorcycles allows the officers GPSposition to be transmitted to Dispatch so that their exact location is know at alltimes. This creates a safer working environment for the officer.High School ProgramWe started a work experience program this year in conjunction with Post FallsHigh School. The program gives high school students the opportunity to jobshadow Police Department employees for a semester allowing them to learnnew skills and apply them.We feel that this program is a great success for the students and the Post FallsPolice Department. Each student is required to submit an application and aformal job interview. The students are very professional and did very well intheir interviews. Each student completes a one week orientation. Students sitalong with each Division of the Police Department so that they will get a generalunderstanding of the services the Post Falls Police Department provides. Theyalso join officers on several ride-alongs with our Patrol Division.Students are advised of our expectations and goals we have set for them.Each student comes to work dressed for a professional work atmosphere andare willing to participate in each task they are asked to perform. The tasksinclude, but are not limited to:• OASIS Packets: Put together Domestic Violence and Rape Packets to begiven to victims of these types of crimes.• Scanning: Scan officer reports, record requests, vehicle maintenance logs,and court citation sheets.• Shredding: Shred copies of sensitive documents as needed.• Brochures: Ensured that our lobby was staffed with brochures. Printed andfolded a variety of brochures as needed.• Traffic School: Cross reference the class roster with participants who signedup for the course.• Evidence: Erased old tapes so that they could be reused.• DARE: Created, printed and addressed all invitations and certificates for DAREgraduations for our six Elementary School DARE Programs.• Customer Service: Greet the public at our front counter and answeredadministrative phone lines for the Police Department.2 7

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N THolidays and Heroes ProgramThrough our community outreach programs, we come across many in ourcommunity who do not have basic items of food or clothing, let alone theopportunity to feel the joy of Christmas. For over 15 years, ten agencies anda multitude of volunteers have joined together to participate in the “Holidaysand Heroes” program. Police officers and firefighters work in partnership withbusinesses, civic groups, and citizens in the surrounding area to make a child’sChristmas a little bit brighter.Children’s names are provided to the organizers by school resource officers,school counselors, patrol officers, deputy sheriffs, or firemen who come intocontact with families that need assistance. Many of these public servantsvolunteer their time to make this event special for families.The event was held on December 19th. Children were picked up at theirhome by a police officer in a patrol car. The children are driven to a Wal-Martin Spokane Valley, Post Falls, or Hayden. Police and firemen take the childrenthrough the store picking out Christmas gifts for the family of the child whilea “secret shopper” shops for the child with the officer.After the shopping is complete, the children are taken back to the GreyhoundPark in Post Falls to visit with Santa and have lunch. The Greyhound Parkfacility is provided free of charge for the event. While the children are meetingSanta, volunteers wrap their presents and prepare a large food basket for theirfamily equipped with all the items needed to make a tasty holiday meal.At the end of the day, the officers load the presents and food into their patrolcars and take the children home. All of the participating officers and firemenvolunteer their time. We were fortunate to help nearly 100 families have aspecial Christmas this year.2 8

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N TPolice DepartmentPicnic August 2010Every year we set time aside to spend with our family & friends at our annualpicnic. This year our Chaplains planned the event. The picnic was held atChaplain Grassi’s residence. Police Department employees & volunteers had agreat time. There were many special activities such as face painting, archery,fishing, swimming, games for the kids, and lots of food.2 9

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N T2011 Police Department Goals:1. Continued development of positive working relationships with fellow teammembers.2. Continued work to analyze employee compensation in comparison witharea competitors, as well as, operating and capital needs, while consideringeconomic condition and city revenue.3. Continue to work on a proactive approach to ordinance enforcement.4. Research and determine the best path forward for enhancing publicawareness of emergency preparedness. Sponsor emergency preparednessworkshops and provide tips on website on how people should preparethemselves for disasters that might occur here in North Idaho.5. Continue to research and implement technologies that will enhance publicsafety while helping to contain staffing costs.6. Further build upon the successful volunteer program to help augmentpublic safety activities in Post Falls.7. Determine the best means by which to participate more in the planningand analysis of proposed annexations and development projects to helpensure a good, solid public safety design.8. Commit to implementing professional development opportunitiesfor all members of the Department, especially those centered aroundperformance management.9. Ensure Departmental efficiency with an analysis of our current resourcesand work to utilize them. Review operations and ensure that the staff isbeing used as efficiently and effectively as possible.2010 Quarterly Officer of Employee of Volunteer ofAwards the Quarter the Quarter the Quarter1st Quarter Brenda Smith Christine Jones James Knepshield2nd Quarter Steve Kiehn John Grafe Laura Somerton3rd Quarter Dennis Sanchez Amy Rasmussen James Grassi4th Quarter Pat Kenner Jennifer Nixon Bradley Johnson3 0

P O S T F A L L S P O L I C E D E P A R T M E N T2010 Officer of the Year – Pat KennerPat Kenner graduated from Post Falls High School in 1977. He began his careeras a Marine Deputy for Kootenai County and began working as a Patrol Officerfor the Post Falls Police Department on October 1, 1979. He received the Officerof the Year award in 1979, so this is the second time he has received this honor.Pat was promoted to Patrol Sergeant on August 31. 1991. He became theCommunity Services Sergeant in June 3, 1995. In January of 1999, Pat Kennerwas promoted to Detective Sergeant and served in that role until January 24,2009, when he went over to the Patrol Division to serve as Patrol Sergeant. Patis one of our Certified Domestic Violence Instructors for the Department. Hehas dedicated over 30 years to serving this community. Pat is married to Kathyand they have two sons and five grandchildren.2010 Employee of the Year – Christine JonesChristine Jones began working as a Crime Victim Advocate on November 13,2006. Christine’s daily activities include answering the 24 hour crisis line, safetyplanning, shelter screens, and referrals. She also works with our Detectives oncurrent domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and child abuse cases. Thisis a very challenging job and Christine does it with great dignity and respect.In 2008, Christine was elected to be the President of the North Idaho CoalitionAgainst Domestic Violence and continues to hold this position. Christine alsorepresents our Department at weekly Domestic Violence Diversion staffingand heads up the community outreach for our Victim Service Unit. She hasassisted in providing anti-violence education to over 2,760 students in the PostFalls, Lakeland and Coeur d’Alene School Districts. She is married to Fire ChiefAaron Jones and has a son and daughter.2010 Volunteer of the Year – Jim KnepshieldJim Knepshield became a volunteer at the Police Department in April of 2006and comes to us after a career in the aerospace industry. Jim is an accomplishedaerospace engineer. He gained his formal education through Cal StatePolytechnic University in Aerospace Engineering and went on to graduatefrom the Program Managers Course at the Defense Systems ManagementCollege. Jim’s extensive work history includes his time in the U.S. Dept of Navy,at the Naval Air Warfare Center in China Lake California where he finished a 35year career as the Deputy Director for the Research and Engineering division.Jim has been a strong part of our volunteer program since joining in 2006, andis now one of the co-coordinators of the Volunteers on Patrol program. He hasdonated over 3,200 hours of his time over the past 4 and a half years. Jim ismarried to Ruth and they have two daughters and four grand children.3 1

Contact InformationEMERGENCY – 911Post Falls Police Department Information – Non Emergency208-773-3517Officer’s & Advocates Sharing Intervention Services – O.A.S.I.S208-773-1080Code Enforcement208-773-3517Animal Safety208-773-3517Patrol Division208-773-3517Detectives208-773-3517TIP Line208-777-COPSProsecuting Attorney208-773-0215Committed to providing a safe,secure environment for our communityPlease contact Post Falls Police Department at www.postfallspolice.com with any questions