SARASOTA POLICE DEPARTMENT · thanking the officers and civilians of the Sarasota Police ... When factored in along with the reduction of police personnel, ... and New World Records

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SARASOTA POLICE DEPARTMENT 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

CONTENT Message from Chief Bernadette DiPino 2 Vision, Mission Statement and Core Values 3 Table of Operation 4 Population Trends, Personnel & Workload 5-6 Notables 7 Uniformed Crime Rate Summary from 2008 – 2014 8 Challenges 9 Patrol Operations Division 10-16 Criminal Investigations Division 17-25 Support Services Division 26-28 Office of Professional Standards 29-35 Office of the Deputy Chief of Police 36-38 Partnership Policing Communications Coordinator 39-40 Police Advisory Panel 41-42

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MESSAGE FROM CHIEF BERNADETTE DIPINO Greetings to our Community Policing Partners! I am pleased to share with you our 2014 Annual Report. As always, I must begin by thanking the officers and civilians of the Sarasota Police Department and the citizens of the City of Sarasota as well as our visitors for their contributions and support during 2014. I am proud to share that this year the City of Sarasota experienced the lowest crime rate numbers in the last 20 years. I attribute that reduction to proactive partnership policing, crime prevention strategies and our intelligence-led policing initiatives. The year 2014 was spent on standardizing our processes and expanding the relationships with our community using a modern twist – social media. Thanks to our ever busy Partnership Policing Communications Coordinator, Genevieve Judge, our department has gone “viral” on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and email. From turtles to traffic jams, you can count on knowing the up-to-the-minute details and events which the Sarasota Police Department is handling. Our Citizens Police Academy is thriving and we continue to recruit and graduate citizens interested in getting an “insiders” look at operations of the Sarasota Police Department. Our Blue + You campaign is going strong and we continue to see success with our Blue + Movies + You events. We hired a full time Accreditation Manager, Cheryl Houpt, and have re-applied with the State of Florida for accreditation. We anticipate going through the full accreditation process in 2 years. Until then, we are meeting the standards and have trained our entire department on the accreditation process. We foresee the continual loss of our police force due to retirements as well as career changes. We hired a new Recruiter / Background Investigator, Kate Meeks-Hall. She has hit the ground running and is proactively seeking applicants with good character. Our goal is to mirror our community. If you know of any individuals you believe could be a good police officer candidate – a good communicator, problem solver, community oriented, intelligent, fit and friendly personality – please give us their name and encourage them to visit our website to apply. We will continue to address violent crime, drugs, homeless issues and quality of life issues in our community in 2015 just as in 2014. Remember our saying “Lock It Up, Sarasota” – a crime prevention initiative which is helping reduce thefts from vehicles. With a community as passionate and attentive as Sarasota, I can’t help but believe 2015 will be as good as, if not better, than 2014. I am excited to be your Chief and partner in crime fighting and keeping our community a safe place to live, work and visit. Be Safe. Bernadette A. DiPino, Chief of Police

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SARASOTA POLICE DEPARTMENT

VISION

The Sarasota Police Department utilizes a proactive, intelligence led law enforcement strategy to prevent and reduce crime.

MISSION

Professional, dedicated police service in partnership with our community.

CORE VALUES (I.A.C.P.)

• Integrity

• Accountability • Commitment

• Professionalism

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TABLE OF ORGANIZATION

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POPULATION TRENDS, PERSONNEL, & WORLKOAD

POPULATION TRENDS

Sarasota is a thriving and dynamic city. It’s a destination for travel, entertainment, and work for thousands of people every day. Based on the 2010 census, Sarasota has a resident population of approximately 52,600 however this does not accurately reflect the actual number of people who are within our city limits at any given time because it is acts as the hub for commerce, tourists, and entertainment. In a three county area, the functional population of Sarasota is much higher. A 2007 population study of the City provided estimates of the functional population for the years 2008 – 2010. Each year, the number increased by approximately 5%. In 2008, the estimated mean number of people within the city limits during the day was 100,966; at night it was 74,314 which averages out to 87,641. In 2010, the average was 88,649. In keeping with the rate of increase of 5%, by 2016, the number is estimated to be 91,635. The residential population is projected to grow at the rate of .025% to .035% per year through 2030.

PERSONNEL

Several sustained years of economic recession have resulted in significant restructuring and downsizing of both sworn and civilian Department personnel. The Department’s number of sworn personnel has been cut by approximately 23% over the past 9 years. In fiscal year 2006 - 2007, the number of sworn officers was authorized for 204. For fiscal year 2014 - 2015, the number has been reduced to 158. The Department’s number of civilian personnel has also changed dramatically. Between the fiscal years of 2006–2007 and 2014–2015, the number of full-time civilian employees has decreased from 65 to 41, or a 37% decrease. On the other hand, the number of part-time employees has increased from 2 to 15, or a 750% increase.

CITY DEMOGRAPHICS (2010)

Resident Pop. (est.) – 52,600

Caucasian – 65.6%

African American – 15.1%

Native American – 0.4%

Asian Indian – 0.3%

Other Asian – 1.0%

Hispanic/Latino – 16.6%

Other – 1.63%

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The following table illustrates the personnel change:

F/Y 2006-2007 F/Y 2014-2015 % Change

Sworn 204 Sworn 158 -23 Civilian Full Time 65 Civilian Full Time 41 -37

Civilian P/T* 2 Civilian P/T* 15 +750 *These numbers exclude the part-time School Crossing Guard positions.

WORKLOAD In 2014, the Department received 72,683 calls for service which was down by 8% from 2013. When factored in along with the reduction of police personnel, the number of calls presents a significant challenge to the Department in determining how to best sustain the level of police services to our community that we pride ourselves on and preventing employee burn-out due to increased workloads. Our strategic plan will include measures to address these issues.

AGENCY STATISTICS F/Y 2014-2015

Authorized Sworn Employees – 158

F/T Civilian Employees – 41

P/T Civilian Employees - 15

Annual Budget - $29,445,964

Officer Ratio per 1000 pop. – 3.0

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NOTABLES

• “Blue + You” program in partnership with the Ringling School of Art and Design was launched in April 2014.

• “Coffee with a Cop” was launched in February 2014.

• Continued success with “Tweet from the Beat” from all shifts and specialty units.

• The Downtown Ambassador Program was launched in July 2014 with a focus on Downtown, Saint Armand’s Circle, and the Newtown Community.

• Participated in events to raise awareness such as the Cold Water Challenge for Fallen Officers and Cal Ripkin Sr. Foundation’s “Rachel’s Challenge” for anti-bullying.

• Officers attended numerous meetings with residents and business owners to engage our community partners.

• Hosted numerous nationwide trainings for Law Enforcement personnel.

• Recipient of the New Horizon Award from the Florida Crime Prevention Association.

• The Homeless Outreach Team was created in the Fall of 2014. As a result, the “Homeward Bound” program was launched to assist homeless individuals in reconnecting with friends and family.

• Initiated the “Turn Your Life Around” program along with Prostitution Advisory Letters to curb prostitution along North Tamiami Trail.

• SPD was awarded several Grants such as the VOCA Grant, “Enhancing Law Enforcement Response to Victims” Grant, COPS Grant, and JAG Grant.

• Hired an Emergency Manager, Crime Analyst, Homeless Case Manager, Accreditation Manager, Volunteer Coordinator, Quartermaster, Recruiter and Background Investigator, and two Police Officers.

• Updated the infrastructure of the Emergency Operations Center.

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UNIFORMED CRIME RATE SUMMARY FROM 2008 – 2014

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Murder 8 7 6 8 4 4 3 Rape/Forcible Sex Offenses 26 31 20 36 39 39 23

Robbery 196 174 165 172 136 151 108 Aggravated Assault 352 328 319 297 246 219 213

Total Violent 582 540 510 513 425 413 358

Burglary 815 758 825 698 705 564 479 Larceny 2662 2320 2229 2414 2093 2023 1947

Motor Vehicle Theft 189 147 134 114 99 155 111 Total Non-Violent 3666 3225 3188 3226 2897 2742 2537

Total Index 4248 3765 3698 3736 3322 3155 2895

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CHALLENGES

The Sarasota Police Department will implement two new systems in 2015 – Body Camera Program and New World Records Management System.

• The New World Records Management System will begin rollout to all Sworn and Civilian personnel during the summer of 2015. Members of support staff have spent countless hours developing the programs in support of Intelligence Led Policing.

• After a year and a half of research, the Body Worn Camera program is nearly ready to begin

training and rollout for all Patrol Officers. Given current national events, the cameras will be beneficial to our officers for safety and training purposes.

The next few years will be crucial to the City of Sarasota and the Sarasota Police Department as budgets and resource allocation will continue to be monitored. Some challenges the Department will face over the next several years are the following:

• Maintain adequate staffing levels to meet increasing demands for service.

• Significant turnover in supervisory positions due to retirements will result in new employees beginning to take the lead.

• Employee hiring and retention.

• Maintain the agency’s high level of fiscal responsibility with ongoing demands for budget

reductions, cost savings, and analysis of financial expenditures.

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PATROL OPERATIONS Captain Patrick Robinson Commander, Patrol Operations 941-954-7011 – Office [email protected]

Lieutenant J.K. Stiff Deputy Commander, Patrol Operations

941-954-7013 – Office [email protected]

Patrol Operations is commanded by one Captain and one Deputy Commander who holds the rank of Lieutenant. Patrol Operations also directs the Traffic/Motor Unit, K-9 Unit, Marine Unit, Homeless Outreach Team, and the School Resource Officer Unit.

The Division has four (4) Patrol Shifts that each work 12-hour shifts. Each of these shifts is supervised by a Lieutenant and three (3) Sergeants.

Uniformed officers are placed into three districts within the City of Sarasota – North, Central and South. Each officer is assigned a Patrol Zone or Walking Beat. There are ten Patrol Zones and four Walking Beats in the City of Sarasota.

The Deputy Commander of the Patrol Operations is also assigned as the Commander of the Special Operations Units. These Units include the Special Weapons and Tactics Team, Explosive Munitions Unit, Dive Team, Emergency Response Team, Crisis Negations Unit, and Honor Guard.

2014

72,683 Calls for Service Handled

5,467 Arrests Made

13,761 Citations Written

2,457 Vehicle Crashes Investigated

1,123 Field Interviews Conducted

467 Employee Observations

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PATROL OPERATIONS

• All Patrol Shifts share intelligence information and Patrol Observation via SharePoint which is reviewed during the daily shift briefings to allow a more efficient and productive exchange of information between the 12-hour shift personnel

• The creation and implementation of the Patrol Operations online calendar to ensure officers attend all neighborhood meetings and functions

TRAFFIC UNIT

The Traffic Unit is comprised of four officers and a Sergeant who have received advanced training in traffic enforcement and Police Motorcycle operation. The Traffic Unit also manages the Red Light Camera Program.

MOTORCYCLE OFFICERS Officers assigned to operate police motorcycles

receive 80 hours of basic motorcycle training. They have an additional eight hours of training

per month with local law enforcement agencies to hone their skills.

2014 Traffic Unit

2,076 Citations Written

9 Call-Outs

5 fatal crashes & 4 serious injury

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PATROL OPERATIONS

SPECIAL WEAPONS & TACTICS TEAM

The Special Weapons and Tactics Team (S.W.A.T.) is comprised of a Team Leader, Assistant Team Leader, two S.W.A.T. Medics and 18 specialty trained officers.

EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS UNIT

The Explosive Materials Unit is comprised of three specialized trained officers, one of which is a Sergeant.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM

The Emergency Response Team is an interagency unit that is tasked with providing tactical needs in law enforcement services as well as field force contingent if needed. There is currently one Sergeant and eight officers assigned to this team. They had 1 callout in 2014.

CRISIS NEGOTIATIONS UNIT The Crisis Negotiations Unit is currently comprised of five

officers and one Sergeant who respond with S.W.A.T. during incidents that require prolonged specialized negations.

The Unit responded to 3 callouts and 1 event in 2014.

2014 S.W.A.T.

2 Callouts

7 Planned Search Warrants

8 Public/Citizen Group Demonstrations

2 Dignitary Protection details

2014 EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS UNIT

4 Callouts

3 Responses to Assist Other Agency

15 Dignitary Protection Events

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PATROL OPERATIONS

DIVE TEAM & MARINE PATROL

The Dive Team is comprised of eight specialty trained officers. The Sarasota Police Department has one full-time marine patrol officer.

SARASOTA POLICE DEPARTMENT BOAT

The Sarasota Police Department currently owns two boats. These marine vessels are used to protect the waterways in and around the City of Sarasota. Thanks to a generous grant from the West Coast Inland Navigation District, the Sarasota Police Department was able to purchase a new 34-foot Yellowfin center console boat. The boat, which was purchased in September 2013, is used to enhance and protect the waterways of Sarasota County.

2014 MARINE PATROL 12 Callouts

14 Police Representation Participated in 8 events

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PATROL OPERATIONS

K-9 UNIT

The K-9 Unit is comprised of three Uniformed Officers, one Sergeant and their K-9 Partners.

2014 K-9 Unit 308 Calls for Service

33 Arrests 93 Citations Written

34 Times Deployed for Patrol Operations 34 Narcotics Searches

28 Public/Citizen Group Demonstrations

In 2014, K9 Nero passed away after a brief battle with cancer. K9 Nero, a German Shepard, was 8 years old. He

served the City of Sarasota proudly, with his partner Sergeant Michael McHale, being certified in both

Patrol & Narcotics.

The Sarasota Police Department K-9 Team of Officer Sean Gleason and K9 Hixon were honored in 2014

with 2nd Place Drug Detection K-9 Team from Southern Coast K9 during the 17th Annual Bomb and Drug Detection

seminar in Daytona Beach, Florida. Sgt. Michael McHale with K9 Nero

Officer Sean Gleason with K9 Hixon

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PATROL OPERATIONS

HOMELESS OUTREACH TEAM

2014 Contacts

771 Contacts made

150 Individuals are currently working with the Case Manager

4 Encampments located (Decreased from 22 in 2013)

402 individuals identified as homeless and living in the City of Sarasota

Comprised of one Sergeant, one Officer, and one Case Manager, the Homeless Outreach Team was created in the fall of 2014. The purpose of the Team is to interact with the City of Sarasota’s homeless population, assist those individuals in receiving the help they need, coordinating efforts with service providers in the area, and enforcement of City Ordinances.

The members of the team have conducted training for all Sarasota Police Department Officers on homeless services available, City Ordinances, and interactions with the homeless population.

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PATROL OPERATIONS SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER UNIT The School Resource Officer Program provides police presence in the two high schools and one middle school within the City of Sarasota. Each School Resource Officer is actively engaged in school activities and provides each school with law enforcement services and coordination.

Sergeant Eric Bolden Supervisor of the S.R.O. Unit Officer Todd Perna Assigned School: Brookside Middle School Officer Sheldon Cantrell Assigned School: Sarasota High School Officer Chris Devaney Assigned School: Booker High School

All three School Resource Officers are active and engaged with the student body at each of their campuses.

• Officer Perna holds a “Question of the Week” which Brookside Middle students enjoy. He pulls names weekly and hands out prizes which are donated from local businesses.

• Officer Cantrell is an Assistant Football Coach at Sarasota High and a Track Coach at Booker High.

• Officer Devaney has taken a vested interest in mentoring several students at Booker High School.

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CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION Lieutenant P. V. Ledwith Commander, Criminal Investigations Division 941-954-7073 – Office [email protected]

Lieutenant James Rieser Deputy Commander, Criminal Investigations Division


The Criminal Investigations Division is commanded by one Lieutenant, two Sergeants, 10 Detectives and one Civilian Investigator.

The primary function of the Criminal Investigations Division is to conduct follow-up investigations of reported crimes. These investigations consist of interviewing suspects, victims and witnesses; analyzing information for validity, reliability and accuracy and compiling a comprehensive and factual case file to be presented in court. 2014 CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• The City of Sarasota experienced a 12% decrease of Violent Crimes in 2014.

• Continued using crime analysis to practice smarter policing by identifying crime trends and implementing the High Point Drug Market Initiative (DMI). The second phase is in the works after three subjects were selected following an operation involving 21 street level drug dealers. In addition, four subjects were selected for the first phase of the “Turn Your Life Around” Program aimed at ending prostitution.

• Detectives, with the assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Bureau, completed a long-term investigation targeting upper, mid, and lower level cocaine dealers in the City of Sarasota. A total of 33 subjects were arrested with 14 kilograms of cocaine and $145,000 in U.S. currency seized.

2014

1,194 Criminal Investigations

115 Cases per Detective

225 Felony Arrests

33% Annual Clearance Rate

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CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION

The Criminal Investigations Division has four Investigative Units:

• Major Crimes/Special Victims • Property Crimes

• Vice Narcotics • Criminalistics

MAJOR CRIMES / SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT

The Major Crimes Unit has three Crimes Against Persons Detectives, two Crimes Against Children Detectives and one Sergeant. One Crimes Against Children Detective is responsible for coordinating all Sex Offender Checks within the City of Sarasota. The other Crimes Against Children detective is assigned to the Central Florida Internet Crimes Against Children and FBI Child Exploitation Task Forces.

Detectives of the Major Crimes Unit are responsible for the follow-up investigation of the following crimes: Homicides, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Sexual Battery, Robbery, Home Invasion and Kidnapping, handling all child pornography investigations.

Specially trained detectives serve as members of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Child Abduction Response Team (CART) Region 6 in Fort Myers.

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CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION – MAJOR CRIMES UNIT

The annual clearance is determined by felony arrests and cleared cases compared to the number of felony investigations.

Crimes Against Persons 2013 2014

Total Investigations 197 183

Felony Investigations 173 124

Felony Arrests 37 32

Annual Clearance 29% 25%

Crimes Against Children 2013 2014





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CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION – PROPERTY CRIMES UNIT

PROPERTY CRIMES UNIT

The Property Crimes Unit has one Sergeant, five detectives and one civilian investigative aid. The Sarasota Police Department Property Crimes Unit investigates felony and high profile cases listed as burglary, grand theft, dealing in stolen property, identify theft and other types of economic crimes.

The annual clearance is determined by felony arrests and cleared cases compared to the number of felony investigations.

Crimes Against Property 2013 2014





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CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION – VICE/NARCOTICS UNIT

VICE/NARCOTICS UNIT

The Vice/Narcotics Unit has the primary responsibility for the investigation of street level and mid and upper level drug traffickers and smugglers. The Vice/Narcotics Unit also is primarily responsible for the investigation of pharmaceutical diversion crimes in the City of Sarasota. The Nuisance Abatement Program is also part of the Vice/Narcotics Unit. It is dedication to investigating both commercial and residential properties suspected of being involved in the use and sale of drugs, prostitution, gang activity or dealing in stolen property. Properties involved in these activities are cited and referred to the Nuisance Abatement Board. This Board has the legal authority to force landlords and property owners to abate such nuisances and impose civil penalties.

Vice/Narcotics Unit 2014

Arrests 164 Felony Charges 202

Misdemeanor Charges 92 Search Warrants 32 Vehicles Seized 9 Money Seized $319,116

Firearms Seized 21 Marijuana Seized 1,414 g

Rock Cocaine Seized 110.9 g Powder Cocaine Seized 13,626.9 g Prescription Pills Seized 160.70 g

Heroin Seized 39.3 g MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly) Seized 63.2 g

Methamphetamine Seized 12.5 g Designer Drug (Spice) Seized 12,025.9 g

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CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION

STREET CRIMES UNIT The Street Crimes Unit is proactive and high tempo to address a multitude of issues within the City of Sarasota to include: Prostitution, street level drug dealing, burglary and robbery and quality of life issues. In 2014, the Street Crimes Unit initiated “Turn Your Life Around”, a prostitution diversionary program. Following 27 operations targeting prostitution along the North Trail Corridor, four women were placed the residential program.

CRIMINALISTICS UNIT

The Criminalistics Unit has one Civilian Manager and three full-time technicians. Their responsibilities include responding to various crime scenes to process, collect and preserve evidence including video and evidence submitted by officers; receiving and evaluating latent print cards submitted by officers; receiving digital memory cards submitted by officers and maintaining the original files; receiving all Sarasota Police Department arrest booking sheets from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and maintaining the fingerprint and palm print files.

Tasks 2014

Automated Fingerprint ID Entries 154 Call-Outs 288

Case Photos Downloaded to CD 1,301 Evaluate Latent Requests 195

Latent Comparisons 352 Latent Hits 76

Video Collection Requests 67 Photo & Digital Requests 810

Lab Submissions to F.D.L.E./S.C.S.O. 153 DNA Hits 23

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CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION VICTIM ADVOCATE PROGRAM The Victim Advocate Program provides services to the victims of serious crimes. The Victim Advocate serves as a liaison between the Sarasota Police Department, the State Attorney and various community groups dedicated to helping preserve the rights of crime victims. In 2014, the Victim Advocate Program assisted a total of 344 new clients and responded to 39 on-scene call-outs to assist victims of crime and persons experiencing trauma and crisis.

Victims of Crime Act Victimization 2014 Cases

Assault 15

Battery 57

Burglary 6

Domestic Violence 111

Deaths (includes suicide, homicide, traffic fatalities)

67

Other Crimes 37

Robbery 16

Sexual Violence 16

Other Crisis Situations 14

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SUPPORT SERVICES DIVISION Captain Corinne Stannish Commander, Support Services Division 941-364-7367 – Office [email protected]

Lieutenant Jason Reed Deputy Commander, Support Services Division


The Support Services Division oversees Training, Background and Recruitment, Property and Evidence, Records, MIS (Management Information Systems), Alarms, Payroll and Personnel, Fiscal and Administration, Fleet, Red Light Camera Program, School Crossing Guards, Building Maintenance and Quartermaster. TRAINING UNIT

2014 continued with many opportunities for the Sarasota Police Department to host training programs with nationally recognized training courses. In addition, the Training Unit provided all 158 Officers with 32 hours of mandatory training reference a variety of topics.

2014 In-Service Training

Firearms Training/Qualifications Human Diversity/Fair and Impartial Policing

Sarasota P.D. Supervisory Training Accreditation Overview

Emergency Management Patrol Rifle Qualification/Training Sarasota P.D. Taser X-2 Training

Defensive Driving Techniques Legal & Social Issues re: Homelessness

2014 Training Hosted by Sarasota P.D.

Exploring Sexual Offender/Physical Abuser

IPMBA Police Cyclist Certification Course

DDACTS Implementation Workshop

ICS/NIMS 400 Advanced Incident Command

IACP Leadership in Police Organizations

IACP Women’s Leadership Institute

Open Range/Retiree Firearms Qualifications

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SUPPORT SERVICES DIVISION BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS AND RECRUITMENT 2014 was another challenging year as our agency has seen an increase in retirements due to the baby boomers coming of age to retire. Twelve police officers left employment this year which has challenged our Background Investigations and Recruitment Office. It can take up to a year to successfully hire one police officer from application to training. A task team of current Officers also assisted in creating new ways to streamline the hiring process and make it more efficient.

An emphasis has now been put on the recruitment process, which involves attending regular policy committee meetings at the Sarasota Criminal Justice Academy, attending job fairs, and recruiting from colleges and Veteran’s organizations.

RECORDS

With the purchase of the New World Records Management System, 2014 has kept our task team busy with helping to build out the program which will increase our efficiency in managing the increase of reports that were processed by our Records team

RECORDS 2014

More than 73,000 cases processed

4,498 Name/Address checks

More than 151 Public Records requests

13,723 Traffic Infraction Warnings

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SUPPORT SERVICES DIVISION RED LIGHT CAMERA PROGRAM

With the implementation of the Intersection Safety Program which utilizes state-of-the-art digital cameras and Violation detection systems for the purpose of decreasing Violations of the traffic control regulations and reducing collisions, the City of Sarasota has seen an average decrease of 15% at the 10 most dangerous intersections.

What is a Red Light violation?

Straight Through: A red-light violation occurs when a motorist crosses over the white stop line after the traffic signal has turned red. However, motorists already in the intersection when the signal changes to red, waiting to turn for example, are not considered red-light violators. Right Turn: A red-light violation occurs if the motorist completes the right turn in a non-careful and prudent manner. Right Turn with 'No Turn On Red' sign: A red-light violation occurs when a motorist completes a right turn at the intersection.

2014 RED LIGHT CAMERA PROGRAM

24,483 Red Light Infractions Reviewed

21,576 Citations issued for Red Light Infractions

1,421 Hours spent reviewing potential violators

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OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS Captain Lucius Bonner, Jr. Commander, Office of Professional Standards 941-954-7053 – Office [email protected]

Lieutenant John LeBlanc Deputy Commander, Office of Professional Standards


The goal of the Office of Professional Standards is to monitor the performance of the Sarasota Police Department and develop methods to measure and improve community satisfaction. The Office of Professional Standards has four Investigative Units: Internal Affairs, Accreditation, Planning and Research and Crime Prevention. Personnel assigned to the Office of Professional Standards include sworn personnel, civilian employees and volunteer professionals from our community.

INTERNAL AFFAIRS UNIT

The Internal Affairs Unit is currently staffed with one Lieutenant and one Sergeant. The Lieutenant is assigned to oversee the Internal Affairs function. The Lieutenant receives and documents all inquiries and complaints made directly to the Internal Affairs and Complaints Section. The Sergeant is assigned to thoroughly and fairly investigate Formal Administrative cases and properly document investigations in an Investigative Report and provide recommendations on findings and possible discipline to the Chief of Police.

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OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

2014 INTERNAL AFFAIRS UNIT

171 Allegations of Misconduct brought against SPD Officers 131 of 171 allegations were received externally

36 were initiated internally, 2 reported anonymously

INQUIRIES

74 Inquiries conducted at the Division Level – No misconduct noted.

INFORMAL INVESTIGATIONS

88 Informal Investigations conducted at the Division Level.

Of the 88 investigations, 48 resulted in Sustained charges: 19 Missed Court/Depositions 11 Miscellaneous Violations

10 Police Vehicle Operations/Maintenance 8 Code of Conduct

As a result, the following disciplines were issued:

31 Verbal Counseling 10 Letters of Instruction and Caution

8 Letters of Reprimand 1 Employee Suspension

FORMAL INVESTIGATIONS

9 Formal Investigations were conducted by the Internal Affairs Section.

Of the 7 completed investigations, 4 resulted in Sustained charges with the following disciplines issued: 2 Letters of Reprimand for various policy violations

2 Letters of Reprimand for Code of Conduct violations 1 1-day Suspension for Code of Conduct violation

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CRIME PREVENTION UNIT

Crime Prevention Officers are assigned to three Districts within the City of Sarasota – North, Central and South. All three officers are certified Crime Prevention Practitioners who perform some of the most important tasks as part of Sarasota Police Department’s overall community policing and crime prevention efforts. These include community outreach events such as National Night Out and giving presentations to Community and Neighborhood Groups.

The Crime Prevention Unit received recognition at the 45th Annual Florida Crime Prevention Association Conference. The recipient of the award is one who has shown the most vision and growth in the Crime Prevention field between October 2012 and September 2014.

Community Programs

Neighborhood Watch

Business Watch

Ride-A-Long

Citizen Volunteer

Citizens Police Academy

Project Lifesaver

Chaplaincy Program

Senior Programs

Read To Me

2014 Accomplishments

96 CPTED/Security Surveys Completed

Attended 153 Neighborhood meetings

Recovered 6 individuals enrolled in the Project Lifesaver Program

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CITIZEN VOLUNTEER PROGRAM The Citizen Volunteer Program with the Sarasota Police Department is an excellent opportunity for community members to join others who are committed to the community that we live in and the police department that serves them. Our volunteers are additional eyes and ears for the Sarasota Police Department. Our program provides a resource of qualified volunteers to assist the Sarasota Police Department in maintaining and improving the quality of service provided to the citizens of the City of Sarasota.

Sarasota Police Department Citizen Volunteers

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CITIZEN VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Members of the Sarasota Police Department Citizen Volunteer Program are a dedicated group of individuals. They work as Goodwill Ambassadors, providing support and assistance where needed to the residents, visitors, and the employees of the City. In 2014, the 65 volunteers collectively donated more than 13,000 hours of time and talent back to the community. That is equivalent to nearly seven full-time employees!

VOLUNTEER DUTIES

Volunteers aid and assist the operations of the Police Department in a variety of ways. You can find them working in administrative positions, on the street during special events and parades, or even patrolling neighborhoods in our community.

In July of 2014, the Ambassador Program was launched. This exciting new program operates in downtown Sarasota, on St. Armand’s Circle, and in Newtown. Ambassadors provide friendly assistance to visitors, residents, and business owners by answering questions and giving directions. They also are an extra set of eyes and ears.

WANT TO VOLUNTEER?

If you would like to learn more about becoming a Citizen Volunteer for the Sarasota Police Department, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Michelle Rinaca at 941-366-2845.

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CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY

Since 2013, the Sarasota Police Department has held three Citizen Police Academy sessions. The Academy is held twice a year with classes once a week and a graduation ceremony at the conclusion of the program.

The 11-week program is designed to give residents of the City of Sarasota a hands-on look into why and how the Sarasota Police Department operates. Citizens learn about patrol techniques, emergency response and explosive material teams, SWAT and Crisis Negotiation Unit, Dive Team, K-9, drug awareness, criminalistics, training, special events, firearms and marine patrol. Some classes are held outside at places like our gun range so citizens can experience firearms training. The Citizens Police Academy is open to all residents of Sarasota age 18 and older. For more information or to register, call Officer Danny Robbins at 941-954-7056 or apply online at www.sarasotapd.org.

http://www.sarasotapd.org/

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OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS ACCREDITATION UNIT The Accreditation Unit is currently staffed with one civilian accreditation manager and supervised by a police Sergeant. The Accreditation Manager is responsible for maintaining files on more than 250 standards that prove the department’s compliance with the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation. Approximately 125 law enforcement agencies in the State of Florida are accredited through the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation, Inc. The accreditation process is an on-going project that requires constant monitoring and periodic updating of policies and procedures to ensure continued standards compliance. PLANNING AND RESEARCH The Sarasota Police Department’s Planning and Research Unit is responsible for coordinating policy development and state accreditation compliance. The unit also conducts all requested research and contributes to the development of new programs and initiatives. The unit manages the detailed development of all written directives and ensures that all policies are consistent with applicable laws, departmental goals, accreditation standards and the latest in law enforcement practices.

POLICE CHAPLAIN SERVICES The Chaplain Program was designed to assist our officers in dealing with the emotional and physical challenges inherent to law enforcement. Officers are exposed to critical and traumatic incidents throughout their careers that often go unseen by the public we serve. Chaplain Dwayne Geib provides support, guidance and resources to our officers. He has worked with the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation to bring Peer Support Training to the Sarasota Police Department.

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OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY CHIEF OF POLICE

INTELLIGENCE UNIT

The Intelligence Unit consists of two detectives and one Crime Analyst responsible for collecting and disseminating general and specific criminal intelligence information. One Detective conducts investigations and maintains liaisons with other regional intelligence units in the State of Florida. The other Detective serves as the Gang Coordinator and tracks all known or suspected gang members. The Unit also participates in Regional District Six and F.B.I. Terrorism Task Forces.

The Crime Analyst assists all sworn personnel in identifying crime trends occurring in the community. Statistics are based on factors such as crime types, locations, dates and times, as well as suspect descriptions.

The following table demonstrates a decrease of part one crimes over the last 20 years.

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014Part I

Crimes6238 5831 5426 4610 3711 4278 4671 4699 4553 4374 4084 4148 5214 4248 3765 3698 3739 3322 3155 2883

Percent Change

-6.5% -6.9% -15.0% -19.5% 15.3% 9.2% 0.6% -3.1% -3.9% -6.6% 1.6% 25.7% -18.5% -11.4% -1.8% 1.1% -11.2% -5.0% -8.6%

Part I & Simple Assault

6885 6649 6205 5308 4314 4885 5591 5804 5574 5274 4902 4997 6062 5040 4522 4455 4565 4189 4107 3646

Total Change

-3.4% -6.7% -14.5% -18.7% 13.2% 14.5% 3.8% -4.0% -5.4% -7.1% 1.9% 21.3% -16.9% -10.3% -1.5% 2.5% -8.2% -2.0% -11.2%

Deputy Chief of Police 941-954-7006 – Office

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OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY CHIEF OF POLICE

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

After the retirement of the City of Sarasota’s Emergency Manager in 2014, the Emergency Management program was moved to the purview of the Sarasota Police Department. In May 2014, Todd Kerkering joined the City of Sarasota as the new Emergency Manager.

The Emergency Manager works with all Charter Officials and their subordinate departments to develop and maintain programs to save lives and protect property in the event of natural or man-made disasters. The Emergency Manager serves as the City’s representative for planning and coordination with Sarasota County and other jurisdictions within our region.

Richard Todd Kerkering Emergency Manager 941-363-5811 – Office [email protected]

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRw&url=https://gcorriveau.wordpress.com/tag/cem/&ei=9m86VbAkgpmDBNLlgaAH&bvm=bv.91427555,d.eXY&psig=AFQjCNHgGl0uy3Udmh7KJx7N3qYY1yVmhw&ust=1429979507667031

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OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY CHIEF OF POLICE FOUR PHASES OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Disaster-related programs within the City of Sarasota fall under one of the four phases of emergency management. These programs include: Preparedness: Training, exercises, continuity planning, response planning Emergency Operations Center readiness. Response: Evacuations, re-entry, shelter coordination, security, and search & rescue. Recovery: Temporary housing, damage assessment, points of distribution, and disaster redevelopment. Mitigation: Local Mitigation Strategy plan, Flood Plain Management Plan, and the Community Rating System.

2014 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Review and Improvements of City Continuation of Operations Plan

• Training for all Police Supervisors in Incident Command

• Emergency Operations Center outfitted with current technology

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PARTNERSHIP POLICING COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Genevieve Judge Partnership Policing Communications Coordinator 941-954-7094 – Office [email protected]

In May 2013, the City of Sarasota and the Sarasota Police Department created a Partnership Policing Communications Coordinator (PPCC) position under the Chief of Police. The PPCC works directly with the Chief of Police and the Command Team to develop programs to communicate strategic objectives and accomplishments of the Sarasota Police Department.

The PPCC also strengthens the partnership between the Sarasota Police Department and the community by providing direct and timely communications using all available media venues including TV, radio, newspaper and radio outlets as well as social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

The PPCC also serves as the Public Information Officer liaison for the Sarasota County Emergency Operations Center and the City Operations Center when activated during storms.

Follow Us on Social Media

2014 SOCIAL MEDIA STATISTICS &

FOLLOWERS

(As of December 31, 2014)

Twitter Followers – 3,874 (Increase of 2,745)

Facebook Followers – 4,219 (Increase of 2,540)

YouTube Subscribers – 376 (Increase of 309)

Instagram – 1,110 (Increase of 853)

www.facebook.com/SarasotaPoliceDepartment

@SarasotaPD (www.twitter.com/SarasotaPD)

Search: SarasotaPoliceDept (www.youtube.com/SarasotaPoliceDept)

Search: SarasotaPoliceDept (www.instagram.com/SarasotaPoliceDept)

http://www.facebook.com/SarasotaPoliceDepartment

http://www.twitter.com/SarasotaPD

http://www.youtube.com/SarasotaPoliceDept

http://www.instagram.com/SarasotaPoliceDept

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PARTERNSHIP POLICING COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR 2014 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Social media continues to be a major component of the Partnership Policing Communications Coordinator. In late 2013, the Sarasota Police Department Twitter account became verified. Having a verified account helps secure the reputation online. The blue check mark next to the Sarasota Police Department Twitter account means we are the official account of the Sarasota Police Department and not an impersonator. ‘Tweet from the Beat’ was launched in 2013 and continued in 2014.

The ‘Tweet from the Beat’ program is a chance for the Sarasota Police Department to take followers, residents and visitors on a “virtual ride-along” with Sarasota Police officers. Twitter followers can follow along and see videos and photos from an officer’s shift. Tweeting and driving is not allowed. Currently, the tweets are sent by our Partnership Policing Communications Coordinator while riding with an officer. Our YouTube and Facebook pages increased presence with more videos, media and interaction with our community. Several Public Service Announcements (PSAs) were created on the importance of locking your home and car, a PSA warning against prostitution, Shop with a Cop and Click It or Ticket. All news conferences and award ceremonies continue to be recorded and shared on our social media pages and website.




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POLICE ADVISORY PANEL

Peter Graham Administrator, Police Advisory Panels City of Sarasota Office - 941-951-3622 [email protected]

The citizen’s advisory group on policy issues, the City of Sarasota Independent Police Advisory Panel, has continued to perform as directed by its ordinance during 2014. The five volunteer members of the Panel, with staff support from the City Manager, the City Attorney, the Chief of Police, and the Panel Administrator, have been involved in consideration of topics such as the use of force, the homeless, body cameras, youth and crime, a discipline matrix, change to the legislation governing domestic violence, and consideration of proposals to improve police recruitment procedures. In addition, the Panel was tasked by the City Commissioners to “study and obtain facts and determine if accreditation for the SPD is a requirement or cost beneficial”. The Panel reported to the Commission that the cost is justified and recommended the appointment of a full-time professional Accreditation Manager. The recommendation was accepted by the Commission and the appointment has been made with beneficial results to the department and our standards for community policing.

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POLICE ADVISORY PANEL

COMPLAINT COMMITTEE The five citizen members of the Police Complaint Committee, supported by the Commander, Internal Affairs and Complaint Section, and the Committee Administrator, have also continued regular reviews of all complaints made to and investigated by the department. In a mid-year review for the City Commission, based on data collected over the three years of its existence, the committee reported that 37% of the total allegations made to the SPD were sustained after investigation, 21% were not sustained and a further 21% were unfounded. In a further 21%, the officers involved were exonerated. This data provides a template against which to assess future performance by officers in our community partnership policing programs. Each and every complaint was found to be properly processed and investigated with impressive attention to detail and thoroughness. The committee also reported a decrease in the number of matters arising from the review of investigations which required referral to the Chief for consideration of additional action.

THE FUTURE

Both bodies have announced plans to meet regularly during 2015 to continue their role in developing transparency and trust between our officers and the community. Their advice and support in our partnership policing strategy continues to be appreciated.”

Sarasota Police Department 2099 Adams Lane

Sarasota, Florida 34237

Front Desk – 941-954-7025 Non-Emergency – 941-316-1199

Emergency – 911

www.sarasotapd.org

Social Media: www.Facebook.com/SarasotaPoliceDepartment

www.Twitter.com/SarasotaPD www.youtube.com/SarasotaPoliceDept

www.instagram.com/SarasotaPoliceDept

http://www.sarasotapd.org/




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Documents

SARASOTA POLICE DEPARTMENT · thanking the officers and civilians of the Sarasota Police ... When factored in along with the reduction of police personnel, ... and New World Records