Huntington Police Department Annual Report 2010

Transcription

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From the Chief of Police
To Mayor Kim Wolfe, Huntington City Council and the citizens of Huntington:
It is my pleasure to present to you the 2010 Huntington Police Department Annual Report.
The calendar year 2010 brought us many challenges, as well as many opportunities. We have
remained committed to implementing best practices and improving the processes by which we
deliver services to the citizens of our community. Our efforts are predicated on the philosophy of
relying on data-driven, problem-oriented policing while demanding excellence in our delivery of
customer service. Our mission remains “to provide the highest level of professional police service
while preventing crime through problem-solving partnerships.”
The Huntington Police Department is a dynamic, full-service police organization comprised of 106
sworn officers and nine civilian support personnel. In 2010 the mayor and City Council approved
increasing staffing levels by five grant-funded police positions, and committing significant
resources to support police operations through grant approvals and fleet expansion. This annual
report serves as a comprehensive examination of our organization’s accomplishments. These
objectives and outcomes demonstrate a valued return on investment for all stakeholders.
We are proud to report that the crime rate in Huntington continues to decline. In 2010, we
experienced a 6.18% drop in crime. This is a continued four-year trend of reduced crime in
the city. Since 2006 the overall reduction in crime is 21.20%. This is a remarkable four-year
turnaround. These results were accomplished through the hard work of professionals at the police
department. These professionals are dedicated to making a positive difference in our community.
This report explains the organizational structure and the strategies and accomplishments of
each bureau and unit within the police department. Exciting new initiatives, individual awards,
accomplishments, and milestones are highlighted in this report.
Finally, our relationship with the organization of the Neighborhood Institute continues to grow
stronger each year. This collaboration with citizens and neighborhood representatives is the
foundation on which we have built our capacity to improve service. Our consistent, open
communication, operational transparency and accountability has provided a level of trust and a
spirit of teamwork that has not existed in many years.
“Honor, Pride, Duty” is once again synonymous with the department. It is truly an exciting time to
work at the Huntington Police Department. The only thing more exciting is the anticipation of what
we will accomplish in the future. It is my honor to be your Chief of Police.
Respectfully submitted,
W.H. “Skip” Holbrook, Chief of Police
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Table of
CONTENTS
Our Mission
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HPD Executive Command Staff
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2010 Crime Statistics
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Patrol Bureau
Traffic Unit
K-9 Unit
Special Emphasis Unit
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Criminal Investigations Bureau
Crimes Against Persons Unit
Crimes Against Property Unit
Family Crimes Unit
Forensic Investigations Unit
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Special Investigations Division
FBI Violent Crime Drug Task Force
ATF River City Gun Task Force
DEA Task Force
SWAT
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The Office of Professional Standards
Complaint Investigations
Use of Force
Employee Motor Vehicle Collisions
Future Endeavors
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Administrative Bureau
Training
Initiatives
Grants
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Programs and Partnerships
Mission Tri-State
S.T.O.P. Crime in Our Community
Huntington Police Explorers
Marshall University Forensic Science Center
Crime Stoppers
Cabell/Wayne Homeland Security Group
Huntington Police Department/Cabell Huntington Hospital Partnership
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Initiatives
DMI
Weed & Seed
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FOP Children’s Christmas Party
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2010 Awards
2010 WV Governor’s Highway Safety Program
Law Enforcement Awards
Promotions
Distinguished Service Award
Peace Officers Memorial Day
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Vision Statement
The members of the Huntington Police Department embrace quality policing and
are committed to the development of a comprehensive strategy to prevent crime,
resolve public safety issues, provide service to the community and enhance the
quality of life within our city.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Huntington Police Department is to provide the highest level
of professional police service while preventing crime through problem-solving
partnerships.
This mission is accomplished by a commitment to:
- Reduce criminal victimization
- Call offenders to account
- Reduce fear and enhance personal security
- Strive to ensure safety in public places
- When required, use force fairly, efficiently, and effectively
- Maintain fiscal responsibility to our citizens
- Meet the expectations of our community
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Executive Command Staff
Left to right: Captain Mike Albers, Captain Rocky Johnson, Chief W.H. “Skip” Holbrook, Captain Hank Dial, Captain Rick Eplin
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he Huntington Police Department
is proud to report that the crime
rate in Huntington continues to
drop. In 2010 we saw a 6.18% drop in
crime. Of particular note were the 9.28%
reduction in breaking and entering reported
and a 16.82% drop in aggravated assaults.
This is the continuation of a four-year
trend in reduced crime rates for the city of
Huntington. Since 2006 we have seen an
overall reduction in crime of 21.20%. During
that same time period there was a 29.90%
reduction in breaking and entering and a
27.05% reduction in aggravated assaults.
The partnerships and relationships
developed with the citizens of Huntington
has allowed our department to achieve
these results. The collaborations/
partnerships are also embraced by local,
state and federal law enforcement agencies
and our partnering agencies have proven
their commitment and support to our city
by providing the resources necessary to
implement and sustain the initiatives that
brought about this success. This decline in
reported crimes is a strong indicator that the
department is moving in the right direction,
as well as a challenge to continue our efforts
to make Huntington a safer city.
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In 2010...
• overall crime has
dropped 6.18%
• breaking and entering
was reduced by 9.28%
• aggravated assaults
were reduced 16.82%
Since 2006...
• overall crime has
dropped 21.20%
• breaking and entering
was reduced by 29.90%
• aggravated assaults
were reduced 27.05%
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2010
Patrol Unit Highlights
February
Day shift officers arrested William
Thompson and Roger Deacon for
auto theft. Information obtained
from these arrests led to multiple
arrests for metal thefts.
March
Night shift officers arrested Travis
Williams, a fugitive murder suspect
from Alabama.
April
Day shift officers arrested Diablo
Brown who was caught in the act
of burglarizing an apartment at 826
Eleventh Street. He was also charged
with possession of crack cocaine.
June
Evening shift officers arrested
habitual offender Herman Dement
for burglary. Evidence collected
during the arrest led to arrests in
several additional cases.
August
Evening and night shift officers
identified a drug conspiracy at 554
Bridge Street leading to the arrest
of 3 individuals and confiscation
of over 1,000 oxycontin pills, a .40
caliber pistol and drug proceeds.
December
Day shift officers identified and
apprehended Larry Smith shortly
after his robbery of the 501 Eighth
Street Marathon gas station.
Night shift officers arrested
Kenneth Ziegler on multiple
charges including possession with
intent and seized several large
bags of marijuana.
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Patrol Bureau
The Patrol Bureau is under the command of Captain Mike Albers. The current assigned strength is 68
officers or about 64% of the department. The uniformed patrol officer remains the backbone of the
Huntington Police Department. Patrol assets are typically the first point of contact with the public.
The core function of the Patrol Bureau is crime suppression and prevention through uniform presence
and response to E911 calls for service.
The Patrol Bureau also serves as the training and proving ground for new police officers. Upon
completion of the West Virginia State Police Academy, probationary police officers (PPOs) must
successfully complete a comprehensive 10 week field training program. Each PPO is instructed,
evaluated and mentored by very talented, hand selected training officers. In 2010, nine PPOs
completed the evolution through our field training program.
In 2010 Huntington Police officers responded to
43,337 calls for service and completed 11,233
reports. The Patrol Bureau accounted for reporting
6,854 offenses (90% of total offenses reported),
recording 4,838 adult arrest charges (92% of total
adult arrests), and 98 juvenile arrest charges (62%
of juvenile arrests).
Patrol officers also were responsible for some very
significant arrest and drug seizures during the year.
To the left is a brief list of some of these incidents.
Other patrol accomplishments are noted in the
“Officer of the Month” section of this report.
TRAFFIC UNIT
The Traffic Unit is commanded by Lieutenant Brenda
J. Wamsley. She also serves as the Assistant Patrol
Bureau Commander. The unit is comprised of five
officers assigned to various traffic related duties.
The Traffic Unit’s assigned officers complete 20% of
the departments total crash reports and account for
31% of the total citations issued. The Traffic Unit also
facilitated 22 road races (such as 5Ks, marathons,
run/walks), 16 parades, numerous dignitary escorts,
and traffic control for six Marshall University home
football games. This year the Traffic Unit also
conducted its first Police Motorcycle Operators
Course in the spring of 2010, training our own
personnel as well as two Cabell County deputies.
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In 2010, the K-9 Unit assisted in locating and seizing 1,145 grams of
cocaine, 74.9 grams of heroin, 4,617 grams of marijuana, and 2,013
dosage units of illegally diverted pills.
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The Traffic Unit was also recognized by the WV Governor’s
Highway Safety Program and selected to participate in
a pilot program for evaluating the effectiveness of threewheeled motorcycles for traffic enforcement. The unit
was selected to function as the control group in this study
because of our established utilization of conventional
motorcycles, and was granted $50,000 for two new HarleyDavidson police motorcycles and related equipment.
Huntington Police
Reserve Unit Activity
Lieutenant Brenda J. Wamsley
Director
Reserve Captain Ronald E. Runnels
Commander
K-9 UNIT
The K-9 Unit’s primary responsibility is the support of patrol
operations and drug enforcement activities. Two of the
K-9 officers are credentialed through the FBI Task Force,
allowing them to assist other local, state and federal law
enforcement authorities in the area. The unit currently has
five certified K-9 handlers and five dogs, four being dualpurpose tracking/apprehension and narcotics detection and
one being a single purpose tracking bloodhound.
In 2010 the K-9 Unit’s activity increased dramatically.
The unit conducted 70 suspect tracks, with 25 being
successful. They also assisted in locating and seizing 1,145
grams of cocaine, 74.9 grams of heroin, 4,617 grams of
marijuana, 2,013 dosage units of illegally diverted pills and
approximately $250,000 in illegal drug proceeds.
Special Emphasis Unit (SEU)
The Special Emphasis Unit (SEU) works closely with our
citizens to identify and solve problems that are not easily
remedied by a traditional patrol responses. These officers
conduct numerous vice and prostitution operations
throughout the city. The SEU’s quick response to
prostitution and drug complaints has had a tremendous
effect on several crime “hot spots” in our city. They also
partner with our various task forces providing additional manpower for undercover operations. The SEU
officers together were responsible for 193 adult arrest charges and seven juvenile arrest charges in 2010.
Our downtown patrol officer, while part of the SEU, is assigned specific responsibility for downtown foot/
bicycle patrol. He was responsible for a total of 173 arrest charges in 2010, with 87 of those being for
drunkenness or other liquor law violations in the downtown area.
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Each member of the Forensic Investigations Unit serves as faculty for the
Marshall University Forensic Science Program. They conduct exercises at
the Marshall University Crime Scene House and mock court scenarios.
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Criminal Investigations Bureau
The Criminal Investigations Bureau (CIB) is commanded by Captain Rick Eplin, who is assisted by
Lieutenant John Ellis, and Lieutenant John Williams. The bureau consists of 19 assigned detectives
responsible for day-to-day investigative assignments. In 2010 the bureau had a very successful year
making arrests in most major incidents of violent crimes. This bureau is divided into four divisions:
Crimes Against Persons, Crimes Against Property, Family Crimes, and the Forensic Services Unit.
Each division has unique responsibilities as it relates to the investigation of criminal activity. The
investigators assigned to the different units receive specialized training directly related to the types of
cases they will investigate.
The Criminal Investigations Bureau received
5,678 cases for review. Of that number, 1,256
cases were placed in a suspended status based
upon certain investigative criteria. Cases which
lack witnesses, identifiable property, physical
evidence, or other investigative leads are placed
in suspended/closed status. These cases will
not be investigated further unless additional
information is developed which would provide
the investigator with an avenue for inquiry. It is
not uncommon for cases that have been placed
in this suspended/closed status to be later
investigated based upon information developed
in the course of other investigations.
Crimes against PersonS UNIT
The Crimes Against Persons Unit is responsible
for investigating cases that involve assault,
battery, robbery, arson and other crimes of
violence like felonious assault, malicious
wounding and murder. Three detectives and a
lieutenant are assigned to this division. In 2010
they received 905 cases for review. During the
same period, the city of Huntington had two
murders and four bank robberies. In each of
these cases, the perpetrator was arrested and
the case cleared. We experienced an increase
in reports of robberies by individuals. In many
of these reports, the details were very vague and
the victims uncooperative. The increase in these
incidents being reported was a result of people
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being robbed during street drug transactions,
and a need to explain the loss of money
spent on drugs or other illegal activity.
Detective Cass McMillian was called upon to
teach two classes in criminal investigation to
students at Marshall University. Lieutenant
John Williams was chosen to attend two
weeks of specialized training at the FBI
Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Lieutenant
Williams successfully completed the FBI
Law Enforcement Executive Development
Course. The course is offered on a limited
basis to law enforcement executives
from around the world. It is designed to
explore current law enforcement topics
and concerns that are occurring nationally
and internationally. Detective Chris Sperry
was recognized as Officer of the Month in
January for his investigation of an arson
case which resulted in multiple arrests and
the recovery of 26 stolen firearms.
The members of this unit executed 63
search warrants and presented 78 cases to
the grand jury in 2010. They also made 209
court appearances in magistrate, circuit, and
federal courts.
Crimes against Property UNIT
The Crimes Against Property Unit receives the largest case load of all our units. In 2010 they received
2,444 cases for review. The unit has five detectives and one sergeant assigned to the squad. The
Crimes Against Property Unit investigates crimes like burglary, larceny, breaking and entering, and
fraud. This unit has seen the need to dedicate more time to the investigation of white collar crimes
involving credit card fraud and internet fraud.
This unit was responsible for investigating a series of residential burglaries in the city. Investigators
were able to identify two suspects and their arrests brought resolution to over 15 cases in the city
and the outlying areas of Cabell County. As a result of this investigation, detectives recovered more
than $35,000 in property stolen from various residences. Detectives utilized a police diver to recover
a cache of stolen electronics and a gun from the Ohio River. In recognition of their efforts, the city
administration and the Chief of Police awarded each investigator in the division “Officer of the Month”
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for the month of September. In 2010 there was series of air conditioner thefts resulting in significant
losses to businesses and churches. The investigators were able to make several arrests in connection
with these thefts and prevent further losses.
The Crimes Against Property Unit recovered approximately $763,000 in stolen property in 2010 and
made 220 court appearances in magistrate court. They also presented 40 cases to the grand jury and
executed 20 search warrants.
Family Crimes UNIT
The Family Crimes Unit consists of a sergeant and two investigators. Detectives are responsible for
investigating cases of domestic violence, crimes against children, and sexual assaults. Due to the
diverse nature of these investigations, the officers work very closely with other agencies to ensure
the safety and well-being of the families they serve. In 2010 this unit received 1,073 cases for review.
Of this number, 407 cases involved domestic violence. The unit is also responsible for investigating
property crimes that involved family members. As a result of these investigations, the unit recovered
over $5,000 in stolen property.
The members of the Family Crimes Unit took on an integral role in the establishment of a county- wide
Sexual Assault Response Team (SART). The investigators have been called upon to provide training
to many components of the SART including law enforcement, victim advocates, victim services and
medical services. The procedures developed by this team became standard protocol for response
to victims of sexual assault. Detective Rodney Pell presented numerous training sessions throughout
the state in the area of domestic violence and sexual assault investigation. He also spoke at the
Marshall University Forensic Science Center to the participants at the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners
course. He gave instruction in the preservation and collection of physical evidence as it relates to these
investigations with emphasis on the nurse’s ability to ensure a successful case investigation.
In 2010 the Family Crimes Unit made 125 appearances in magistrate court and ten appearances in
circuit court. They also presented 16 cases to the grand jury and executed 12 search warrants.
Forensic INVESTIGATIONS UNIT
The Forensic Investigations Unit is staffed by a sergeant
and two investigators. These highly skilled investigators
specialize in the areas of latent print identification,
bloodstain pattern analysis, shooting reconstruction and
footwear comparison. The officers are responsible for
the collection, analysis, documentation and interpretation
of evidence in a wide array of crime scene investigations,
and have been recognized in court as experts in these
disciplines. By virtue of their experience and expertise,
they are often sought to assist outside agencies in the
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processing of various crime scenes or the
analysis and interpretation of evidence that
has been collected by other agencies.
In addition to their duties at the Huntington
Police Department, each member of the unit
serves as faculty and guest instructors for the
Marshall University Forensic Science Program.
They prepare students for the real-world
application of their classroom instruction by
mentoring students through their internship
program. They also conduct exercises at the
Marshall University crime scene house and
mock court scenarios for the students.
Sergeant Dave Castle also presented a
course of instruction on bloodstain pattern
analysis to the WV Medico-Legal Death
Investigation Conference in Flatwoods, West
Virginia. Investigator Kerrie Cathcart is a
member of the Scientific Working Group for
Shoeprint and Tire Tread which is managed
by the FBI and the National Institute of
Justice. This is a professional forum
comprised of examiners from around the
country who establish and evaluate practices
and protocols related to the investigation of
shoe and tire evidence.
In 2010 members of this unit received
specialized training in shooting reconstruction,
and attended the National Institute of Justice
Symposium on Impression and Pattern
Evidence. They investigated 219 cases in
2010, and were called out on 92 occasions.
The members of this unit are also the only
certified crime scene and senior crime scene
analysts in the state of West Virginia.
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Special Investigations Division
The Special Investigations Division is comprised of detectives assigned to various federal task forces
focused on organized and violent crimes investigations. We currently have four detectives assigned
to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Violent Crimes Drug Task Force, one detective assigned to
the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force, and one detective assigned to the Bureau of
Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATF) River City Gun Task Force. Each task force is often
supported operationally by officers assigned to the Special Emphasis Unit (SEU) and K-9 Unit.
The primary mission of each task force is to identify and dismantle violent drug/gun trafficking
organizations (DTO) operating within our city and the surrounding area. Each task force relies heavily
on crime analysis, intelligence gathering and surveillance to identify individuals who are part of a
DTO. Upon the identification of offenders, cases are worked utilizing federal conspiracy statutes to
link overt acts of individuals to others in a criminal organization. This enables law enforcement officers
to arrest and prosecute entire groups of offenders responsible for crimes and criminal acts occurring
over a period of time. Federal sentencing guidelines often result in stiff prison terms imposed on
offenders. Other methods of enforcement include undercover street-level buys, open-air drug market
suppression, prostitution operations, and buy bust drug operations targeting dealers.
FBI VIOLENT CRIME DRUG TASK FORCE
The FBI Violent Crime Drug Task Force has been a staple in our drug enforcement community for years.
It remains an outstanding collaborative partnership between the Huntington Police Department and the
FBI. The FBI commits generous funding and equipment to the Huntington Police Department to support
our drug eradication efforts. The FBI Violent Crimes Drug Task Force also includes detectives from the
Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, West Virginia State Police and the Barboursville Police Department.
The collaboration and between the participating agencies has been a force multiplier for our department
and a key to our success in disrupting and dismantling area DTOs.
During 2010 the FBI Violent Crimes Drug Task Force executed 29 search warrants and conducted
numerous covert operations resulting in the arrest of 116 individuals linked to area drug trafficking
organizations. The unit seized 54 firearms, 880.75 grams of cocaine/cocaine base, 1,556.3 grams of
marijuana, 193 marijuana plants, 451.5 oxycontin 80 mg dosage units, 14.6 grams of heroin, and 602
dosage units of other illegally diverted pills, and assisted in the recovery of approximately $101,000 in
illegal drug proceeds.
In 2010 the task force successfully dismantled two major DTO’s during the year—the Detroit “Cash
and Crips” organization and the Detroit “Dirty Deeds” organization. These two investigations led to
the indictments of 18 upper level drug traffickers responsible for drug distribution in Huntington. In
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During 2010 the SWAT team executed seven high-risk warrants.
All incidents were executed and resolved with no injuries to
officers or suspects.
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another task force case previously indicted, members of a Macon, GA drug organization received
rural adjudication in court resulting in federal prison terms. The task force also conducted over 50
undercover street-level purchases in support of the Drug Market Intervention (DMI) initiative. The
DMI initiative was implemented last spring in a section of the Fairfield West neighborhood, requiring
significant investigative time and resources. The efforts culminated with a “call in” involving a meeting
with offenders, community members, faith leaders, service providers and law enforcement. (A detailed
summary of the DMI program is provided in the Administrative Bureau section of this report.) The
task force also frequently responds to patrol-initiated narcotics investigations and seizures, in order
to provide investigative support and gather useful intelligence. Several significant patrol-initiated
investigations/seizures are detailed in the Patrol Bureau section of this report.
ATF RIVER CITY GUN TASK FORCE
The ATF River City Gun Task Force was tremendously successful during 2010. This task force works
closely with the Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB), the Patrol Bureau and other area law enforcement
agencies to conduct investigations involving firearms and related violent crime. The task force is
frequently supported by officers assigned to the Special Emphasis Unit (SEU).
In 2010 Gun Task Force investigations and covert operations resulted in the seizure of 163 firearms,
2,800 grams of crack-cocaine, 2,050 dosage units of oxycontin, 86 grams of heroin, and three pounds
of marijuana. Other notable investigations included assisting the Fire Marshal’s Office with four arson
investigations; investigation of the fire-bombing of a home in the Guyandotte section of Huntington;
and the investigation of the burglary of Johnny’s Gun and Pawn Shop (a federal firearms licensee)
where all nine firearms stolen during the burglary were recovered by task force investigators.
DEA TASK FORCE
The DEA Task Force is also responsible for investigating and dismantling DTO’s operating in
Huntington and throughout the Southern District of West Virginia. The Task Force has proven to be
particularly effective with investigations having a nexus to source of supply cities, such as Columbus,
Ohio and Detroit, Michigan.
In 2010 the DEA Task Force was responsible for the identification
and disruption of several significant DTOs in Huntington and the
surrounding area. These investigations have involved two Title
III wire taps, undercover operations, and interdiction initiatives.
The Huntington Police Department Task Force Officer (TFO) has
played an integral role in investigative, undercover and evidence
management duties while assigned to the DEA.
One case of significance is known as the GAMBOA-DTO. This
case has been designated by the U.S. Department of Justice as a
Consolidated Priority Organization Target (CPOT) investigation due
to its links to a top Mexican drug cartel. The case involves a multiton marijuana/cocaine smuggling/transportation organization that is
responsible for moving marijuana and cocaine from Mexico across the
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border through Arizona, and Texas, and to final destinations in West Virginia, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan,
Nevada and Colorado. This investigation has led to bulk seizures of drugs and illegal proceeds
destined for our city and surrounding area. This case remains an active investigation.
Another significant investigation conducted by the task force was labeled the “KK” DTO. This
case resulted in the seizure of 14 firearms, 1.5 kg of crack/cocaine, 220 grams of heroin and illegal
proceeds. The case concluded with the conspiracy indictments of eight people responsible for drug
distribution in Huntington and the surrounding area.
In 2010 DEA Task Force interdiction initiatives have been responsible for the identification and seizure
of approximately $140,000 in illegal proceeds. These efforts have caused significant disruptions to
drug distribution networks operating in Huntington. The task force has also played an important role
in responding to assist uniformed patrol officers when they have discovered individuals in possession
of large amounts of narcotics. Several significant patrol-initiated investigations/seizures are detailed in
the Patrol Bureau section of this report.
The DEA Task Force conducted a prescription drug take-back program on September 25, 2010.
Due to the success of the program, the Police Department has joined with the United Way-Cabell
County Substance Abuse Prevention Partnership in seeking DEA approval of a similar program called
Operation Rx Take Back. If approved, this program will begin in the spring of 2011.
All our task force operations are provided supplemental funding by the Office of National Drug Control
Policy (ONDCP), Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program. Kenny Burner is the WV
Deputy Director of the Appalachia HIDTA. The Appalachia HIDTA has committed significant monies
to the Huntington Police Department for funding drug operations and covert equipment purchases.
Additionally, Chief Holbrook serves on the Appalachia HIDTA Executive Board, which oversees
administration and personnel, initiative review and development, and strategic planning and budget for
Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia.
SWAT
The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team is a volunteer part-time, specialized unit consisting
of officers assigned full-time to the Patrol Bureau, Administrative Bureau, Criminal Investigations
Bureau, Special Emphasis Unit, Special Investigations Division and K-9 Unit. These officers are
required to successfully complete a rigorous selection process, and maintain a high-level of readiness
through individual and team training. SWAT officers are utilized on a call-out basis for high-risk search
warrants, high-risk arrest warrants, barricaded suspects, hostage situations and any other high-risk
incident requiring special tactics and equipment. The SWAT Team commander is Lieutenant Larry
Zimmerman. The team consists of 15 members – one lieutenant, four sergeants, four corporals and
six patrolmen. Certain members have expertise and certifications in firearms instruction, distractionary
device deployment, mechanical breaching, urban sniper and chemical munitions deployment.
During 2010 the SWAT team executed seven high-risk warrants. All incidents were executed and
resolved with no injuries to officers or suspects.
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The Office of Professional Standards
The Huntington Police Department places a high
value on integrity and public trust. The Office of
Professional Standards is led by Captain Rocky
Johnson. This office safeguards the level of
trust and confidence the public has in its police
department and ensures our agency remains
deserving of that trust. We also ensure that the
rights of our employees are protected and all
persons involved in an inquiry are treated with
dignity and respect. The office is also responsible
for departmental inspections, maintenance of
personnel files, policy and procedure review, and
facilitation of the CALEA accreditation process.
Complaints of Misconduct
The Huntington Police Department has more
than 100 policies and procedures to follow. The
complete “HPD Policy and Procedure Manual”
is currently under an extensive committee review
and update. The committee includes Huntington
Police Department staff officers and attorneys from
the law office of Steptoe & Johnson. This process
is in the final stages of review with a projected
completion of Spring 2011.
Complaint Investigations
The HPD Policy and Procedure Manual covers broad
categories of behavior and performance expectations
to which we hold employees accountable.
Complaints about employee misconduct are classified
in two ways: external (citizen complaint) and internal
(initiated by command staff or an administrative
review of an incident.)
The Huntington Police Department makes every
effort to investigate and adjudicate all complaints
in the most expedient time frame as possible.
However, there are circumstances, such as case
complexity and/or witness unavailability, which
can delay the process. There are five ways an
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allegation can be adjudicated—sustained,
not sustained, unfounded, exonerated
and withdrawn. In 2010, there were 19
allegations of misconduct reviewed by the
Office of Professional Standards.
The goal of the department is to apply
progressive disciplinary action to ensure
misconduct will not recur. Disciplinary
action can range from counseling
to employee termination. In some
cases employees may also receive
additional training in the subject areas
where violations have occurred. In
2010 disciplinary action taken against
employees ranged from counseling to
suspension without pay. Remedial training
was also ordered in several incidents.
Use of Force
Police officers are trained to seek voluntary
compliance in their lawful direction,
however, they are sometimes met with
circumstances in which a subject’s actions
compel them to use force in order to gain
compliance or defend themselves or others
against serious injury or death.
Supervisors are required to complete a
“Use of Force Report” any time force is
used resulting in injury or complaint of
injury to a suspect.
Employee Motor Vehicle
Collisions
In order to provide police services
throughout the 17 square miles of the city of
Huntington, Huntington Police Department
employees drive a significant number of
miles in HPD vehicles. Officers drive their
vehicles in all types of weather, traffic and
emergency conditions, day and night.
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The Huntington Police Department investigates all traffic crashes and operational damage incidents
occurring to police vehicles. Each quarter, the Office of Professional Standards convenes an Accident
Review Board to conduct a fair and complete review of the accidents to determine if the accident was
preventable or non-preventable.
In 2010 the police department investigated and reviewed a total of 27 incidents involving traffic crashes
or operational damage to police vehicles. The Accident Review Board determined 16 to be nonpreventable and 11 to be preventable. Progressive disciplinary action was administered to all employees
involved in preventable accidents. Discipline ranged from oral reprimand to suspension without pay.
Future Endeavors
In October 2010 the department began the process of accreditation through the Commission on
Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). Accreditation is a progressive and time
proven way of helping law enforcement agencies calculate and improve their overall performances.
The foundation of accreditation is a set of standards containing a clear statement of professional
objectives. Accreditation status represents a significant professional achievement. It acknowledges
the implementation of policies and procedures that are conceptually sound and operationally effective.
The standards help law enforcement agencies:
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Strengthen crime prevention and control capabilities
Formalize essential management procedures
Establish fair and nondiscriminatory personnel practices
Improve service-delivery
Solidify interagency cooperation and coordination
Boost citizen and staff confidence in the agency
Currently we are in the application phase of the process. Our goal for 2011 is to make significant
advances in the four-part process of accreditation.
In September 2010, we began the process of reviewing all departmental personnel files. A yearly
review is now available for all employees. This will allow for an update in the areas of commendations,
training and disciplinary actions. As this review progresses throughout 2011, our goal is to convert our
personnel files to electronic format.
25
The Property and Evidence Section of the Administrative Bureau
did intake on 1,404 cases containing 3,960 pieces of property and
transported evidence for 160 cases to West Virginia State Police
Forensic Laboratory for processing.
26
26
Administrative Bureau
The Administrative Bureau is commanded by Captain Hank Dial. In 2010 the Administrative Bureau
continued with much of the momentum and successes gained in the previous year. The bureau
identified and implemented new best practices and improved the processes performed every day. Every
aspect of the bureau has undergone an extensive transformation to become a more efficient, better
organized and more modern unit. The Administrative Bureau is responsible for payroll, purchasing,
recruiting, training, grants, vehicle maintenance, and community and neighborhood programs. The
Records Division is responsible for reports, N.C.I.C validations and municipal court. The Property and
Evidence Section, which also falls under the command of the Administrative Bureau, is responsible for
the intake, storage, security and expungement of all property and physical evidence.
One aspect of the bureau that underwent a massive transition was our Evidence Property Storage
Facility. An extensive bin audit of the property room was conducted. During this audit several
thousand items were disposed, including the destruction of 405 firearms. Additionally, a modern
method of tracking and maintaining monetary evidence was implemented. This is all being done as a
precursor to implementing a bar code evidence management system in our property room. The unit
did intake on 1,404 cases containing 3,960 pieces of property, disposed of over 1,000 drug cases,
transported evidence for 160 cases to West Virginia State Police Forensic Laboratory for processing
and traced 414 firearms for the BATF through the National Tracing Center.
The purchasing process for our department has been completely reorganized and modernized.
The requisition system has been computerized and placed on the network. A new system for filing
purchases by vendor has been implemented; this has made searching our system much more
efficient. Additionally, the departmental budget, including all related documents, has been completely
computerized. Now, as expenditures change, the changes are automatically carried over to budget
documents, providing us with highly accurate and instantaneous information for budgeting purposes
and improved budgetary oversight.
Thirty-two departmental forms and nine administrative forms
have now been converted from hard copy to electronic format
and placed on the network for officers to access. We have also
implemented a practice of emailing reports to units for review
purposes, resulting in a major cutback on paper usage and
unnecessary waste.
TRAINING
Recruitment for employment at the Huntington Police
Department has improved dramatically. A new recruiting
website was developed, along with new recruitment posters,
brochures, display panels with HPD logos and photos, and a
recruitment video. The Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) graciously
donated space to run a bus ad throughout the region. All of
27
2010 Training Hours Summary
Selected officers received training in the following areas based on their
organizational assignments and responsibilities.
Hours
36
8
8
8
5
72
8
8
8
16
40
40
40
8
60
8
24
8
8
16
24
32
8
40
8
40
60
8
32
40
16
40
8
8
8
24
40
8
16
4
12
8
900
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Type of Training
Reid School of Interview and Interrogation
Excelling as a Supervisor from Skillpath
Basic Cell Phone Forensic Investigation from Marshall
WV Prosecuting Attorneys Office - WV State Police Academy
DMI Training Advanced Techniques in Drug Enforcement
Motorcycle Operators School for Surrounding Agencies
Grant Writing from Grant Writing USA
Strengthening the Response: Focusing on Domestic Violence
Investigating Officer Involved Shootings
Basic Crime Scene Investigation
International Law Enforcement Educators/Trainers Association
Law Enforcement Bloodhound Association
WV Police Canine Association
WV Foundation for Rape Information and Services
SWAT Instructor Certification from SOTT-1
Search and Seizure of Digital Devices & Internet Investigations
Sexual Assault: Actual Cases-Real Solutions
Concealment and Trap Initiative from the DEA
WV Automated Police Network for Weapon Terminal Operator
NHTSA Tri-Region Motorcycle Strategic Planning Summit
Managing Police Discipline from Thomas & Means Law Firm
Basic Police Cyclist Cellebrite Certification
Enhanced Scent Behavior
Defensive Tactics
DEA Basic Narcotics Investigator School
International Association for Identification Conference
Today’s Smoking Gun - Introduction to Digital Evidence
National Institute of Justice Impression and Pattern Evidence
Certification in Radar / Lidar Instructor Course
WV Fire Investigators Conference
Practical Homicide Investigation
Canine Legal Updates Seminar
Investigating Use of Force Incidents
He Said/She Said: Consent and Beyond
Tactical Search and Recovery Team Techniques
Shooting Reconstruction Technology: The Good, The Bad, the Unknown
Mandatory Firearms Training Supplemental Training in Basic Firearms Skills
Basic Patrol Rifle Certification
Field Training Officer Training Attended and Graduated from WV State Police Academy
these developments were necessary to provide
the department with a modern and professional
look for recruitment. The result was positive
feedback from potential applicants and a 30%
increase in the number of applicants received
compared to 2009.
2010 Grants
Edward Byrne Memorial
Justice Assistance Grants
FY08
$23,150.00
FY09
$136,912.00
ARRA FY09
$562,398.00
FY10
$132,928.00
State Level JAG Grants
Project Safe Neighborhoods
COPS Recovery Grant
COPS Technology
Homeland Security
DEA Task Force FBI Task Force
ATF Task Force
Weed And Seed Second Year Weed And Seed Third Year
Community Participation Grants
COH Foundation (S.T.O.P.)
Highway Safety Grants
(Larry Kendall administers)
$153,239.00
School Resource Officer
Safety Town
$49,761.00
HIDTA
$14,000.00
Total
$56,433.00
$713,260.00
$665,000.00
$95,600.00
$13,985.43
$53,038.33
Another strong point that we built on this year
was our training program. We are once again
the standard that other agencies in the region
look to for best practices. Corporal Richard
Knight has done an outstanding job of bringing
the most updated law enforcement training
possible to our department. Additionally, our
relationship with the West Virginia State Police
Academy has proven to be of great value.
INITIATIVES
The Administrative Bureau worked with the FBI
Drug Task Force to initiate and administer our
new Drug Market Intervention (DMI) initiative.
We are also very happy with the continued
success of the Weed and Seed program.
These programs are covered in more detail on
page 35.
$8,270.57
$142,000.00
$157,000.00
$3,000.00
$55,835.00
$127,138.99
$20,000.00
GRANTS
One of the important areas that is considered
a priority this year is successfully administering
over three million dollars in grant funding, an
increase from the previous year. This additional
funding allows the department to continue to
improve and expand its effort to reduce crime
in the city. We are better equipped, more highly
trained and better staffed due to this funding.
Never in the history of the Huntington Police
Department have we been so successful at
recapturing state and federal tax dollars for the
betterment of the city of Huntington.
$3,182,949.32
29
Huntington Police Explorers contributed to the overwhelming success of the
annual FOP Children’s Christmas Party. Explorers volunteered and assisted
with wrapping and handing out gifts and serving food to the children.
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30
PROGRAMS & PARTNERSHIPS
Mission Tri-State
Mission Tri-State is an organization comprised of area
ministers who are dedicated to offering friendship, spiritual
counseling and prayer to many of our area public and elected
officials. The ministers meet privately each month with Chief
Holbrook, providing prayer and encouragement.
Mission Tri-State also organizes a monthly prayer breakfast for our local officials. Chief Holbrook and
other members of the police department frequently attend the breakfast, offering encouraging testimony
to others in attendance. Mission Tri-State is a valued partner of the Huntington Police Department.
S.T.O.P. Crime in Our Community
Support Technology for Our Police (S.T.O.P.) is a charitable fund administered by the City of
Huntington Foundation, to which businesses, groups, or individuals can make tax-deductible
donations to the Huntington Police Department. These monies are then used to purchase crime
fighting tools and equipment that will enhance our ability to provide police service to the community.
Additionally these donations can be used as “seed money” to leverage other monies available through
federal, state, and private grants.
Huntington Police Explorers
The purpose of the Huntington Police Explorers is to provide
young adults who may be interested in a career in law
enforcement with a comprehensive program of training,
competition, service and practical experiences. Character
development, physical fitness, good citizenship and patriotism
are integral components of the overall program. Through their
involvement in the program, Explorers develop an awareness
of the purpose, mission and objectives of law enforcement agencies. The support of the chief executive
officer of the agency, along with a dedicated cadre of law enforcement professionals and adult volunteers
who provide adult leadership, are essential to the success of any post. On May 16, 2010, the Huntington Police Department graduated its first class of Explorers since 2001. Sixteen youth, representing five area schools, completed the program. In addition to learning new
skills, the Explorers are available to provide service to the community and are a source for the future
recruitment of police applicants.
Law Enforcement Exploring is a national organization, sanctioned by the Boy Scouts of America,
and sponsored by police departments throughout the country. The program consists of young men
and women between 15 and 21 years of age, who are exposed to all facets of the law enforcement
profession. The training is conducted by the officers of the Huntington Police Department in an
atmosphere which provides the Explorers with a wholesome, educational experience. Explorers are
required to complete a minimum of 80 hours of police training, remain in school, carry at least a 2.0
average and attend weekly meetings.
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Through an exemplary representation of the police
department, Explorers are able to show people in
the community that today’s youth are recognized
for effective leadership and commitment to the
people in our community. The Explorers practice
respect, honesty and dignity, with a professional
and courteous attitude through an experienced
force of individuals.
Since their graduation, the Huntington Police
Explorers have worked alongside members of
the Huntington Police Department to assist with
events such as the Peace Officer’s Memorial
Service, West Virginia 5K Championship
Run, Ride With Cops VIII, Law Enforcement
Torch Run for Special Olympics, Marshall
Homecoming Marathon, 7th Annual Marshall
University Marathon, FOP Children’s Christmas
Party, The City of Huntington Christmas Parade,
Kick-off for “Click It or Ticket,” Elks Lodge Flag
Day Ceremony and the Fairfield Super Duper
Neighborhood Outing.
Huntington Police/Marshall
University Forensic
Science Partnership
On October 15, 2010, several of our officers
attended a four-hour class at the Marshall
University Forensic Science Center to receive
their mobile phone seizure certification. This
is a best practice review of how to seize and
preserve cell phones and the evidence they
contain. The instruction covered where evidence
may be found on a phone, how to preserve
that evidence, and how to properly transport
and package cell phones for examinations. The
course was geared towards law enforcement,
first responders and security personnel.
Three officers were selected to further their
digital forensics training. Sergeant Chuck
Kingery and Officers Eddie Prichard and Josh
Nield have been receiving more in-depth training
from the staff at the Marshall University Forensic
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Science Center. They are receiving instruction in
the areas of cell phones, computer software and
hardware, and digital information as it relates to
the location and preservation of evidence.
This training, valued in excess of $10,000, was
provided at no cost to our department through
grant funds obtained by the Marshall University
Forensic Science Center. This is an exciting
new partnership and will bring improvements to
practice and policy.
Crime Stoppers
Crime Stoppers is a partnership between the
community, the media and law enforcement.
Community - Citizens can receive warnings,
tips, and requests for information from law
enforcement officials.
Media - Crime Stoppers is publicized on a
regular basis by WDGG 93.7-“The Dawg.”
Special attention is given to unsolved
“Crimes of the Week,” cold cases, narcotics
activity, wanted fugitives and suspected
terrorist and gang activity.
Law Enforcement - Local law enforcement
agencies receive and process the
anonymous tips received through Crime
Stoppers, and solve the crimes. If the
information leads to an arrest, the caller will
be paid up to $1,000 for their information.
Cabell/Wayne Homeland Security Group
This group is composed of local law
enforcement, emergency services and private
partners within the State of West Virginia’s
Homeland Security Region Six. They meet
monthly to address concerns, share intelligence
and assess response capabilities through an allhazards approach to homeland security.
Huntington Police Department/Cabell
Huntington Hospital Partnership
In 2009-2010, Cabell Huntington Hospital
initiated a relationship with the Huntington
Police Department. They provided
Automated External Defibrillators (AED) for
our headquarters and selected vehicles.
These devices allow our officers to respond
immediately to a victim, suspect, or fellow
officer who is suffering from cardiac arrest.
Associated training was also provided.
Additionally, Cabell Huntington Hospital, the
West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety
Program and HealthNet Aeromedical joined
forces to provide the Huntington Police
Department and other surrounding law
enforcement agencies with 150 trauma packs
and training on their use. These packs contain
the tools and supplies to quickly stop bleeding
from an injured person.
The idea for these trauma packs came from
the shooting of an on-duty Huntington Police
Officer. Dr. Stephen Wilson, a trauma surgeon
at Cabell Huntington Hospital, realized the
importance of these kinds of supplies and the
associated training during such critical incidents
and helped to initiate this valuable partnership.
The officer mentioned in this incident has since
recovered and returned to work, and the trauma
packs donated by Cabell Huntington Hospital
have already been deployed by our officers to
save a life.
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In 2010 Target of Barboursville worked with Weed & Seed and the
Salvation Army to help provide school supplies and clothing for over 40
children. Forty officers from the Huntington Police Department and the
Huntington Fire Department also volunteered to help the children make
their selections.
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34
INITIATIVES
Drug Market Intervention Initiative
One of the most visible changes this year
was the implementation of the Drug Market
Intervention (DMI) initiative in Huntington.
The DMI strategy is a problem-solving initiative
aimed at permanently closing down openair drug markets. The most violent offenders
are targeted and prosecuted as examples.
The strategy then targets low-level offenders
and stages an intervention with families and
community leaders. Offenders are “called-in”
and given the option to straighten up or face
lengthy prison sentences. The offenders are
provided assistance in locating employment,
housing, transportation, health care, and access
to other social services.
Our call-in occurred on October 21, 2010
at the Marie Redd Center. The community
came out and provided a packed house of
support for the program. Six individuals were
invited to the call-in, and five of the individuals
took the opportunity to attend. Four of the
individuals are still involved with the program
and have shown great progress. Each of the
individuals has different problems and needs.
DMI Resource Coordinator, Maurice Kitchens,
has done an exemplary job working with these
individuals to ensure that they have the tools
available to solve their problems.
Although the DMI strategy has only been
implemented since October of 2010, initial
analysis suggests that it is having an impact
on the community. Within the DMI target area
there have been zero violent crimes and three
drug offenses since the call-in has occurred. If
the number of drug and violent offenses remain
comparable to what we saw over the last two
months of 2010 for the target area, then it will
constitute a significant reduction in crime.
Maurice Kitchens, DMI Resource Coordinator
and Scott Lemley, Statistics Analyst
Another positive aspect of the program has been
the addition of Scott Lemley as the Statistics
Analyst for the department. Mr. Lemley has
proven to be a valuable asset to the department.
He not only provides the statistical analysis
of the DMI area but has greatly expanded the
department’s ability to use a statistical, analytical
approach to everything we do. Mr. Lemley is able
to provide our command staff detailed information
in an understandable format that allows us to
make more informed decisions. Additionally, the
information we are able to provide to the citizenry
and to other government entities greatly increases
our ability to communicate what needs to be
done to continue making our city a safer, more
enjoyable place to live.
Weed and Seed
The Weed and Seed program continues to be
an exemplary, collaborative project involving the
city officials, police, prosecutors, community
organizations and residents. All Year Two goals
were met and the program was funded for Year
Three. Highlights for year two of the Weed and
Seed Initiative include expanding collaborations
with local and regional agencies that provided
an array of free services to the residents in the
35
In 2010...
• There was a 19% increase in the number
of Weed and Seed residents who feel
safe at night.
• There was a 21% increase in residents
who feel the police are doing a good or
excellent job.
• Vandalism has replaced murder as one
of the biggest crime concerns of Weed
and Seed area residents.
• Four new businesses opened in the
Weed and Seed area.
• Eight families became first time
homeowners in the Weed and Seed
designated area in year two.
• Programs focused on mentoring,
visual and creative arts, leadership,
and alcohol, tobacco and other drug
prevention/education took place.
Weed and Seed area ranging from childcare, to
life skills classes, creative and performing art
classes, health and nutrition classes, financial
and budgeting classes, computer classes and
homeownership classes.
Three major events took place in Year Two in
the Weed and Seed designated area. There
was a Back To Basics block party in which one
of the main streets through the Weed and Seed
area was blocked off and a block party was held.
Multiple vendors passed out free literature and
information about topics from drug education and
prevention to parenting and tutoring services.
36
Free food was provided and an exhibition
basketball game was held between youth and
young adults in the Weed and Seed area and
the Drug-Free All Stars which was made up of
professional and college level basketball players.
The event ended with a street dance with over
1,500 people in attendance.
The National Night Out event was an opportunity
for everyone in Huntington to come together
as a community and take back the streets from
drugs and crime. The event provided free food,
games, inflatables and informational booths. It
was held at 19th Street and 10th Avenue, which is
the epicenter for drugs and criminal activity in the
Weed and Seed area.
Finally, a Community Leaders Forum was
held at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. Key
city and Weed and Seed designated area leaders
were invited to attend a luncheon to work together
to address some of the major concerns identified
through a door-to-door survey. The group broke
into four small task force teams to discuss such
topics as neighborhood beautification, parenting,
employment and business opportunities, and drugs
and criminal activity.
Major progress took place in year two for The
Healing Place of Huntington. The facility is a
faith-based addiction recovery center modeled
after The Healing Place of Kentucky which
has a 60% recovery rate. The old Lincoln
Elementary School property at 2425 9th Avenue
was purchased and converted into a men’s
recovery facility. The facility is located in the
Weed and Seed area and the Huntington-Ironton
Empowerment Zone. The facility is scheduled to
open in January 2011.
The Youth Mentoring Program made tremendous
strides in expanding and implementing programs
that focus on youth in the Weed and Seed area.
Mentoring services were provided to 40-55
additional youth, a 100% to 175% increase
from year one. This is due largely to several key
projects and initiatives such as the READ Project
(Recovery Education And Development) which
is a strong collaboration with the local board of
education. Two licensed certified teachers are
assigned to the READ Project which is housed
at the Barnett Center and targets high school
students in the Weed and Seed area who are on
the verge of dropping out of school or behind
at least 12 weeks academically. Students also
attend weekly life skills classes, leadership
classes, health, nutrition and cooking classes
as well as attend monthly field trips to local
universities, culture centers, museums and
recreational centers.
Photo courtesy of The Herald Dispatch
Target’s Back to School Community Partnership
is sponsored and held each year by Target
stores all across America for underserved
children in first through fifth grade. This year
Target of Barboursville selected the Weed and
Seed Initiative and the Salvation Army as their
community programs.
Forty youth from the Weed and Seed area were
selected to receive $40 gift certificates to shop
for clothes and schools supplies. The Salvation
Army and TTA provided free transportation
to and from the Target store. Forty officers
and firefighters from the Huntington Police
Department and Huntington Fire Department
also volunteered their time to meet each child
and help them shop for the items of their choice. It was a memorable experience for the children
involved and the volunteers from the police and
fire departments.
37
2010 was a record year for attendance at the FOP Children’s
Christmas Party with 253 children participating from ten different
elementary schools across the city of Huntington.
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38
Fraternal Order of Police
Children’s 2010 Christmas Party
The annual FOP Children’s Christmas Party, organized and funded
by Fraternal Order of Police Goldstar Lodge 65, has a history that
goes back more than 40 years. What started as an effort to reach
out to children and families in need during the holidays has grown
tremendously over the years.
Current officers, along with retired officers, work through the year
to plan, organize, and raise funds for this event. Children from 10
elementary schools located within the City of Huntington, (primarily
first, second, and third graders) are chosen by the teachers at the
child’s school. Children are bussed to a central location, where they
receive lunch while they interact with the attending police officers
and with Santa Claus. All children have an individual photo taken
with Santa, which is later delivered to them at school. They each
visit Santa as they leave to receive their gifts to take home to open
with their families.
It was a record year for attendance, with 253 children participating.
One school missed the party due to a snow cancellation, but all
gifts for the children were delivered to their school the following day.
The FOP Children’s Christmas Party’s expenses average $10,000
annually for gifts, wrapping, food and entertainment, and are paid
exclusively by FOP Goldstar Lodge 65 through fund raising and
charitable donations. To raise funds, the FOP organizes a charity
motorcycle ride, “Ride With Cops.” This year was our eighth
annual ride. A large amount of hard work and time goes into this
event, which is organized by the Huntington Police Motor Unit in
conjunction with a group of retirees. All persons involved in the
planning and running of this event are to be commended for their
hard work and efforts.
39
2010 AWARDS
2010 WV Governor’s Highway Safety Program Law Enforcement Awards
Officer Ted Backus – Outstanding Highway Safety Officer
Officer Backus consistently works traffic enforcement while on both regular and overtime duty. During part
of the overtime program, he issued 80 citations during his 40 hours worked. In December 2010, he issued
34 citations in 7 hours.
Officer Richard Kern – Outstanding Highway Safety Officer
Officer Kern issued 87 citations in 55 hours worked, and made three felony arrests while participating in
various highway safety overtime programs.
Officer Dana Cowell – Outstanding Highway Safety Officer
During the Click It Or Ticket campaign, Officer Cowell issued 14 seat belt citations and 24 other citations
during 16 hours worked. This is an impressive figure due to the facts that Huntington surveys indicate seat
belt use at 90%.
Officer Erich Naumann – Outstanding DUI Officer
During the nomination period, Naumann made 26 DUI arrests, the fourth highest number in the state of
West Virginia for that period.
Officer Paul Matovich – Outstanding DUI Officer
With 25 DUI arrests, Officer Matovich had the fifth highest in the state of West Virginia despite being
deployed with the military for the last two months of the year.
Officer Travis Hagan – Looking Beyond the Ticket and Outstanding Highway Safety Officer
Hagan initiated a traffic stop that resulted in five drug arrests and the recovery of $2,685. He also wrote a
total of 81 citations resulting in 108 charges while participating in various highway safety programs.
AAA 2010 Community Traffic Safety Platinum Award
This award was presented to the Huntington Police Department for outstanding service, dedication, and the
significant impact made by improving the quality of life through traffic safety programming.
Officers of the Month 2010
January - Detective Chris Sperry
While conducting two arson investigations, he secured confessions that enabled him to clear both cases and make
multiple arrests. Additionally, a large quantity of stolen property was recovered during one of these investigations.
February – Detective Ryan Bentley, Officers Paul Matovich and Jacob Felix
For actions responding to a structure fire at 2721 Highlawn Avenue, their performance, with a disregard for their
own safety, saved lives.
March – Corporal Ed Bradshaw
For his diligence and attention to duty on March 5, 2010. After a bank was robbed in the Westmoreland area,
Corporal Bradshaw, who was patrolling across town, moved toward a known drug market area to look for the
suspect, where he observed a person and vehicle matching the suspect’s description. The suspect was arrested
without incident and the robbery was cleared shortly after it happened.
40
April – Officer Josh Coffey
For his observation and apprehension of suspects drawing graffiti on a city-owned traffic control box, resulting in
subsequent execution of search and arrest warrants. His instincts, attention to detail, and dedication resulted in
a significant breakthrough in our fight to curb the damage and blight caused by graffiti.
May – Officer Josh Nield
Upon arrival at a disturbance call he found a victim who was bleeding profusely from a stab wound in his
arm. Officer Nield quickly retrieved the trauma pack from his cruiser and applied the Quick Clot agent to the
wound. Nield then dressed the wound with gauze and continued to apply direct pressure until EMS arrived.
E.R. physicians later stated that the victim was suffering from life-threatening arterial bleeding, and that Nield’s
actions likely saved his life.
June – Officer Dana Cowell
After responding to a Breaking and Entering call, the investigation Officer Cowell initiated resulted in the recovery
of evidence and stolen property, and the identification and arrest of a habitual criminal.
July – Sergeant Jason Young, Corporal Mike Chornobay, Corporal Phil Watkins, Corporal Rob Stinnett, and
Detective Paul Minigh
For individual and cooperative performance between February 1 and July 14, including the investigation of a
string of larcenies documenting losses in excess of $100,000.
August – Detective Curt Nethercutt
For drug interdiction efforts which have created a significant disruption to methods used by drug couriers to
transport drugs and illegal proceeds to and from the Huntington area.
September – Officer John Weber
While on routine patrol, he noticed a structure fire at 329 Norway Avenue. After receiving no response when he
knocked, Officer Weber forced entry and made contact with the residents there, who were then able to exit the
rear of the residence.
October – Officers Jason Davis and John Casto
For showing initiative by following up on a citizen’s tip about drug activity. Two search warrants were executed
that day resulting in the arrest of six out-of-town drug dealers and the seizure of approximately eight pounds of
marijuana, suspected ecstasy, US currency and several firearms.
November – Officer James Leist
For investigative efforts on November 4, during a search of 1852 Tenth Avenue. Exceptional initiative and
attention to detail while observing suspected criminal activity in the area resulted in issuance of a search warrant
for this location.
December – Corporal John Franklin and Probationary Police Officer Stephen Maniskas
For their brave actions on December 27, 2010 that prevented the serious injury or deaths of residents in a house fire.
For their actions outlined in their Officer of the Month awards, officers Ryan Bentley, Paul
Matovich, Jacob Felix and Josh Nield also received Meritorious Service Awards from the Chief
of Police at the Peace Officer’s Memorial Day service on May 15, 2010.
41
42
42
2010
Officer of the Year
Corporal Eddie Bradshaw
T
his year, the Huntington Police Department started a new peer-driven Officer of
the Month Award Program. This program is designed to recognize officers who
go above and beyond the call of duty in the performance of their duties at the
Huntington Police Department.
The recognition can be based on individual or group actions of heroism, exceptional
performance, dedication to service, contributions to law enforcement and all-around
service to the community.
This recognition comes from nominations made by the rank and file of the Huntington
Police Department making it especially gratifying to the monthly award recipient.
Every monthly award winner demonstrated exceptional performance, representing the
Huntington Police Department in the highest of standards.
Each month the Chief of Police and his command staff review all monthly award
nominations and support documents. After careful review, an Officer of the Month
Award is presented to the winner.
In January of this year, the Chief of Police and command staff again met to discuss
and review all of the 2010 monthly awards in order to select the Huntington Police
Department 2010 Officer of the Year. After careful consideration, Corporal Eddie
Bradshaw was chosen the 2010 Officer of the Year.
Corporal Bradshaw is a 19 year veteran of the Huntington Police Department. He is
currently assigned to the Traffic Unit and is also a member of the SWAT team. Corporal
Bradshaw received the March 2010 Officer of the Month Award for his actions during
the arrest of a bank robbery suspect and recovery of stolen bank money. However, it is
the consistent everyday performance by Corporal Bradshaw that is most recognizable.
Corporal Bradshaw embodies all the qualities we want to see in a Huntington police officer.
43
2010 Promotions
Mayor Kim Wolfe, a retired Huntington police officer, formally promoted
each officer to their new position.
Captain Rocky Johnson
18 years of service
Sergeant Brian Lucas, 16 years of service
Sergeant Darin Dempsey, 19 years of service
Sergeant Levi Livingston, 14 years of service
44
Lieutenant John Williams
19 years of service
Corporal Sherrie Casey, 18 years of service
Corporal Matt Null, 11 years of service
Corporal Cass McMillian, 7 years of service
Corporal Mike Sperry, 14 years of service
2010
Distinguished Service Award
Captain Steve Hall
Captain Steve Hall began his law enforcement career at the age of 19, when he was hired as a
police officer by the Staunton, Virginia Police Department. In February of 1981, Steve joined the
ranks of the Huntington Police Department and began a stellar career that would help shape the
future of the department. Steve spent his first nine years serving in various patrol assignments.
During that time he was promoted to the rank of Corporal.
In December of 1990, Steve began his first stint assigned to the Detective Bureau as a detective.
During that assignment, Hall was selected to attend the prestigious FBI National Academy. He
graduated from the academy in January of 1994. A short time later, Steve was promoted to the rank
of Sergeant. While Steve held the rank of Sergeant, he worked in the Drug and Vice Unit and Patrol
Bureau. In March 1996, while still a Sergeant, Steve was given the unprecedented assignment as
acting commander of the midnight shift. Later that same year, he was officially promoted to the rank
of Lieutenant, remaining as the shift commander.
Just over two years later, in December of 1998, Steve was promoted to the rank of Captain,
assuming the role of Detective Bureau Commander. Captain Hall would remain the Detective
Bureau Commander for the next 12 years. At various times during this period, because of
his knowledge and leadership abilities, he assumed additional command staff roles within the
department. This further exemplified the confidence and respect given him by his peers.
Captain Hall’s final assignment was heading up the Office of Professional Standards. While
assigned to this position, he conducted sensitive internal investigations, completed administrative
reviews and inspections, and reported important findings, further demonstrating departmental
accountability to the public served by the Huntington Police Department.
Captain Steve Hall’s leadership and insight over the past 28 years have made him an irreplaceable
asset to the Huntington Police Department and the citizens it serves. In recognition of the
aforementioned accomplishments and dedication to service, I present Captain Steve Hall the
Huntington Police Department Distinguished Service Award.
Chief William H. Holbrook
November 18, 2010
45
I
Peace Officers
Memorial Day
n 1962, President John F. Kennedy designated May 15th of each year “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the calendar week of each
year during which May 15th occurs as “Police Week” recognizing the
service given by the men and women who, night and day, stand guard in
our midst to protect us through enforcement of our laws.
Peace Officer Memorial Day honors federal, state, and local law
enforcement officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of
duty. Each year the Fraternal Order of Police organizes a Peace Officers
Memorial Service in front of the Huntington Police Department. The
service honors the memory of fallen Huntington Police Department
officers as well as other fallen law enforcement officers from neighboring
departments. During the service, surviving members of the fallen officer’s
families are recognized and a wreath is placed on the Huntington Police
Department Memorial Site in memory of their fallen loved ones.
Although a somber day, it also reaffirms the brotherhood of closeness
that exists between all members of our law enforcement family.
46
47
48

Huntington Police Department Annual Report 2010

Transcription

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