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April 23, 2024 Meeting

Publish Date 04/23/2024

MINUTES OF THE

BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS

TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 2024

 

 

A meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners of Kansas City, Missouri was held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in the Community Room at Police Headquarters, 1125 Locust Street, Kansas City.

PRESENT:

Commissioner Cathy Dean, President

Commissioner Dawn Cramer, Vice President

Commissioner Tom Whittaker, Treasurer

Commissioner Madeline Romious, Member

Mayor Quinton Lucas, Member

Mr. David Kenner, Secretary/Attorney

Stacey Graves, Chief of Police

 

This meeting was called to order at 9:29 a.m. by Commissioner Dean.  Dispatcher Jamie Deterding and Calltaker Ann Casey led the Pledge of Allegiance.  Chaplain Johnny Jones provided the invocation.  Mayor Lucas joined the meeting at 9:56 a.m. 

  1. Guest Presentation. Mr. Hassan Al-Rubaie, from the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), and Major Gregory Williams presented on the 911 automated abandoned call-back feature.  The abandoned call-back feature automatically calls back anyone that makes a call to 911 and hangs up.  If the caller answers the automated call-back, they will be given two options: 1) press ‘1’ if you still need emergency assistance, or 2) press ‘3’ if you no longer need emergency assistance.  If the caller is still needing assistance, they will be placed in the 911 queue.  Previously, 911 call takers had to personally return each call to see if the caller needed emergency assistance.  This feature will lessen the load for call takers, giving them more time to answer incoming 911 calls. 

Mr. Al-Rubaie advised that KCPD Communications Unit implemented the 911 abandoned call-back feature two weeks ago.  During those two weeks, the feature made 5,800 call backs.  Of the 5,800 call-backs, 948 callers indicated they still needed emergency assistance and were placed back in the queue, and 1,200 advised they no longer needed assistance.  

Mr. Al-Rubaie spoke about the Q-Selector auto-attendant feature (press ‘1’ for police, press ‘2’ for fire, press ‘3’ for ambulance, etc.).  He advised that Motorola and MARC have configured the feature and it is ready to implement.  Mr. Al-Rubaie advised that this switch will be disruptive to 911 operations, so they are waiting for further approval from the Department.  Major Williams advised that if the Department elects to have the auto-attendant feature, they Fire Department will also have to get it. 

Major Williams spoke with Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) and National Emergency Number Association (NENA) who both advised they do not recommend using the auto-attendant feature in emergency 911 systems.  He advised that he spoke with a member of Motorola, who has over 1,000 call centers across the nation, and not one of them uses auto-attendant for 911 operations.  The auto-attendant feature is typically used for administrative lines.  Major Williams believes that if the Department fixes staffing issues in the Communications Unit, they will not need the auto-attendant feature.  About 12 percent of the calls the Communications Unit receives are for the Fire Department, and it would cost the Fire Department approximately $4 million to implement this feature. 

  1. General Discussion from the Chief of Police. Chief Stacey Graves welcomed Commissioner Madeline Romious to the Board.  Chief Graves spoke about the second part of the KC Public Safety Forum that was held last Friday.  The organizers of this symposium were Mayor Pro Team Rayna Parks-Shaw, Willie Barney from The Empowerment Network, KC Common Good, and multiple other key stakeholders.  Through the efforts of all stakeholders, there is a collective City-wide approach to reduce and prevent violent crime and property crime.  Last week, the group discussed their ten-point commitment and action plan.  Chief Graves spoke with the group about the urgent call to action for child victims of violent crime.      

            Chief Graves spoke about the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget adoption that will occur later today.  She spoke highly of the collaboration between all parts during budget discussions and believes that the importance of public safety is reflected in this new budget.  She thanked the City Council and Mayor Lucas for their support of the Department and its members.  Commissioner Dean commended Chief Graves’ leadership and collaboration during this budget process.

  1. Investigations Bureau. Deputy Chief Doug Niemeier provided an update on the Department’s Assault Unit.  The Unit is staffed with two sergeants and 12 detectives.  In addition to investigating assaults, the Assault Unit also investigates all non-fatal shootings.  Recently a vehicle was seen traveling within the City, and an occupant was pointing a rifle out of the window.  Officers located the vehicle, gave pursuit, and the occupant was eventually taken into custody after wrecking.  It was determined that the same vehicle was involved in an earlier shooting. The suspect was charged with 1st Degree Aggravated Assault, Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, and Resisting by Fleeing.  The suspect was already on probation and parole for 2nd Degree Assault.  Shell casings from the shooting were entered into NIBIN and has tied the suspect to several other violent incidents.  At least 13 additional felony charges are expected to soon be filed.   

Deputy Chief Niemeier provided an update on crime statistics.  He advised that to-date 2024, there have been a total of 44 homicides, compared to 51 homicides during the same time period in 2023.  The Department has cleared 17 homicides this year, plus an additional eight homicides from previous years, totaling 25 solved homicides. 

Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that there were 12 homicides that occurred in March 2024 and 13 so far in April 2024.  He advised that of those 12 homicides in March, four were due to arguments, four were classified as self-defense, and the causes of the four others remains unknown.  Eleven of those 12 homicides involved firearms and one involved a knife.  Seven of the 12 homicides in March occurred within the East Patrol Division, three within the North Patrol Division, two within the Metro Patrol Division, and one in the Central Patrol Division.   

Deputy Chief Niemeier advised there have been 190 non-fatal shootings to-date in 2024, compared to 137 at this same time period in 2023.  Major factors in the increase of non-fatal shootings year-to-date is due to the mass shooting that occurred following the Chiefs Super Bowl Victory Parade and Rally, the shooting at Crown Center, and multiple other shootings that resulted in multiple victims being shot.  In March 2024, there were 51 non-fatal shootings, compared to 36 non-fatal shootings in March 2023. 

            Deputy Chief Niemeier spoke about cases submitted for prosecution.  In March 2024, there were 328 cases submitted for prosecution; there were 252 cases submitted to Jackson County, 46 to Clay County, and 30 to Platte County.  

            Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that the Special Investigations Division have improved protocols and response to overdose deaths.  They collect all evidence and work closely with the medical examiner’s office for toxicology reports.  Detectives within the Special Investigations Division recovered 13 pounds of cocaine, 265 pounds of methamphetamine, 37 pounds of fentanyl, and 73 firearms year-to-date 2024.  This compares to four pounds of cocaine, 103 pounds of methamphetamine, eight pounds of fentanyl, and 37 firearms during this same time frame in 2023.  These numbers are specific to the Special Investigations Division, not Department-wide. 

            Mayor Lucas joined the meeting at 9:56 a.m.

            Deputy Chief Niemeier thanked the Kansas City Royals for recognizing the victims of the Super Bowl Rally parade shooting, along with members of the Department, KCFD, EMS personnel, and medical staff, on Opening Day at The K. 

  1. Patrol Bureau. Deputy Chief Joseph Mabin spoke of the notable events within the Patrol Bureau in March 2024.  Deputy Chief Mabin noted that the Police Athletic League (PAL) had 1,672 visits in March 2024, which is the highest attendance ever.  The PAL Center averaged 76 visits per day, and had 33 new enrollments over the past month. 

Deputy Chief Mabin congratulated Reserve Sergeant Sean Hess on receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from First Call Alcohol/Drug Prevention & Recovery for his involvement in crisis intervention. 

Deputy Chief Mabin noted that that tactical teams were involved in five Operation 100s and executed 13 search warrants in March 2024.  They also handled two static displays and one color-guard duty.  They led three active shooter training sessions for local businesses.  They also attended wound-packing and tourniquet medical training, as well as training on hostage negotiations/rescue. 

Deputy Chief Mabin welcomed two new canines to the Department, K9 Carlo and K9 Finn.  He thanked Auxiliary Service Volunteer Jackie Cudahy for her donation of funds to purchase K9 Carlo.  Over the last month, the Canine Unit responded to 96 calls for service and had 21 deployments.  They also conducted bomb sweeps for the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and Opening Day at The K.  The also conducted multiple demonstrations. 

Deputy Chief Mabin advised that the Bomb & Arson Unit responded to multiple fire-related events over the last month; five were determined as arson and one cause remains undetermined.  They also responded to three bomb calls involving suspicious packages, and recovered three explosive devices.

The Helicopter Unit flew 91 hours over the last month and responded to 144 calls for service, of which they were first on scene to 47 times.  They also tracked six vehicles that were fleeing from officers on the ground.  Additionally, they completed 17 surveillance missions. 

Members of the Patrol Division assisted with multiple major events during the month of March, such as the men’s and women’s Big 12 basketball tournaments, Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, and the NCAA D-1 wrestling championships.  He thanked the surrounding agencies for their mutual aid support during these events. 

Deputy Chief Mabin presented monthly statistics for the Patrol Bureau.  He advised that the median response time for Priority 10 calls (also known as Priority 1) for the month of March was 8 minutes and 24 seconds; the Department’s Priority 10 response time goal is 7.50 minutes.  The Priority 20 (also known as Priority 2) response time for the month of March was 10 minutes and 30 seconds; the Department’s Priority 20 response time goal is 9.00 minutes.  The response time is the amount of time from when the call is created until an officer arrives on scene.  Deputy Chief Mabin advised that the 911 hold time for the month of March was 33 seconds. 

Deputy Chief Mabin advised that to-date 2024, there have been 29 fatality crashes with 34 victims.  During the same time period in 2023, there were 14 fatality crashes with 16 victims.  Officers continue to see excess speeds, impairment, and failure to wear seatbelts as a major factor in fatality accidents.  He noted that 92 percent of the fatalities were not wearing seatbelts.  Commissioner Dean encouraged the Department to continue seatbelt enforcement operations.

Deputy Chief Mabin advised that members of the Traffic Division held 11 DUI wolfpack enforcement activities in March, which resulted in 162 stops, 42 DUI arrests, and 163 total citations issued.  There were 66 other DUI arrests during the month, bringing the Department total to 89 DUIs for the month of March.

Deputy Chief Mabin advised that the Commercial Vehicle Inspection Unit conducted 257 commercial vehicle inspections last month.  They reported 493 federal violations, and they took 25 drivers and 45 vehicles out of service.

Mayor Lucas seconded Commissioner Dean’s comments regarding seatbelt enforcement.  Additionally, he would like to evaluate the use of red-light cameras and deployment strategies. 

  1. Administration Bureau. Deputy Chief Luis Ortiz provided an update on Department staffing.  He advised that as of March 31, 2024, Department strength was 1,638.  For this time period, there were 1,086 sworn law enforcement personnel, 37 recruits, 511 professional staff, and five Board members; there were 233 total vacancies.

Deputy Chief Ortiz advised there are 29 in the process for the 182nd Entrant Officer Class (EOC) that is scheduled to begin training on June 17, 2024.  Additionally, one person has been confirmed and there are seven pending offers for spots in that class.  The Department hired three lateral officers in the last month.    

Deputy Chief Ortiz advised that the Department hired six new members in the Communications Unit this month. He noted that there is one pending job offer for the Communications Unit and five people in the process for possible eligibility.

The Department will hold law enforcement testing on April 27, 2024, May 23, 2024, June 27, 2024, and July 27, 2024, at the Regional Police Academy.  Deputy Chief Ortiz noted that there are already 46 people signed up to attend the testing on April 27, 2024.  The Department continues to hire for all positions.  More information can be found at https://www.kcpd.org/careers/. 

Mayor Lucas noted the significant number of individuals already signed up to attend the law enforcement testing on April 27, 2024.  He inquired about the impact of pay raises on retention of current officers.  Chief Graves advised that 20+ members that are eligible for retirement were considering leaving this year, but are staying due to the raises.  She also believes that the Department will continue to see lateral transfers from other agencies. 

  1. Executive Services Bureau.   Deputy Chief Derek McCollum presented the following items for Board approval:
  2. Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget.  A memorandum dated April 12, 2024, was presented to recommend the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget.  The total budget from appropriations from all sources is $318,775,980, compared to $284,242,620 for Fiscal Year 2023-24.  The Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget recognizes appropriations of $294,340,607 from the City of Kansas City, and $24,435,373 from other sources.  The Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget includes funding to raise the starting officer annual salary to $65,004, and a 3.5 percent increase for all professional staff at top-step or an anniversary step increase for those that are not.  Additionally, all professional staff members employed on May 1, 2024, will receive a $2,500 retention bonus paid in November. 

            Deputy Chief McCollum advised that this was the smoothest and most collaborative budget process.  He thanked the City for their support and thanked all members of the Department’s Fiscal Unit during this budget process. 

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Romious, to adopt the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget, as presented.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. TBL Systems, Inc. (Thin Blue Line) Subscription Renewal.  A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend approval to renew the annual subscription for citation software with TBL Systems, Inc., at a total cost of $427,655.23, utilizing OneIT funds.

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to renew the annual subscription with TBL Systems, Inc., at a total cost of $427,655.23.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Bid #2023-11, Ballistic Protection Vests. A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend approval of a one-year contract renewal with Ed Roehr Safety Products, to provide ballistic protection vests, at an anticipated expenditure of $521,942.50.  The renewal contract will be from June 1, 2024, through May 31, 2025.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Cramer, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the one-year contract renewal with Ed Roehr Safety Products, at an anticipated expenditure of $521,942.50.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

            Deputy Chief McCollum advised that last month, the Department received the KC Violence Reduction Grant and the next six items (D-I) will utilize funds from that grant. 

  1. New Mobile Command Post. A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend approval to purchase a new mobile command post from Farber Specialty Vehicles, at a total expenditure of $2,094,859.  The current command post is 26 years-old and is not equipped with the technology needed during critical incidents.

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Romious, to approve the purchase of a mobile command post from Farber Specialty Vehicles, at a total expenditure of $2,094,859.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Lenco Bearcat Rescue Vehicle.  A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend approval to purchase a Bearcat rescue vehicle from Lenco Armored Vehicles, at a total expenditure of $323,000.  The Department’s current armored vehicles are 15 years-old and require constant maintenance. 

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Romious, to approve the purchase of a Bearcat rescue vehicle from Lenco Armored Vehicles, at a total expenditure of $323,000.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Cisco 3750 Switch Replacement. A memorandum dated April 12, 2024, was presented to recommend approval the purchase of the Cisco 3750 switch replacement from Logicalis, at a total cost of $565,673.38.  The switch replacement will provide the gateway to the wide-area network (WAN) and Internet for KCPD’s network and data.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Romious, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the purchase of the Cisco 3750 switch replacement from Logicalis, at a total cost of $565,673.38.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Replacement of End-Of-Life Wireless Access Points and ISE Upgrade. A memorandum dated April 12, 2024, was presented to recommend approval to purchase Access Points and the ISE Upgrade from Logicalis, for a total cost of $311,737.17.  The replacement and upgrades are necessary for the Department’s network security.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Cramer, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the purchase of Access Points and the ISE Upgrade from Logicalis, at a total cost of $311,737.17.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

  1. Network Firewall Replacement.  A memorandum dated April 12, 2024, was presented to recommend approval to purchase a network firewall replacement from Logicalis, at a total cost of $176,369.67.  The firewall replacement provides a critical security layer in protecting KCPD’s network and data, and the current hardware is reaching end-of-life.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Romious, with a second by Commissioner Cramer, to approve the purchase of a network firewall replacement from Logicalis, at a total cost of $176,369.67.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Power Protect DD6400 Backup Unit Additional Storage.  A memorandum dated April 12, 2024, was presented to recommend approval to purchase an additional 30TB for the Power Protect DD6400 Backup Unit from Logicalis, at a total cost of $120,075.40.  The increase in storage capacity is necessary for the Department’s network. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Cramer, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to approve the purchase of 30TB of additional storage for the Power Protect DD6400 Backup Unit from Logicalis, at a total cost of $120,075.40.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

  1. Department Wireless Service.  A memorandum dated April 11, 2024, was presented to recommend approval to award a one-year contract for Department wireless services, utilizing the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) contract with T-Mobile, at an anticipated expenditure of $450,572.04.  The contract period will be April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Romious, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve a one-year contract for Department wireless service, at an anticipated cost of $450,572.04.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

            After the vote, Commissioner Romious advised that if AT&T would have been included in this contract, she would have abstained from voting due to her position at AT&T. 

  1. Aviation Insurance Coverage Renewal.  A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend approval of a one-year contract renewal with Lockton Companies, Inc., for the Aircraft Hull and Physical Damage and Liability insurance, at a total cost of $101,432.00.  The pricing did not increase from the previous year.  The coverage period is May 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Romious, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the one-year contract renewal with Lockton Companies, Inc., for aviation insurance, at a total cost of $101,432.00.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

  1. Blanket Building & Property Insurance Coverage.  A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend approval of a one-year contract renewal with Lockton Companies, Inc., to provide Blanket Building & Property Insurance coverage, at a total cost of $308,875.00.  This is a five percent increase from last year, which is in line with marketplace.  The coverage period is May 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Commissioner Romious, to approve the one-year contract renewal with Lockton Companies, Inc., for Blanket Building & Property Insurance coverage, at a cost of $308,875.00.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Excess Workers’ Compensation Coverage.  A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend approval of a one-year contract renewal with Lockton Companies, Inc., for excess workers’ compensation coverage, at a total cost of $209,898.00.  The coverage period is May 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Romious, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to approve a one-year contract renewal with Lockton Companies, Inc., for excess workers’ compensation coverage, at a total cost of $209,898.00.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. 2024-2025 STOP VAWA Kansas City Police Crime Laboratory Subaward.  A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend acceptance of the 2024-2025 STOP VAWA Kansas City Police Crime Laboratory Subaward in the amount of $248,700.56, with a local match requirement of $117,035.51.  The award period is January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2025.  This is the 23rd year of funding.  This award will provide funding to employ two forensic examiners at the Crime Lab to provide biological screening and/or DNA analysis on evidence from at least 260 sexual assault or domestic violence cases during 2024-2025.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Cramer, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to accept the 2024-2025 STOP VAWA Kansas City Police Crime Laboratory Subaward, in the amount of $248,700.56.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

            In response to a question from Commissioner Dean, Deputy Chief McCollum advised the Department will provide the local match requirement of $117,035.51.

  1. Missouri Western Interdiction and Narcotics (MoWIN) Task Force Subaward.  A memorandum dated April 8, 2024, was presented to recommend acceptance of the modified MoWIN Task Force subaward, in the amount of $220,932.85.  The original subaward, in the amount of $242,757.65, was previously accepted by the Board in October 2023, but a modification was required to reduce overtime funding to cover personnel expenses. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Romious, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the modified MoWIN Task Force Subaward, in the amount of $220,932.85, as presented.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Final Budget Transfers for Fiscal Year 2023-24.  A memorandum dated April 22, 2024, was presented to recommend approval of budget transfers, to prepare for the closing of Fiscal Year 2023-24 and prevent accounts from going deficit.  These transfers will affect the General Fund, the Public Safety Sales Tax Fund, the Police Drug Enforcement Fund, the Police Grants Fund, and the Grants Special Revenue Fund. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approval the final budget transfers for Fiscal Year 2023-24, as presented.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

            Mayor Lucas thanked the Department for their collaboration in the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget process. He advised that the substantial budget increase each year will not be sustainable, so the Department and City must find long-term cost savings.       

  1. Chief’s Executive Officer. Deputy Chief Steve Young presented the following consent agenda items for Board consideration:
  2. Project #1420: Duty-Related Injuries
  3. Project #1469: Holiday Compensation
  4. Project #1469: Regular Days Off
  5. Project #1476: Department Forms
  6. Project #1479: Academic Selection

            Deputy Chief Young noted that Project #1420 – Duty-Related Injuries, Project #1476 – Department Forms, and Project #1479 – Academic Selection, were part of standard five-year review; Project #1469 – Holiday Compensation and Project #1469 – Regular Days Off were updated to reflect the new 11-hour plan. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Commissioner Romious, to approve the consent agenda items, as presented.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Office of the General Counsel. General Counsel Nathan Weinert presented the following items for Board consideration:
  2. Private Officer License Appeal of Jalon K. Haulcy. A memorandum dated March 22, 2024, was presented to recommend the revocation of the armed private security license of Jalon K. Haulcy.  The basis for the revocation is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.060 (8)(I), which stipulates in part, that the chief of police, or his/her designee may impose a fine, order probation, order a suspension, or revoke a license granted under Section 84.720 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri if the licensee has “provided other facts or actions which demonstrate that the applicant is unsuitable or ineligible for license.” On February 26, 2024, officers were dispatched to Love’s Truck Stop at 3201 N. Ameristar Drive in regard to a stealing.  Mr. Haulcy was working private security at the truck stop and had detained a suspect.  However, Mr. Haulcy had only handcuffed one of the suspect’s hands to Haulcy’s dominant hand.  This created several safety concerns because the suspect was handcuffed on the same side of Mr. Haulcy as his firearm.  Additionally, the suspect was found to be in possession of a pocket knife on the side of his free hand. 

Secondly, on February 27, 2024, a second incident occurred at the truck stop.  Mr. Haulcy believed he had witnessed a shoplifter on camera.  When he confronted the woman, he demanded to search her bag.  Mr. Haulcy got in an altercation with the woman and proceeded to handcuff one of her wrists and dragged her across the store by her arm. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Commissioner Romious, to uphold the Private Officer Licensing Unit’s revocation of Jalon K. Haulcy’s armed private security license.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.   

  1. Private Officer License Appeal of Steven C. Duke.  A memorandum dated March 22, 2024, was presented to recommend the denial of the armed private security license of Steven C. Duke.  The basis for the denial is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.050(3)(L), which stipulates an applicant shall not “make any false statements or give false information in connection with an application for a license.”  Additionally, Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.050(3)(P) stipulates, “being terminated from or resigning under investigation or threat of discharge from department shall make an individual ineligible for a license, but s/he may appeal to the Board pursuant to the appeal process contained in this chapter.”  On December 27, 1995, Mr. Duke resigned from KCPD while suspended pending an investigation. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to uphold the appeal and grant the armed private security license of Steven C. Duke.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Private Officer License Appeal of David Johnson III.  A memorandum dated April 11, 2024, was presented to recommend the denial of the unarmed private security license of David Johnson III.  The basis for the denial is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.050(3)(H), which stipulates “each applicant applying for a license under these provisions must be of good moral character by having no felony convictions, misdemeanor convictions, or city ordinance convictions, which has an essential element of fraud, dishonesty, an act of violence, bribery, illegal drug use, sexual misconduct, or other similar acts constituting moral turpitude.”  Additionally, Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.050(3)(L), stipulates an applicant shall not “make any false statements or give false information in connection with an application for a license.”, and Section 10-2.050(3)(O), stipulates an applicant “may be denied a license if applicant has provided other facts or actions which demonstrate that the applicant is unsuitable or ineligible for license.”  On December 29, 2019, Mr. Johnson was charged with Simple Assault in Vineland City, New Jersey, and pled to Offend to Peace and Good Order on March 27, 2024.  Mr. Johnson also failed to list his conviction on his application for a private security license.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Commissioner Cramer, to uphold the Private Officer Licensing Unit’s denial of the unarmed private security license of David Johnson III.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

            Mayor Lucas briefly steps out of the meeting at 10:57 a.m., and returns at 10:59 a.m.

  1. Office of Community Complaints (OCC). Director Merrell Bennekin and Senior Legal Analyst Karen Williams presented the 2023 Annual OCC Report.  In 2023, the OCC received 334 complaints.  This represents a 24.2 percent increase over the number of complaints filed in 2022.  The OCC internally handled 195 of those complaints, and 139 of them were forwarded to the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) for formal investigation.  The 334 complaints were received by the following categories: 179 improper procedure complaints, 70 improper member conduct complaints, 29 harassment complaints, 24 excessive use of force complaints, 23 discourtesy complaints, and nine bias-based policing complaints. 

            In 2023, 156 total complaints were forwarded IAU for investigation, consisting of those filed in 2023 and the latter part of 2022.  Only 88 of those complaints received a full and complete investigation from IAU.  The remaining complaints were administratively closed by OCC, withdrawn by the complainant, or closed for lack of cooperation.  OCC recommended that 40 of the 88 complaints exonerated members, 36 complaints were not sustained, and 12 were sustained.  Of the 12 sustained complaints, one was sustained for discourtesy, three were sustained for excessive use of force, two were sustained for improper member conduct, and six were sustained for improper procedure.  Director Bennekin noted that the use of body-worn cameras makes the OCC’s job easier because the OCC can frequently see what actually happened at the incidents drawing complaints.

            In 2023, 69 complaints were handled as either a mediation or conciliation.  Two of the three mediations were successful; 48 conciliations were successful, four were unsuccessful, and 14 were non-cooperative.  Director Bennekin questioned whether the name of the OCC should somehow be changed to reflect the focus on KCPD since many of the complaints they receive are from outside of the Department.

Ms. Williams thanked Chief Graves for the opportunity for OCC staff to attend officer roll calls to provide information on the complaint process.  The Board thanked Ms. Williams for the thoroughness of the annual report. 

  1. Public Comments. Doug Shafer, MORE2, spoke about a new case that was filed against the Board and State styled Barbara Johnson, et al. v. Governor Mike Parson, et al.  He stated that the Department’s current oversight system is racist by design and fails to equally protect the residents of Kansas City.  He called for local control and for the Board to immediately resign. 

Ron Hunt congratulated Commissioner Romious on her appointment to the Board.  Mr. Hunt spoke about the recent violence against children in the City.  He stated that people in the community are tired of the violence and need to come together for a solution.  He thanked the Homicide Unit detectives for their work in solving these crimes.  Mr. Hunt also appreciates the salary increases for officers. 

  1. Approval of Minutes. A motion was made by Commissioner Cramer, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the open session minutes from the Board meeting on December 12, 2023.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the open session minutes from the Board meeting on March 19, 2024.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Mr. David Kenner. Mr. Kenner advised that it is time for the Board to hold elections.  Commissioner Dean nominated Commissioner Cramer as President, Commissioner Whittaker as Vice President, and Commissioner Romious as Treasurer. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve Commissioner Dean’s nominations of Commissioner Cramer as President, Commissioner Whittaker as Vice President, and Commissioner Romious as Treasurer.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Mayor Quinton Lucas. Mayor Lucas stated that the former Mounted Patrol Unit did great work in the community.  He appreciated their presence in the City’s entertainment districts and engagements at community events.  He believes the Department should evaluate the return of mounted patrol.

            Mayor Lucas welcomed Commissioner Romious to the Board.  He thanked Commissioner Dean for her leadership and service to the Department and City.  Commissioner Dean thanked Mayor Lucas for his comments, and stated she would also like to see the return of mounted patrol.

  1. Commissioner Madeline Romious. Commissioner Romious stated that the presentations during her first meeting were very informative.  She looks forward to learning more about the Department and supporting its members.  She stated that where there are challenges, there are opportunities.
  2. Commissioner Tom Whittaker. Commissioner Whittaker welcomed Commissioner Romious, and thanked Commissioner Dean for her leadership.  He thanked Commissioner Dean for her leadership and counsel.  He also thanked Chief Graves for improving the culture on the Department and encouraged her to maintain the collaboration with all partners.
  3. Commissioner Dawn Cramer. Commissioner Cramer stated that she is honored to serve on the Board.  She thanked Commissioner Dean for being a great mentor and for her leadership.  Commissioner Cramer also stated that she is in favor of the mounted patrol returning. 
  4. Commissioner Cathy Dean. Commissioner Dean welcomed Commissioner Romious.  She stated that being on the Board his challenging, yet rewarding.  She stated that all members provide unique talents and perspectives. 

            Commissioner Dean announced that as of 5:00 p.m. today, April 23, 2024, she will be resigning from the Board.  Chief Graves thanked Commissioner Dean for her leadership and advocacy of the Department.  Mr. Kenner thanked Commissioner Dean and stated that it was a pleasure to work with her during her time on the Board.

  1. Scheduled meetings. The Board of Police Commissioners of Kansas City, Missouri has scheduled the following meetings:

 

Litigation Committee Meeting:

 

April 26, 2024, 3:00 p.m., via video conference.

This is a closed meeting being held to discuss litigation involving the Board.

 

Audit Committee Meeting:

 

June 24, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

Regular Meetings:

 

May 28, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

June 25, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

July 30, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

August 20, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

September 10, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

October 29, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

November 19, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

December 17, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

A motion was made by Commissioner Romious, with a second by Mayor Lucas, and by vote indicated below, to go into closed session at 11:27 a.m., as provided in the following resolution.  Following a roll call, the vote was 5-0 in favor. 

 

RESOLUTION

 

WHEREAS, notice of the board meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners was given on July 10, 2023, and

WHEREAS, said notice indicated that the Board of Police Commissioners might go into closed session during said meeting, and

WHEREAS, notice of the closed meeting follows the guidelines of Section 610.020 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Police Commissioners go into closed session during the meeting being held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at KCPD Headquarters, 1125 Locust Street, Kansas City, for the purpose of discussing personnel matters, labor negotiations, and litigation matters.

The following Commissioners were present and voted to go into closed session as follows:

Mayor Quinton Lucas                                                 -           Aye

Commissioner Madeline Romious                              -           Aye

Commissioner Tom Whittaker                                    -           Aye

Commissioner Dawn Cramer                                     -           Aye

Commissioner Cathy Dean                                         -           Aye

            There being a quorum present and the question of holding a closed session having received an affirmative public vote of at least three (3) members, a closed meeting was held as set forth above.

Below are the votes from the closed session of the Board of Police Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, April 23, 2024:

The Board went into closed session at 11:38 a.m.

1)         Following a motion by Commissioner Whittaker and a second by Mayor Lucas, the Board voted to authorize the expenditure of an additional $100,000 for legal fees in connection with the case styled Jim Swoboda v. BOPC.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, Commissioner Romious voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye. 

2)         Following a motion by Commissioner Whittaker, and a second by Mayor Lucas, the Board voted to authorize the expenditure of $250,000 for legal fees in connection with the case styled Jannet Morales v. BOPC.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, Commissioner Romious voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye. 

3)          Following a motion by Mayor Lucas, and a second by Commissioner Whittaker, the Board voted to approve the applications for continued employment of Sergeant Thomas Kartman and Sergeant Dani Russell.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, Commissioner Romious voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.   

4)         Following a motion by Mayor Lucas, and a second by Commissioner Whittaker, the Board voted to approve the duty related disability retirement of ______.[1]  The vote was 5-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, Commissioner Romious voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.   

5)         Following a motion by Mayor Lucas, and a second by Commissioner Whittaker, the Board voted to approve the minutes of the closed Board meeting on March 19, 2024.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, Commissioner Romious voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye. 

6)         Following a motion by Commissioner Whittaker, and a second by Mayor Lucas, at 12:00 p.m. the Board voted to go into special closed sessions to discuss litigation matters.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, Commissioner Romious voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye. 

7)         Following a motion by Mayor Lucas, and a second by Commissioner Whittaker, the Board voted to authorize certain settlement authority in the case of Keith Carnes v. BOPC, et al., in an amount not to exceed $___.[2]  The vote was 5-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, Commissioner Romious voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.   

8)         Following a motion by Mayor Lucas, and a second by Commissioner Cramer, the Board voted to come out of closed session and adjourn at 1:03 p.m.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, Commissioner Romious voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye. 

            The Board adjourned at 1:03 p.m.