July 11, 2017, Meeting
MINUTES OF THE
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING
TUESDAY, JULY 11, 2017
A meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners of Kansas City, Missouri was held on Tuesday, July 11, 2017, at KCPD South Patrol Division, Multi-purpose Room, 9701 Marion Park Drive, Kansas City.
PRESENT:
Commissioner Leland M. Shurin, President
Commissioner Angela Wasson-Hunt, Treasurer
Mayor Sylvester “Sly” James, Jr., Member
Mr. David V. Kenner, Secretary/Attorney
David Zimmerman, Chief of Police
EXCUSED:
Commissioner Michael C. Rader, Member
This meeting was called to order at 10:16 a.m. by Commissioner Shurin. A moment of silence was observed for those lives recently lost in the Kansas City area, and for the police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
1. Awards and Commendations.
The Special Unit Citation was presented to the Property and Evidence Unit for their commitment and performance of duties during the relocation of the Unit. In May 2016, the Unit relocated files, administrative supplies, high-risk property, drugs, firearms, and fingerprints to the new Property and Evidence Unit, located at 2645 Brooklyn, Kansas City. This amounted to approximately 50,000 individual items. The staff electronically tracked each item to maintain integrity of all evidence for future court purposes. The Property and Evidence staff worked very long hours to ensure all items were moved and accounted for. After the move, the staff has continued to spend long hours placing evidence on shelves and accounting for each item. The move was successful.
The Life-Saving Award was presented to Officer Benjamin Lindsay for his actions in a life-or-death situation, on the morning of December 5, 2016. Officer Lindsay was working off-duty in the Research Hospital ER, when a cardiac arrest patient arrived. Officer Lindsay volunteered to take over chest compressions on the man with the assistance of one of the hospital staff members, to relieve other staff members. Officer Lindsay conducted chest compressions on the man for approximately an hour, only being relieved for 20-30 seconds at a time. Because of Officer Lindsay’s life-sustaining efforts, surgical staff was able to respond and perform surgery on the man. Unfortunately, the man passed away within a few hours.
The Board took a recess at 10:24 a.m. and resumed at 10:29 a.m.
2. Public Comments.
Mr. Pete Makris thanked the KCPD for their efforts to keep the City safe, but explained that he no longer feels safe in his neighborhood located by Indian Creek Trail. Mr. Makris expressed the need for an increase in funding or sales tax, to provide more officers and equipment to the Department.
3. Councilperson Alissia Canady.
Councilperson Canady spoke about the OK Program’s “OK Day.” OK Day was held on Saturday, July 8, at KCPD South Patrol Division, to recognize academic achievements for the youth active in the OK Program. Approximately 100-200 young men participated in OK Day. Councilperson Canady expressed her thanks to all involved in the success of OK Day. Councilperson Canady expressed the need for more diversity on the Department. Councilperson Canady spoke about the ongoing violence in the City, and how crimes are influenced by socioeconomic factors. She noted that there were 3,000 assaults in the 5th District last year, with half of them involving domestic violence.
4. Chief David Zimmerman.
Chief David Zimmerman thanked Councilperson Canady for her comments, and stated the Department is working diligently to reduce the violent crimes in the City. Chief Zimmerman advised that the Department received the final staffing study completed by Matrix. Chief Zimmerman stated that he will provide the Board with a copy of the study.
In response to a question about the new patrol assignments, Chief Zimmerman stated that the Department has received positive feedback from numerous community members. Chief Zimmerman stated that community members have expressed their thanks regarding the increase of patrol in the areas of high crime. A report will be provided to the Board next month, including statistics from the new patrol assignment.
Chief Zimmerman spoke about the increase of out-of-state vehicles, specifically from Oklahoma. The Department believes that drugs and firearms may play a role in the increase of vehicles from out-of-state.
5. City Architect’s Report.
Mr. Eric Bosch spoke about the successful ribbon cutting that took place at the new North Patrol Division Station on June 23rd. Approximately 300 people attended the ribbon cutting and toured the new facility. Mr. Bosch explained that with the new construction completed, he will begin reviewing all KCPD facilities, starting with Central Patrol Division Station, to assess their needs and to provide the most energy and cost efficient upgrades.
6. Annual Audit.
Cochran Head Vick & Co. presented the KCPD Financial and Compliance Audit for the year ending April 30, 2017. The audit reflects that the Department complied in all material respects with the finance-related laws and regulations that govern their operations. No illegal acts were discovered, no difficulties or disagreements with management occurred, and full access to books and records was given.
7. Approval of minutes.
Commissioner Wasson-Hunt suggested two minor changes on page one and page two of the June 13, 2017, open minutes. Corrections were made to the errors mentioned by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt. A motion was made by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt with a second by Mayor James, to approve the minutes of the open meeting on June 13, 2017. The vote was 3-0 in favor.
8. Executive Services Bureau.
Deputy Chief Patty Higgins presented the following items for Board approval:
a. Budget Transfers for Fiscal Year 2017-18. A memorandum dated June 23, 2017, was presented to recommend approval of budget transfers. This budget transfer will affect the General Fund and the Police Grants Fund.
A motion was made by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt, with a second by Mayor James, to approve the budget transfers as presented. The vote was 3-0 in favor.
9. Professional Development and Research Bureau.
Deputy Chief Bob Kuehl presented the Academy Class Summary for July 2017.
Deputy Chief Kuehl requested Board approval for the following consent agenda items:
a. Project #791: Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Audit of Department Vital Documents
b. Project #1030: Animal Bite Reporting
c. Project #1032: Pay Summary
d. Project #870: Call Prioritization
In response to a question regarding Project #1032: Pay Summary, Deputy
Chief Kuehl advised that every KCPD employee receives paychecks via direct deposit, except for the Board. Board members receive a paper paycheck.
Mayor James requested Chief Zimmerman speak with the City Manager’s Office regarding officers’ calls to Chain of Hope. Acting Deputy Chief Glaeser noted that Animal Control is usually called first.
A motion was made by Mayor James, with a second by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt, to approve the consent agenda items as presented. The vote was 3-0 in favor.
10. Investigations Bureau.
Deputy Chief Cheryl Rose presented the Board with the Investigations Bureau reports for June 2017.
Deputy Chief Rose said that to-date in 2017, there have been 76 homicides, compared to 53 at this time last year. Four homicides took place last weekend, within 48 hours. Deputy Chief Rose advised that an additional drive-by shooting informational map has been added to the monthly Investigations Bureau report. This map displays the target of the drive-by shooting, for example, into a house or vehicle, or someone on the street. In response to a question, Deputy Chief Rose stated that the Investigations Bureau documents the motives behind every violent crime to the best of their ability. Occasionally, information regarding the motive of the crime is not discovered during investigations.
Deputy Chief Rose spoke about the increase of carjackings around the City. A majority of the carjackings are taking place in the East Patrol area and in Midtown, by groups of juveniles. Deputy Chief Rose also stated that bias crimes are on the rise nationwide.
Commissioner Wasson-Hunt congratulated the MoWIN Task Force on their acceptance of the 2017 Interdiction Unit of the Year award.
11. Administration Bureau.
Regional Criminalistics Division Director Linda Netzel spoke for Deputy Chief Oakman in his absence. Director Netzel presented the Regional Criminalistics Division monthly statistics for July 2017. Director Netzel advised that the transition into the new KCPD Crime Lab, located at 2645 Brooklyn, has been successful. Approximately 800 people from various organizations, such as citizen groups, PAL, and schools, have toured the new facility. During the early summer of 2017, the Crime Lab hosted a 3-week forensic science academy. Seven interns are participating in the Crime Lab summer internship program.
Director Netzel explained the backlog of various sections of the Crime Lab. The Drug Chemistry section has established a triage process to effectively eliminate 800 cases from the backlog that did not need to be worked. Director Netzel advised that many of the cases were eliminated because the statute had expired. Processes and procedures are being updated to make this section of the lab more effective and efficient. The backlog of DNA has significantly increased due to updated technology gathering more DNA information. The backlog of firearms has significantly decreased due to updates made to the policy and processes for this section. An additional firearms technician was added to this section, which has played a huge role in the success of this section. Director Netzel estimated the backlog of the latent fingerprints section to be eliminated by the end of the year because of the five fully-trained technicians working effectively with the cases. Director Netzel mentioned the increase in the NIBIN and AFIS hits, compared to this time last year.
In response to a question, Director Netzel advised that rape cases are treated as high-priority cases. Director Netzel also advised that a system is in place to notify personnel of cases that have an upcoming statute expiration date. Director Netzel advised that changes in lab procedures are being made to prevent the statute from expiring on cases.
12. Patrol Bureau.
Acting Deputy Chief Scott Glaeser presented the Monthly Offense Summary dated May 2017. Acting Deputy Chief Glaeser provided an update on the newly implemented initiative that has increased police presence in high-risk locations. Officers from the Traffic Division, Special Operations Unit, and the Violent Crime Enforcement Unit have been placed in high-risk locations to deter violent crime. Acting Deputy Chief Glaeser stated that many officers placed in these locations have been contacted and thanked by community members for their efforts and presence in these high-risk areas.
Acting Deputy Chief Glaeser presented the Traffic Summary for the month of June 2017. Acting Deputy Chief Glaeser stated that the number of fatality accidents for this year is 60% higher than last year, and the total number of pedestrians struck is 12% higher than last year. Approximately 5-10% of pedestrians were struck in a crosswalk. A majority of pedestrians are struck on highways and dark areas where drivers aren’t anticipating pedestrians. He advised there have been 43 fatalities to date this year, there were 28 at this time last year. He noted that some of the pedestrian fatalities appear to be caused by the pedestrian intentionally stepping in front of a car.
Major Shawn Wadle stated that it is too soon to tell if the increased speeds on Highway 71 will be helpful. The first month suggested improvement, but the second month suggested otherwise.
Acting Deputy Chief Glaeser stated that a sobriety checkpoint in June was conducted by on-duty personnel on Highway 169 by the Downtown Airport. Information gathered from the checkpoint showed that more people were using Uber. In response to a question, Chief Zimmerman advised that overtime funding from MoDOT for sobriety checkpoints was discontinued. The Department is still able to conduct wolf pack enforcement.
Acting Deputy Chief Glaeser presented the Executive Summary dated June 2017. He advised that the Calls Received Section was left blank because of a problem with the statistics. A meeting with MARC has been scheduled to discuss the errors with the 911 call statistics. Acting Deputy Chief Glaeser will advise the Board of the outcome.
13. Office of General Counsel.
General Counsel Virginia Murray stated she had nothing for discussion at this time.
14. Professional Standards Division.
Major David Bosworth presented the OCC Investigations Summary dated July 3, 2017. Major Bosworth also presented the following Private Officer License appeal:
a. Private Officer License Appeal, Antonio M. Nash. A memorandum dated June 22, 2017, recommended the denial of the unarmed private security license of Mr. Antonio M. Nash. The basis for the revocation is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations 10-2.050, Section (3) (F) stipulating, “If the applicant served in the Armed Forces of the United States within ten (10) years prior to the date of application, the final discharge of the applicant from the armed forces must be honorable or general under honorable conditions.” Mr. Nash was discharged Under Other Than Honorable conditions from the United States Army Reserve on June 7, 2013. The Board requested more information regarding the Under Other Than Honorable Conditions Discharge of Mr. Nash. The Board requested that Mr. Nash provide them with more description in his appeal, and present it at the next Board meeting.
A motion was made by Commissioner Shurin, with a second by Mayor James, to table the appeal of Antonio M. Nash until the Board meeting on August 15, 2017. The vote was 3-0 in favor.
In response to a question, Major Bosworth advised that Private Officer Licensing Unit Manager Tamy Gallagher will explain the private officer license appeal process to the Board at the August 15, 2017 Board meeting.
15. Human Resources.
Director Meredith Rund presented the Personnel Summary dated July 6, 2017. For this time period, Department strength is 1,295 law enforcement and 515 civilians.
Director Rund presented a memorandum dated July 6, 2017, explaining the Law Enforcement Death Benefits, for the Board’s review.
16. Office of Community Complaints.
Director Merrell Bennekin presented the OCC Monthly Reports, OCC Quarterly Report, OCC Semi-Annual Report, and OCC First and Second Quarter Complaints Received Reports.
In response to a question, Director Bennekin advised that every complaint submitted to OCC categorized by the allegation listed, reviewed by OCC, and then remedial or disciplinary action is implemented. Director Bennekin stated that Ellen LoCurto-Martinez is conducting her dissertation research on the Kansas City, Missouri Office of Community Complaints. Ms. LoCurto-Martinez will be in Kansas City during the beginning of August 2017, and will be interviewing Board members, Council people, KCPD personnel, and members of the community to gather feedback on the OCC. Director Bennekin advised that Kansas City’s OCC is a model for many OCC’s across the nation.
17. Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 99.
Sergeant Brad Lemon expressed his thanks to the Board and Department members for their support with the loss of KCPD Detective George (G.L.) Springer. The family of Detective Springer is thankful for all the support they’ve received.
18. Scheduled meetings.
The Board of Police Commissioners of Kansas City, Missouri has scheduled the following meetings:
Regular Meetings 2017:
August 15, 2017, 10:00 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
September 12, 2017, 10:00 a.m., at KCPD North Patrol Community Room, 11000 N.W. Prairie View Road, Kansas City.
October 10, 2017, 10:00 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
November 14, 2017, 10:00 a.m., at KCPD East Patrol Gymnasium, 2640 Prospect Avenue, Kansas City.
A motion was made by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt, with a second by Mayor James, and by vote indicated below, to adjourn its open meeting at 11:50 a.m. and reconvene in closed session as provided in the following resolution. Following a roll call, the vote was 3-0 in favor.
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, notice of the board meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners was given on October 20, 2016, 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, July 11, 2017, at South Patrol Division, 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:
Commissioner Leland M. Shurin – Aye
Commissioner Angela Wasson-Hunt – Aye
Mayor Sylvester “Sly” James, Jr. – 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 July 11, 2017:
Commissioner Rader had an excused absence.
1) Following a motion by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt and a second by Mayor James, the Board voted to go into closed session to discuss litigation matters, personnel matters and labor negotiations. The vote was 3-0 in favor. Following polling, Mayor James voted Aye, Commissioner Wasson-Hunt voted Aye, and Commissioner Shurin voted Aye.
2) Following a motion by Mayor James and a second by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt, the Board voted to approve the duty-related disability retirement of Police Officer xxxx1. The vote was 3-0 in favor. Following polling, Mayor James voted Aye, Commissioner Wasson-Hunt voted Aye, and Commissioner Shurin voted Aye.
3) Following a motion by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt and a second by Mayor James, the Board voted to approve the duty-related disability retirement of Police Officer xxxx2. The vote was 3-0 in favor. Following polling, Mayor James voted Aye, Commissioner Wasson-Hunt voted Aye, and Commissioner Shurin voted Aye.
4) Following a motion by Mayor James and a second by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt, the Board voted to deny the private officer license appeal of Michael L. Hamlett. The vote was 3-0 in favor. Following polling, Mayor James voted Aye, Commissioner Wasson-Hunt voted Aye, and Commissioner Shurin voted Aye.
5) Following a motion by Mayor James and a second by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt, the Board voted to approve the minutes of the closed meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners on June 13, 2017. The vote was 3-0 in favor. Following polling, Mayor James voted Aye, Commissioner Wasson-Hunt voted Aye, and Commissioner Shurin voted Aye.
6) Following a motion by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt and a second by Mayor James, the Board voted to go into special closed session to discuss personnel matters. The vote was 3-0 in favor. Following polling, Mayor James voted Aye, Commissioner Wasson-Hunt voted Aye, and Commissioner Shurin voted Aye.
7) Following a motion by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt and a second by Mayor James, the Board voted to allow Interim Chief David Zimmerman to roll over up to 30 vacation days to be used in 2018. The vote was 3-0 in favor. Following polling, Mayor James voted Aye, Commissioner Wasson-Hunt voted Aye, and Commissioner Shurin voted Aye.
8) Following a motion by Commissioner Wasson-Hunt and a second by Commissioner Shurin, the Board voted to come out of special closed session and adjourn. The vote was 3-0 in favor. Following polling, Mayor James voted Aye, Commissioner Wasson-Hunt voted Aye, and Commissioner Shurin voted Aye.
The Board adjourned at 12:33 p.m.
____________________
President
_______________________
Secretary/Attorney
1 Name redacted for privacy and confidentiality reasons.
2 Name redacted for privacy and confidentiality reasons.
Board of Police Commissioners Minutes