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September 26, 2023 Meeting

Publish Date 10/26/2023

MINUTES OF THE

BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2023

 

 

A meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners of Kansas City, Missouri was held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 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 Mark Tolbert, Member

Mayor Quinton Lucas, Member

Mr. David Kenner, Secretary/Attorney

Stacey Graves, Chief of Police

 

This meeting was called to order at 9:31 a.m. by Commissioner Dean.  Police Officer Todd Stoker led the Pledge of Allegiance.  Dr. Serita Wright, Department Chaplain, provided the invocation. 

  1. Guest Presentation. City Auditor Douglas Jones presented on the 4th Quarter Audit of the Community Policing and Prevention Fund (CPPF).  Mr. Jones reported that the Department spent the final $9.6 million in the 4th Quarter to eligible spending categories, but not always as originally designated.  Between February 2022 and April 2023, the Department hired 103 law enforcement members.  Of these newly hired members, 82 percent were male and 18 percent were female; 65 percent of the newly hired members were White, 14 percent were Black, 11 percent were of mixed heritage, eight percent Hispanic, and three percent Asian. 

            Mr. Jones recommended that changes in the Department’s budgeting can improve resource management and increase transparency in future budget years.  Specifically, he recommended that the Department begin preparing an updated line-item budget based on actual City Council appropriation, rather than from the Board-approved requested budget.  Once the City Council approves the appropriated amount, the Chief of Police should submit an amended budget to the Board that identifies planned line-item spending based on the funds appropriated.  Chief Graves advised that the Department will continue to work through the budget with the City to provide transparency for all.  Mr. Jones thanked Chief Graves for the Department’s quick response to the audit findings.  

  1. City Council Update. Councilman Crispin Rea, 4th District-at-Large, presented on behalf of the City Council.  Councilman Rea advised that the City will not be collaborating with Jackson County on a new detention and rehabilitation facility.  However, the City Council established a new committee to begin reviewing options for a separate City detention and rehabilitation facility; Councilman Rea is the chair of this committee.  He advised that the committee must determine the needed size for the facility (bed count), nature of the beds (detention versus mental health treatment), funding, and the facility location.  The committee will begin meeting today with stakeholders, and there will be public community engagement forums.  The committee will review the detention study that was conducted in 2019 to assist them in this process.  Councilman Rea advised that the committee will present their recommendations by the end of January 2024.  Mayor Lucas advised that a presentation in January precedes the budget discussion and provides an April ballot opportunity.  The Board and Chief Graves thanked Councilman Rea and the City’s work on this urgent matter. 
  2. Chief Stacey Graves. Chief Graves advised that KCPD is the largest police department in the state, and it used to be the highest paid; however, that is no longer the case.  Chief Graves spoke about the recent passing of Missouri Senate Bill 186 that removed the salary cap for law enforcement officers.  Chief Graves advised that this change will greatly help recruit and retain officers.  Chief Graves advised that in the Department’s budget request submission for Fiscal Year 2024-2025, the Department will be requesting to increase the starting annual salary for police officers to $60,000.  She noted that the Board will need to hold a special meeting to approve the requested budget and asked for the Board’s support of this pay scale adjustment.  The Board agreed that this is important and should be done to recruit new officers.  Commissioner Tolbert added that the Department cannot continue to subsidize other agencies through Academy tuition.  Chief Graves advised that the Department continues to review the tuition costs. 

Chief Graves requested that Ms. Annette Green, Metro Patrol Division Administrative Assistant, and Recruit Ariel Brintnall come forward.  Chief Graves advised that Recruit Brintnall was hired by the Department in November 2022, and worked at the Metro Patrol Division until her Academy class began in April 2023.  During her time at Metro Patrol Division, Ms. Green taught Recruit Brintnall the proper way to write police reports.  This knowledge has greatly assisted Recruit Brintnall during her time at the Academy – she has received perfect scores for her report writing.  Recruit Brintnall credits her success to everything Ms. Green taught her during her time at Metro Patrol.  As a token of appreciation for the great impact she’s made, Chief Graves presented Ms. Green with a Chief’s Coin.    

  1. Investigations Bureau. Deputy Chief Luis Ortiz provided an update on monthly crime statistics.  He advised that to-date in 2023, there have been 144 homicides, compared to 122 at this same time in 2022.  The Department has cleared 68 homicides this year and 31 additional cases from previous years, totaling 99 homicides cleared to-date 2023.  Deputy Chief Ortiz advised of the 16 homicides that occurred in August 2023, four have been cleared, three additional have been charged, and one was declined citing self-defense; Homicide detectives consider four additional August 2023 homicides as solved, but they are pending prosecutor review. 

Deputy Chief Ortiz advised there have been 375 non-fatal shootings year-to-date, compared to 402 for this same time period in 2022.  There were 49 non-fatal shootings in August 2023, compared to 60 in August 2022.  Deputy Chief Ortiz presented statistics on suspect and victim characteristics for the month of August 2023. 

Deputy Chief Ortiz commended the detectives assigned to the Assault Squad.  In addition to assault cases, these detectives respond to and investigate all non-fatal shootings in the City.  Their tireless work is invaluable.  Mayor Lucas noted the decrease in non-fatal shootings across the City.  Chief Graves advised that while violent crime is so complex, part of this reduction should be attributed to the increased community engagement work and initiatives across the City. 

            Deputy Chief Ortiz spoke about cases submitted for prosecution.  In August 2023, there were 295 cases submitted for prosecution; there were 236 cases submitted to Jackson County, 39 to Clay County, 20 to Platte County, and one to Cass County. 

            Deputy Chief Ortiz spoke about a scamming incident that occurred during the past month.  A gas station clerk witnessed a man depositing a large amount of money into an ATM Bitcoin.  The clerk contacted detectives, and it was determined that the victim was being scammed.  With the intervention from Economic and Property Crimes detectives, this person was saved from further victimization.   

            Sergeant Michael McKenna and Detective Kirstin Jorgenson of the Drug Enforcement Unit presented information on fentanyl and synthetic opioids.  Detective Jorgenson advised that since January 1, 2022, there have been 598 total reported overdoses in the City; 190 of the reported overdoses were fatal.  Year-to-date 2023, there have been 290 total reported overdoses in the City.  Detective Jorgenson advised that fatal overdoses are investigated by the Homicide Unit and non-fatal overdoses are investigated by the Drug Enforcement Unit. 

            In response to a question, Sergeant McKenna advised that at this time, all members are not equipped with Narcan, but the Department is going through a procurement process to ensure all members are equipped with Narcan.  Deputy Chief Mabin advised that all officers on patrol are currently equipped with Narcan.  Mayor Lucas encouraged the Department to seek settlement and grant funding for additional Narcan supply.  Commissioner Cramer added that several non-profit organizations also provide Narcan.  Sergeant McKenna advised that when opioid addicts are identified, the Department will connect them with proper resources. 

  1. Patrol Bureau. Deputy Chief Joseph Mabin provided a monthly update on the Patrol Bureau.  In an effort to reduce street racing (sideshows) on City streets, a large multi-jurisdictional operation was held with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (KCKPD), KCPD Traffic Division, and city prosecutors.  Previously this month, KCKPD identified a street racing problem at 9th and Wyoming.  Officers were deloyed on both sides of the state line and successfully deployed stop sticks to participating vehicles.  Deputy Chief Mabin advised that during this operation, 20 citations were issued, stop sticks were deployed on 18 vehicles, three vehicles were towed, and one firearm was recovered. 

            Deputy Chief Mabin spoke about the increases in stolen autos this year.  The Department has seen a 31 percent increase in stolen autos this year compared to 2022, and an 80 percent increase from 2021.  Kias and Hyundais are the two most popular makes known to be stolen.  The Community Engagement Division is providing steering column locks for community members that need them. 

            Deputy Chief Mabin spoke about the houseless outreach in the Shoal Creek Patrol Division.  During the past month, officers and social workers contacted approximately 25 houseless individuals in the area and provided them with resources.    Deputy Chief Mabin also spoke about other events the Patrol Bureau members were involved in the past month, such as community walks and crime reduction initiatives.  Deputy Chief Mabin advised that National Faith & Blue Week will occur October 6, 2023, through October 9, 2023. 

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 August was 8 minutes and 2 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 August was 10 minutes and 19 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 presented the Traffic Summary for August 2023.  He advised that there have been 54 fatal traffic crashes year-to-date 2023, with 60 total fatal crash victims.  During this same time frame last year, there had been 57 fatal crashes, with 60 total fatal crash victims.  Deputy Chief Mabin advised that the Department is increasing traffic enforcement in the high-crash locations during the next several weeks, in an effort to reduce vehicle crashes.  The Department also works with Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT) regarding traffic problems and road structure/design. 

Sergeant Ashley McCunniff provided information on the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT).  CIT is a community partnership working with behavioral health services, individuals with behavioral health diagnoses and/or those in crisis, and family members.  In 1999, the Mid-America CIT (MACIT) Council was formed.  MACIT was the first of its kind in Missouri, and has grown to include 24 law enforcement agencies from Jackson, Cass, Platte, and Clay Counties, 17 community mental health centers and crisis support providers, and 11 participating community partners, including state and local courts, state support services, advocacy groups, grant development, and other organizations.

KCPD was the first department to have dedicated members assigned to CIT in 2015.  Sergeant McCunniff and four officers make up the Department’s CIT Unit.  In addition to providing support to those in crisis, the CIT Unit provides CIT training to Department members.  In 2023, Chief Graves mandated the 40-hour Basic CIT training for recruits in the Academy.  Currently, there are 531 CIT-trained officers on the Department and 54 CIT-trained professional staff members.  The CIT Unit also provides advanced CIT training for interactions with youth, veterans, and telecommuncations personnel. 

Sergeant McCunniff advised that the CIT Unit follows up on mental health/CIT reports completed by patrol officers, assists patrol officers on active calls for service, attends community events and meetings to raise awareness about behavioral health resources within the community, and holds presentations for local businesses and community groups on de-escalation techniques, behavioral health, and houseless individuals. 

The CIT Unit is also involved in the Community Behavioral Health Liaison (CBHL) program.  The CBHL program consists of behavioral health professionals within the state who assist law enforcement, courts, and corrections.  There are 81 CBHLs in the state, and 32 Youth Behavioral Health Liaisons (YBHLs) in the state. 

Sergeant McCunniff advised that to-date 2023, the CIT Unit has made 1,328 contacts; 58 percent of the contacts engaged in services, 27 percent of contacts expressed interest in services, 13 percent of contacts declined services, and two percent of contacts were determined to be outside of the City.  The Department has taken 2,922 CIT reports to-date 2023. 

Sergeant McCunniff advised that the Department is working on an agreement to transfer calls for service to 9-8-8.  She explained that 9-8-8 is the Suicide and Crisis Hotline.  This will allow call takers to transfer those in mental health crisis to 9-8-8, to free up calls for service for officers.  The Department is also working with KCFD on more efficient crisis responses.  Sergeant McCunniff advised that agencies are also working with the state to create a statewide CIT reporting system.  She explained that a lot of individuals in crisis are transient, so this would allow departments in other cities easier access to CIT reports if an individual in crisis is contacted in their city. 

Commissioner Whittaker and Commission Tolbert thanked Sergeant McCunniff for the in-depth report on the CIT Unit.  In response to a question, Sergeant McCunniff advised that officers also provide resources to the families of those in crisis.  Mayor Lucas added that the CIT Unit is a vital resource to the City.  He thanked the CIT Unit for their work, and thanked Chief Graves for mandating the 40-hour Basic Training for all members going through the Academy. 

  1. Administration Bureau. Deputy Chief Doug Niemeier provided an update on Department staffing.  He advised that as of August 30, 2023, Department strength was 1,648.  For this time period, there were 1,099 sworn law enforcement personnel, 43 recruits, 501 professional staff, and five Board members. 

Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that Human Resources personnel are now processing applicants for the new Academy class that will begin on October 30, 2023.  Currently, there are 19 applicants in the eligibility pool; 14 job offers have been extended.  One lateral is also being processed and will begin training soon.  The Department will hold law enforcement testing on October 21, 2023, November 16, 2023, and December 13, 2023.

            Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that the Department hired 17 people for the Communications Unit this year.  There is one pending job offer at this time, and there are 12 eligible applicants in various stages of the hiring process. 

            Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that the Department is accepting applications for all positions.  More information can be found at https://careers.kcpd.org.  Deputy Chief Niemeier spoke about the recruitment events that Department members attended over the past month.

Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that the 178th Entrant Officer Class (EOC) will graduate on November 2, 2023; there are 24 KCPD recruits in this class.  The 179th EOC will graduate on February 8, 2024; there are 17 KCPD recruits in this class.  The 180th EOC is scheduled to begin training on October 30, 2023, and the 181st EOC is scheduled to begin training on March 18, 2024. 

Chief Graves commended the efforts of Deputy Chief Niemeier and the Employment Unit personnel for their hard work in recruiting and processing new employees. 

  1. Executive Services Bureau. Deputy Chief Derek McCollum presented the following items for Board approval:
  2. Budget Transfers for Fiscal Year 2023-24.  A memorandum dated September 18, 2023, was presented recommending approval of budget transfers.  This transfer will affect the General Fund, the Police Grants Fund, and the Grants Special Revenue Fund.     

            In response to questions from Mayor Lucas, Deputy Chief McCollum advised that a $175,000 transfer is being requested for legal fees and a $199,000 transfer is being requested for the purchase of the ShotSpotter software renewal.  The ShotSpotter renewal will be presented in the Executive Services Bureau report, Item D. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Tolbert, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to approve the budget transfers as presented.  The vote was 4-1 in favor, with Mayor Lucas voting Nay.

  1. Adjustment to Special Revenue Accounts for Fiscal Year 2023-24.  A memorandum dated September 18, 2023, was presented to recommend approval an adjustment to special services funds in the amount of $343,400.00.  This adjustment is necessary to move donated funds from the Police Foundation of Kansas City to the Audio/Visual Equipment fund for the purchase of body-worn camera batteries and ancillary equipment. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Tolbert, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to approve an adjustment to special revenue accounts in the amount of $343,400.00, as presented.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Body Camera Battery Purchase.  A memorandum dated September 18, 2023, was presented to recommend approval to purchase 850 body-worn camera batteries and chargers from Turn-Key Mobile, at a cost of $343,400.00.  The Police Foundation of Kansas City, Missouri donated the necessary funds for this purchase, as an addition to the original body-worn camera project.  In response to a question, Deputy Chief McCollum advised that this purchase is necessary to ensure battery back-up when the Department moves to an 11-work plan in January 2024.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Tolbert, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to approve the purchase of 850 body-worn camera batteries and chargers from Turn-Key Mobile, at a cost of $343,400.00, utilized donated funds from the Police Foundation of Kansas City, Missouri.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

  1. SoundThinking, Inc. ShotSpotter Gunshot Detection System Renewal.  A memorandum dated September 19, 2023, was presented to recommend a one-year renewal with SoundThinking, Inc., for the ShotSpotter Gunshot Detection System, at a cost of $199,358.00.  The renewal period will run from October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024.  In response to a question from Mayor Lucas, Deputy Chief McCollum advised that original funding for the ShotSpotter system was through the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA).  Mayor Lucas recommended the Department ask KCATA to continue funding this system. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Commissioner Cramer, to approve the one-year renewal with SoundThinking, Inc., for the ShotSpotter Gunshot Detection System, at a cost of $199,358.00.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Addendum – Subaward – Rose Brooks Center.  A memorandum dated September 12, 2023, was presented to recommend acceptance of the Rose Brooks Center Subaward Addendum in the amount of $135,147.82, for the period of October 1, 2020, through December 31, 2023.  This addendum covers funding for detective overtime and extends the award period by three months.  This de-obligation of funds is needed to avoid any potential negative impacts on future applications for funding.   

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Tolbert, to accept the Rose Brooks Subaward Addendum in the amount of $135,147.82, as presented.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Operation Legend Grant Budget Modification.  A memorandum dated September 11, 2023, was presented to recommend approval of a budget modification to the Operation Legend Grant 2020-DJ-BX-0002 in the amount of $141,203.37.  In an effort to continue violent crime reduction, the purchase of 52 laptops and 26 desktop computers for crime lab personnel and detectives work in a mobile capacity and process violent crime evidence more efficiently.

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Cramer, to approve a modification to the Operation Legend Grant 2020-DJ-BX-0002 in the amount of $141,203.37, as presented.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Bid No. 2024-2, New 2024 Model Year Dodge Durango Vehicles.  A memorandum dated September 19, 2023, was presented to recommend awarding Bid No. 2024-2, Dodge Durango Pursuit Vehicles, to Landmark Dodge, in the anticipated amount of $1,714,440.00, for the purchase of 39 new 2024 Dodge Durango pursuit vehicles.  Deputy Chief McCollum advised Ford will not allow new orders for 2024 pursuit vehicles, so the bid was put out to Dodge dealerships.  The Department only received one response to the bid, which was Landmark Dodge.  In response to a question, Deputy Chief McCollum advised that the cost per Dodge Durango is cheaper than the cost of a Ford Explorer. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Tolbert, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to approve the award of Bid No. 2024-2 to Landmark Dodge, for the purchase of 39 new 2024 model year Dodge Durango’s, at an anticipated cost of $1,714,440.00.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. 2020 Project Safe Neighborhood Subaward 2020-GP-BX-0004.  A memorandum dated September 12, 2023, was presented to recommend of the 2020 Project Safe Neighborhood Subaward 2020-GP-BX-004 from the Kansas City Crime Commission, in the amount of $162,643.00.  This revision also extends the project period end date to September 30, 2024.  This award is 100 percent federally funded, and provides funds to employ a Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC) analyst, travel/training, and software. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Tolbert, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to accept the 2020 Project Safe Neighborhood Subaward 2020-GP-BX-0004, in the amount of $162,643.00, as presented.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

  1. 2021 Project Safe Neighborhood Subaward 2021-15PBJA-21-GG-03035-

GUNP.  A memorandum dated September 12, 2023 was presented to recommend acceptance of the 2021 Project Safe Neighborhood Subaward 2021-15PBJA-21-GG-03035-GUNP from the Kansas City Crime Commission, in the amount of $160,000.00.  This award provides ongoing funding for the employment of a CGIC analyst, and partially funds the second year of Cobwebs.  The project period runs through September 30, 2024. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Cramer, with a second by Commissioner Tolbert, to accept the 2021 Project Safe Neighborhood Subaward 2021-15PBJA-21-GG-03035-GUNP, in the amount of $160,000.00.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.    

            Deputy Chief McCollum provided an update on the Communications Unit.  He advised that the Unit is currently staffed with 35 dispatchers and 33 call takers; there are 28 vacancies, compared to 25 vacancies last month.  Deputy Chief McCollum advised that two members are currently in call taker training, and two will start next week. 

Deputy Chief McCollum advised that the average 911 hold time for the month of August was 42 seconds, compared to 40 seconds last month and 28 seconds in August 2022.  Last month, the Communications Unit received approximately 126 calls per hour, which equates to 3,042 calls per day, or 94,302 calls for the month; these statistics are compared to 86,833 calls per day at the same time period in 2022.  Calls to 911 have significantly increased, but staffing remains low. 

Mayor Lucas asked how the Department’s pay for Communications Unit personnel compares to other agencies.  Deputy Chief McCollum advised that there are other agencies with higher starting salaries than KCPD, and those agencies see a much smaller call volume.  Chief Graves advised that the Department is reviewing the pay structure comparison from the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC). 

            Deputy Chief McCollum provided an update on the MARC Regional 911 System.  He advised that Motorola is putting together the software needed for the auto-attendant feature, but funding has become an issue.  Hassan Al-Rubaie, Public Safety Technical Services Manager from MARC, was present at the meeting and provided additional information.  Mr. Al-Rubaie advised that Motorola is on track to produce the software by the end of the first quarter of 2024.  Commissioner Dean requested that MARC reach out to Motorola on behalf of KCPD to express the urgency of having the project completed by January 2024.  Deputy Chief McCollum advised that Motorola is aware of the urgency. 

Mayor Lucas expressed his extreme concern with the current 911 system, and requested Motorola and MARC’s assistance in streamlining the process to be completed as soon as possible.  He spoke of the potential liability the Department could face if the 911 system fails constituents.  Commissioner Tolbert spoke about the amount of time it has taken to find a solution for the 911 system and Communications Unit staffing shortage.  He recommended the Department implement a part-time program for college students and others looking for part-time work, to assist in filling in the gaps.

Deputy Chief McCollum provided an update on Academy tuition costs.  He advised that the Department contacted the four most-used academies in the region.  The tuition of these academies ranged from $455 to $1,000 higher than what KCPD charges. Deputy Chief McCollum added that a majority of those academies are held at college institutions, and the students are receiving college credits for attending their academies.  Chief Graves advised that the Department continues to review tuition costs for outside agencies that send recruits to the KCPD Academy.    

  1. Chief’s Executive Officer. Deputy Chief Steve Young presented the following consent agenda items:
  2. Policy Series 200 – Employee Guidelines, Personal Appearance Standards
  3. Police Series 200 – Employee Guidelines, Uniform Regulations

Mayor Lucas inquired about the proposed changes to the men’s hair policy.

Deputy Chief Young advised that the Department is trying to get back to a more professional, polished look. 

            A motion was made by Commissioner Whittaker, with a second by Commissioner Cramer, to approve the consent agenda items, as presented.  The vote was 4-1 in favor, with Mayor Lucas voting Nay.  

  1. Office of the General Counsel. General Counsel Nathan Weinert presented the following items for Board consideration:
  2. Private Officer License Appeal: William T. Hamburg.  A memorandum dated August 25, 2023, was presented to recommend the revocation of the armed private security license of William T. Hamburg.  The basis for the revocation is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.060 (8)(I), which stipulates, “no person licensed under these provisions shall divulge to any unauthorized person or company any information or knowledge received from the department or any source when the divulgence would be detrimental to effective law enforcement.  Under no circumstances may any records received from the department, whether generated by computer or otherwise, be accessed for personal use.”  On June 13, 2023, Mr. Hamburg distributed Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) reports for use to another employee of the Kansas City, Missouri School District. 

            During discussion, Mr. Weinert confirmed that Mr. Hamburg provided the DOR records of an individual that caused property damage at a School District property, so that a School District employee could file a police report against the individual.  KCPD had previously advised that the School District would need to file a walk-in report at a division station.  Mr. Hamburg did not provide the CJIS records for personal use, but rather for assistance in filing a police report related to his course of duty.

            A motion was made by Commissioner Tolbert, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to uphold the appeal and reinstate the armed private security license of William T. Hamburg.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

  1. Private Officer License Appeal: Teenia A. Davis.  A memorandum dated September 7, 2023, was presented to recommend the revocation of the armed private security license of Teenia A. Davis.  The basis for the revocation is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.060 (7)(G-I), which stipulates that an applicant’s license may be revoked “if they failed to meet the standards set out herein”, and if the applicant “provides other facts or actions which demonstrate that the applicant is unsuitable or ineligible to continue to hold a license.”  

            On August 22, 2023, Mr. Davis responded to the KCPD Firearms Range for qualifications.  He failed to follow the requirements outlined in Form 5001 P.D., which require, hearing protection must be ear muff style while attending the range.  Mr. Davis became argumentative with range staff and begin to offer money to buy or borrow ear protection.  He became upset when the range staff advised that they had no extras.  After returning with hearing protection, he committed a firearms safety violation on the range.  He against became argumentative with range staff when they advised him of the safety violation, and he was removed from the firing range.  His actions were determined inappropriate by range staff and the Private Officer Licensing Unit. 

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to uphold the decision of the Private Officers Licensing Unit to revoke the armed security license of Teenia A. Davis.  The vote was 4-1 in favor, with Commissioner Tolbert voting Nay.

  1. Private Officer License Appeal: Mitchell L. Paden. A memorandum dated September 7, 2023, was presented to recommend the denial of the armed private security license of Mitchell L. Paden.  The basis for the denial is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.050(3)(O), which stipulates, “an applicant may be denied if the applicant provides other acts or actions which demonstrate that the applicant is unsuitable or ineligible for a license.”  In December 2020, Mr. Paden resigned from the Olathe, Kansas Police Department under threat of termination.

A motion was made by Commissioner Tolbert, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to uphold the appeal and grant the armed private security license of Mitchell L. Paden.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

  1. Private Officer License Appeal: Ryan A. Morrill.  A memorandum dated September 7, 2023, was presented to recommend the denial of the armed private security license of Ryan A. Morrill.  The basis for the denial is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.050(3)(O), which stipulates, “an applicant may be denied if the applicant provides other acts or actions which demonstrate that the applicant is unsuitable or ineligible for a license.”  Additionally, Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.050(3)(L), which stipulates, “an applicant may be denied if they made any false statements or gave any false information in connection with an application for a license."  Earlier this year, Mr. Morrill resigned from the Prairie Village, Kansas Police Department under threat of termination.  Additionally, Mr. Morrill failed to disclose this information to the Private Officer Licensing Unit. 

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

  1. Private Officer License Appeal: Ladana E. Pearson.  A memorandum dated September 11, 2023, was presented to recommend denial of the unarmed private security license of Ladana E. Pearson.  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 must be of good moral character by having no felony convictions, misdemeanor convictions, or city ordinance convictions, which have an essential element of fraud, dishonesty, an act of violence, bribery, illegal drug use, sexual misconduct, and other similar acts constituting moral turpitude.”  On January 25, 2023, Ms. Pearson was arrested for local ordinance violations of assault and resisting arrest in Raytown, Missouri.  She was arrested again on February 1, 2023, for assault. 

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Tolbert, to uphold the decision of the Private Officer Licensing Unit and deny the unarmed private security license of Ladana E. Pearson.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.

  1. Private Officer License Appeal: Jason C. Perry.  A memorandum dated September 15, 2023, was presented to recommend the denial of the unarmed private security license of Jason C. Perry.  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 must be of good moral character by having no felony convictions, misdemeanor convictions, or city ordinance convictions, which have an essential element of fraud, dishonesty, an act of violence, bribery, illegal drug use, sexual misconduct, and other similar acts constituting moral turpitude.”  On March 15, 2022, Mr. Perry was convicted of a Class A misdemeanor for possession of meth in Macon County, Tennessee. 

            A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Whittaker, to uphold the decision of the Private Officer Licensing Unit and deny the unarmed private security license of Jason C. Perry.  The vote was 5-0 in favor. 

  1. Public Comments. Steve Young, KC LEAP, advised that a way for the Department to gain community trust is to call out “bad apples”.  He expressed frustration that the Board has not provided comment on the appeal of charges for Former Detective Eric DeValkenaere. 
  2. Approval of Minutes. A motion was made by Commissioner Tolbert, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the open session minutes from the Board meeting on August 22, 2023.  The vote was 5-0 in favor.
  3. Mayor Quinton Lucas. In response to the public comment provided by Mr. Young, Mayor Lucas advised that it is inappropriate for the Board to engage in any conversation related to ongoing criminal proceedings.  He commended leadership for not providing comment related to the above-referenced matter.  Commissioner Dean agreed. 
  4. Commissioner Mark Tolbert. Commissioner Tolbert advised that he will be speaking with Dr. Kim Beatty at Metropolitan Community College (MCC) regarding recruitment of MCC students.  He also would like the Department to look into possible provisions for part-time employees to help fill in the gaps.  
  5. Commissioner Tom Whittaker. Commissioner Whittaker spoke about the Department’s urgent need for people.  He advised that the Department must hire new employees, but also keep the existing employees. 
  6. Commissioner Dawn Cramer. Commissioner Cramer thanked Department staff for their hard work.  She also commended the Employment Unit for continuing to hire new members, at a time when there is record low numbers of unemployment. 
  7. Scheduled meetings. The Board of Police Commissioners of Kansas City, Missouri has scheduled the following meetings:

 

Special Budget Meeting:

 

Monday, October 2, 2023

1:30 p.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

Board Disciplinary Hearings:

 

BOPC 21-02

Friday, December 1, 2023

9:00 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

BOPC 23-04

Friday, December 8, 2023

9:00 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

*Discipline hearings are closed under Section 590.502.3(6) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.

 

Regular Meetings:

 

October 31, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

November 14, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

December 12, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

January 23, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

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

 

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

 

April 23, 2024, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.

 

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.

 

A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Tolbert, and by vote indicated below, to go into closed session at 12:50 p.m., as provided in the following resolution.  Following a roll call, the vote was 4-0 in favor. 

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, notice of the board meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners was given on January 26, 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, September 26, 2023, 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 Mark Tolbert                                       -           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, September 26, 2023:

The Board went into closed session at 1:01 p.m.  Commissioner Tolbert had an excused absence.     

1)         Following a motion by Mayor Lucas and a second by Commissioner Cramer, the Board voted to approve the applications for continued employment of Reserve Police Officer Lance Stabler, Reserve Police Officer Joe Smith, and Police Officer Candace Crockett.  The vote was 4-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.

2)         Following a motion by Mayor Lucas and a second by Commissioner Cramer, the Board voted to approve the minutes of the closed Board meeting on August 22, 2023.  The vote was 4-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.

3)         Following a motion by Mayor Lucas and a second by Commissioner Cramer, at 1:18 p.m. the Board voted to go out of closed session and adjourn.  The vote was 4-0 in favor.  Following polling, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, Commissioner Whittaker voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.

            The Board adjourned at 1:18 p.m.