Hamilton Police Department Neil R. Ferdelman Chief of Police

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Annual Report 2007

JOE NUXHALL “The Ol’ Lefthander” 1928 – 2007 This Anual Report is dedicated to the memory of a great friend of our community and our police department — “The Ol’ Lefthander,” Joe Nuxhall. In 2007, Joe “rounded third and headed for home.” Joe served as Honorary Chairman for the Police Levy in 2002, and is seen here kicking off the campaign to pass Issue 11 with Hamilton Police Chief Neil R. Ferdelman (left) and Levy Committee Chairman Judge John Moser.

ON THE COVER The Hamilton Police Department’s Honor Guard Unit stands in front of a newly landscaped area in the rear of Police Headquarters. The Honor Guard Unit purchased the flag and pole at no cost to citizens. In front, left to right, are Police Officers Lanny Ash, Randy Payne, Robert Payne, Chris Fackey. In back, left to right, are Police Officers Terry Kiep, Mark Kibby, Chad Stafford, and Todd Hurst.

2007 Annual Report Table of Contents

Administrative Profile

Letter from the Chief of Police ..............................................................................................................................................2 Organizational Chart ..............................................................................................................................................................4 Personnel in Transition - Appointments, Resignations, Retirements, and Deaths .................................................................5

Organizational Profile

Operations Bureau .................................................................................................................................................................7 Patrol Division ..................................................................................................................................................................7 Traffic Division .................................................................................................................................................................8 Community-Oriented Policing .....................................................................................................................................10 Detective Division .......................................................................................................................................................... 11 Investigations Section .................................................................................................................................................. 11 Vice Section .................................................................................................................................................................13 Administrative Bureau .........................................................................................................................................................17 Administrative Specialist ................................................................................................................................................18 Services Division ............................................................................................................................................................18 Public Affairs Section .....................................................................................................................................................20 Central Records Section .................................................................................................................................................24 Training Section..............................................................................................................................................................25 Communications Section ................................................................................................................................................28 Park Police Unit ..............................................................................................................................................................29 Polygraph ........................................................................................................................................................................30 Court Services Section....................................................................................................................................................31 Canine Units.........................................................................................................................................................................32 Tactical Response Team .......................................................................................................................................................33 Special Weapons and Tactics Team......................................................................................................................................34 Chaplains..............................................................................................................................................................................37 Honor Guard ........................................................................................................................................................................38

Statistical Profile

UCR Reports ........................................................................................................................................................................40 Statistical Profile .............................................................................................................................................................41 Return of Offenses ..........................................................................................................................................................42 Performance Graphs.............................................................................................................................................................43 Traffic Citations ..............................................................................................................................................................43 Accidents ........................................................................................................................................................................43 Injuries ............................................................................................................................................................................44 Accident Tally by Hour/Day of Week ..................................................................................................................................44 Police District Map ..............................................................................................................................................................45 Calls by District by Month .............................................................................................................................................46 Calls by District, Calls by Month Graphs ............................................................................................................................47 Five Year Analysis ..........................................................................................................................................................48

Hamilton Police Department

An Internationally Accredited Law Enforcement Agency Neil R. Ferdelman Chief of Police A message from the Chief of Police: Mr. Mark Brandenburger City Manager City of Hamilton, Ohio Mr. Brandenburger: The 2007 Annual Report of the Hamilton Police Department is submitted to you, to members of Council, and to our community. In it, you will read about some of the significant accomplishments of the past year. Each project was coordinated by one of our two captains: Operations Commander Joe Murray, or Administrative Commander Steve Poulemanos. They include: § A complete review and revamping of our complaint process. The change was designed to provide better interaction between citizens and the police department. It also introduces a less formal initial contact and resolution; § Three Driver’s License Checkpoints, initiated for the first time in 2007. Statistics show that about one in every four citations we issue involves a driver’s license violation. Those of us who comply with the laws that require driver’s license examinations and renewals, as well as insurance, are at risk from those who do not. Courts have consistently ruled that the safety achieved by taking illegal drivers off the roads far outweighs a few moments of inconvenience to motorists traveling through the checkpoints; § A transition to a new electronic Daily Report. This document, which has been around since the days of inked blotters, contains miscellaneous information for our officers that is not recorded on an official report. It now resides on the city’s Intranet connection, and is available from every computer within police headquarters, within the Communications Center, and within cruisers on the street; § Global positioning satellite receivers were installed in our cruisers in conjunction with an overhaul of an obsolete Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL) system. This system tracks the location of our officers to ensure their safety and provides for an emergency “officer down” activation; § Outside renovations continued on the exterior of police headquarters. Council approved the purchase of the lot adjacent to the existing headquarters front lot, and improvements were made to the existing garage before capital expenditures were frozen. A wealth of improvements continued all around our building thanks to the continued generosity of the Carruthers family, who funded additional lamp posts and a new brick front walkway containing customized benches, as well as the construction of an outdoor lunch and break area next to the building. The Honor Guard funded a landscaped area in the rear of headquarters surrounding a new American flag; § Inside police headquarters, new pass-through property and evidence lockers enhanced our evidence security and chain of custody procedures; § The department was featured prominently in the book Police Procedure and Investigation, by author Lee Lofland. The book was published in 2007 and distributed nationally; 2

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

§ The SWAT team hosted the first-ever Southwestern Ohio SWAT Challenge, a one-day competition featuring seven award events that was attended by seven area SWAT teams. The event showcased a newly constructed obstacle course that includes 17 different obstacles. Both the SWAT Challenge and the course were developed by SWAT Team Leader Sergeant Wade McQueen; § Utilizing federal grant dollars, the department conducted its first Hispanic Police Academy, aimed at our increasing Hispanic population. Our goal is to encourage communication with this community with the intent of solving and preventing more crimes. In November, the Hamilton Police Department lost a good friend as “The Old Lefthander,” Joe Nuxhall, died after battling a number of health issues. He served as the Honorary Chairman of our 2002 Police Levy, and gave selflessly of his time and talents. We also lost three retired officers – Officer Bob Shelley, Detective Russ Burger, and Sergeant Don Garrett, whose collective service to our department totaled eighty years. They all will be missed. As this is written in 2008, the nation’s shaky economy has had ominous local implications. Along with other General Fund departments, we are under a hiring freeze and all capital expenditures have also been frozen. We have cut the current year’s budget, and are preparing next year’s budget with an eye on additional cuts. Through it all, we have committed our attention toward avoiding layoffs of our current personnel. We have recruited and hired the finest officers and other employees in this region, and invested thousands of dollars in them through the provision of rigorous training. In order to protect this investment, we have developed and will continue to develop revenue enhancements to generate additional General Fund dollars. The safety of our citizens and the officers who serve them is not a responsibility that any of us take lightly. We will continue to work, in these very difficult financial times, to ensure the safety of those we are sworn to protect.

Neil R. Ferdelman Chief of Police

N ei l R. Ferdelman Chie f of Police

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

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HAMILTON POLICE DEPARTMENT 2007 Personnel in Transition Appointments, Resignations, Retirements, and Deaths APPOINTMENTS

➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤

Corrections Officer Calvin Wagers Police Officer Jason L. Chin Police Officer Patrick A. Fackey Jr. Police Officer Jason P. Holmes Police Officer Justin W. Lunsford Police Officer Jo L. Hornschemeier Police Officer Jeremy L. Roberts Police Officer Phillip D. Root Police Officer Kevin M. Ruhl Police Officer W. Michael Thacker Communications Operator Erica C. Scott Communications Operator Terry L. Brewer Corrections Officer Steven J. Schmitz

April 10, 2007 July 9, 2007 July 9, 2007 July 9, 2007 July 9, 2007 July 9, 2007 July 9, 2007 July 9, 2007 July 9, 2007 July 9, 2007 September 4, 2007 October 18, 2007 December 10, 2007

RESIGNATIONS

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Police Officer Erich F. Mischke Communications Operator Sheryl W. Page Police Officer Steven Hanks Corrections Officer Craig S. Farrell Communications Operator Carol F. Sacre Corrections Officer Calvin Wagers Communications Operator Terry L. Brewer Police Officer Courtney York Corrections Supervisor Terry T. Roberts

Police Officer Carl J. Phillips Police Officer Calvin Wagers

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

January 10, 2005 – January 11, 2007 January 3, 2007 – March 29, 2007 February 3, 1997 – May 5, 2007 June 27, 2005 – June 1, 2007 December 8, 2006 – May 29, 2007 April 10, 2007 – October 20, 2007 August 15, 2007 – October 18, 2007 August 26, 1991 – November 5, 2007 January 8, 2001 – December 31, 2007

RETIREMENTS

September 14, 1971 – January 6, 2007 January 4, 1986 – April 6, 2007

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HAMILTON POLICE DEPARTMENT 2007 Personnel in Transition Appointments, Resignations, Retirements, and Deaths

In Memoriam • Retired Hamilton Police Officer Robert Shelley was hired August 13, 1966, retired on September 23, 1988, and passed away on August 16, 2007. Officer Shelley was a 22-year veteran of the Hamilton Police Department. • Retired Hamilton Police Detective Russell F. Burger Jr. was hired on February 29, 1954, retired on October 1, 1982, and passed away on February 24, 2007. Detective Burger was a 28-year veteran of the Hamilton Police Department. • Retired Hamilton Police Sergeant Donald G. Garrett was hired on December 14, 1957, retired on April 22, 1988, and was reemployed as a Corrections Officer from September 18, 2000 until January 1, 2004. He passed away on May 2, 2007. Sergeant Garrett was a 30-year veteran of the Hamilton Police Department.

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Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

OPERATIONS BUREAU The Operations Bureau is functionally divided into the Patrol Division, Traffic Division, and the Detective Division. These divisions rely heavily on one another to eradicate the criminal element. In simplistic terms, the Patrol Division is the first responder to an emergency or reported crime while the Detective Division provides the necessary follow up services to bring a crime to a successful conclusion. The Traffic Division responds to and investigates all types of traffic complaints, traffic enforcement, and traffic crash investigations.

Captain Joseph A. Murray Operations Commander

PATROL DIVISION:

PATROL DIVISION The Patrol Division remains the largest component of the Hamilton Police Department and is truly the backbone of the organization. The patrol officers are the ones who have daily interaction with the members of the community. These citizens constitute our customer base. The Patrol Division provides the basic tenets of police service; preserving the peace and protecting the lives and properties of others. It is our mission that these services shall be professionally provided to our customers in a courteous, empathetic manner. The other sections within the Hamilton Police Department consist of varying degrees of specialization that were created to support the efforts of the Patrol Division in providing quality police services to our customers. Currently, the staffing level of the Patrol Division is sixty officers. Overall, the Hamilton Police Department is down only one sworn position after hiring nine officers in 2007. Fluctuations in the number of sworn officers occur primarily through retirements. The Patrol Division is divided into three rotating shifts supervised by one lieutenant and two sergeants. Each shift, when fully staffed, is comprised of seventeen officers. Normally, one officer on each shift is trained as a canine officer. This affords each shift the specialization that comes from utilizing patrol canines in the suppression and apprehension of criminals. One canine has been retired and has yet to be replaced. In addition, the Hamilton Police Department has several canines that specialize solely in the detection of illicit drugs. During the year 2007, 68,776 calls for police service were received and dispatched to officers working within the Patrol Division. This was a decrease of 3,268 calls for police service from the total number of calls received and dispatched in the year 2006. The calls are prioritized to provide immediate assistance to those citizens who need instantaneous service. Call prioritization enables the Hamilton Police Department to work efficiently as well as effectively. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

PATROL DIVISION “A” SHIFT Supervisors Lieutenant Gerald M. Martin Sergeant David Alatorre Sergeant Mark Thomas

Lt. Gerald M. Martin Patrol Commander

Police Officers Nathan Zettler, Chad Stafford, Matthew Mulcahey, Shawn Fryman, Kevin Ruhl, Steven McFall, Jon Richardson, Chris Gibson, Jeremy Roberts, Craig Hon, Justin Lunsford, Anthony Kiep, Jon Habig, Randall Payne, Jason Chin, Jason Holmes, Dominic Spinelli, Scott Arbino, and Phillip Root. Corrections Officer James Carpenter PATROL DIVISION “B” SHIFT Supervisors Lieutenant John Nethers Sergeant Steve Ebbing Sergeant Sherry Richardson

Lt. John Nethers Patrol Commander

Police Officers Frank Botts, Scott Laney, L. Ernie Huff, Lanny Ash, David Anglin, Ross Sherman, Carla Browning, Peter Gibbons, Jo Hornschemeier, Kevin Flannery, Richard Cardwell, Richard Heidorn, Brian Wynn, Jon Pieron, Richard Burkhardt, and Terry Kiep. Corrections Officers Goldie Robinson, Steven Schmitz PATROL DIVISION “C” SHIFT Supervisors Lieutenant Marc McManus Sergeant Craig Bucheit Sergeant R. Wade McQueen

Lt. Marc McManus Patrol Commander

Police Officers Adrian Jackson, Daryl Coppock, Steve Hamilton, Patrick Fackey, Matthew Fishwick, Melva Baker, Chris Browning, Mark Kibby, Chris Fackey, Chris Robinson, Aaron Laflin, Casey Johnson, Aaron Hucke, and Wayne Wells. Corrections Officer Joseph Martin

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Kidnapper Nabbed On Thursday, October 25, 2007, Officers Nathan Zettler and Matt Mulcahey were working a two-officer car and were dispatched to the 400 block of South 12th Street on a call of drug activity. Officer Mulcahey observed a vehicle that matched the description of the suspect vehicle from the call. They followed the car and attempted to stop it at 10th and High Streets. The car accelerated north on 10th Street, attempting to flee. The passengers in the rear attempted to open the doors at Dayton Street as if to get out, and then closed the doors while the car sped off.The car crashed into a utility pole as it attempted a left turn into an alley. The driver was apprehended. Located in the vehicle was a .38 caliber handgun under the driver’s seat. It was learned from the rear passengers that when the doors opened at Dayton Street, they were trying to get out of the car because of the operator’s erratic driving.The suspect had pulled out the gun, threatened them, and told them to get back in the car. The suspect was subsequently charged with Kidnapping (2 counts), Weapons Under Disability, Improperly Handling of a Firearm in a Motor Vehicle, Fleeing and Eluding, and No Drivers License. An “Officer Safety” Be On the Look Out (BOLO) had just been sent out two days prior from the Vice Section stating the suspect was one of three subjects who were going around the city robbing people at gunpoint. The officers’ actions took a violent felon off the streets.

It is the policy of the Hamilton Police Department to investigate all complaints against the organization or any of its members. The investigatory process protects the integrity of the agency or the employee, and fosters public confidence in the department. The internal affairs function of the Hamilton Police Department is a comprehensive tool that can be utilized to attain this objective. The process maintains an intensive, objective, and impartial investigation and review system devised to ensure the integrity of the department. The majority of complaints received are not assigned to internal affairs. The criteria for determining whether it is an internal affairs investigation are allegations such as: corruption, brutality, excessive use of force, breach of civil rights, criminal misconduct, or other inappropriate conduct as determined by the Chief of Police. Those complaints that do not fall into the internal affairs category are handled by appropriate supervision. There were thirteen documented complaints against officers or the department in general. Of these documented incidents, eight were deemed unfounded, four resulted in exoneration, and one complaint was sustained. In the one instance, where it was sustained, we mistakenly towed the wrong hit/skip vehicle. We subsequently apologized and paid all impoundment fees. In 2006, we received 27 documented complaints, resulting in a decrease of fourteen in 2007. In the year 2007, we revamped the complaint process, which gave broader leeway to first-line supervision in handling the problem. This change enhanced communication between the complainant and members of our department, and hopefully will result in better customer service. This report submitted by: Captain Joseph A. Murray Operations Bureau Commander

TRAFFIC DIVISION The mission of the Traffic Division is to provide firstrate customer service to the motoring public. The Traffic Division’s main responsibility is the investigation of traffic crashes and the successful prosecution of those found to have violated traffic laws. Officers are trained in all facets of traffic investigation. During the year, traffic officers worked in conjunction with the City of Hamilton Health Department to remove abandoned motor vehicles from the streets and private property.

Officer Jeff Eck on H.P.D. Harley Davidson motorcycle as he prepares to patrol the Business Districts. 8

The Traffic Division is comprised of one Lieutenant and 12 traffic officers. Three traffic officers are assigned to work the 10:00AM to 6:00PM shift, nine traffic officers are assigned to the three rotating patrol shifts, and one traffic officer is assigned as the auto-storage/hit–skip officer. The Traffic Division maintains a marked van to transport needed Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

items to investigate serious injury or fatal crashes, as well as the scales for weighing overweight vehicles. The Traffic Division maintains a trailer for the Butler County OVI Task Force that contains all the needed equipment and signage to conduct low-manpower OVI checkpoints. We obtained a new speed trailer, which has the capability of measuring and documenting the speeds of vehicles as well as displaying the speed to the motorists. The Hamilton Police Department once again received a grant from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Governor’s Highway Safety Office to reduce the number of speed-related injury accidents. The grant covered all main thoroughfares in the City of Hamilton. The grant enabled officers to work on an overtime basis from October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007 at selected times and days of the week. The Hamilton Police Department continued to participate in the Butler County Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated (OVI) Task Force, this year as the sponsoring agency. Retired Ohio State Highway Patrol Lieutenant Mike Asbrock continued as the task force coordinator. The task force is composed of various law enforcement agencies in Butler County. The task force utilizes OVI arrest and crash-related data collected by each agency to determine the times and locations of sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols. The Hamilton Police Department conducted two low-manpower sobriety checkpoints in cooperation with the Butler County OVI Task Force. There were 13 arrests for OVI by officers working the checkpoints and saturation patrol around the checkpoint locations. During the year, the Hamilton Police Department held three driver’s license checkpoints. Statistics revealed that approximately 25% of citations issued by Hamilton Police Officers were for driver’s license violations. Officers working the checkpoints issued 55 No Driver’s License, 24 Driving Under Suspension, and nine other citations. There were 74 vehicles impounded. The drivers of 62 of the impounded vehicles had no insurance. The Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) was again a successful program in 2007. Officers worked on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday afternoons and evenings attacking traffic complaints received by the Traffic Division. Officers working the program issued 2,437 citations, and arrested 29 persons for OVI.

Traffic Division:

Lt. Michael L. Lease Traffic Commander

Lt. M. Lease, Traffic Commander; Traffic Officers: Carole Walters, Cliff Heidorn, Timothy Less, David Patterson, Robert Snyder, Darrell Prewitt, Brett Britt, John Ebbing, Rodney Wilson, Michael Coleman, James Beeler, and Christa Alfrey.

Hamilton Police Officers Mike Coleman (left) and Christa Alfrey investigate a traffic crash on State Route 4. (photo courtesy of Journal News.)

Lieutenant John Nethers on bike patrol near East Avenue during his assignment in the Weed and Seed area.

In 2007, there was one fatal crash in the City of Hamilton, a reduction of 75% over 2006. This fatal was both alcohol and speed-related. This report submitted by: Lieutenant Michael L. Lease Traffic Commander Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

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Community-Oriented Policing Section: Police Officers: Jeff Eck, Kevin Holstein, Matthew Blauvelt, Melvin Gray, Paul Webb, Eric Taylor, and Ryan Beckelhymer.

COPS Officers Mel Gray (left) and Paul Webb teach Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) at Madison Elementary School. Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT)

COP Officer Matt Blauvelt poses as Santa Claus during the holiday season for a group of children at a local church. 10

COMMUNITY-ORIENTED POLICING SECTION

The year 2007 was the fifth fiscal year Weed and Seed was in the North End area and the third year for the Expanded-Site, which encompasses a portion of the West Side and the Second and Fourth Ward areas. In 2007, Officer Ryan Beckelhymer was assigned to the Fourth Ward Area with Officer Eric Taylor to work with the Hispanic community. The Community-Oriented Policing Section (COPS) works hard at building ties within very diverse communities. Officers patrol on horseback, bicycles and on foot, which gives residents more personal contact with the police. These options eliminate the barrier of the police cruiser between officers and the residents. Residents also have officers’ cell phone numbers to give them direct access whenever problems are occurring within their neighborhood. Residents know who their COPS officers are, and this builds a bridge of trust between the residents and the police department. The COPS officers spend a great deal of their day inside the schools in the targeted areas. The officers visit during breakfast, lunch, and the students recess hours. This allows the students to become familiar with the officers on a more personal level. The officers also spend time in the classrooms where they teach Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT), and Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) to the elementary students in the targeted areas. Officers teaching DARE use bicycles out of the property room chosen by Property Officer Rob Payne as awards for the DARE essay winners. The COPS officers attend after-school programs in the targeted areas. These include Madison Elementary, Jefferson Elementary, Living Water Ministries, the Booker T. Washington Community Center, and the Central YMCA. While there, officers participate in activities and assist the students with their homework. Officers participate in various activities with community residents. Some of these activities include: community cookouts, pool parties, movie nights, taking residents to various athletic events and conducting Junior Police Academies for area students. Officers participate in flag football, basketball games and paintball outings with students from the targeted areas. In 2007, the COPS officers participated in the second Soccer and Scouting program offered by The Boy Scouts of America to students of the targeted areas. They began a Fitness Incentive Program where a bicycle was awarded to the winner, a movie rewards program for students who have good grades and held tailgate parties for the Hamilton High School home football games with students and residents. Officers also attend various meetings in the North End and Expanded-Site. These include Weed and Seed Steering Committee meetings, Community Council meetings, and neighborhood watch meetings. Officers fielded complaints from the residents and assisted in problem-solving. Beginning in the year 2008, Officers Frank Botts and Mark Kibby will be assigned as COPS officers in the Lindenwald and Rossville communities. This report submitted by: COPS Section Officers Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

DETECTIVE DIVISION INVESTIGATIONS SECTION

The Detective Division is comprised of two sections, the Investigations Section and the Vice Section. There are a total of 27 officers assigned to the division, which is commanded by a lieutenant. The lieutenant is in charge of both the Investigations Section as well as the Vice Section. The Investigations Section has two sergeants and 16 detectives. Within the section, the detectives are divided into two squads of three detectives each and two squads of four detectives each, a domestic violence/missing person detective, and a check/pawnshop detective. The four squads of detectives rotate shifts to provide coverage during normal business hours and evening hours. The Vice Section is supervised by a sergeant, and staffed with five detectives and two Problem-Oriented Policing Section (POPS) Officers. Each section of the Detective Division has different and specific primary duties and responsibilities.

Detective Division: Lieutenant J. Scott Scrimizzi Sergeant Michael Waldeck Sergeant Carl Sigmon Detectives: Mark Nichols, David Weissinger, Mark Poppe, James Cifuentes, Mark Henson, Mark Hayes, Lt. J. Scott Scrimizzi Detective Commander Robert Horton, James Calhoun, David Collins, James Smith, Patrick Erb II, John Fischer, Daniel Stevenson, Brian Robinson, Steve Rogers, and Greg Baker.

The Detective Division supervisors are also responsible for all internal affairs investigations within the police department. The goal of the internal affairs function is to insure that the integrity of the police department is maintained through an internal system where objectivity, fairness, and justice are assured by intensive, impartial investigation, and review. The primary function of the Investigations Section is to provide follow-up investigation on criminal complaints involving homicide, robbery, rape, burglary, thefts, fraud, kidnapping, and abduction. Additionally, the Investigations Section handles all juvenile complaints. Investigations Section detectives investigate all crimes except for vice and narcotics-related crimes. The objective of the investigator is the conviction of the perpetrator. In order to achieve this objective, the investigator must prove in court that a crime was actually committed and that the person charged with the offense did, in fact, commit the crime. All members of the section are trained in the techniques of criminal investigation, and an effort is made to constantly stay abreast of the latest innovations in this area. To aid the investigators in this process, two small rooms on the lower level of the building house the Hamilton Police Department’s Crime Lab. The lab contains several high tech pieces of equipment, which help detectives process evidence to lead to the identification of criminal suspects. The Detective Division received 4,757 Part I crime reports and 5,081 Part II crime reports. The Investigations Section assigned 5,933 of these reports to detectives for follow-up action. On average, each detective was assigned nearly 370 reports for the year. Detectives investigated two homicides in 2007, and both were cleared with arrests. They investigated Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Detective Mark Hayes, in the Crime Lab, dusting for fingerprints from a piece of evidence recovered from a crime scene.

Detective Pat Erb, Jr. in the Crime Lab utilizing the cyanoacrylate fuming chamber for revealing fingerprints left on evidence. 11

114 rapes, 197 robberies, 207 aggravated assaults, 1,095 burglaries, 2,797 thefts and 345 auto thefts. Investigators followed up on 699 reports of domestic violence, a decrease compared to last year. The investigations resulted in 672 arrests.

Detective Mark Henson (left) and retired Officer Bill Castator talk in the Training Center after a retirement party.

Detective Jim Calhoun and Officer Carole Walters, along with Andy Willis from the Butler County Coroner’s Office, investigate a fatal house fire on Hueston Street.

Retired Sergeant Jim Schmitz sits proudly with his son, Steve Schmitz, after he was sworn in as a Corrections Officer, in 2007.

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The Investigations Section worked closely with other outside support agencies. Some of those agencies include: Butler County Juvenile Court and Probation Department, Ohio and Butler County Adult Parole and Probation Departments, Butler County Children Services Board, Butler County Prosecutor’s Office, Butler County Child Assault Task Force, Hamilton City Schools, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and the United States Marshall’s Service. Additionally, detectives worked with several surrounding police agencies to solve crimes extending over many jurisdictions. Our Crime Lab combined with Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) continues to be a huge asset to the department. The AFIS system enables detectives to submit a fingerprint collected from a crime scene into a nationwide database. Within minutes, a list of possible suspects is provided to detectives. A fingerprint expert can then compare the crime scene print with possible matches from the database. The investigations section currently staffs three fingerprint experts. This system has greatly reduced the amount of man-hours needed to solve crimes. Arrests are now being made in hours instead of months. Surrounding agencies have also requested and received our assistance in solving crimes using AFIS. Frustrated with no new leads on Alfredo Cruz’s location, the Investigations Section decided to try something new to develop leads on his location. With the help of Sgt. Steve Henderson from the Services Division, Sgt. Carl Sigmon and Detective Hayes were able to make a video and place it on YouTube. This creative idea has developed more leads and has allowed us to get our message out worldwide. Unfortunately, Alfredo Cruz has still remained elusive but detectives will not quit in their search. Several serious crimes were solved in 2007 due to good detective work, teamwork and another stupid criminal. On February 5th of last year, a shoe salesman from Cincinnati named Jerome Lillard came to Hamilton to sell some high priced shoes that were special-ordered. When he arrived in Hamilton, he was pistol-whipped, shot in the leg, and robbed of shoes and money. Detective Brian Robinson was called in and was able to identify the suspect through the phone number that was on the victim’s cell phone. That information led to a search warrant where evidence was recovered and an arrest was made. A confession was obtained and the juvenile suspect was tried as an adult and convicted of two counts of Felonious Assault and one count of Aggravated Robbery. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

In August of last year, two Chaco Credit Union employees were robbed of an undetermined amount of cash as they were attempting to fill an ATM machine. The entire Investigations Section showed tremendous teamwork in this investigation by working together to solve this crime. The teamwork and hard work led to the arrest of Andrew Hubbard. The investigation continued after his arrest with several detectives working together to gather more evidence. Their continued hard work resulted in Andrew Hubbard being convicted of Robbery.

On April 6, 2007, the Union Savings Bank on Main Street was robbed by a suspect displaying a firearm. Detective Jim Cifuentes did a thorough investigation, but the suspect remained unknown until June 27th. Detective Bob Horton received a call from the Butler County Jail (BCJ) stating that Timothy Langer had information on a bank that was robbed next to Frisch’s. His original intention was to give the detectives information to help himself get out of jail, not to tell on himself. Detectives Cifuentes and Horton went to BCJ to interview Timothy Langer. Immediately, they noticed that he fit the description of the bank robbery suspect. After talking to him for a short period of time, he started changing his story and was inconsistent. Timothy Langer ended up confessing to the crime and giving details that only the robber would know. He was charged with Aggravated Robbery and, as of this writing, is waiting for his trial in federal court.

Property Officer Rob Payne removes evidence from the new property lockers.

This report submitted by: Lieutenant J. Scott Scrimizzi Detective Division Commander

VICE SECTION

The Vice Section is comprised of a sergeant, five detectives, and two Problem-Oriented Policing Section (POPS) officers. The section investigates complaints involving drugs, pharmaceuticals, prostitution, pornography, illegal gambling, liquor permit premise inspections and complaints, and organized crime. The section gathers information on criminal activity, and discreetly secures and analyzes highly sensitive intelligence information. This information is disseminated to other elements of the police department or maintained within the Vice Section. With the addition of the uniformed officers, the section also addresses specific problem areas that are too time consuming for officers assigned to patrol. POPS officers attack issues using creative and unique methods that eliminate the problem. In 2007, the Vice Section received a total of 812 complaints, compared to 807 received in 2006. We responded by making a total of 383 arrests and executing 114 search warrants. The following list of contraband was seized during these actions: over 3/4 kilo of cocaine, more than 16 ounces of crackcocaine, 11 grams of heroin, over 150 pounds of marijuana Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Officer Jim Colwell and Dennis Coning watch Tom and Damien McClellan construct walls during the renovation of the Property Room.

Vice Section: Sergeant Trent Chenoweth Detectives: John Marcum, Joseph Thompson, Gerald Butler, Paul Davis, and Joseph Gabbard. Problem-Oriented Policing Section: Police Officers Brian Ungerbuehler and Gary Crouch.

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and 35 plants, four hits of LSD, numerous prescription drugs, 20 guns, three vehicles, and over $35,000.00 in cash. The total street value of the seized drugs amounted to over $165,000.00.

Officer Jeremy Roberts in the Booking Room completing a prisoner medical screening form on a suspect that he arrested.

Sergeant Steve Henderson observes Jeff Tunning engraving brick pavers in the Carruthers’ Police Plaza.

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Prostitution enforcement remained as one of the top priorities for the section. Detectives spent numerous hours each week responding to complaints and conducting selfinitiated activity. Detectives also met with officials from the Municipal Court in an effort to maintain good communication and obtain longer jail sentences for the suspects involved. Over the course of the year, a total of 98 prostitution-related arrests were made. This was down from 113 in 2006. Some of the prostitutes were also arrested for Loitering to Engage in Solicitation. If the suspects were seen flagging down cars, they were arrested on the spot, or a warrant was issued for their arrest. Aggressive enforcement action will continue. During the year, detectives again focused a majority of their investigative time toward drug complaints received in various neighborhoods. These complaints led to the execution of 114 search warrants. In January, a search warrant was served on Hampshire Drive after receiving complaints of drug activity. The search resulted in the discovery of 1½ ounces of crackcocaine and drug paraphernalia. In April, a search warrant was served on Gordon Avenue after receiving numerous complaints. The search revealed cocaine and marijuana prepared for distribution, drug paraphernalia, several hundred dollars in cash and five guns with ammunition. In June, after receiving complaints of drug activity on Grand Boulevard, a crack purchase was made from Donald Simms Jr. and a first-degree felony warrant was issued. A search warrant was served on that address and 6½ ounces of crackcocaine was recovered.

Six and a half ounces of crack recovered during an investigation in the 1700 block of Grand Boulevard. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

The section also targeted major suppliers and others involved in illegal drug activities from Hamilton to Middletown and Dayton. Detectives made arrangements to buy 30 pounds of marijuana from a group of Hispanic males. The deal was set to go in Hamilton, but ended up being moved to Middletown. Officers set up surveillance with Middletown Vice and conducted a traffic stop on the suspect’s vehicle. They recovered 30 pounds of marijuana in the trunk of the vehicle and arrested the two suspects. They also recovered a gun from inside the vehicle. They continued the investigation in hopes of locating the supplier and ended up in Dayton, Ohio. They contacted Dayton Vice and Dayton Drug Enforcement Agency for assistance. Ultimately, detectives served three search warrants in the Dayton area and recovered 112 pounds of marijuana. Two cars were also seized and towed back to Hamilton.

Public Safety Communications Operator Michelle Philpot shows how calls are received in the 911 Center to our first Hispanic Citizens Police Academy.

30 pounds of marijuana recovered in Middletown.

112 pounds of marijuana recovered in Dayton, Ohio. In February, the Vice Section received information that a major ecstasy dealer was supplying tablets to the Hamilton, Fairfield, and West Chester areas. Detective Joey Thompson was able to make contact with the suspect and arrange a deal. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Traffic Officer David Patterson inspects the Traffic Division’s van before enforcing overweight truck limits.

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Fairfield Vice and West Chester Vice were contacted for assistance with the operation. Detective Thompson set up a buy for 500 tablets and the investigation went into full swing. The suspect met Detective Thompson in the West Chester area and the exchange was made. The suspect, Vilaivanh “Johnny” Vongkhotsombat, was stopped by West Chester officers immediately after the buy and arrested. POPS officers impounded the Honda Accord and went straight to the suspect’s apartment and executed a search warrant. Officers recovered more tablets and cash that were hidden in a small safe.

Officer Bob Snyder, at Union Savings Bank, collects donated gifts for the Hamilton Police/FOP 38 Christmas Caravan.

Robbery Averted On February 25, 2007, “C” Shift officers were working the afternoon shift and a short time into the shift, Officer Daryl Coppock was inside the Circle K Convenience Store on Grand Blvd. when he observed a male with a handgun. Officer Coppock remained calm and continued to observe the suspect. The suspect became nervous and put the gun inside a Styrofoam cooler. Officer Coppock waited until the suspect walked away from the gun, then went to that area of the store as the suspect left. He continued to observe the suspect and radioed the suspect’s location to other officers. They stopped the suspect and apprehended him without incident. The suspect later confirmed that he was planning on robbing the store. Due to Officer Coppock’s actions, a serious crime was prevented and the suspect apprehended. *******************************

Murder Suspect Apprehended On April 18, 2007, Officers Shawn Fryman and Matt Fishwick were working the midnight shift and were patrolling the South Front Street area. As they drove up the street, they observed a male backing out of the Elks Lodge while shooting through the front door. Officer Fryman gave chase and followed the suspect into a small wooded area behind the bar. He was able to apprehend the suspect and recover the firearm without incident. The suspect had intended to shoot his girlfriend, but hit two other innocent females instead. Unfortunately, one of the females died as a result of the suspect’s actions. The suspect was charged and convicted of Murder.

Ecstasy tablets and cash seized during the investigation. Over the past year, the Vice Section increased the number of search warrants served on suspected drug houses and increased community contacts. The link to the community is one that is vital. The unit also continues to benefit from the addition of uniformed officers to the unit. Together, they are able to act and react much more quickly and efficiently. The Vice Section must work together with citizens and other agencies to stop the flow of drugs into our community. Our commitment remains strong to rid Hamilton of drug dealing and prostitution using every resource available. This report submitted by: Sergeant Trent Chenoweth Vice Section Supervisor

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Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

ADMINISTRATIVE BUREAU The Administrative Bureau serves to support the functions of the Operations Bureau. The Administrative Bureau is headed by Captain Steve A. Poulemanos, and is functionally divided into the Services Division, Central Records Section, Training Section, Communications Section, Public Affairs Section, and Court Services Section. Sheila Pennington is responsible for the personnel function, along with her duties as secretary to the Chief of Police. Administrative Specialist Michael Collopy is responsible for writing grants, policies, procedures, and for departmental budgeting. He is also the Accreditation Manager. During the year, the Administrative Bureau participated in several major projects, which included: • Installed Global Positioning Satellite/Automatic Vehicle Locator (GPS/AVL) receivers and transmitters on each cruiser. This system is now up and running. The Communications Center can monitor an officer’s location for increased officer safety. • Remodeled the entrance to the Property Room to accommodate a new locker system. Purchased and installed new Property Room evidence lockers with passthru compartments for greater security, convenience, and chain of custody procedures. • Modified, updated and implemented a new electronic “Use of Force Report,” which is now entitled the “Defensive Action Report.” • Completed the modifications to the department’s new HVAC system. • Researched, proposed and received approval from City Council for the purchase of an additional parking lot for the secure parking of police vehicles. • Updated the climate control system in the Property Room to ensure the preservation of perishable evidence. • Developed and implemented the electronic “Daily Report,” which provides all personnel with current upto-date pertinent departmental information on their computers. • Coordinated and implemented the Ohio Local Law Enforcement Information Sharing Network (OLLESN) for the statewide sharing of police records. • Completed the upgrades to the police firing range. • Expanded and upgraded the electronic door and security camera systems in and around the department for increased security. • Replaced the digital voice recorder in the 911 Communications Center. The Administrative Bureau received 23 complaints from the public or from within our department during 2007. Of those, eight were completely unfounded; three were exonerated, and twelve were sustained, which resulted in nine employees receiving fourteen separate disciplinary actions for minor infractions. One complaint actually resulted in an employee being commended. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

During the second phase of the renovation of our headquarters lot, donated funds were used to install brick pavers on our front walkway.

Officer Rich Burkhardt looks at engraved brick pavers in the Carruthers Police Memorial Plaza.

Captain Joe Murray, right, assists Jeannie and Bill Magaw as they install a “Copper Tree” in our lobby. The tree will honor officers who have retired from the Hamilton Police Department after 25 years of service. The tree pays homage to those who served and dedicated their lives to protecting our community. 17

ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST

Captain Steve A. Poulemanos Administrative Commander

The Administrative Specialist reports directly to the Administrative Bureau Commander. The duties of the Administrative Specialist include: serving as the department’s Accreditation Manager; development and revision of all departmental rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; grants management and grant proposal writing; annually preparing the departmental fiscal budget; and assisting with special projects as assigned by the Chief of Police or Administrative Bureau Commander. During the year 2007, the Administrative Specialist was responsible for obtaining grant funding used to purchase equipment, provide for overtime traffic enforcement, and provide walking patrol in business districts and low-income residential areas.

Lieutenant Daniel R. Pratt Services Commander

Services Division: Lieutenant Daniel Pratt Sergeant Steve Henderson Property Officer Robert Payne Identification Officer James Colwell Technology Officer Richard Miller

Chief Neil Ferdelman and Captain Steve Poulemanos greet a group of Leadership Hamilton class in the Training Center.

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This report submitted by: Michael Collopy Administrative Specialist

SERVICES DIVISION The Services Division encompasses the units of the Hamilton Police Department. These include the Central Records Section, Training Section, Communications Center, Property and Evidence, Court Services Section, and Technical Support. These various functions are supervised by a Services Sergeant, Training Sergeant, Corrections Manager, Communications Manager, Central Records Supervisor, and all are overseen by the Services Commander. The Services Commander also acts as the department’s comptroller for purchasing and maintaining daily expenditures. The Services Division provides administrative, technical, and training support to all members of the Hamilton Police Department. The Services Section Sergeant supervises the Central Records Section, Communications Section, Property and Evidence, and Technical Services. Two police officers are assigned to the property room and fingerprint duties. Another officer is assigned as a technology officer and provides technological support to all Hamilton Police employees. All of our police cruisers are equipped with Mobile Computer Terminals (MCT), which must be kept up and running continuously. The police department uses more computers overall than any other city department, and they are in use around the clock. The Services Sergeant and Technology Officer are responsible for keeping these systems current and operational. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

The Training Section consists of a Training Sergeant and one Training Officer. These two officers are responsible for providing all of the training within the Hamilton Police Department. Also, these officers are responsible for documenting and maintaining the department’s training records. These officers also provide training to officers from other agencies either by hosting schools at Hamilton Police Headquarters or teaching at other locations. Security within the Hamilton Municipal Court, as well as the municipal building is the responsibility of the Court Services Section. Corrections Officers run the court security checkpoint, transport prisoners, provide building security, and respond to trouble calls within the municipal building. A Corrections Supervisor and a Corrections Manager supervise these officers. During 2007, the Services Division continued to upgrade building security both at police headquarters and within the municipal court. A flat screen monitor was installed at the Hamilton Municipal Court security checkpoint. Corrections officers are now able to monitor the security cameras located throughout One Renaissance Center. Also, three flat screen monitors were installed in our Communications Center. Public Safety Communication Operators also are now able to monitor the security cameras located throughout One Renaissance Center. This enables monitoring 24 hours a day. Eight additional areas throughout police headquarters were added on the keyless entry system.

Officer Dave Crawford meets with Dennis Tominson from CSI COPP Systems Intregrator as he installs a keyless entry system on our newly purchased garage.

Continued installation of new emergency lighting (LED) technology on our marked police cruisers was accomplished in 2007. As a result, maintenance on the charging systems for marked police vehicles has been greatly reduced. The department’s Use of Force form was revised to an online Defensive Action Report. Patrol supervisors can access the form through the police department’s Intranet. The new computerized form contains many new categories with drop-down menus. The Services Section also created a dispatcher evaluation form utilizing job applicable standards specific to that position. This form is also available on the police department’s Intranet. The police department transitioned to a new Daily Report. This Daily Report, available on the police department’s Intranet, is accessible both at headquarters and in the field via the mobile computer terminals. The property room underwent an extensive remodeling with the installation of pass through evidence lockers. In cooperation with the Traffic and Patrol Sections, digital video systems (in-car cameras) for marked police vehicles Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Traffic Officer Carole Walters speaks with a citizen in front of police headquarters. New awnings like the one shown above were placed over all entryways into the police department.

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were researched. As a result, a vendor was chosen and the purchases of these cameras were incorporated into the 2008 budget. The goal of the Services Division has been to provide support to both the Operations and Administrative Bureaus of the Hamilton Police Department. This promotes efficiency in both bureaus and increases the level of service to our citizens. This report submitted by: Lieutenant Daniel R. Pratt Services Division Commander

PUBLIC AFFAIRS SECTION The Public Affairs Section is staffed by one Sergeant, two Public Affairs Officers, one Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) Officer, one Gang Resistance Education And Training (GREAT) Officer, and one full-time and one part-time School Resource Officer.

Police Officer Mark Christian hands Justin Collins a certificate recognizing Justin’s graduation from the DARE program.

Sergeant Tom Kilgour works on the Community Involvement Report.

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The Public Affairs Section oversees the DARE and the GREAT programs. The DARE program, which targets kindergarten through sixth grade, was continued with grant funding received from the Ohio Attorney General’s office. The kindergarten through fifth grade program is four weeks in duration. The sixth grade program is ten weeks, ending with an essay contest. During the commencement exercise, each sixth grade graduate receives a DARE t-shirt and a certificate of completion. The GREAT program educates teens on the dangers of being involved in gangs and then provides them with alternatives. This program targets seventh grade students and is nine weeks long. Each seventh grade participant is required to complete his or her workbook and to complete a community service project. Upon completion of the program, each graduate is awarded a GREAT t-shirt and a certificate of completion. In 2007, four officers were assigned to the DARE/GREAT program, and CommunityOriented Policing (COPS) officers are teaching at Jefferson, Madison, and Harrison Elementary Schools in their targeted areas. In 2008, additional COPS officers will be trained in DARE within their specific assigned targeted areas. In 2007, the full-time School Resource officer was relocated to McKinley Elementary School where students are sent for in-school suspensions. The officer, who funded by the Hamilton City School District, was relocated due to the demolition of the George Washington Educational Center. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

During the 2007 school year, School Resource Officer Robert Gentry conducted programs in the Hamilton City Schools and private schools classrooms for grades kindergarten through six. The various programs consisted of Pedestrian Safety training, Halloween Safety, Kids & Company program, Safety Town, Gun Safety, the Third Grade Seat Belt program, and the Bicycle and Helmet Safety programs.

Public Affairs Section Consists of: Sergeant Thomas E. Kilgour Public Affairs Officers: Dave Crawford and Donald Taylor. School Resource Officers: Thomas Hurst and Robert Gentry. Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE)/Gang Resistance Education And Training (GREAT) Officers Mark Christian and Kristy Collins.

The Neighborhood/Business Watch program continued throughout the community in 2007, enhancing police and citizen communication. Most of the meetings were held in churches, schools, private homes, and at the Hamilton Police Department. Members stated their concerns about traffic problems, drug activity, youth problems, and the condition of some properties in their neighborhoods. The Public Affairs Section continued to interact and work with Hamilton City School administrators and private school administrators in addressing House Bill 422 for safety lockdown protocols. In 2007, the Public Affairs Section was assigned to issue new digital photo identifications to police personnel, enhancing security and safety within the building. The identification cards were issued to all officers, replacing their previous identification and building access cards. The identification/ building access cards provide a two-fold purpose, and allow officers to access both police headquarters and the Municipal Building at 345 High Street. The digital identification equipment also improves our child identification program by allowing parents to carry up-to-date information with a picture of their children.

A Hamilton Police Department cruiser with the new LED lightbar is displayed in front of Police Headquarters near the entry sign. The old-fashioned lampposts are also seen in the picture.

The Public Affairs Section is committed to providing empathetic customer service to the citizens of the City of Hamilton, which reflects our Mission and Values statement. Public Affairs officers are responsible for initiating telephone and mail-out citizen surveys to every 50th caller for police service, and at many public events where citizens have been in contact with dispatchers, police officers, and detectives. These surveys are then compiled, tracked, and analyzed. Public Affairs officers filed 327 crime reports taken from citizens by way of either walk-in or telephone reporting, thus reducing patrol officers from responding to these complaints. In 2007, the Public Affairs Section continued selling brick pavers and limited edition coins for the Police Memorial Plaza, which is located in front of police headquarters. Brick pavers are being sold, along with a limited edition “challenge” coin. This additional funding was used to continue renovations to police headquarters in 2007. In January, new awnings were placed in the front and rear of police headquarters covering all the entranceways. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

The Hamilton Police Department released its first holiday ornament, depicting the image from the 2006 Annual Report cover. This image was also used for our first-ever customized holiday card. 21

The Hamilton Police Department received a generous donation from Donna and Pat Caruthers to purchase an additional sculpture for the Police Plaza. The new statue of a boy will be added in 2008. Captain Joseph Murray and Public Affairs Officer Dave Crawford continued throughout 2007 with outdoor improvements. The department added two additional landscaping areas to the rear of police headquarters, and an additional flagpole, which was donated by the Honor Guard Unit. The front parking lot was enhanced by adding a new handicapped-accessible sidewalk area with brick pavers, and by adding two additional oldfashioned lampposts. One customized bench was ordered for the sidewalk area. Another customized bench will be ordered and delivered in 2008.

Officer Dave Crawford and Ohio State Highway Patrol Auxiliary Trooper Marty Miller talk to a citizen sitting inside the Legends vehicle at the Butler County Fair.

Sergeant Ed Buns prepares runners for the Special Olympics Torch Run.

A wintry scene in front of Hamilton Police Headquarters depicts the Carruthers Police Plaza and the new awnings. 22

The Public Affairs Section continued to work with businesses and residential owners of alarm systems in preventing and deterring false alarms. This originated with the passage of an ordinance by Hamilton City Council to improve efforts in preventing false alarms and working closely with owners to prevent these alarms. Public Affairs officers conducted numerous physical security inspections of residents and businesses, free of charge, making up-to-date recommendations on improvements on crime prevention methods, thus making it less likely for them to be a victim of crime. The Public Affairs officers received grants from the Hamilton Community Foundation to offset costs for programs during the summer months, providing teens the alternative of choosing positive behavior while being supervised by officers. Officers worked in conjunction with the Weed and Seed coordinators in the Second Ward, Fourth Ward, North End, and Rossville areas. In 2007, the Public Affairs Section continued to work with the Information Technology Department to enhance the police department’s website. We have added additional digital images, new forms, and additional crime prevention tips. The Public Affairs Section continued the Citizens’ Police Academy program in 2007, targeting specific neighborhoods to detect and deter crime, and to report suspicious activity in these neighborhoods. The program is six-weeks long. A new pilot program was targeted towards the Hispanic and Latino communities, and was successful in the reduction of crime through prevention, meetings, and arrests from citizen complaints. We will be holding a second academy geared towards the Hispanic/Latino communities in the spring of 2008. The Public Affairs Section also assisted in a publication of a national book on Police Procedure and Investigation, Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

written by Lee Lofland. Officer Dave Crawford assisted in the research of information for the author, and with local interviews for the book. He also took digital images for inclusion into the book, which was sold nationwide. Mr. Lofland interviewed several officers in the Hamilton Police Department for the book, which was released in 2007. Officers will continue to work with him on a children’s book to be released in 2009. Finally, the Public Affairs Section, along with Records Intern Elise Beckett, produced our second in-house holiday greeting card. The holiday card depicted the Hamilton Police Department’s sign and old-fashioned lampposts showing our holiday banners. In the background and across the street from police headquarters, Zion Lutheran Church, and the Payne Chapel AME Church are pictured in a wintry scene (see image on page 21). We hope to continue to produce our own customized greeting cards and ornaments in the future. In addition, the department also released its first holiday ornament, depicting the image on the 2006 Annual Report cover, which also was our first-ever customized holiday card. The limited ornament sold out immediately. The first-ever customized holiday ornament was made for the Hamilton Police Department, and depicted a wintry scene in front of police headquarters with Hamilton Police cruisers. In the background, St. John’s United Church is seen.

Canine Officer Terry Kiefer and drug-detection dog Regret conducts a demonstration for a scout troop.

This report submitted by: Sergeant Thomas E. Kilgour Public Affairs Supervisor Corrections Officer Pat Fackey Sr. completes paperwork to transport prisoners to the Butler County Jail.

Officers Eric Taylor and Matt Fishwick in the Training Center conducting the first-ever Hispanic Citizens Police Academy which focused on gang-related issues. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

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Central Records Section: Records Supervisor Allison Baker Records Clerks: Carolyn Huntington, Andrea Young, Karen Snyder, Amy Beasley, Maxine Menninger, and Maureen Kollstedt.

CENTRAL RECORDS SECTION One Records Supervisor, four Records Clerks, two part-time Clerks, and one College Intern staffed the Central Records Section in 2007. This unit reports directly to the Services Supervisor. The section is responsible for maintaining all criminal and traffic records for the police department. All accidents, crime reports, arrests reports, and released vehicle impoundment reports are microfilmed and entered into the departmental computer system. All citations, field interview cards, pawned, new gun sales and, some pawned items are entered into the departmental computer system. Additionally, all fingerprint cards are processed in this office and matched with fingerprint classifications received from the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), microfilmed and entered into the computer system. The section is also responsible for ensuring the mug shots on the digital imaging system are connected to the correct jacket for each person. All warrants and summons from Hamilton Municipal Court are processed in this office. The warrant information is also entered into the computer system. Copies of all reports are made and distributed to other sections of the department and departments in other buildings by a records clerk.

Central Records Clerk Maureen Kollstedt looks at one of the large planters in front of Police Headquarters.

Officer Jon Pieron prepares an exchange form at a traffic crash.

The Central Records Section provides statistical data to BCI & I and the FBI on a monthly basis. Statistical data is also provided to other sections of the department, and to other agencies and individuals as requested. The section is responsible for Cash Voucher Reports to maintain records of funds collected for the sale of copies of reports, tapes and mug shots. The section is also responsible for Cash Voucher Reports to maintain records of funds collected for administrative fees involved with processing vehicles impounded by the department. The section staff also fills in for the Chief’s Secretary in her absence. In 2007, the College Intern in the Central Records Section worked with the Public Affairs Office to complete a new photo composite for the department. The College Intern also created the 2007 Christmas card for the Hamilton Police Department. In 2007, this section worked on a project of sorting and organizing the Archives Room for the department. In this project, over 100 boxes were processed and with the permission of our local Records Commission and the Ohio Historical Society, we were able to destroy the excess paper work in compliance with the records retention schedule. The Central Records Supervisor is the computer systems administrator and as such, must keep all computer tables updated, and assists in changes when new versions are installed. The Central Records Supervisor is also responsible for maintaining the records retention schedule for the department. This report submitted by: Allison Baker, Central Records Supervisor

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Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

TRAINING SECTION The Training Section is responsible for providing training to all sworn and civilian members of the department and the Communications Center throughout their careers. Training offered to employees is a combination of internal and external training that utilizes both officers of the department, who are subject matter experts in the subject being covered, and by bringing in experts in areas in which our staff does not possess expertise, or by sending officers and staff to outside training. The goal of the Training Section is to provide our employees the best training available, regardless of location. Training needs for employees are identified by several means: • request by the officer or employee to attend job specific training, • need for training as identified by supervisors to prepare the officer or employee to better perform their duties, • evaluation of the officer, or employees’ annual evaluation, • use of force reports or other documents to identify additional training that would benefit the employee. The Training Section is a component of the Services Division, and is under the direction of a sergeant. The sergeant: • evaluates the needs for training and coordinates travel if needed, • teaches in local academies, in–house training programs, and • is the departmental liaison with governmental and private training companies to bring training to the Hamilton Police Training Center. A police officer is assigned full-time to assist in the functions of the section. The training officer’s duties include serving as an in-house instructor on a variety of training topics as well as overseeing the day-to-day operations of the police range. Many of our officers who are assigned to various shifts and sections teach specific subject areas, such as firearms, traffic investigation, drug recognition and diversion, gang-related activities, and other many other subjects as needed by our officers. The Training Section must ensure that new officers receive training that is in compliance with the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission (OPOTC) basic training curriculum. In 2007, the Ohio Legislature, upon the recommendation of the Peace Officers Training Commission, enacted Continuing Professional Training (CPT) requirements for all peace officers commissioned in the state. The Training Section is responsible for ensuring that all sworn officers of the department receive the mandated training to maintain their peace officer status. The Training Section also oversees the post academy field training program, which is a 13-week practical application pupil/coach program. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Training Section: Sgt. Edward Buns, Training Supervisor; Training Officer Brian Buchanan. Fitness Specialist Police Officer Brian Wynn Police Officer Greg Baker Police Officer Robert Snyder Unarmed Self Defense Police Officer Brian Buchanan Police Officer Ryan Beckelhymer Police Officer Robert Snyder Firearms Instructors Lieutenant Gerald Martin (sniper rifle) Lieutenant Scott Scrimizzi Sergeant Ed Buns Detective Paul Davis Detective Dan Stevenson Police Officer Brian Buchanan Police Officer Michael Coleman Police Officer Melvin Gray Police Officer Chad Stafford Police Officer Paul Webb Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission Certified Instructors Sergeant Ed Buns Detective Dan Stevenson Police Officer Christa Alfrey Police Officer Brian Buchanan Police Officer Anthony Kiep Police Officer Richard Miller

Officer Bob Snyder conducts a field sobriety test as Officer Pat Fackey Jr. witnesses the procedure during a mock car crash at Badin High School. This event educates students about underage drinking and driving impaired.

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Semi-annual in-service training of Hamilton officers deals with mandated annual topics as well as current issue topics that allows our officers to provide current and professional service; liaison with public and private training to provide professional training either locally, or where available on specific topic areas, and provides resource materials to all employees of training available to further their long term training goals. For non-sworn personnel, such as records clerks and communications operators, the Training Section provides training on appropriate topics such as: General Orders, sexual harassment policy, departmental computer usage, e-mail, and the city telephone system. The Training Section also arranges travel to and from training, financial reimbursement for training-related issues, payment of bills for training, registration of officers for training programs, and maintenance of the training records of all department employees. The Training Section is responsible for the upkeep and care of the firearms training facility and the training center in the police department building, as well as the training facility at the police range and the armory of weapons. To stretch our training dollars, the section brought in outside schools to conduct training classes at HPD. This allowed our officers to attend classes for free or at a reduced cost. The additional benefit of hosting outside training schools was the increased exposure our officers had to departments throughout Ohio and the Midwest. During 2007, the Training Section: • Officer Lanny Ash works out in the Police Fitness Center.

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• Officer Rick Miller places new equipment in a supervisor’s unit in the front of police headquarters. 26

Met all training requirements of the Continual Professional Training as mandated of OPOTC, which will result in the reimbursement to the department of approximately $23,000 for completing certain training topics; Continued to assist Civil Service and Personnel with fitness testing of departmental applicants; Conducted fitness testing for departmental employees and city employees for the city fitness incentive program; Conducted an annual review of the training needs of the department to identify new trends in training that would benefit our officers; Hosted training by the Northcoast Polytechnic Institute on topics of: Field Training Officer, Ethics and Legal Updates for officers of the HPD and surrounding departments; Hosted Reid and Associates training on Investigating Use of Force for Field Supervisors. This course was attended by several of our supervisors as well as departments from Ohio and the Midwest; Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

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Changed the firearms training of the department to focus on basic shooting skills during the winter in-service and required annual re-qualification on weapons during the fall in-service; Continued to train Officers Ryan Beckelhymer and Bob Snyder to improve their teaching skills in self-defense training; Worked closely with the Butler County Emergency Management Agency to host several training sessions on Weapons of Mass Destruction, Crisis Management and Planning, and the National Incident Management System; Continued the Carrying Concealed Weapons training for city employees and others to comply with the requirements of House Bill 12. In 2007, 397 people were trained in compliance with the requirements of the law. Over $20,000 raised from this training was dedicated by city ordinance to the Honor Guard Unit. Through this training, the Honor Guard is financially self-sufficient; Worked closely with other local agencies, such as Fairfield Township Police Department, Miami University Police Department, Fairfield Police Department, and others to provide training to multiple agencies by using combined resources; Worked with the Butler Technology Career and Development Centers Advanced Training Institute to provide instructors and facilities in return for reduced or free training for our officers on all aspects of law enforcement. This report submitted by: Sergeant Edward W. Buns Training Section Supervisor

Officer Matt Mulcahey trains Officer Jason Chin during the Field Training Officer Program.

Hamilton Police SWAT Officers carry a training mannequin in a segment of competitions in the first Southwestern Ohio SWAT Challenge, which was sponsored by the Hamilton Police Department. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

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COMMUNICATIONS SECTION The Communications Section, operating out of the Police and Fire 911 Communications Center, serves the citizens of Hamilton on a twenty-four hour basis. The Communications Center dispatched a total 68,776 calls for police service and 10,754 calls for fire and paramedic service in 2007. Communications Manager Daniel Philpot

Communications Section: Communications Manager Dan Philpot; Communications Supervisors Gary Gabbard; Tim Rankin, and Nancy Smith; Dispatchers Jennifer Ferneding, Lucy Harbrecht, Amy Isaacs, Linda Lairson, Ralph Magill, Michelle McGlosson, Angela Mondello, Kim Owens, Michelle Philpot, Jill Powell, Holly Robertson; Erica Scott, Darla Turner, Katherine Wainscott, and Karen Wells.

Dispatcher Karen Wells dispatches a call to officers from the 911 Communications Center.

For every call dispatched, there were approximately 3.1 calls handled that were either duplicate reporting, informational, transfers to other sections, or referrals to other agencies. It is estimated that the center handled approximately 243,303 telephone calls during 2007. The Communications Center answered 80,787 911 calls in 2007. The City of Hamilton 911 Center remains one of the busiest Public Safety Answering Points in Southwestern Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and Southeastern Indiana. The control of the center is under the auspices of the police department, due to the requirements set forth by the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and the Law Enforcement Automated Data System (LEADS). NCIC, located in Washington, D.C. and operated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), is a computerized information center established as a service for all criminal justice agencies. LEADS is located in Columbus, Ohio, and is operated by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The LEADS system is directly linked to the to the NCIC mainframe. Ohio criminal justice agencies have the ability to add data to NCIC files, as well as make inquiries. LEADS is also directly linked to the National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS) in Phoenix, Arizona. Out-of-state inquiries concerning persons, vehicles, property, or licenses, as well as administrative messages, are processed by LEADS through NLETS and NCIC. This network also allows communications with Canada and Interpol. The Communications Section is responsible for disseminating information received from NCIC and LEADS to the appropriate offices. The information varies in content from information on stolen property, wanted persons, to information related to officer safety and homeland security.

This report submitted by: Daniel Philpot, Communications Manager

Dispatcher Linda Lairson receives a 911 call from a citizen and enters the call into the computer system.

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Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

PARK POLICE UNIT The Hamilton Police Department’s Park Police Unit continued its operation in 2007. The unit consists of a Special Police Officer who patrols the parks throughout the city. All the city parks are patrolled during the spring, summer, and fall months. The officer patrols the parks in a marked police cruiser, and operates an all terrain vehicle (ATV) along the bike path, which runs from Joyce Park to the Butler County Pioneers, Soldiers, and Sailors Monument. The officer patrols at various events, which take place around or near the Great Miami River. This report submitted by: Public Affairs David W. Crawford

Officer Daryl Coppock views a new bench customized for the Hamilton Police Department on a new sidewalk area in front of police headquarters.

Officer Aaron Hucke inspects equipment on a newly purchased Cannondale bicycle used for patrolling Hamilton’s neighborhoods.

Officer Adrian Jackson on the new High-Main Street Bridge by his police cruiser, with the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in the background.

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

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Polygraph Examiners: Lt. Gerald M. Martin and Sgt. Mark Thomas

Sergeant Mark Thomas reviews a polygraph chart from a recently administered test.

POLYGRAPH UNIT

The Polygraph Section is comprised of two examiners, both of whom are graduates of nationally accredited polygraph schools. In addition, these examiners are required to attend continuing training each year to stay abreast of the latest advances in polygraph. In 2007, both examiners attended the national polygraph seminar hosted by The American Association of Police Polygraphists, held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Topics of instruction included, Child Abuse Investigations, Pre-Employment Testing, Physiology, and Legal Issues in Polygraph, Chart Analysis, Cultural Considerations, Scientific Methods of Testing, and Counter Measures. Instructors at this seminar are some of the best in the field. Instructors came from many different backgrounds such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Department of Defense, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), United States Military, many state and local enforcement agencies, as well as the scientific community. Our examiners hold memberships in the following professional organizations: The American Polygraph Association, The American Association of Police Polygraphists, and the Ohio Association of Polygraph Examiners. These organizations are dedicated to the professional and ethical administration of polygraph examinations. Additionally, these professional organizations provide opportunities for the types of advanced continuing training listed above.

Officer Steve Hamilton removes a key from the new Key Watcher 3 system. The system safeguards keys for all the marked cruisers and tracks who has each dispensed key.

Officer Chris Robinson makes a selection out of a new vending machine at police headquarters.

Polygraph examinations are used in a variety of ways by the police and courts. Our examiners test criminal suspects, witnesses, and victims of crimes. We also use polygraph during background investigations, at the request of the courts during civil and criminal proceedings, and during internal affairs investigations. The goal is always to determine the “truth” of the matter under investigation. We have been able to clear many innocent persons from further suspicion, as well as identify the guilty and bring them to justice. During the summer of 2007, Lt. Martin administered a polygraph examination to a subject suspected of physically abusing a 55-day-old child. The child had 26 rib fractures, four skull fractures, cranial bleeding, and various other suspicious injuries. Investigators were able to identify a suspect who initially made a confession. However, the suspect subsequently claimed that he had made a false confession to investigators. The polygraph results clearly indicated that the suspect was being deceptive, and he subsequently admitted to abusing the child. The suspect was convicted of felony child endangering and received a sentence of six years in prison. This report was submitted by: Lieutenant Gerald M. Martin

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Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

COURT SERVICES SECTION The Hamilton Police Department is responsible for security at the Hamilton Municipal Court and at the Hamilton Municipal Building. The Court Services Section is composed of 12 corrections officers who are appointed under provisions of the Hamilton City Charter. This unit is under the direction of the Services Division. The Court Services Section’s responsibilities include operating a checkpoint security station located at the second floor entrance of the Hamilton Municipal Court at the Hamilton Municipal Building. The checkpoint is equipped with a magnetometer used to detect concealed metal items. Officers at the security checkpoint process approximately 5,163 visitors to the Hamilton Municipal Court per month. A state of the art x-ray scanner processes on average 4,000 packages per month. The x-ray scanner allows officers to see inside sealed containers, briefcases, and other packages that may harbor a firearm or other dangerous device. The checkpoint efficiency is maintained by routine security checks conducted by officers or others as directed by the Corrections Manager. Corrections officers also perform duties in the courtroom and other prisoner holding areas. Other duties include prisoner transportation to other jail facilities in Southwest Ohio including Butler, Warren, Montgomery, Hamilton, and Preble counties, and the cities of Cincinnati, Middletown, Dayton, and Eaton. Corrections officers on average transport 606 prisoners housed in the Butler County Jail, and 98 city prisoners from the police department’s holding cells monthly. Corrections officers process an average of 270 warrants per month. All prisoners booked at the Hamilton Municipal Court are photographed and fingerprinted, if required. Responsibilities at the Hamilton Municipal Building include maintaining security for city offices located in the building, and responding to alarms at all departments. The outside perimeter of the building is patrolled on foot daily. Corrections officers assist city directors with security issues when problems arise. Officers have a working relationship with deputies from the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, who are responsible for security at the Government Services Center at 315 High Street, which is joined with the Hamilton Municipal Building at 345 High Street.

This report submitted by: Corrections Manager Daniel J. Schultz Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Corrections Manager Daniel Schultz

Court Services: Manager Daniel Schultz Supervisor Terry Roberts Corrections Officers: Patrick Erb, Patrick Fackey Sr., Dwayne Flick, Robert Gordon, Ernie Howard, Mary Kern, Joel Mast, John McDaniel, David Mick, and Chris Waldeck.

Corrections Officer Craig Farrell using the digital equipment in the Booking Room to take mug shot images of a suspect being charged with a crime.

Corrections Officers Joe Martin and Joel Mast transport prisoners to the Hamilton Municipal Court using the sallyport. 31

Canine Unit: Canine Police Officers: James Gross, Todd Hurst, and Terry Kiefer. Officer Jim Gross, with canine Wolf, giving a presentation to a citizen’s police academy class.

CANINE UNIT The Hamilton Police Department has had canine units in operation continuously since 1991. In 2007, we had one detective, three police officers, and four canines assigned to the Canine Program. Each unit consists of an officer and a canine. Two of the canines are used for narcotics detection during search warrants, vehicle stops, and school searches. The canines also conduct public demonstrations. They are black Labrador Retrievers and their names are Casper and Regret. Casper is assigned to the Vice Section and Regret is assigned to Patrol Shift “B” for patrol duties. The other two canines are used for tracking, building searches, article searches, area searches, officer safety, and public demonstrations. They are German Shepherds named Taz and Wolf. In 2007, they were assigned to Patrol Shifts “B” and “C” respectively. The canines live with the officers at their homes, and become a part of their family. The officer that is assigned the canine is responsible for the feeding, maintenance and overall health of the canine. The officer is also assigned a vehicle to transport the canine to work, for training, and for veterinarian visits.

Regret, Police Canine.

Officer Todd Hurst and canine Taz conduct a canine demonstration for a group.

The canines and their handlers attend mandatory training for eight-hours a month at the Hamilton Police Department Canine Training area, the Middletown Police Canine area, or the Cincinnati Police Canine Training area. There is also additional training that they conduct during their regular work hours in all parts of the city. All of our canine handlers are members of the United States Police Canine Association, and all of the canines are certified through the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy. They are re-certified every two years. In 2007, there were 66 incidents where the canines were used. The 66 canine uses were for 35 drug searches, seven building searches, 16 tracks, one officer safety incident, one area searched, and six public demonstrations. There were four felony arrests and 11 misdemeanor arrests related to these canine uses. During these uses, force was used with the canines zero times. The arrests that are involved with the patrol canines are related to suspects resisting arrest, fleeing officers or hiding to avoid detection. This report submitted by: Sergeant Michael Waldeck Canine Supervisor

32

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

TACTICAL RESPONSE TEAM The Hamilton Police Department’s Tactical Response Team (TRT) is a specialized unit that consists of 37 team members. Of these, there are two lieutenants, three detectives, and 32 officers. TRT responds to situations involving civil disorder, crowd control, and other occurrences requiring special tactics, equipment, and training that are not normally available in routine patrol operations. Our TRT trains on a semiannual basis in the spring and fall. This training consists of line formations and team movements that are employed to move large crowds. Additionally, our TRT prepares for security measures at demonstrations, protests, and rallies of a controversial nature, as well as perimeter security for dignitaries visiting our city.

Tactical Response Team: Lieutenant John Nethers, Commander Lieutenant Daniel Pratt, Executive Officer Detective Daniel Stevenson, Squad Leader/Less Lethal Team Leader Detective Mark Nichols, Squad Leader Detective Mark Poppe; Police Officers: Christa Alfrey, David Anglin, Scott Arbino, Lanny Ash, Ryan Beckelhymer, Michael Coleman, Gary Crouch, Chris Fackey, Matthew Fishwick, Peter Gibbons, Chris Gibson, Jon Habig, Stephan Hamilton, Aaron Hucke, Thomas Hurst, Todd Hurst, Casey Johnson, Mark Kibby, Anthony Kiep, Terrence Kiep, Scott Laney, Matthew Mulcahey, Dave Patterson, Randall Payne, Jon Pieron, Jon Richardson, Robert Snyder, Chad Stafford, Donald Taylor, Eric Taylor, Brian Ungerbuehler, and Nathan Zettler.

In 2007, during the spring training, the Tactical Response Team supervisors instructed the team in a condensed version of an intense 40-hour training course on Managing Civil Actions in Threat Incidents put on by the Center for Domestic Preparedness of the Department of Homeland Security. The purpose of this training was to have all the law enforcement agencies in Butler County trained to handle civil disturbances the same way. In the fall training, 36” riot batons were issued to the team and training was conducted on the use of the new batons. This year, the team welcomed the addition of Officers Scott Arbino, Chris Gibson, and Jon Richardson. This report submitted by: Lieutenant John Nethers TRT Commander

TRT member Officer Scott Arbino and Jon Richardson practice maneuvers during a training exercise. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

TRT member Officer Ryan Beckelhymer listening to instructions before a TRT training exercise.

33

2007 SWAT Team: Commander: Lt. Scott Scrimizzi Team Leaders: Lt. Marc McManus, Sergeants Wade McQueen, Steve Henderson and Craig Bucheit. Operators: Police Officer Jeff Eck, Detective David Weissinger, Police Officer Mel Gray, Police Officer Brian Buchanan, Detective Paul Davis, Police Officer Paul Webb, Detective Joey Thompson, Police Officers Frank Botts, Greg Baker, Matt Blauvelt, Kevin Holstein, and Brian Wynn. Fairfield Officers: Detectives Doug Day, Steve Maynard, and Mike Woodall; Police Officers Ed Bausch, and Kevin Harrington. Sniper Commander: Lt. Mark Martin Snipers: Lt. Marc McManus, Detective David Weissinger, Officers Mel Gray, Matt Blauvelt, and Detective Brian Robinson. Negotiators: Lt. John Nethers Detectives Mark Henson, Steve Rogers, and Police Officer Eric Taylor. Medics: Jennifer Mason, Joseph Gregory, and Curt New.

SPECIAL WEAPONS AND TACTICS TEAM The Hamilton Police Department Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team provides a ready response to situations that are beyond the capabilities of normally equipped and trained department personnel. The City of Hamilton recognizes that the presence of a highly trained, highly skilled SWAT unit has been shown to substantially reduce the risk of injury or loss of life to citizens, police officers and suspects; and recognizing that a well managed team response to critical incidents usually results in successful resolution of critical incidents. Hamilton SWAT officers have dual assignments within the department, serving as patrol officers, investigators and field supervisors. The team complement was increased in 2006 when the Cities of Hamilton and Fairfield signed a new agreement where Hamilton SWAT would handle all critical incidents in both cities. In accordance with this ordinance, five new positions from Fairfield PD were added to the team for a total complement of 32 officers, which include: The SWAT Commander, team leaders, operators, sniper observers, crisis negotiators, and Hamilton Fire Department paramedics. The unit is activated for a variety of situations to include: officer and citizen rescues, hostage rescues, barricaded subjects, high-risk warrants, armed suicidal subjects and dignitary protection details. The unit is on-call, and ready to respond, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In 2007, the team handled 13 call-outs, which included Federal search warrants, two murder warrants, an armed suicidal person in a Fairfield neighborhood and a barricaded subject firing shots on the city’s west side.

Personnel Selection The team relies heavily upon each other, and must not only trust the impending actions of their teammates, but also confidently anticipate them. This, coupled with the intensity of the situations that the SWAT team encounters, makes it imperative that each member is a good fit: physically, psychologically, and cohesively. Therefore, the team screens applicants based on physical fitness testing, firearms qualification, and an oral interview. Applicants must also have a minimum of four years on the force before applying. After being accepted to the team, they remain on SWAT probation for one year.

34

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Equipment Officers assigned to the unit are issued specialized equipment such as: ballistic helmets, level 3 load-bearing tactical vests, tactical headsets, Glock model 35 pistols with tactical lights, Benelli Super 90 12 gauge shotguns, H&K MP-5 sub-machine guns, and .223 assault rifles. The team is also equipped with several tools to administer less lethal force, and an assortment of tools used for breaching. Given the broad spectrum of tools that each SWAT team member must have at the ready at all times, it has proven effective to assign several of the team members take home vehicles. The remainder of our equipment is transported in a one-ton truck, and we also have an armored Heavy Rescue truck.

Training The SWAT unit trains a minimum of one day per month. In addition to the monthly training, members annually attend two-weeks of specialized training, instructed by leading experts in the tactical community. Instructors in this process have included members of the Los Angeles Police Department SWAT team and other leading experts in the tactical community.

Officer Mel Gray loads his magazine with ammunition for annual firearms certification.

During training drills, SWAT officers utilize live fire bullet traps, as well as Simunitions. This environment gives the SWAT members conditions as close to “real-life” as possible. Industry-wide, this is the most realistic training method available. In June of 2007, Sgt. Wade McQueen completed a new obstacle course at our firearms range. The course includes 17 different obstacles: several walls, a cargo net, rope climb, monkey bars, a 55’ rappel tower, an A-frame, and a running trail through the 40 acre wooded property. In August, we held the First Annual Southwest Ohio SWAT Challenge. Seven SWAT teams attended this one-day competition that included four separate events. The event was held on a record setting hot day in which cooling and hydration stations were manned by paramedics. The event was no small undertaking; it required the assistance of more than 50 volunteers. The overall winner of the competition was Dayton SWAT, with Hamilton SWAT coming in second place. The feedback was all positive, and the team hopes to make this an annual event. For the third consecutive year we sent eight officers to the Florida SWAT Round-Up in November. These officers competed against teams from all over the United States and 18 international teams. Officers prepared months ahead for the competition on their own time, providing additional Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Left to right: SWAT members Sergeant Wade McQueen, Detective Greg Baker and Sergeant Craig Bucheit train with their shotguns at the HPD Pistol Range on Headgates Road.

35

enhancement to their skills. The team came in third place in the Hostage Rescue event, winning $1800.00 worth of prizes. Detective Greg Baker competed in individual competition where he won first place as the most physically fit, and eighth place in the Super SWAT Cop events.

SWAT officers from many area police departments attended the first Southwestern Ohio SWAT Competition, sponsored and hosted by the Hamilton Police Department.

36

This report submitted by: Lieutenant Scott Scrimizzi SWAT Commander

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

CHAPLAINS The Hamilton Police Department Chaplains service consists of three volunteer chaplains – the Reverend Gary Gabbard, the Reverend James Kowalski, and the Reverend Don Reed. All three have accumulated many years of experience in both the ministry and law enforcement field. The chaplains are available around the clock to minister to the needs of citizens as well as members of the department and their families.

Senior Chaplain Gary Gabbard

This past year, chaplains served in the following ways: •

Assisted officers at scenes of traumatic incidents;

•

Provided counseling to victims and families of serious crimes;

•

Provided confidential counseling, when requested, to members;

•

Made death notifications;

•

Taught classes at dispatcher in-service training on the chaplain service, as well as ethics and morality;

•

Participated in new employee orientation, promotion, and retirement ceremonies;

•

Represented the department in public ceremonies such as the National Day of Prayer, the 911 Memorial Service, and various services at local churches;

•

Performed services such as weddings, baptisms and funerals for various department members and families;

•

Served as the liaison with area clergy and several civic organizations;

•

Attended various training and continuing education seminars.

Chaplain James Kowalski

Chaplain Don Reed

The Hamilton Police Department Chaplains are: Reverend Gary Gabbard, Reverend James Kowalski, and Reverend Don Reed.

The Hamilton Police Department Chaplains are eager to serve the spiritual needs of the department and our citizens. We encourage all to take advantage of their experience and expertise. This report submitted by: Senior Chaplain Gary Gabbard Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Hamilton Police Chaplains distribute these cards to all Hamilton police officers. 37

Honor Guard Unit: Sergeant Edward W. Buns, Coordinator; Honor Guard Officers: Lanny Ash, David Anglin, Richard Burkhardt, Dave Crawford, Chris Fackey, Shawn Fryman, Mark Kibby, Todd Hurst, Tom Hurst, Anthony Kiep, Terry Kiep, Richard Miller, Randall H. Payne, Robert C. Payne, Jon Richardson, Robert Snyder, Chad Stafford, and Donald Taylor.

Mayor Don Ryan at Greenwood Cemetery during Memorial Day gives a speech as the Hamilton Police Honor Guard officers display colors in the background. In attendance are (left to right): Honor Guard Officers Jon Richardson, Mark Kibby, Shawn Fryman, Terry Kiep, Rich Burkhardt, and Chris Fackey.

Honor Guard Officers Randy Payne, Lanny Ash, Mark Kibby, Rick Miller, Chad Stafford, Bob Snyder, and Todd Hurst prepare for the 21-gun salute at a funeral service.

38

HONOR GUARD UNIT The Honor Guard Unit consists of a group of twenty police officers that proudly represent the Hamilton Police Department and the City of Hamilton. Members of the unit march in local parades, present colors, and provide ceremonial presentations for appropriate functions. During the year, the Honor Guard participated in the National Police Officer Memorial Week activities for fallen officers in Washington, DC, local and regional events as a representative of the City of Hamilton and the Hamilton Police Department. Honor Guard officers also participated in funerals for retired members of the Hamilton Police Department and other persons deemed worthy of such recognition by the Chief of Police. The training of members of the unit concentrated on the two primary functions of the Honor Guard, marching and ceremony. All members are trained to march with military precision, and to perform functions specific to Honor Guard functions such as funeral details and presentation of the colors. In addition to marching units, the Honor Guard members are divided for funeral details into a rifle team for the twentyone-gun salute, and a flag team to serve as pallbearers and fold the flag during the graveside service. Many of the unit members have received training from the 3rd U.S. Infantry, “The Old Guard,” in Washington, D.C. That unit is the official military ceremonial unit of the United States Army, and the ceremonial unit of the President of the United States. The more notable events that the Honor Guard participated in during the year included: • The National Police Officers’ Memorial Week in Washington, D.C. During memorial week, the unit participated in numerous ceremonies honoring fallen officers, such as a candlelight vigil, presentation of the state flags at the United States Capital Building, and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Service on the west lawn of the United States Capitol. Officers also participated in an Honor Cordon at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial at Judiciary Square. Survivors of fallen officers were received, recognized for their loss. During this ceremony, family members were inspired by the motto, “it is not how they died that made them heroes, it is how they lived;” • The Ohio Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial Service at the Ohio Peace Officers Training Academy in London, Ohio; • The dedication of the High-Main Street Bridge; • The unit also presented colors at a Cincinnati Reds game, which was held on the City of Hamilton Day. Mr. Joe Nuxhall was present at this ceremony which honored past announcers. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

In 2007, the Honor Guard assisted in the design of our departmental flag, which is now flown over the Carruthers Police Plaza in front of police headquarters, along with being displayed in the Wally Mayer Patrol Room, the Chief’s office, and the Training Center. The Honor Guard Unit carries this flag in a variety of events. In 2007, the Honor Guard Unit donated a flagpole and placed it in the newly landscaped area in the rear of police headquarters. This flagpole will be illuminated in 2008, providing additional safety and security at Police Headquarters. In 2004, the Hamilton City Council authorized the department to teach the “Carry Concealed Weapons” classes. The Training Section conducts the classes, and the income raised is used for equipment, training, and/or other expenses. This report submitted by: Sergeant Edward W. Buns, Honor Guard Coordinator; Officer David W. Crawford, Honor Guard Member

Left to right: Honor Guard Officers Chris Fackey, Randy Payne, Rob Payne, Rich Burkhardt, Terry Kiep, and David Anglin march in the July Fourth parade.

Left to right: Honor Guard Officers Jon Richardson, Rob Payne, Chad Stafford, David Anglin, Tom Hurst, and Chris Fackey display the colors during a parade. Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

39

R

2007

g

A

C r

Ha

h

p

s S

T

Tables

40

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Statistical Profile

Consolidated Report - 2006 & 2007

CRIMINAL ANALYSIS

OFFENSES KNOWN 2006

ARREST CHARGES

2007

2006

2007

PART I OFFENSES

TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ILLEGAL SPEED

CITATIONS ISSUED 2006

2007

3,263

2,341

CRIMINAL HOMICIDE: MURDER & NONNEG. MANSL.

1

2

1

1

FAIL TO YIELD

412

212

NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE

1

0

1

0

STOP SIGN

293

306

82

111

19

7

DISREGARDED SIGNAL

275

248

ROBBERY

180

249

34

31

FOLLOWED TOO CLOSE

420

370

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT

239

201

86

51

DUI (OVIs)

453

350

BURGLARY/B&E

1,076

1,095

51

54

LARCENY/THEFT

2,945

2,797

378

396

OTHER HAZARDOUS VIOLATIONS

4,256

1,869

483

352

12

7

TOTAL HAZARDOUS VIOLATIONS

9,372

3,115

37

26

7

4

SEAT BELT VIOLATIONS

1,219

535

5,044

4,833

589

551

OTHER NON-HAZARDOUS

3,744

1,246

14,335

10,057

2,304

2,034

597

703

4

1

FORCIBLE RAPE

AUTO THEFT ARSON TOTAL PART I CLASSES PART II OFFENSES OTHER ASSAULTS

TOTAL OF ALL VIOLATIONS 161

374

FORGERY & COUNTERFEIT.

62

55

INJURY ACCIDENTS

EMBEZZLEMENT AND FRAUD

90

108

DEATHS / FATALITIES

STOLEN PROPERTY, BUYING RECEIVING, POSSESSING

155

100

REPORTS PROCESSED CRIMINAL OFFENSE

2006

2007

WEAPONS,CARRYING, POSS.

168

105

PROSTITUTION/COMM.VICE

121

115

REPORTS

10,845

10,011

2,304

2,034

ARREST RECORDS

10,140

8,112

TRAFFIC CITATIONS

14,335

10,057

479

554

2,835

2,219

40,938

32,987

296

277

1,231

767

SEX OFFENSES (EXCEPT RAPE & OFFENSES AGAINST FAMILY) OFFENSES AGAINST THE FAMILY AND CHILDREN NARCOTIC DRUG LAWS

66

53

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

F. I. CARDS 1,059

771

2,316

1,553

LIQUOR LAWS

376

204

DRUNKENNESS

324

246

DISORDERLY CONDUCT

323

249

ALL OTHER OFFENSES

4,330

3,628

TOTAL PART II OFFENSES

5,221

3,933

10,140

8,112

GRAND TOTAL

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

IMPOUNDMENTS TOTAL REPORTS PROCESSED

MINOR MISDEMEANORS PARKING CITATIONS

Some statistical data has been modified by arrests, clearances, and other updates since the original submission to the FBI.

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

41

Return of Offenses - 2007 UNFOUNDED

ACTUAL OFFENSES

CLEARED BY ARREST OR EXCEPTION

CLEARED PERSONS UNDER 18

1. CRIMINAL HOMICIDE ................................................. 2 A. MURDER/NON-NEGLIGENT MANSLAUGHTER ...............2 B. MANSLAUGHTER BY NEGLIGENCE .....................................0 C. NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE ............................................................0

0 0 0 0

2 2 0 0

2 2 0 0

0 0 0 0

2. FORCIBLE RAPE (TOTAL).......................................... 114 A. RAPE BY FORCE ......................................................................111 B. ATTEMPTS TO COMMIT FORCIBLE RAPE ...........................3

13 13 0

101 98 3

8 7 1

4 4 0

3. ROBBERY (TOTAL) ...................................................... 249 A. FIREARM ...................................................................................... 41 B. KNIFE OR CUTTING INSTRUMENT................................... 39 C. OTHER DANGEROUS WEAPON ......................................... 48 D. STRONG ARM ..........................................................................121

5 1 0 2 2

244 40 39 46 119

31 3 2 7 19

2 1 0 1 0

4. ASSAULT (TOTAL) ................................................... 1,396 A. FIREARM ....................................................................................... 31 B. KNIFE OR CUTTING INSTRUMENT................................... 46 C. OTHER DANGEROUS WEAPON ......................................... 79 D. HANDS, FISTS, FEET, ETC. - AGGRAVATED INJURY ........ 45 E. OTHER ASSAULTS (SIMPLE) .............................................1,195

12 0 0 2 0 10

1,384 31 46 77 45 1,185

425 8 13 10 20 374

73 1 3 1 2 66

5. BURGLARY (TOTAL) ................................................ 1,095 A. FORCIBLE ENTRY....................................................................637 B. UNLAWFUL ENTRY - NO FORCE .....................................384 C. ATTEMPTED FORCIBLE ENTRY............................................ 74

18 4 14 0

1,077 633 370 74

54 36 14 4

7 4 3 0

6. LARCENY-THEFT (EXC. MOTOR VEH. THEFT) ....... 2,797

55

2,742

396

52

7. MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT (TOTAL) ........................... 352 A. AUTOS ........................................................................................270 B. TRUCKS AND BUSES .............................................................. 65 C. OTHER VEHICLES ..................................................................... 17

21 14 7 0

331 256 58 17

7 6 1 0

0 0 0 0

GRAND TOTAL * ........................................................... 6,005

124

5,881

923

138

OFFENSE CLASSIFICATION

OFFENSES REPORTED

* Includes simple assaults. Does not include arson. Some statistical data has been updated since originally submitted to the FBI.

Police Officers Assaulted Officers Assaulted in 2007 .......................29

42

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

MOVING VIOLATION CITATIONS ISSUED TRAFFIC ANALYSIS 1200

NUMBER OF CITATIONS

1097

1000

1061

958 878

856

861

874

881

851

800 690

600

567 483

400

200

0

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

172

166

173

OCT

NOV

DEC

ACCIDENTS TRAFFIC ANALYSIS

280

NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS

240

200

191 164

174

170

160

157

153

APR

MAY

171

183 160

120

80

40

0

JAN

FEB

MAR

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

43

INJURIES IN ACCIDENTS TRAFFIC ANALYSIS

100 89

90

NUMBER OF INJURIES

80

80

77

74

70 59

60

59 50

50

47

46

42

40

45 35

30 20 10 0

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

ACCIDENT TALLY BY HOUR/DAY OF WEEK TIME 0000 0100 0200 0300 0400 0500 0600 0700 0800 0900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600 1700 1800 1900 2000 2100 2200 2300 TOTAL

44

Sunday 5 5 8 12 3 1 2 1 5 7 7 7 18 17 18 11 14 11 16 13 18 14 4 3 220

Monday 6 6 4 2 2 4 7 18 17 12 13 15 12 13 17 26 29 27 11 14 12 7 7 8 289

Tuesday 5 3 3 2 2 1 6 15 17 10 15 13 13 14 22 23 27 29 21 12 12 15 9 3 292

Wednesday 3 4 5 1 1 3 9 11 9 18 8 10 10 19 29 35 29 31 23 13 10 12 4 9 306

Thursday 3 2 3 2 1 4 7 12 13 15 12 16 12 28 29 25 31 29 17 15 11 4 8 4 303

Friday 6 3 4 2 0 7 10 9 10 11 18 17 26 18 32 31 33 27 21 11 8 15 9 14 342

Saturday 10 7 4 5 4 2 3 4 11 13 13 23 17 10 18 20 17 18 15 21 10 12 10 15 282

TOTAL 38 30 31 26 13 22 44 70 82 86 86 101 108 119 165 171 180 172 124 99 81 79 51 56 2,034

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

Hamilton Police Department Districts

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

BEAT CONFIGURATION 0 ----1 ----2 ----3 ----4 ----5 ----6 ----7 ----8 ----9 ----10 ---11 ---12 ----

Police Headquarters North End Fourth Ward East Hamilton RT4 Area / SOID Lindenwald Second Ward Downtown Main Street Area Hamilton West Brookwood / Twinbrook New London Out of the City

45

GEOGRAPHICAL AND CHRONOLOGICAL DISTRIBUTION OF CALLS FOR POLICE SERVICE CALLS BY DISTRICT

Dist #

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

TOTAL

Jan.

279

600

275

378

603

498

393

418

529

507

402

395

42

5,319

Feb.

190

478

248

361

576

413

326

371

360

407

338

349

19

4,436

Mar.

225

706

372

412

649

534

482

440

520

580

460

401

32

5,813

Apr.

211

625

329

402

608

483

490

402

539

474

404

376

31

5,374

May

259

636

361

413

666

636

523

510

568

495

500

526

18

6,111

June

232

714

374

478

792

645

495

479

522

529

522

546

29

6,357

July

218

844

408

529

742

720

481

506

587

545

511

464

23

6,578

Aug.

235

893

424

443

751

620

458

494

492

479

501

429

27

6,246

Sep.

241

753

434

430

701

643

446

427

488

554

462

436

26

6,041

Oct.

236

716

405

435

606

526

384

437

546

492

514

459

22

5,778

Nov.

231

586

330

383

620

409

396

402

442

489

413

412

25

5,138

Dec.

233

571

338

411

698

564

358

409

427

523

596

435

22

5,585

8,122

4,298

5,075

8,012

6,691

5,232

5,295

6,020

6,074

5,623

5,228

316

68,776

TOTAL 2,790

46

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

GEOGRAPHICAL AND CHRONOLOGICAL DISTRIBUTION OF CALLS FOR POLICE SERVICE

2007 CALLS BY DISTRICT 12 (316) 11 (5,228)

0 (2,790)

10 (5,623)

1 (8,122)

9 (6,074)

2 (4,298)

3 (5,075)

8 (6,020)

4 (8,012)

7 (5,295) 5 (6,691)

6 (5,232)

2007 CALLS BY MONTH January 5,319

December 5,585 November 5,138

February 4,436 March 5,813

October 5,778

April 5,374

September 6,041 May 6,111 August 6,246 July 6,578 Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

June 6,357

47

FIVE YEAR ANALYSIS CRIMINAL TRAFFIC AND WORKLOAD ANALYSIS

TOTAL YEAR 2003

TOTAL YEAR 2004

TOTAL YEAR 2005

TOTAL YEAR 2006

TOTAL YEAR 2007

FIVE VARIANCE YEAR OVER/ AVERAGE UNDER AVERAGE*

CRIMINAL ANALYSIS 1. (A) MURDER

5

4

4

1

2

2.4

-0.4

0

0

0

1

0

0.2

-0.2

77

77

82

82

111

85.8

25.5

3. ROBBERY

144

209

220

180

249

200.4

48.6

4. AGG. ASSAULT

268

250

194

239

201

230.4

-29.4

5. BURGLARY/B & E

1,029

1,159

1,032

1,076

1,095

1,078.2

19.8

6. LARCENY

2,995

3,467

3,022

2,945

2,797

3,045.2

-248.2

434

601

496

483

352

473.2

-121.2

15

33

22

37

26

20.6

5.4

4,967

5,798

5,067

5,042

4,833

5,141.4

-308.4

1. CITATIONS

14,188

14,209

15,247

14,335

10,057

13,607.2

-3,550.2

2. ACCIDENTS

2,728

2,751

2,383

2,304

2,034

2,440.0

-406.0

3. INJURIES

2,099

1,958

629

597

703

1,197.2

-494.2

6

6

4

4

1

4.2

-3.2

70,899

75,196

74,404

72,044

68,776

72,263.8

-3,487.8

(B) MANSL. 2. FORCIBLE RAPE

7. AUTO THEFT 8. ARSON TOTALS TRAFFIC ANALYSIS

4. DEATHS

CALLS FOR SERVICE 1. NUMBER OF CALLS

* THE “VARIANCE OVER/UNDER AVERAGE” COLUMN DENOTES THE AMOUNT THAT THE CURRENT YEAR IS OVER OR UNDER THE FIVE YEAR AVERAGE

The 2007 Hamilton Police Department’s Annual Report was produced and prepared by Public Affairs Officer David W. Crawford.

48

Hamilton Police Department Annual Report

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OUR VALUES

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Top Left: In late 2007, the City of Hamilton purchased a parcel of property along with a garage for the police department. Top Right: During the construction, Captain Steve Poulemanos visits the construction site, checking on the progress of the renovations. Right: Officer Rich Heidorn stands with two police motorcycles in front of the renovated garage where the motorcycles are now stored.

Hamilton Police Department

Above: Madison Collins sits atop police horse “Buckles” with Officer Bob Gentry holding the reins in front of police headquarters. Left: Renovations to the front of Hamilton Police Headquarters were completed in 2007. Additional brick pavers and old-fashioned lamp posts were added, along with awnings, as seen in the background, over the main entrance to police headquarters. All of the improvements were funded through private donations.