POLICE DEPARTMENT - Watertown-Ma.Gov
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
POLICE DEPARTMENT
BUREAU OF ADMINISTRATIVE Distracted Driving, Occupant Protection/ decisions.
SERVICES Click It or Ticket, and Summer Impaired
Driving Focus. The department was officially awarded
The calendar year of 2018 saw the eighth full re-accreditation in 2018 through
full calendar year in our new police station. The department received a State 911 the Massachusetts Police Accreditation
The department again thanks the citizens of Department Training Grant. This grant Commission. To achieve this status the
Watertown for this wonderful facility. allows the department to send our public department had to meet three hundred
safety dispatchers to mandatory and and twenty-two carefully selected
Our community room is the police additional enhanced training. We also standards which address critical areas
department’s main training room and received a State 911 Incentive and Support such as policy development, use of
meeting room as it used almost daily. It grant. This grant is used to purchase force, training requirements, emergency
also serves as our back-up emergency dispatch support equipment or supplement response planning, records and
operation center and media press release personnel costs to improve and enhance communications, property and evidence
area. It is popular for town meetings, our abilities to perform this service. This handling, vehicular pursuits, holding
including Watertown community meetings, grant was enhanced for this year because facilities and budgeting. Massachusetts is
elections and related training activities. The the department will be accepting 911 calls one of 25 states to offer an accreditation
community room was reserved in advance directly from cell phones. Currently, most process for the police profession. The
one hundred and eighty-nine times over police departments’ 911 cell phone calls department is committed to maintaining
the year. The town generously funded new go to the state police first and then are re- this accreditation status and renewing
heavy duty/use and stackable tables for directed to individual communities. its certification again in 2021. The
our community room. Our original tables department has been a fully accredited
could not handle the extensive use and fell The police department continued police department since 2015.
into disrepair. its partnership with Advocates (our
state mandated health professional The department has introduced Nuance
organization). The department has a Dragon Speaking Naturally Law
multi-year Department of Mental Health Enforcement version software into our
grant to provide better services to our department. We plan on having our
citizens who are experiencing a crisis due officers trained and able to narrate their
to mental health or substance abuse issues. police reports while out in their cruisers.
The goal of this grant is to divert those This will promote a safer environment for
persons experiencing a crisis from the the officer and a quicker response time to
criminal justice system and to treatment finish required written reports.
with mental health/substance abuse
professionals. This grant allows us to have The department is continuing to use our
a mental health professional work directly Meggitt Training Systems virtual firearms
Police Department Community Room with our officers for 40 hours per week. training and judgement simulator for
all our officers. Monies were gifted to
We have also partnered with Advocates the department to enable this purchase.
to provide officers with Mental Health This law enforcement virtual training
First Aid (MHFA) training in the hopes simulation system effectively supports
of training all officers over the next three marksmanship, judgmental training needs
years. This curriculum is designed to and is designed to enhance the decision-
enhance the skill of officers in de-escalating making ability of all our officers. The
tension-filled encounters with individuals single screen configuration includes the
suffering from mental health and substance ability to conduct both marksmanship and
use disorders. video training modes to provide a multi-
tiered training program. Marksmanship
The police department also continues training ranges from basic to advanced.
to work very closely with Watertown’s This type of judgmental training system
Wayside Multi-Service Center in order enhances the understanding of shoot/
In 2018, The Governor’s Highway & Safety to meet the needs of our juvenile don’t shoot situations as well as the officer’s
Bureau granted the Watertown Police citizens. The department has supported corresponding use of force and type of
Department a traffic enforcement grant to the Wayside Multi-Service Center in force decision making process.
fund several mobilizations, such as: Winter prevention, education efforts around
Impaired Driving Focus, substance use and making healthy The system is capable of supporting training
64
of multiple trainees simultaneously, using a Watertown police officer can enforce the RETIREMENTS:
up to eight (8) system-controlled weapons, laws of the Commonwealth in any of the
during judgmental video training, thus cities and towns within Middlesex County Edward S. Kasabian 02/01/2018
allowing them to engage in team training. that sign this agreement. Robert E. Knell 02/21/2018
During individual marksmanship training, David M. Gilchrist 07/31/2018
the system emulates a range-type training The department continued its
environment where each trainee may shoot collaboration and partnership with RESIGNATIONS:
a different exercise, and in accordance with the Organized Crime Drug Task Force
range safety/spacing guidelines, the system (OCDETF - Federal) and Suburban Brandon M. O’Neill 06/07/2018
can support training of up to four (4) Middlesex County Drug Task Force
trainees simultaneously. (Regional Municipal). DECEASED: None
Maintaining these partnerships are ever
The Department is maintaining our more important as we battle the national CIVILIAN PERSONNEL
prescription drug disposal box in the opioid drug epidemic causing so much CHANGES – 2018
lobby of our station. This drop off box distress in our communities and families.
is available to our residents 24 hours a
day, 365 days a year. In addition, the During 2018, the department continues to PROMOTIONS: None
department also participated in the maintain emergency EPI-Pens for adults
DEA’s 15th and 16th National Prescription and juveniles. EPI-Pens are used for APPOINTMENTS: None
Take-Back days in 2018. The department emergency medical reactions to allergic
disposed of 300.5 pound of unwanted events. This equipment is carried in the RETIREMENTS: None
prescription drugs. patrol supervisor’s vehicle. All department
patrol vehicles continue to carry Narcan RESIGNATIONS: None
The department continued in its second for opioid overdoses.
full year as a member of the Critical DECEASED: None
Incident Stress Management Team The police facility had some repairs
(CISM). The CISM team serves as completed in 2018. A new front entrance
regional peer support officers to assist walkway was completed, using pavers. The DETECTIVE DIVISION
participating law enforcement agencies in previous stamped concrete entrance way
responding to major critical events and had heaved and cracked, causing a major The Detective Division is comprised of
those officers who have been affected by tripping hazard. A new door way exit the Investigative Unit, Licensing Unit,
these incidents. Watertown Department landing by our sally port and rear fenced Juvenile Unit, Domestic Violence Unit,
CISM team members responded to sixteen driveway entrance was repaired as well. Drug Unit, Fire/Arson Investigation Unit,
callouts for services such as death of an and the Prosecutor’s Unit. Members of the
officer, homicide, fatal accidents and grief In 2018, our Records Department division investigated numerous crimes,
debriefs. answered 1,481 public records requests for initiated investigations, and inspected
various department records information. licensed premises. Unit members were
The department again received generous Such information as police incident, arrest, involved in programs for juveniles, the
monies from the Watertown Police accident and statistical reports. elderly, the business community and the
Foundation to purchase an additional public.
two traditional mountain bicycles for our SWORN PERSONNEL
patrol officers to use. These bicycles will The Detective Division has continued to
CHANGES - 2018 work closely with other area departments,
be added to our two new electric assist
bicycles purchase in 2017 with monies including Federal agencies in the area of
PROMOTIONS: drugs, gaming, organized crime, sexual
from the Watertown Police Foundation as
well. This program has been well received assault, financial crimes and firearms.
Wayne C. Hoiseth - 2/26/18 Our detectives attend monthly detective
by members of the community and Lieutenant
participating officers. meetings where they exchange information
Thomas C. Dicker - 2/26/18 with area detectives. These meetings have
Sergeant provided us with valuable information
The department continues to participate in
the Middlesex County Interagency Mutual on criminal activity in our area and have
APPOINTMENTS: enabled us to establish relationships
Aid Agreement. This agreement allows
the police officers of the communities who with detectives and agents from various
Michael W. Dello Russo 03/02/18 departments. The NEMLEC (Northeastern
have signed the agreement to exercise Lauren A. Giordano 03/02/18
police powers in any other community that Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council)
Don M. Pham 03/02/18 task force detectives have set up an email
is also part of this agreement, with some Kyle R. Rooney 03/02/18
restrictions; mainly the police officer must system where information is shared
Michael B. Stewart 03/30/18 on a daily basis. This tool has been
be on-duty at the time. All violations of Collin R. Geagan 03/30/18
the law are covered under the agreement, exceptional in identifying suspects. The
Christopher M. Gaudet 10/26/18 Watertown Police Department continues
including motor vehicle violations. Thus,
65
its association with COPLINK, an APPLICATIONS: Processed Approved Denied Susp/Rev
investigative tool, which gives us access
from multiple data sources including Firearm Applications
identification of previously unknown License to Carry - CL A 134 134 1 0
relationships. This has become an FID CL C 10 10 0 0
invaluable resource for the Detective
FID CL D 0 0 0 0
Division.
TOTAL 144 144 1 0
Throughout the year, there was a Alcohol Applications
continued effort to scrutinize reported One Day Permits 47 47 0 0
crimes. This strategy revealed that many
Sunday Closings 0 0 0 0
crimes that were reported were unfounded
or false and that many employees Special Closing Hours 2 2 0 0
committed reported commercial larcenies. TOTAL 49 49 0 0
Other Applications
In 2018, the Detective Division Auctioneers Special 0 0 0 0
investigated/followed-up numerous
Block Party 21 21 0 0
cases, of these cases approximately 354
incidents were closed through criminal Constable 1 1 0 0
charges being sought (arrest, warrants, Entertainment 18 18 0 0
or summons), determining that the case Fair/Carnival 3 3 0 0
was unfounded, closed after exhausting Hackney Carriage 14 14 0 0
all possible leads or at the victim/involved
Hackney Driver 62 54 8 0
persons request. Several crimes were
solved and criminal charges sought, the Ice Cream Drivers 4 4 0 0
following cases are a sample of significant Livery Drivers 10 10 0 0
crimes resulting in criminal prosecution: Livery Vehicles 18 18 0 0
Motorcycle Ride 1 1 0 0
• Mt. Auburn Hospital alerted both
Watertown and Cambridge Police Outdoor Concert 0 0 0 0
Departments that an unknown male Peddler 8 8 0 0
later identified as a 24-year-old male Raffle & Bazaar 9 9 0 0
resident of Watertown had been
dropped off in their Emergency Road Race/Walk-A-Thon 10 10 0 0
Room with multiple gunshot Solicitor 46 44 2 0
wounds. The victim was later Tag Day 1 1 0 0
transported to Beth Israel Hospital in
Boston, surviving his injuries. In the Texas Hold’em 1 1 0 0
days that followed, the Watertown TOTAL 227 217 10 0
Police Department Detective
Division with the assistance of the robbery, where suspects committed • Several other crimes involving
Middlesex District Attorney’s Office a violent armed robbery by means domestic violence and sex offenses
conducted a thorough investigation of a knife, overtook a store clerk, were investigated; however, we are
that resulted in the arrest of a taking an undisclosed amount of U.S. prohibited by law from releasing
19-year-old man from Hyde Park in currency. One suspect was identified information pertaining to the cases.
Boston and a 21-year-old man from and criminal charges are being
Randolph, MA. Both men have been sought. The Detective Division also works closely
indicted by a Grand Jury for multiple with our outside partners in the social
charges to include attempted murder. • In conjunction with the Suburban services field to aid and assist people we
The matter is pending before the Middlesex County Drug Task
come in contact with or become aware of
Middlesex Superior Court. Force, Watertown Detectives
that may be in need. Helping people with
conducted a narcotic/illegal firearms
• Detectives investigated a stabbing investigation. Search warrants were addiction and/or other issues is a primary
that occurred subsequent to a fatal obtained and executed at a Riverside focus not only of the Detective Division
motor vehicle accident on Watertown Street residence. This resulted but the department as a whole.
Street, where an adult male was in the arrest of four individuals
stabbed approximately seven times. and the seizure of two handguns, PERSONNEL CHANGES
The victim survived his injuries, and one shotgun, over two-hundred
criminal charges were sought on the rounds of ammunition, and body • Officer Patricia Grady was
adult suspect. Attempted murder armor. Criminal charges included, transferred from the patrol division
charges are pending at Middlesex trafficking cocaine, trafficking to the detective division (licensing
Superior Court. methamphetamine, and trafficking and elder affairs)
MDMA.
• Detectives investigated an armed • Officer Kevin McManus was
66
transferred from the patrol division to court. and forensic science—serves to improve
to the detective division (prosecutors’ the administration of justice in police
unit) Due to personnel cuts in the division, we departments and agencies at home and
• Detective Jennifer Connors was re- currently do not have a detective solely abroad and to raise law enforcement
assigned from the licensing unit to assigned to juvenile issues. standards, knowledge, and cooperation
the domestic violence/sex assault unit worldwide.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT
• Officer Lloyd Burke was assigned to PROSECUTORS UNIT
the fire/arson investigation unit
The Domestic Violence (DV) Unit was
• The division is still working established in 1992 and investigates over The Prosecutor’s Unit continues to work
understaffed as it is still down one 200 cases a year. effectively with the Middlesex County
position due to budget constraints The DV unit provides legal advice, support District Attorney’s Office. The Prosecutor’s
LICENSING UNIT and assistance to other agencies and Unit was involved in handling over 736
victims, with the emphasis being placed on cases in 2018. The 736 cases are tracked
In order to encourage cooperation the safety of the victim and prosecution of from arraignment thru adjudication. Most
between the business owners of licensed the abuser. cases are seen 4-5 times over the course
establishments in the city and the Police of the year before adjudication. This
Department, with the intent to detect In 2018 the department investigated 292 includes initial arrests, summonses and
possible violations of the laws and domestic related incidents, which resulted clerk magistrate hearings and all juvenile
regulations governing licenses, members of in the arrest /summons of 102 individuals. issues. The Prosecutor’s office also
this unit conducted inspections of various This department also received and handles scheduling officers for district
licensed establishments during both day processed 111 restraining orders during court, superior court and juvenile court.
and night time hours. Any irregularities this year. The Prosecutor’s office also handles all
observed during these inspections were evidence. This includes identifying,
investigated and appropriate action taken The DV Officer monitors all domestic storing, tracking and working with the
whenever deemed necessary. related incidents and conducts follow- Massachusetts State Police Lab for testing.
ups and contacts victims and defendants It is also responsible for the Town of
In addition to their normal duties, the when necessary. The DV Officer also Watertown Drug Take Back Program.
division also conducted alcohol-related attends round-table discussions on
sweeps aimed at curtailing teenage a monthly basis. These meetings are COMMUNITY AND STAFF
involvement in such activity. Package with representatives from the District DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
stores, clubs, and restaurants were Attorney’s Office, victim-witness advocates
monitored and youths questioned as to and domestic violence officers from DIVISION STAFFING
proper identification. The success of these surrounding cities and towns. The DV
operations is a result of the educational Officer also publishes a domestic “Hot In 2018, the Community and Staff
efforts of this division directed towards Spots” list in the department’s weekly Development Division consisted of one
the liquor establishments and the strong bulletin and through our e-mail system, Lieutenant and one Sergeant overseeing
enforcement action by the Watertown which keeps officers updated with current four sworn officers, a civilian records clerk,
Licensing Board. domestic related issues within the Town. one civilian contractor and volunteer
civilian internship positions.
The following is a report from the TRAINING
Detective Licensing Division for the year The School Resource Officer Unit consists
of 2018 relative to license applications. Detectives attended numerous training of one officer at the High School and one
These applications were submitted for courses throughout the year in specialized officer at the Middle School.
investigation and report. The applications areas of law enforcement. Detectives also
were generated by the Police Department spoke to civic and public organizations on The Crime Analysis Unit consists of
as well as submitted by the Town the topic of identity fraud, burglaries and one full time Crime Analysis and Data
Manager’s Office and the Watertown crime prevention. Integrity Officer.
Licensing Board. (Note: the totals are an Detective Lieutenant James O’Connor
estimate and may or may not reflect the graduated from the FBI National Academy, The Information Technology Unit consists
final total numbers.) Class 271. The FBI National Academy of one full time System Administrator
is a professional course of study for position and one full time Technical
U.S. and international law enforcement Services Officer, which was partly unfilled
JUVENILE UNIT managers nominated by their agency during 2018. This position was vacant due
heads because of demonstrated leadership to attrition in the department and is to be
During the year 2018, this department qualities. The 10-week program—which filled during 2019.
encountered youths for various incidents. provides coursework in intelligence
There were 161 reports generated that theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets, The Jail Diversion Program/Clinician is
involved juveniles with 4 (-12) being management science, law, behavioral contracted to Advocates Inc. and staffed by
arrested and 15 (-6) juveniles summonsed science, law enforcement communication,
67
a civilian clinician employed by Advocates health or substance use disorders. The the Division, in conjunction with the
through Department of Mental Health program focuses on creating alternatives task force, work to coordinate regular
funding. to arrest, or criminal charges for people community-wide awareness meetings.
whose criminal behavior is directly due to Members of the Division have worked to
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS AND mental illness or substance use disorder. update and maintain the task force social
COMMUNITY OUTREACH In recent years, a significant effort has been media presence via its web site: watertown-
exerted to engage community members cares.com and a Facebook page: facebook/
The School Resource Officers worked to prior to a crisis stage. watertown.ma.cares.
build relationships with students, parents
and school staff. These officers contributed The Watertown Police Department joined The Division has continued its work as a
to a sense of security amongst the schools the Police Assisted Addiction Recovery member of the Metro West Collaborative.
while providing guidance to students, Initiative. This organization provided the This organization is comprised of agencies
parents and staff. They conducted sensitive Department grant funding to support the from Waltham, Newton, Belmont, Weston,
investigations, worked proactively to divert Jail Diversion Clinician role. Subsequently Lexington, Arlington and Watertown. The
youths from the criminal justice system overtime funds were made available for intent of the group is to share information
and served as ombudsmen to needed the clinician to conduct follow up work on amongst the police agencies and service
services. opioid related cases. providers to ensure residents of these
communities struggling with an opioid
The School Resource Officers and Sergeant Recognizing that Watertown, like most addiction are receiving timely and effective
assigned to the Community and Staff other communities in the Commonwealth, support to recovery.
Development Division regularly attended experienced an increase in opioid
Community Based Justice meetings. This overdoses in early 2015, the CSD Division As part of the Department’s continued
meeting is a collaborative between school played a significant role in establishing response to the impact of substance use
personnel, public safety professionals, and Watertown’s task force W.A.T.E.R.town disorder on our community, the CSD
social service providers to help identify at- (Watertown Access to Treatment Division implemented a Nasal Narcan
risk youths and provide them with positive Education and Resources). A collaborative program. The department was able to
alternatives to steer them away from effort with several municipal agencies, maintain legal authorization from the
crime and violence. They also work with clergy, and service entities has been Department of Public Health and its
the administration to assist in obtaining ongoing to enhance public awareness medical director to carry and dispense
necessary services for students. and prevent unnecessary suffering due Narcan. The department has partnered
to substance use disorder. Members of with the Watertown Health Department
The School Resource Officers served as 2018 OPOID RELATED STATISTICS
active members of the NEMLEC STARS (50) Opioid Related Overdoses
(School Threat And Response System) (2) Fatal (1) was a Watertown resident at time of incident
team which serves school districts in over (21) Narcan uses by Police (21) Narcan uses by Fire (5) Narcan uses by family
*Narcan was used at a total 35 of the reported 50 overdoses. At some incidents Narcan was
sixty communities. Officer Kerry Kelley
used by some combination of police, fire and family.
continued as an Assistant Commander of
this unit. The School Resource Officers
developed and applied expertise in areas
BY MONTH
of addressing school threats and providing
much needed services to students. January (4) July (3)
February (7) August (6)
The Division uses surveys to measure March (5) September (4)
citizens’ fear of crime and satisfaction April (4) October (2)
with the Police Department. The survey May (1) November (2)
also gives citizens an opportunity to make
June (8) December (4)
recommendations on how the Department
can improve its quality of service. On
a quarterly basis, 100 random surveys AGE RANGES
are mailed to citizens who have had law 19 27 33 40 53 76 85
29 38 48 55 75 86
enforcement contact with the Department. 27 33 41 53
The Department continues to receive a 28 32 41 54
26 31 48 57
positive response to the survey. 29 37 41 58
28 31 51
28 33 51
The Division has continued oversight 23 37 58
of the Jail Diversion Program and the 23 37
29 33
Advocate’s clinician position. The purpose 29 37
29 32
of the clinician is to allow the Department 29 33
to provide better services to citizens who 26 32
are experiencing a crisis due to mental
68
2017 OPOID RELATED STATISTICS were held on Tuesday and Wednesday
(43) Opioid Related Overdoses evenings through the summer months.
(10) Fatal (9) was a Watertown residents at time of incident
Watertown children ages eight through
(16) Narcan uses by Police
thirteen participated.
BY MONTH
January (3) July (7)
February (0) August (6)
March (3) September (3)
April (5) October (4)
May (4) November (4)
June (2) December (2)
AGE RANGES
21 38 42 54 60 Cops and Rec Athletics summer 2018
25 38 43 58
29 37 43 50
27 32 43 54 The Division continued its collaboration
29 38 43 58 with the Recreation Department to hold
28 35 41 58
35 41 58 two “Family Movie Night” events at the
39 49 park to the rear of the Watertown Police
39 45
39 Department. The events were held in July
37
34 and August. A Disney movie was played
39 at each event. With funding from the
32
36 Watertown Recreation Department and
33 the Watertown Police Department; pizza,
31
36 snow cones, popcorn and refreshments
34 were made available. Preceding each
30
movie, face painting, games and other
to train all police officers in the proper shooter threats. This program empowers activities were organized for attendees.
administration of the drug. In 2018 Nasal teachers and students with more options Each event drew approximately 300
Narcan was successfully used by the police in response to an armed intruder with an people.
department at the scene of 21 overdoses emphasis placed on evacuations rather
to save the life of individuals ranging from than solely locking down and attempting
nineteen to fifty-seven years of age. to hide. ALICE drills have been completed
in all public schools with staff and students
The Watertown Community Foundation and will continue on a routine schedule.
issued the Department a $1500 grant to
support the Free Community Narcan Outreach and training in the A.L.I.C.E.
Program for the third consecutive year. program have been expanded to include
This program has enabled the Watertown several private schools and businesses in
Police Department to put a life-saving Watertown including the Atrium School,
drug in the homes of individuals and the Jewish Community Day School, the
families in need, at no cost. In 2018 Beacon School, St James School, Perkins
Cops and Rec Family Movie Nights in July
Narcan distributed through this program, School for the Blind, EFGB (French
and August 2018
was used on four occasions to save the life School of Greater Boston), Boys & Girls
of opioid overdose victims. Club, Watertown Town Hall personnel,
The CSD Division continued its outreach
Advocates Inc., United Electric, the
at the annual Faire on the Square. In
Although a high number of opioid related Arsenal Mall, Tufts Health, Care Group
collaboration with the Watertown Health
overdoses continue to be reported to Parmenter and Athena Health.
Department and the W.A.T.E.R.town task
Watertown Public Safety, fatal overdoses
force, a “Hidden in Plain Sight” exhibit
dropped from a high of ten in 2017 to two OTHER COMMUNITY POLICING
was assembled, allowing parents to view a
in 2018, largely due to the expedient use of PROGRAMS
mock teenager’s bedroom with examples of
Narcan.
common items used by youths to conceal
During the Summer of 2018, the CSD
drug paraphernalia.
As a result of these meetings, the Division collaborated with the Recreation
Watertown Public Schools have continued Department to coordinate street hockey
The CSD Division and the Recreation
with the ALICE (Alert-Lockdown-Inform- and basketball athletic leagues. The “Cops
Department continued the Cops & Rec
Counter-Evacuate) approach to active & Rec” basketball and street hockey games
afterschool program at the Watertown
69
Middle School. This program gave police and fire assets to the scene of the
police officers an opportunity to interact emergency.
with students while playing dodgeball,
basketball, floor hockey and flag tag Also, effective July 1st, 2012 all 911 call-
football after school on Wednesdays and takers must receive 16 hours of State
Fridays throughout the school year. 911 approved training per year. The
department’s Training Division has been
The Division has continued its efforts working tirelessly to ensure that all of these
in support of the Kingian Nonviolence new requirements are met.
community training. Officers provide
instruction at two-day Kingian The Division also continued training
Nonviolence courses. Principles from the with the Meggitt L7 Firearms Training
Kingian Nonviolence curriculum have Successful re-accreditation assessment Simulator. The FATS machine is a firearms
also been shared with all members of the June 2018 virtual training simulator that emulates the
Watertown Police Department through workings of an actual firearm without the
annual training on the prevention of DEPARTMENT TRAINING cost of ammunition. The machine is able
biased policing. to render real world judgment scenarios
TThe department ensured that its officers with variable outcomes to help train
The CSD Division collaborated with attained the legislative 40-hour minimum officers in use of force encounters and how
the School Department, the Recreation mandatory annual training requirement to appropriately make those judgment
Department and the Watertown Boys & by contracting with the Lowell Police calls. All members of the department
Girls Club to plan and execute the Martin In-Service academy to provide in-service have experienced training on the FATS
Luther King, Jr. tribute mural at Saltonstall training to all Watertown officers. In machine. The training is designed to
Park in April of 2018. Civil Rights leader accordance with accreditation standards, reinforce knowledge of the department’s
Dr. Bernard Lafayette attended a ceremony the department ensures all members policy on Use of Force and Response to
for the mural’s revealing on June 7th, 2018. are further prepared for their roles Mental Health Calls. The training also
by coordinating training on eighteen emphasized the use of de-escalation
additional topics. The department techniques.
continued its production of internal
trainings which were incorporated into the All members of the department underwent
department’s various software technology training to reinforce understanding of
mediums (i.e. PMAM Training and Digital the “Response to Active Threats” policy.
Headquarters information share program) This training was coordinated by the
to enhance and go beyond state mandated CSD Division and two members of the
training. department who have served with the
NEMLEC SWAT team for over ten years.
The department also modified its firearm The curriculum included reinforcement of
training regimen. By breaking the typical de-escalation tactics, reinforcement of the
Kingian Mural at the Watertown Boys & 8-hour training session into smaller two- key components of the Incident Command
Girls Club completed April 2018 hour blocks the department was able to System, a review of the evolution on
qualify its officers in the various firearms response to “active shooter” scenarios,
ACCREDITATION (i.e. Glock 40 pistols, AR15 rifles and tactics to help enhance officer’s safety and
less-lethal shotguns) while minimizing instruction on the ALICE program to
As planned, the department underwent a overtime expenditures. dovetail with the training received by the
successful re-accreditation assessment in schools and businesses in Watertown.
June of 2018 and renewed our accredited Effective July 1st, 2012, state regulations
status. The department has continued require that all 911 answering points In addition to the aforementioned training,
its review of the department’s policies begin following Emergency Medical various officers have also attended training
and procedures. Hundreds of pages of Dispatch (EMD) procedures. EMD sessions in the following areas: street
written policy have been carefully combed allows the 911 call-taker to provide life- drugs, drug interdiction vehicle stops,
through to ensure that they are up-to- saving instructions to the caller over the evidence collection and preservation,
date and consistent with the department’s telephone increasing the chance of survival community policing, ALICE/school safety,
facility and standards. This process shall and reducing the severity of injuries while active shooter response, legal updates,
continue to ensure that the policies remain the patient waits for emergency personnel anti-bias, sexual harassment and many
updated and consistent with accreditation to arrive on scene. The department has other trainings.
standards. A continual effort will be contracted with Armstrong Ambulance
required in order for the department Service to provide EMD support for INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
to maintain compliance with all three medical 911 calls. Under this contract
hundred and twenty-two standards and be Armstrong handles the medical call The college internship program continued
re-accredited in 2021. while WPD civilian dispatchers deploy successfully in 2018 with a total of six
70
interns going through the program by retention of department booking videos. of the year to address increased activity
the end of the year. The Department has This will allow for greater retention due to crime trends, holidays, special
partnered with Northeastern University, periods of approximately 1 year for events, and recreational events at parks
UMass Boston, Westfield State University booking recordings; these records may be and playgrounds. Patrols were increased
and other area colleges to greatly expand requested by courts and attorneys’ months during peak shopping periods in the
its internship program. College students after an event or occasion. Original data business districts of Watertown. This was
interested in a law enforcement career retention was limited to 30 days. accomplished by using motor patrol, foot
are carefully selected to work with the patrol, and the use of motorcycles and
department, under the guidance of the BUREAU OF FIELD bicycles. The Patrol Division works in
Community & Staff Development Division. OPERATIONS concert with other divisions in the Police
These interns are unpaid and help augment Department and outside public and private
many of the department’s endeavors while PATROL DIVISION agencies within the area to accomplish
gaining important knowledge and insight the objective of providing the most
into the law enforcement profession The primary mission of the Patrol Division effective deployment of personnel possible.
is to serve Watertown’s citizens through Computer data is analyzed to assist in the
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UNIT a cooperative effort and to protect their deployment of police officers to areas in
property through enforcement of laws need of police attention.
In September of 2017, the department and highly visible deterrent activities. The
successfully completed its transition officers of the Patrol Division represent The Patrol Division, as well as the entire
to the new 911 system managed by the department’s first response to all Police Department, is committed to
General Dynamics. As a result of this emergencies and most calls for service. Community Policing. One of the goals
transition all 911 trained staff required to In 2018 the department was able to fill of Community Policing is to build a
undergo recertification training ahead of six existing opening by hiring Michael partnership between the police and the
deployment. The training was completed Stewart, Kyle Rooney, Don Pham, Lauren community, encouraging interaction
successfully and was funded through the Giordano, Michael Dello Russo and Collin between the two so that we can solve
State 911 Department. Geagan. Ms. Giordano will be the twelfth community problems together. This
female officer in the department. partnership also allows the community
As part of the 911 upgrade process, the to let the police know what concerns
department expanded its E911 service During 2018, the Patrol Division they have and which issues they feel are
to Watertown by accepting 911 cellular responded to 26,096 calls for service important and would like addressed.
calls. Previously, 911 cell calls would be and or motor vehicle stops. These calls- Officers receive training in Community
received by Massachusetts State Police and initiated investigations and events that Policing and are encouraged to increase
then routed to dispatch. This switchover resulted in 306 arrests, 79 persons being their interaction with the citizens on their
will improve response time to emergency placed in Protective Custody and 373 respective patrol routes. Officers are also
events. In addition, in December of 2018 summonses being issued. These numbers relieved of their assignment for a portion
we began our 911 enhancements to accept do not reflect all of the officer-initiated of their shift to work with the community
text-to-911 features. contacts made by patrol officers during on various issues and problems.
the course of routine patrol. Officers also
The department went live with its new responded to 197 calls involving mental When Chief Lawn was appointed Chief
website design in December of 2017 and health issues. Officers also responded to of Police, one of his first priorities and
continues to train personnel in it use and 50 opioid related overdoses. This does changes he made was bringing back
roll out content changes. However, in not take into account overdoses by other community policing programs. Chief
2018, due to a lack of IT personnel several drugs. Lawn is committed to these programs and
projects for the website are slowly being improving upon the close relationship the
worked on. Heavy emphasis by the Patrol Division department has built with the community.
was also placed in the enforcement of
In late 2018, the IT Unit completed its traffic regulations in keeping with the goal In 2018, the department once again offered
research into replacement of the mobile of moving traffic safely and efficiently on a Citizen’s Police Academy to its residents.
data system (MDS) that allows officers the streets of Watertown. Officers and This eight-week program “Understanding
to receive dispatch call records and equipment were assigned to monitor and through Education” is designed to educate
write reports while in the cruiser. The enforce traffic rules and orders when residents about what their police do and
current system is approaching 9 years necessary in keeping with this goal. why they do it. Residents also get to meet
of service and we are hoping to replace many officers during the class and both
the equipment by summer of 2019 once Officers were also assigned to “hot spots” get to know each other. The department
funding is approved and allocated by the for enforcement. These locations are where and its officers also get to learn what issues
town. a large number of accidents or violations the residents see as important. This is all
occur, or where there are numerous intended to bring about a closer working
In November of 2018, the IT unit complaints by citizens. relationship.
coordinated the installation of an extended
video storage server to enhance data Patrols were adjusted during the course The department also brought back
71
mountain bikes for officers to use. This RRT officers have also participated in two year alone. These dispatchers are also
allows officers the ability to access Presidential Inauguration security details required to make contact with the Registry
locations a police vehicle cannot navigate in Washington D.C. of Motor Vehicles to obtain vehicle
and makes officers more approachable information and confirm warrants on
by its residents, rather than being in a wanted individuals.
car where residents may be reluctant to
approach and interact with officers. Off the E911 calls received by Watertown
dispatches, 2,408 were answered, 77 were
“abandoned” meaning the caller hung up
prior to the call being answered. Of the
E911 calls
received, 48.37 % were wireless. The
average time to answer all E911 calls is
00:03.7 seconds. The average duration of
all E911 calls received in 2017, was 1:45.6
minutes.
NEMLEC RRT Unit Off. Rick Munger and TRAFFIC DIVISION
Off. Mark Leitner.
Off. David Cobe with an electric police In 2018 the following NEMLEC units were
mountain bike. called upon the number of times listed
below;
NORTH EASTERN
MASSACHUSETTS LAW SWAT 4 Call Outs
RRT 4 Call Outs
ENFORCEMENT COUNCIL Motorcycle 4 Call Outs
(N.E.M.L.E.C.) STARS 3 Call Outs
PUBLIC SAFETY
DISPATCHERS
The Watertown Police Department
Motorcycle officers Officer Charles Samios
continues its membership and
and Officer Rod Mendez at NEMLEC Unit
commitment with the North Eastern
training.
Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council
(NEMLEC). NEMLEC is a group of 61
In 2018 the Watertown Police Department
cities and towns that share resources.
Traffic Division conducted traffic
These NEMLEC cities and towns have a
enforcement activities throughout
combined SWAT Team (Special Weapons
the Town at a reduced capacity of two
and Tactics), RRT Team (Regional There are nine Public Safety Dispatchers patrolman positions due to budget cuts.
Response Team), a School Threat that answered over 26,347 calls. The
Assessment Response team (STARS) and dispatchers answer all calls for assistance The Traffic Division has two patrol cars
a motorcycle unit that will respond to for both the Watertown Fire Department and four Harley Davidson motorcycles
any member community on a moment’s and Police Department. The dispatchers assigned to it. Officers operating these
notice. NEMLEC Motor Cycle Unit, come under the Patrol Division of the motorcycles attended either forty hours
RRT & SWAT teams train monthly and Police Department. They are the first of instruction at the Boston Police
are on call to NEMLEC communities to point of contact for all citizens requesting Motorcycle Training Academy, the
assist with emergency situations. In the assistance or directions from either M.B.T.A. Motorcycle Training Academy
past, Watertown Police Officers assigned department. The dispatchers answer all or an eighty-hour course sponsored by the
to these units, assisted the Boston E-911 calls, which totaled 2,485 calls in Northeast Massachusetts Law Enforcement
Police Department with security for the 2017 and are responsible for dispatching Council (NEMLEC).
Democratic National Convention and the all fire apparatus and ambulances when
Red Sox World Series baseball games and required. They also dispatch all police The Traffic Division has a Commercial
parades. They also assisted Boston Police cars to service and emergency calls, which Vehicle Enforcement Unit. This unit
with Patriots Super Bowl Parades. The amounted to 26,347 calls for service last
72
increases the safety of the motoring measurement, these trailers also measure 1979 Civil Fines
public and contributes to maintaining traffic volume. The reports generated by 4297 Warnings
the integrity of the town roadways by these radar units are used to aid the Traffic
inspecting commercial vehicles and their Commission in their efforts to determine
drivers for safety, equipment, and weight the level of traffic compliance in particular 51 OUI:
compliance. This unit consists of one areas. The speed signs have been effective
officer who is trained and certified by tools in reducing vehicle speeds in • 34 OUI Liquor
the U.S. Department of Transportation problem areas. The Traffic Division also • 12 OUI Liquor 2nd Offense
(D.O.T.) as a federal motor carrier uses a portable electronic variable message
inspector. This officer is also trained sign to display important traffic and safety • 4 OUI Liquor 3rd Offense
and certified by the U.S. Department of information to motorists. • 1 OUI Liquor 4th Offense
Transportation to conduct inspections of
commercial vehicles carrying Hazardous The Traffic Division also supervises 88 Suspended/Revoked Licenses
Materials. twenty-one full time and three alternate 103 Operating W/O License
school crossing guards. These supervisors
The Traffic Division is responsible for the are responsible for traffic control and the 384 Major Accidents and 622 Minor
Detail Office. The Detail Office consists safe passage of schoolchildren and families Accidents
of one officer who is responsible for in and around the public schools.
scheduling details and overtimes, billing
• 244 MV in transport
companies and collecting money owed. In 2018, The Traffic Division received • 4 Collision with another movable
This Officer also covers routes during $12,000 in Grants from the Executive object
personnel shortages, conducts community Office of Public Safety and The Governor’s • 64 Collision with Parked Vehicle
policing activities and is available to Highway Safety Bureau to conduct one
respond to emergency situations as “Click it or Ticket” mobilization. This • 5 Collision with Curb
needed. allowed the department to conduct high • 6 Collision with Tree
visibility enforcement in an effort to
The Traffic Division supervises one full- increase seat belt usage. The Department
• 9 Collison with Utility Pole
time and one part-time civilian parking also participated in two “Drive Sober • 9 Collision with pole or support
enforcement officers. These civilian or Get Pulled Over” mobilizations to • 1 Collision with median barrier
positions allow police officers to dedicate target and reduce drunk driving and one
their time to other police duties. ‘Distracted Driver’ mobilization focused • 1 Collision with Ditch
on people texting while driving. • *18 Collision with Pedestrian
Between January and December
2018, the Traffic Division conducted In the Year 2018, the department issued • 10 Collision with unknown/fixed
object
surveys, studied speed and traffic flows, the following motor vehicle citations:
and conducted investigations for the • 7 Collision with Bicyclist
Watertown Traffic Commission. This TRAFFIC • 3 Other Non-Collision
information was used by the Traffic
Commission in their determination for the 23,989 Parking citations • 2 Other
addition, replacement, or deletion of traffic 6,618 Total moving citations
signs, rules and regulations. *One fatal pedestrian accident
2018 Data
The Traffic Division has three portable
RADAR speed display signs. These signs 6,618 Citations
are portable speed feedback units that
display the target vehicle speed on a 3’ x 111 Arrests
3’ display window. In addition to speed 230 Criminal Complaints
73You can also read
