Report Finding #32
The Training Unit is making deliberate efforts to increase the Department’s openness to more effective police officer training.
Recommendation #0:
The Citygate report did not provide any recommendations on the basis of this finding.
If the department takes any action related to this finding, it will be recorded here. Any action taken will be in keeping with best practices, policy, and community values.
Report Finding #33
The Police Training Officer program is a national best practice, but implementation issues are interfering with its effectiveness.
Recommendation #35:
Refresh training for key stakeholders in the Police Training Officer program contracted through certified Problem-Based Learning instructors associated with the Police Society for Problem-Based Learning.
Recommendation #36:
Create a Patrol Training Supervisor position whose primary duties involve coordination of the Police Training Officer program within Patrol and communication with the Training Unit.
Recommendation #37:
Assess the current state of the Police Training Officer program and solve any problems using the very process it teaches to new recruits.
Action: Recommendation #35
The Patrol Training Officers have been through additional training for that program. Each PTO will continue to attend the appropriate training for that position.
Action: Recommendation #36
In January 2022, a Sergeant was added to Patrol supervision. The Sergeant is well versed on the PTO program and will be responsible for coordinating the program within the Patrol Division.
Action: Recommendation #37
As part of the retraining process, assessment of the adequateness of PTO program began and will continue in perpetuity.
Progress: Recommendation #35 - Completed
The additional trainings have been completed, and each PTO will attend that training going forward.
Progress: Recommendation #36 - Completed
With the proper personnel allocated, this action is complete.
Progress: Recommendation #37 - Completed
Continual assessment of the PTO program has begun.
Report Finding #34
Certified officers move more quickly through the Police Training Officer program and may not receive the benefit of its foundational teaching in problem-solving and emotional intelligence.
Recommendation #34:
Include lateral hires in the Police Training Officer program, including integration week, but with options for focused themes needed in Lawrence.
Action: Recommendation #34
The lateral-hire candidates participate in the Patrol Training Officer program.
Progress: Recommendation #34 - Completed
Lateral hires are included in the Patrol Training Program.
Report Finding #36
Department commitment to exceeding state requirements to address racial disparities inherent in policing is not being fully leveraged.
Recommendation #38:
Require annual training for all Department employees in areas related to public engagement equitable policing: implicit bias, procedural justice, and culture competency.
Action: Recommendation #38
This training is currently required by the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and we are seeking additional training to supplement the program.
Progress: Recommendation #38 - In Progress.
Additional training will be identified.
Report Finding #35
There is no formal in-service training mandate for non-sworn employees.
Recommendation #0:
The Citygate report did not provide any recommendations on the basis of this finding.
If the department takes any action related to this finding, it will be recorded here. Any action taken will be in keeping with best practices, policy, and community values.
General Recommendations
Recommendation #39
Where appropriate, use annual training to institutionalize adopted recommendations from this study.
Lawrence Strategic Plan Progress Indicators
- 1.SaS-2: Part 1 crimes per 1,000 residents
- 2.SaS-8: Percent of residents rating trust in emergency services departments as satisfied or very satisfied
- 3.SaS-11: Employee Engagement Index for Police
- 4.SaS-13: Percent of Law Enforcement Officers meeting or exceeding 80 hours of annual training