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TheGardensGazette.org
News > Current Events

Coffee with a Cop

4/12/2022

 
Click a photo to start a slideshow
Coffee with a Cop
April 12th, 2022
Arrowhead Gardens
Reported by Billie Overgaard
This morning, several police officers showed up in the B Building Community Room, sat at our tables and had coffee with us.  Lt. Michael Watson, Watch Commander for our precinct sat at our table, and this is what we discussed:  

The first thing brought up was the semi-trucks that obstruct the view when exiting onto Myers Way, and the many accidents that happen where people are trying to merge off of 2nd Avenue onto Olson Place.  Lt. Watson basically said that if the semis are parked legally there's nothing to be done.  My suggestion that a yellow painted curb be placed down the length of one semi, thereby keeping them from obstructing the view, was apparently not a viable one.  As for the cars from here trying to merge onto Olson Place, he said it would take a major traffic flow revision to do anything about it.  I guess we haven't met the accident quota for that corner to be considered a problem by the city.

The unsanctioned homeless camps around us were brought up.  The Lt. said that while enforcement is through either the Seattle Police Dept or the County Sheriff’s Dept., because they are understaffed, they don't really do anything about the unsanctioned camps right now unless there is a specific problem.  If they are blocking roads or sidewalks, that's something the police and sheriffs will address.  If we see garbage or other sanitation issues, we can report those via the “Find-It-Fix-It” app, and the Parks Department will be called in to get that cleaned up.  And of course, we should always report any illegal drug activity or violent behavior we see.

Lt Watson reiterated that their department is very understaffed.  He says there are recruits in the making, but that it takes 18 months from sign-up to being put out on the streets, and that on top of that not many people are going into policing right now.  Even so, every report will get a response, even if it's only over the phone.  Due to the shortage in staff, certain calls must be given priority over others.  But keep in mind, even if all that happens is that a report is taken over the phone, police resources are data driven.  If it's not reported, they won't know there's a need.

As an aside, the horses for the mounted patrols have been rehomed. It takes four police officers to maintain a horse.  That, coupled with feed, care and housing of the horses makes them no longer a justifiable expense.

He was surprised that a facility this size doesn't have a security guard, and that the C-D garage is unlocked during part of the day.  He was also surprised that there are no key-card locks on the doors between the garages and the apartment part of the buildings themselves.  He was gratified to hear of the upgrades Diane mentioned at the last General Meeting and hopes that will help.

We then asked the Lt. about the ivy on the trees.  There is interest among some of the residents to clean the ivy off because it is choking the trees to death.  Lt Watson told us we can't legally do anything about it, even though a simple snip of the ivy near the bottom of the tree would kill the ivy and save the tree.  The green spaces are controlled by the city and county (depending on which side of the road) and interested parties would have to go through them to gain permission.  This includes even the green spaces right outside our fences, on our side of the roads.

Procedures for residents with dementia who have wandered off and not returned home in a reasonable amount of time was discussed.  Lt. Watson said that as long as the person has a cell phone on them, the police can find him within a few feet.  They would have to have a judge's permission to do it, but all the judge would need to hear is that there are medical issues (such as the person has dementia) and that they would more than likely agree to the search.  This service is available 24/7 and is called the Silver Alert.

We briefly talked about personal safety. Lt Watson gave us the usual suggestions: 
1) Be aware of your surroundings, especially who is around you. 
2) Have your cell phone on you, already turned on and easily accessed. 
3) When going through doors, do it sideways, keeping yourself aware of all surroundings and people.
Don't turn your back to anyone. This is important not only at the entry door to the building, but even your own apartment door. 
4) Be aware of who you are letting into the building and whether they belong there.


Finally, Block Watch, or Neighborhood Watch was touched on.  Jennifer Danner came by at that point and told me that she and Diane have set up a tentative date in May.  Her email address is jennifer.danner@seattle.gov. if we want to discuss anything about this with her. Meanwhile, Lt. Watson suggested that we ask if there would be a way for residents to tune into the new camera system feeds via our home computers so that we can help watch our own neighborhood through the new security system from the safety of our apartments.  I’m hopeful that this is something Diane R can look into with Jackie, our manager.  

It has been suggested that this will be the first of a series of “Coffee with a Cop”, and I look forward to attending future get-togethers. 

Sincerely, 

Billie Overgaard
Building “A” Emergency Captain




​Editor's notes: 
1. The Seattle police sat a several tables with residents to answer questions.
2. If you have additional information or observations, share them in the feedback and comments section below or use the contact form.
3. If you would like to receive a monthly newsletter from Jennifer Danner, SW Precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator, contact her at jennifer.danner@seattle.gov
or 206-256-6820.
4. Photos were provided by Diane R.
5. The event was arranged by Lynne Vetch from CIRC.


    Feedback

Submit

Chief Adrian Diaz 8-17-2021

8/17/2021

 
On Tuesday 8-17-2021, Arrowhead Gardens residents met with Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz to discuss traffic, environment, safety, and security. The meeting was held in the A Building Sun Room from 9:00AM to 9:55AM.
Minutes provided by Billie O.
​Photos and audio recording provided by John W.
AGENDA provided by Diane R.
  1. Homeless people living in the woods along Myers Way in violation of posted signs.
  2. Speeding, racing, reckless driving and noise pollution along Myers Way (and Olson Place) in violation of 25 mph limits.
  3. Large trucks parking for days at a time on Myers Way disturbing residents with noise particularly in early morning hours when drivers run engines in preparing to leave.
  4. Placement of No Parking signs along Myers Way.
  5. Discussion on the police department utilizing an empty retail storefront still available in our community for law enforcement convenience and the visibility of a squad car for deterrence.
  6. General concerns expressed by residents as it relates to their feeling of safety and security.

Present were 
Chief Adrian Diaz (Seattle Police Department)
Andre Sin (assistant to Chief Diaz)
Scott Tysseland (Shag property management)
AG Residents:
Diane R**, Norm M, Sharon S**,
​Alan Q**, Billie O**, 
John W.   
**AGRC elected officers
Picture
Play the audio recording.

Read the PDF Minutes HERE.



SEE ALSO
9-1-1 Operation Forum Jan-2020

Councilmember Lewis discusses restoring SPD retention
​at 19 Minutes into this video

Aug 18, 2021


Seattle City Council previews
​upcoming 2022 budget season

​August 17, 2021

Seattle Councilmember Lisa Herbold
Newsletter for August 20, 2021
Finance Committee Action on Mid-year Budget Including SPD

Finance Committee Action on Mid-year Budget Including SPD

In September, the Council will be considering the mid-year supplemental adjustment to the 2021 adopted budget, as recommended by the Finance and Housing Committee on Tuesday.  This legislation includes changes to the SPD budget that I proposed, made possible by an estimated $15 million not needed for officer salaries this year.   I first proposed these investments in May, which unfortunately did not pass.  The supplemental budget proposal in the Finance and Housing committee represented another opportunity. 

I proposed – and committee members approved - significant changes to the budget legislation to ameliorate the community safety impacts associated with the current shortage of police officers. The shortage of sworn officers is resulting in significantly reduced 911 “priority one” responses - responses that have a standard goal of 7 minutes.  It’s important that we make investments to address the real workload challenges for those sworn officers who remain on as public servants in Seattle.

My amendments also added funding for civilian positions, technology investments, a new training program, and alternatives to an armed response to build community safety.  Together, these amendments reflected the priorities of SPD, community safety advocates, the Mayor’s Office, and Council’s work to reimagine public safety and provide alternatives to an armed response, while ensuring officers have the ability to respond to calls that only they are qualified to do.

The successful new amendment, proposed with Finance & Housing Chair CM Mosqueda, includes funding for:
*  Community Service Officers and Crime Prevention coordinators;
*  Hiring process accelerators for both sworn officers and civilian hires;
* National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform 911 call data analysis to support re-imaging policing;
*  Work, Scheduling and Timekeeping project updating and modernizing SPD’s management of overtime and addressing the recommendations made by the City Auditor in 2016, and recommendations made recently the Office of Police Accountability;
*  $1.5 million for overtime.  SPD requested $3 million.  Both the Mayor and Council proposed reductions in the overtime budget last fall for 2021, assuming fewer large events would occur due to COVID.  With additional events now taking place, more overtime funding may be needed, as well as for patrol 911 response.
*  Evidence storage space, as recommended by the Inspector General;
*  Funding for additional Public Disclosure work, as recommended by the City Auditor.

The amendment also incorporates priorities I announced in my Public Safety and Human Services committee in late July.  The Mayor and SPD also stated support for these investments to re-direct a total of $1.5 million from the SPD budget to other departments.
*  Community Safety and Communications Center funding for a protocol system for 911 dispatchers; this is critical for ensuring 911 call takers have the training to ensure the best response, as we embrace alternatives.  Similar to what Seattle Fire uses in its dispatch center, the protocol system will implement a more consistent process for obtaining key information from 911 callers and support better data analysis to plan for resource deployment, including alternatives to police response.  I didn't want to wait until the Mayor made a 2022 budget recommendation to begin providing funding for this effort.
* Regional Peacekeepers’ Collective funding to prevent gun violence.  This is critically important right now.  Community violence intervention programs such as the Regional Peacekeepers Collective have been shown to reduce violence by as much as 60%.   I didn't want to wait until the Mayor made a 2022 budget recommendation to begin providing funding for this effort. 
* Funding for Triage One; to redirect 911 calls as a result of the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform call analysis commissioned by SPD; they are calls that do not require a first response from sworn officers, and reduce the need for them to respond to these calls.  I didn't want to wait until the Mayor made a 2022 budget recommendation to begin providing funding for this effort.

Our amendment also includes an investment of $3 million in the Seattle Community Safety Initiative,  to fund additional alternatives to policing. HSD recently awarded contracts to 33 of the 70 applicants; additional funds could fund additional projects, or extend the funding from 18 to 24 months.

I also proposed a separate amendment to fund $2.25 million for necessary SPD technology investments, which passed. It includes funding for Data Analytics Platform; for Capacity Planning Tool; Innovation Blueprint; and Officer Wellness and Supervision (which is a new version of this). Some of these are required by the Consent Decree. 

The Data Analytics Platform will be used to monitor staffing and overtime, analytical processes necessary for reimagining policing such as 911 alternatives, next generation early intervention, and to monitor disparate impacts. The Capacity Planning Tool will evaluate staffing demand, and calculate staffing requirements based on scenarios such as 911 alternate response, and expands resource planning beyond core functions such as patrol and investigations to include support for functions such as force review and public disclosure. Innovation Blueprint includes identifying strategies and online tools to increase transparency and improve police practices. Officer Wellness and Supervision include more accurate statistical models for predicting and guiding interventions for employees exhibiting signs they need support, as part of the department employee wellness and retention strategy.

I strongly support Chief Diaz’s efforts to innovate in developing a training curriculum to ensure SPD recruits understand community expectations for a public service career in law enforcement in Seattle.  That’s why I successfully proposed funding for a program Chief Diaz is initiating to support Seattle-specific training for new officer recruits before they go to the state training academy.  The program is being developed under the guidance of a long-time educator, and consists of a 45-day program that “pulls recruits out of traditional classroom training and immerses them in community-based, peer-based, and introspective experiences that will provide them both a lens through which to receive their BLEA (I.e. academy) training and a foundation upon which to build their careers as Seattle Police Officers.” Most of this work will take place in the community. The curriculum strives to implement the principles of relational policing, as recommended by the Inspector General Sentinel Event Review.  

Less Lethal Weapons Regulation
Less Lethal Weapons Regulation

On Monday, the Council voted 7-0 to adopt legislation that I sponsored to restrict the use of less lethal weapons, principally during demonstrations.
There are currently no restrictions on the use of less lethal weapons in Seattle law.

After the Public Safety and Human Services Committee voted 4-1 to pass the legislation in July, I moved to delay the Full Council vote until after a Status Conference for the Consent Decree was held in early August.  It was important to wait in case the court wanted to comment on the legislation before the Council passed it.  Court approval of the SPD policies that will derive from the new law is necessary, per the scope of the Consent Decree, which includes all laws, policies, and practices that relate to use of force. The legislation was not discussed at the Status Conference.

The legislation includes a full ban on acoustic weapons, directed energy weapons, blast balls, ultrasonic cannons and water cannons. Use of Noise-Flash Devices (Flash Bangs) are banned in demonstrations.

The bill permits the use of pepper spray and pepper ball launchers only in those cases when the “risk of serious bodily injury from violent actions outweighs risk of harm to bystanders.” If used to control crowds another condition must be in place, that there is a “violent public disturbance. The legislation defines when a “violent public disturbance” is taking place.   Tear gas use is restrained by 5 separate conditions.

In developing the legislation, Council President Gonzalez and I met with the Consent Decree Monitor and the Department of Justice, to get their informal feedback in advance, with the understanding formal feedback will follow after
SPD policies based upon the ordinance are developed and filed with the Court.

You may recall that my PSHS  committee first acted in February to recommend a draft bill that was used for those discussions.

During conversations about the draft bill, DOJ expressed concern about the potential that restricting the use of certain less-lethal tools in crowd management circumstances could actually lead to officers using higher levels of force, putting both assaultive protestors and the surrounding non-violent protestors at higher risk of harm. Judge Robart expressed similar concerns. DOJ likewise inquired as to whether the draft bill will provide time for relevant SPD officers to be trained to changes in policy, again, to avoid the unwanted impact of having untrained officers resort to higher levels of force than necessary. Judge Robart also raised this issue.

To address these concerns, we added a definition of “crowd control,” and added a 60 day training period.  To address concern that officers should have some less lethal option to intervene when property damage is occurring but there is no risk of serious bodily injury, the legislation is silent on and does not regulate the use of non-chemical launchers, e.g. of bean bags or rubber bullets.

Another update allows for use of pepper ball launchers in, a demonstration or rally, but not for crowd control purposes, and only when the “risk of serious bodily injury from violent actions outweighs the risk of harm to bystanders.”

This change is in response to prior judicial decisions; Judge Robart specifically approved policies authorizing use of pepper ball launchers in late February, as part of SPD’s court-mandated annual update to use of force policies.

Development of this legislation began after Council's passage of legislation sponsored by CM Sawant in June 2020 to fully ban the use of most less lethal weapons for crowd control, after demonstrations in Seattle after the murder of George Floyd. Judge Robart issued a restraining order on that bill in July of last year. It never went into effect.  In August pf 2020, the Community Police Commission, the Office of the Inspector General, and the Office of Police Accountability made recommendations for how to change the law.  These recommendations were sent to Council and Judge Robart, as he requested them as well.

The Public Safety and Human Services Committee has met seven times about this legislation, and heard extensive public comment.

While some criticize the bill as too weak and others say the Council shouldn’t legislate less lethal weapons regulations at all, my goal has been to adopt the strongest regulations possible, building on the August 2020 consensus recommendations of the three accountability bodies, while adhering to the obligations under the Consent Decree.

The CPC stated support for this legislation, while noting their perspective that they believe more needs to be done:

“The Seattle Community Police Commission writes today to offer its support for Council Bill 120105. The Commission believes that the bill’s inclusion of clear delineations of when less-lethal weapons can and cannot be used—and limitations on who can use them—is a significant first step in ensuring the safety of community members when they engage in First Amendment protected protests.

 The Commission wishes to note that while we appreciate the improvements the bill would make to Seattle Police Department’s use of crowd control weapons, the Commission wants to ensure that the City Council does not forget that there is more work to be done. This legislation does work toward implementation of some recommendations made by the CPC last fall. However, those CPC’s recommendations identified additional changes necessary to best protect our community’s safety and civil liberties during protests for which we ask the City Council to not stop striving towards.

Now that the Council has voted to adopt the legislation, this is what happens next:
  • First, SPD will draft policy revisions within 60 days (provided by Section 4 of the bill)
  • Second, DOJ and the Monitor will review the policy revisions (this is when their formal review under the Consent Decree takes place)
  • Third, the Court will review the policy revisions (also required by the Consent Decree)
  • Fourth, if the Court approves the policy revisions, then the revised policies and the substantive provisions of the bill will take effect (provided by Section 5 of the bill)

9-1-1 Operation Forum Jan-2020

1/9/2020

 
Resident Forum
SPD: 9-1-1 Operation
Samantha & Joel from 9-1-1 Operation presented
Diane R. moderated.  
John W. operated recording & sound system.
Play the audio recording of the forum.
Presentation is followed by Q&A
Click the images below to open them in a new window.

Additional Resources:
​Smart911
9-1-1 Origin & History
Computer-aided dispatch (CAD)

SPD Block Watch Meeting Dec-2019

12/10/2019

 
A block watch meeting was held with SW Precinct Police and Arrowhead Gardens residents on December 10, 2019. The meeting was recorded and is shown below along with photos of the police and residents in a group discussion. Another meeting will be held in the middle of January 2020 to formulate a block watch committee for Arrowhead Gardens. Eleven AG residents attended the meeting.
Diane R. moderated.
​John W. recorded.
Meeting Recording
From the Seattle Police Department SW Precinct :
Left to right: T. Frame 7474; W. Kohn 6195; Lt Steve Strand 5689, Operations; Jennifer Danner 8048, Crime Prevention Coordinator; Taylor Lowery, Intern.
Picture
Some takeaways:
  1. If you feel threatened, call 9-1-1.
  2. If you need police presence, call 9-1-1.
  3. If you see an ongoing pattern that needs police attention, email Jennifer Danner or Lt Steve Strand.
  4. If you want to report an incident that doesn't need police presence, go to: SPD Online Crime Reporting. This is good for insurance and credit card disputes.
  5. If you want to report an environmental problem, use the Find It Fix It app or dial 206-684-CITY.
    a. This would include anything on public property, such as needles or potholes, 
    b. If the problem is on Shag property, report it to management.
  6. There was discussion about Sharps disposal and medications disposal.
  7. If you have concerns about visitors, and it is not a threatening situation, provide details to management. If you think someone is trespassing in common areas, call 9-1-1 and let the police sort it out..
  8. If you report a crime or incident to police, provide your police report to management.
  9. Police gather statistics on incidents to allocate police resources, even if it seems minor. They can see patterns that you might not perceive.
  10. Management needs incident reports, formal and informal, to make legal cases for evictions.
  11. Diane said we will kick off a Block Watch committee in January 2020.
  12. The last effort to start AG Block Watch was in October 2017.
  13. Jennifer Danner emails newletters on crime prevention. They are posted on the home page of The Gazette. You can subscribe by emailing her.
Contact information:
  • Jennifer Danner: Desk: 206-256-6820 / Mobile: 205-471-2849  / Jennifer.Danner@Seattle.gov
  • Lt Steve Strand: Steven.Strand@Seattle.gov
  • SPD Southwest Precinct:
    2300 SW Webster St., Seattle, WA 98016-3485 / Contact Page
HANDOUTS
Block Watch Program (click attachment)
Connect with your community for emergency preparedness (click attachment)
Crime Watch Signs and Instructions
2019-12-10-spd-block-watch-overview.jpg
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2019-12-10-spd-emergency-hubs.jpg
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Police Chat Oct-2019

10/31/2019

 
Two officers from SPD Southwest Precinct, Captain Pierre Davis and Operations Lieutenant Steve Strand, gave a safety presentation and answered questions from Arrowhead Gardens residents in the B Community Room on Monday October 28, 2019, 3:00-4:15PM.
-- Diane Radischat moderated.
-- John Walling operated sound system and recording.

SPD African American Community Advisory Council Meeting

10/12/2018

 
D. Brown SPD African American Community Advisory Council Liaison D. Brown, AACAC, Seattle Police Department

You're Invited to the Next SPD African American Community Advisory Council Meeting Thursday October 18, 2018 @ 6PM
​

Hello all, mark your calendars and join us for the next SPD African American Community Advisory Council Meeting scheduled for Thursday October 18, 2018 at the Seattle Vocational Institute. 2120 S Jackson St. Seattle, WA 98144 Suite 102 from 6pm - 8pm. Agenda Items include:

1. 911 Communications - SPD 911 Communications Center
2. Community Concerns Discussion - Rahael Lassegue, Interim AACAC Chair
3. SPD Precinct Reports – South, East, West, South West & North
4. Classical Music Opportunities for Youth of Color – Damita Beleford
5. Detective Cookie's Urban Youth Chess Club Updates

For a taste of classical sounds of Jay Beleford a young man with phenomenal talent whom participated in this summer’s Parks Department Teen Summer Musical Cinderella please click on the following link https://youtu.be/4t3Nqy5f0Gg

All are welcome, parking is available in the rear of the building. For more information about AACAC please contact me at spdaac@seattle.gov or Interim AACAC Chair Rahael Lassegue at Rahael.Lassegue@gmail.com

Crime Prevention Coordinator Part 8

10/8/2017

 
Crime Prevention Coordinator (CPC)
Jennifer Burbridge  

Jennifer.Burbridge@seattle.gov
Seattle Police Department
Area: Southwest Precinct
2300 SW Webster Street
Seattle, WA 98106-3485
Desk: (206) 256-6820, Cell: (206) 471-2849
September 28, 2017

Good afternoon,
Attached and provided below is the SW Precinct October monthly crime prevention newsletter - focused on property crime as we head into the holidays and winter season!
As always, please feel free to share this with your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and community groups.
Few key things to point out:
  • Monthly West Seattle Crime Prevention Council meeting - Tuesday October 17th, 7pm at the SW Precinct
  • Reminder to contact me if interested in a free safety/security assessment of your home or business, if you are interested in starting a Block Watch group, or if you are interested in free firearm cable locks
Let us know if you have any questions.
Have a great rest of your day!

In past years, we have seen an increase in property crime as we get closer to the winter season and the holidays- including mail and package theft, residential burglary and car prowl. The SW Precinct October monthly newsletter will focus on property crime prevention. Please keep in mind that one of the most effective property crime prevention strategies is getting to know your neighbors and starting a Block Watch. Block Watch brings residents and law enforcement together to improve safety and prevent crime. If you are interested in setting up a Block Watch for your area, have questions and/or would like to learn more about this program- please feel free to contact me.
We have recently seen an increase in package and mail theft in the West Seattle area and due to this increase, it is extremely important to remember these helpful tips. Never send cash in the mail, don’t leave outgoing mail unattended in the mailbox for pick up- drop it off at the post office instead, if you are going out of town- ask the post office to hold your mail until you return, keep your mailbox in good repair and make sure it is properly installed and consider a locking mailbox (contact your local postmaster for regulations). For packages- consider choosing a shipping method that requires a signature, ask the delivery service to hold the package for customer pick up, track packages/shipments online, considering buying a locking bin for packages and arrange to have the package delivered to work or a location where someone else can receive it.
​A burglary is defined as when someone enters physical property, not his or her own, without permission, with the intent to commit a crime. When it comes to helpful prevention techniques for residential burglary- there are a lot of important things to keep in mind. All exterior doors should be strong enough to withstand force and should be secured with a deadbolt lock that has a minimum one-inch throw. Try not to leave valuables (such as packages, electronics or cash) in plain sight through windows or doors. The main entrance door to a home/apartment should have a door wide-angle (180 degree) viewer/peephole. Make the home appear as if there is someone there by leaving lights, music and/or televisions on. Install motion sensor lights to be specifically directed and focused on entry points and vulnerable areas, use lights set to a timer or leave lights on. Secure and lock all windows and doors when leaving the premises- even if you plan to return within a short amount of time! Do not leave a spare key out. Secure and maintain yard, patios and outdoor spaces- making sure you trim back all concealing shrubbery. Be consistent, and always stay vigilant and observant to what is going on around you; remember to always call 9-1-1 immediately to report suspicious behavior and if you see something- say something! If you are interested in a free safety and security assessment of your business or home- please contact me.
Lastly, regarding car prowls - a car prowl is the unlawful taking of motor vehicle contents or parts and this crime is often referred to as a crime of opportunity. Car prowls and auto thefts happen fast - an experienced car thief can break in and steal a car in less than one minute. The SW Precinct is currently significantly down compared to last year in this crime category, however these prevention tips are still important to remember! Never leave valuables in plain view, hide chargers and accessories that indicate an electronic device may be in the vehicle, remove garage door openers, key cards and other keys from the vehicle, install anti-theft devices, if possible- activate alarm and whenever possible - park vehicle in a busy, locked, monitored and/or well-lit area.
Below you will find my contact information, including email and phone numbers. Keep an eye out for my newsletter next month, which will again focus on a specific crime/safety issue and include important prevention techniques. Please feel free to contact me with questions, concerns, to request my presence at a future meeting and/or if you are interested in free firearm cable locks.
Email address: Jennifer.Burbridge@seattle.gov
Desk phone number: (206) 256-6820
Work cell phone number: (206) 471-2849

Officer Todd Wiebke SPD - Introduction

8/19/2017

 
Category: Officer Todd Wiebke
There Is Always Hope

Many of you may be familiar with the Highland Park (which we are a part of) neighborhood blog, NextDoor.  If not, I suggest you JOIN and take a look at it when you have a few free moments (Nextdoor-Highland-Park-News-Feed).  It has serious listings and fun ones (I.e., Has anyone seen my rooster, Charlie? He somehow flew the coop OR found scared little puppy, black and tan about 6 weeks old.  Have him safe and warm, give me a call so we can get her home again.)

And there are a lot of serious postings.  For me, the most meaningful are the ones about every 6 weeks from Police Officer Todd Wiebke of our local precinct.  The latest one follows.  When I asked our webmaster to post it, he asked that I contact the author and get his written permission to publish it, previous ones, and any he writes in the future.  I did so and he replied:

"Please share whatever I write, it is yours. Arrowhead is right in the middle of things, and as bad as it looks sometimes, I want you to know I am out there. You guys are important to me and I share that with the homeless and demand their respect for your property. They try in their own way, to be good neighbors."

I encourage you to read his latest posting below.  I have saved his previous ones and will submit them for posting shortly. They reflect an insight and compassion that are much needed.
​

-------------- 
Laura R.
Arrowhead Gardens Resident

King 5 - Elisa Hahn - April 23, 2016
​Seattle PD officer gives voice to police working with homeless

Includes a video of Officer Todd Wiebke

Cross-posted from Nextdoor.com - Highland Park - August 15, 2017 

Officer Todd Wiebke, Seattle Police Department 

Because your mine, I walk the line. Johnny Cash

     It is a thin line that I patrol on. The needs of the housed community to feel safe, the needs of the homeless community to feel safe, and my need to impound and remove drug addicted thieves from both communities.

     I towed one of the motorhomes that has been overstaying its welcome in our residential area. I have a few more to sort out still. In the industrial area I towed two broken vehicles surrounded by old tires and debris that wasn't there a week earlier. I towed a trailer and had a man move his tent off of the side of the street. I was smiled at by motorists in my residential area and thanked by the business owners plagued by the issues surrounding the lives lived on narcotics.

     On my way to Camp 2nd Chance to assist with a call concerning the chaos developing there, I past the broken motorhome and the broken car parked in a long line of broken things, I knew I had him this time. I was towing him for sure.

     I walked past a beautiful church group serving warm meals to the campers, and the drug addicts and the crazies as they walked up with their needs bare for the whole world to see. I saw the church folks smile and care and dishing up some chicken and corn bread, not caring about the hair, or the halitosis. Not caring about the dirty clothes, the unwashed hands. Serving those in need.

     I went into the camp and addressed the issue which is causing stress to the people for whom I have come to care a great deal about. I addressed everybody equally on all sides I think. But when one young lady whom I have known these last two years walked up to me trying to keep her emotions in check and told me that she doesn't like it here anymore; in the midst of all of this commotion about who is in charge, I saw who wasn't. I spoke to all about this mess and the fact that we were here trying something new, and that this stress and how we chose to deal with it is how we can define ourselves and move forward, or fall down and give in. Again I see the weakest amongst us over tasked with burdens designed for broader shoulders.

     I am weary. This is breaking me down, but I cannot stop. I walk out the gate and see a woman emerge from a wetlands area and decide to talk to her. Her matted clumped hair hid a face that had not seen happiness in many moons. She approached me with trepidation as I asked her if she was camping where I had seen her come from. She said yes and I explained that it was a wetlands and she couldn't camp there. She began crying and told me she did not have the strength to move. Her boots fell from her hand as she stood crying in her sock feet in sharp gravel. Her stump of a cigarette burned her lips and she spit it at me, realizing in horror what she had just done. She apologized and like a beaten dog prepared to get hit. I smiled. I told her it was okay. I told her she should hurry over and get a hot meal from the church ladies, and that we would talk tomorrow. She told me her name, and I told her my name was Todd. She stared at me for a minute and then hustled to get her some warm cornbread and fried chicken.

     I looked across the street and saw a great big wreck of a pickup pulling a bigger mess of a used up travel trailer. I pulled out into the center turn lane and addressed the lady next to the truck. You cant park here, I will end up impounding your truck. She told me her story. She wasn't high, or drunk and looked like she never had been. I told her my name, she told me hers. I gave her the Navigation phone number and told her that they might be able to help. She patted me on the arm and told me how great I was. I told her she should go grab some chicken at the camp. She said they looked like wonderful people and I told her they were.

     I made my U turn and headed down to the motorhome that I was going to impound. But in the line a hulking man stood. His broken body bent over, his broken mind hidden behind wild hair and blue mascara. He smiled feebly and waved at me as I drove down to take his motorhome.

     I couldn't do it.
Nextdoor Subscribers of SOUTHWEST PRECINCT
Republished with permission from Officer Todd Wiebke via Nextdoor

Crime Prevention Coordinator Part 5

8/17/2017

 
Crime Prevention Coordinator (CPC)
Jennifer Burbridge  

Jennifer.Burbridge@seattle.gov
Seattle Police Department
Area: Southwest Precinct
2300 SW Webster Street
Seattle, WA 98106-3485
Desk: (206) 256-6820, Cell: (206) 471-2849
SPD Crime Prevention Coordinator August 2017 Newsletter Part II

​Good morning!
 
With summer still in full swing, the SW Precinct wanted to remind our community members of some important burglary prevention tips!
 
Attached is a burglary crime prevention bulletin and below are some important points to think about. Also, please remember if you are interested in a free safety/security assessment of your home and/or business- please contact me, your SW Precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator at Jennifer.Burbridge@seattle.gov or (206) 256- 6820.
 
Identify Entry Points 

Before you make security improvements, identify those entry points most likely to be used by a burglar. You can do this by answering the following questions:
·         Which entrances are hidden/out of view from your neighbors?
·         If you were locked out of your house, where could you get in without too much difficulty? Secure every door/window you list in response to these questions.
 
Basic Security Improvements

Other security improvements should follow, keeping in mind that your goal is to make it difficult for a burglar by forcing them to take more time and to make more noise!
·         Exterior doors should be strong enough to withstand force.
·         All exterior doors should be secured with a deadbolt lock that has a minimum one-inch throw.
·         All strike plates and frames for exterior doors should be anchored to the home's main construction.
·         All exterior doors should fit snugly against the frame and all frames should be free of warping, cracks, and other signs of wear and tear.
·         Solid core wood, metal or other reinforced doors, reinforced door jams or jam braces.
·         Three-inch screws, heavy-duty strike plates and tamper-proof hinges.
·         The main entrance door should have a doorwide-angle (180 degree)viewer/peephole.
·         Sliding glass doors and windows should be secure against forcing the locks or from being lifted completely out of the frame.
·         High-risk windows (basement, garage, ground-level, partially or totally secluded, latched, etc.) should be secured sufficiently enough to discourage or impede possible intrusion.
·         Double-hung windows should be secured with pins or extra locks to discourage prying.
·         Trees and shrubs should be trimmed to allow visibility along the perimeter (particularly entries) of the house.
·         Timers (both interior and exterior) should be installed to activate lights in your absence
·         All entrances (doors and windows) to your home should be well lit at night.
·         Your address should be posted on your house and be clearly visible from the street both night and day.
·         Easily accessible windows (basement, garage, ground-level, partially or totally secluded, latched, etc.) should be secured with safety glass, security film or bars to discourage or impede possible intrusion.
·         Motion sensor lighting, specifically directed and focused on entry points and vulnerable areas, no flood lighting and beware of light trespass.
 
Security improvements should not be made at the expense of fire safety. Remember to allow at least one door or window per room as a fire escape - meaning that exit via the door window can be made quickly and easily. There should also be fire escape routes established for your household. Family members should know where these are and they should be practiced periodically, especially if there are young children at home.

Installing an Alarm? Thinking about installing an alarm? Before you do, read about how false alarms are caused and how they can be avoided-https://www.seattle.gov/police/community-policing/false-alarm-program
 
For more information about crime trends in your neighborhood, please check out the Seattle Police Department crime dashboard- https://www.seattle.gov/police/information-and-data/crime-dashboard
 
Please feel free to distribute this email to your community groups, friends, families and neighbors.
As always, please let us know if you have any questions!
 
Jennifer Burbridge
Crime Prevention Coordinator
Southwest Precinct

Seattle Police Department
2300 SW Webster Street
Seattle, WA 98106-3485
Desk: (206) 256-6820, Cell: (206) 471-2849
Jennifer.Burbridge@seattle.gov

​

Burglary Crime Prevention Bulletin (PDF) 

Crime Prevention Coordinator part 2

5/3/2017

 
Crime Prevention Coordinator (CPC)
Jennifer Burbridge  

jennifer.burbridge@seattle.gov
Seattle Police Department
Area: 
Southwest Precinct
Cross posted from Nextdoor.com
First Newsletter from SW Precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator
Crime Prevention Coordinator Jennifer Burbridge 
from Seattle Police Department ·


Hello SW Precinct community members! 

Starting this month, I will be writing and distributing a monthly newsletter. I have attached my first newsletter here, as well as provided its contents below. As always, please let me know if you have concerns and/or questions. 

Enjoy this beautiful weather! 

------------------------------------- 
My name is Jennifer Burbridge, and I recently accepted a position as the Crime Prevention Coordinator at the Seattle Police Department’s SW Precinct. This is the first of my monthly newsletter that will be distributed throughout the SW Precinct and the City of Seattle. In this first newsletter, I would like to introduce myself, discuss the importance of calling 911 and reporting crime and explain my role in the SW Precinct area. 

First off, I would like to tell you a little bit about myself. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma in Sociology, and completed my Master’s Degree at Seattle University in Criminal Justice. Throughout my Master’s Degree, staring in January 2015- I was a graduate research analyst working out of the SW Precinct, specifically focusing on the Micro-Community Policing Plan Project. I took this new position as Crime Prevention Coordinator because I truly believe in being a part of the solution. I also understand the importance of the partnerships between the community and the police and how these partnerships can go a long way towards bettering a community and decreasing crime. 

The first message I would like to convey to the community is about the importance of calling 911 and reporting crimes. Captain Davis of the SW Precinct often says- “If you see something, say something!” Even if you are unsure if the situation is an emergency, officials recommend that you call 911 anyway, and allow the 911 call-taker to help determine the best course of action. Calling 911 and reporting crime creates statistics and statistics help drive enforcement. Even if the crime or suspicious activity is not investigated immediately, or deemed to be low priority- it is still very important to call 911 and report it! 

As the Crime Prevention Coordinator for the SW Precinct, I will be working closely with SW Precinct community members, as well as officers of the SW Precinct. The goal will be to decrease crime by developing, implementing and coordinating a variety of police programs geared towards crime prevention. I will be organizing special Seattle Police Department functions such as the Night Out Against Crime, community clean-up events and help coordinate the annual SW Precinct Picnic. I also plan on regularly attending Block Watch and community crime prevention meetings. 

Below you will find my contact information. I want to remind you to keep an eye out for my newsletter next month which will focus on a specific crime and include important prevention techniques and ideas. Please feel free to contact me with questions, concerns and/or to request my presence at a future meeting. 

Email address: Jennifer.Burbridge@seattle.gov 

Upcoming events in SW Precinct- 
• Monthly West Seattle Crime Prevention Council meeting 

>  Tuesday May 16th, 7pm- 8:30pm, at SW Precinct (2300 SW Webster St.) 
• West Seattle Block Watch Captains Network meeting 
 > Tuesday May 23rd, 6:30pm- 8:30pm, at SW Precinct (2300 SW Webster St.) 

Other resources- 
• Seattle Police Department’s Website: http://www.seattle.gov/police/ 
• Seattle Police Department Non-Emergency Number: (206) 625-5011 
• Contact information for other SPD Crime Prevention Coordinators: 
> North Precinct - Mary Amberg - Mary.Amberg@seattle.gov 
> East Precinct - Felicia Cross - Felicia.Cross@seattle.gov 
> West Precinct - Terrie Johnston - Terrie.Johnston@seattle.gov 
> South Precinct - Mark Solomon -  Mark.Solomon@seattle.gov
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