Comparing Law Enforcement Giants: LAPD vs. NYPD

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) are two of the most well-known law enforcement agencies in the United States. While both serve large urban populations and face similar challenges, there are significant differences between them in terms of size, structure, history, and approach to policing.

Size and Structure:

• The LAPD is the third-largest police department in the United States, with approximately 9,000 sworn officers and 3,000 civilian staff serving a population of nearly 4 million people spread over 473 square miles.
• In contrast, the NYPD is the largest police department in the United States, with over 36,000 uniformed officers and approximately 19,000 civilian employees serving a population of more than 8 million people in an area of about 468 square miles.

History:

• Both departments have a long and storied history. The LAPD was established in 1869 and has faced numerous challenges over the years, including allegations of corruption and racial discrimination. The department has undergone significant reforms in recent decades to address these issues.
• The NYPD has a similarly long history, dating back to 1845. Like the LAPD, it has faced criticism and controversy at various times, particularly regarding its use of stop-and-frisk tactics and its response to protests and demonstrations.

Approach to Policing:

• Both departments prioritize community policing and engagement as part of their overall strategy. This involves building trust and collaboration with residents and stakeholders to address crime and quality-of-life issues.
• However, there are differences in how they implement these strategies. The LAPD, for example, has implemented programs such as the Community Safety Partnership (CSP), which focuses on building positive relationships between police officers and residents in high-crime areas. The NYPD has similar initiatives, such as the Neighborhood Policing Program, which assigns officers to specific neighborhoods to foster closer ties with the community.
• The two departments also have different approaches to crime prevention and enforcement. The LAPD has historically focused on targeted enforcement strategies, such as the use of gang injunctions and specialized units to combat specific types of crime. The NYPD, on the other hand, has implemented a more data-driven approach, using CompStat and other analytical tools to identify crime hotspots and allocate resources accordingly.

Challenges:

• Both departments face similar challenges, including addressing violent crime, property crime, and quality-of-life issues in their respective cities.
• However, the nature of these challenges can vary based on factors such as geography, demographics, and socio-economic conditions. For example, the LAPD may face unique challenges related to gang violence and homelessness, while the NYPD may deal with issues such as terrorism and organized crime to a greater extent.

In summary, while the LAPD and NYPD share many similarities in terms of their mission and goals, there are also significant differences in terms of size, structure, history, and approach to policing. Despite these variations, both departments are committed to serving and protecting their communities and addressing the complex challenges of modern law enforcement.

Gang Member Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking

Get the inside scoop on the LAPD from its own officers in the best LAPD books written by the officers!

LOS ANGELES – A Rollin 30’s Harlem Crip gang member who was arrested in 2008 as part of a large Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation dubbed “Operation Criptonite” was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute oxycotin by United States Federal District Judge Philip S. Gutierrez.

Shaunta Taylor, 39, who also received 36 months of supervised release, was a previously convicted felon in Calif., and also a member of the Rollin 30’s Harlem Crip criminal street gang which claims territory in parts of south central Los Angeles.

“This 20 year sentence will serve as a reminder to gang members that engaged in acts that promote violence in the communities, that they will not be tolerated”, said John A. Torres, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Los Angeles Field Division. “This was a great investigation by all involved and capped off by a sentence that shows that crime does not pay. We will not see this character for a long time.”

“Today’s lengthy sentence sends a strong message to gang members everywhere that dealing in federally prescribed narcotics will be met with severe sanctions and will result in serious prison sentences,” said United States Attorney Andre Birotte Jr.

This investigation was part of a larger two year ATF, DEA, Los Angeles Police Department, and the California Department of Corrections–Special Services Unit, that targeted the Rollin 30’s gang. Approximately 65 gang members were arrested and prosecuted for firearms and narcotics related charges. The Rollin 30’s have been known to engage in narcotics trafficking, home invasion robberies and firearms trafficking.

Child Molester Who Photographed His Sexual Assaults Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison

LOS ANGELES—An El Monte man who sexually molested a 5-year-old child for at least a year and admitted taking pictures of the attacks – images that were discovered when he applied to be an officer with the California Highway Patrol – was sentenced today to 30 years in federal prison.

Christian Hernandez, 31, received the maximum sentence of 360 months in prison after pleading guilty in 2009 to one count of production of child pornography.

United States District Judge Otis D. Wright II sentenced Hernandez and ordered that the defendant, once he is released from prison, be on supervised release for the rest of his life. In addition to the prison term, Judge Wright ordered Hernandez to pay more than $71,000 for counseling for the victim until the victim turns 18.

Hernandez has been in custody for the past three years after being arrested by the SAFE Team (Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement), a multi-agency task force coordinated by the FBI. The investigation began when Hernandez applied to the CHP and admitted in a background questionnaire that he had recently viewed child pornography. The CHP, which provides a full-time officer on the SAFE Team, immediately initiated an investigation and searched the El Monte residence where Hernandez had been living. Investigators found a collection of child pornography on Hernandez’s computer, including photos depicting Hernandez molesting a girl in the bedroom of the house.

In a series of court filings, prosecutors argued for the 30-year sentence to adequately punish Hernandez for his crimes and to protect the community. In briefs filed with the court, prosecutors noted that Hernandez was caring for the 5-year-old victim he molested, “possessed an extensive collection of child pornography depicting minors being raped by adult men,” and molested more than one child.

Hernandez “has no shame regarding his conduct, instead, he bragged about his conduct on a job application to the CHP,” prosecutors said in court papers.

During today’s sentencing hearing, Judge Wright said the lengthy sentence was warranted because of the enormous harm to the victims and Hernandez’s ongoing denial of “the full extent of the sexual abuse of the victims.”

Hernandez is expected to be transferred to state custody to face child molestation charges that have been filed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

The investigation of Hernandez was conducted by the CHP and the FBI’s SAFE Team in Los Angeles, which is comprised of agents, officers and prosecutors from the FBI, the CHP, the California Department of Justice - Bureau of Investigation and Intelligence, the Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the Los Angeles County Department of Child and Family Services, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and the United States Attorney’s Office.

CONTACT: Assistant United States Attorney Lana Morton-Owens

Violent and Organized Crime Section

(213) 894-3547

Dozens of Members of South Los Angeles Street Gang Arrested for Drug Trafficking

Joint Press Conference Scheduled in South L.A.

What: Joint press conference to announce dozens of arrests/indictments of Los Angeles gang members/associates and results of LAPD/FBI investigation and community intiatives.

When: May 19, 11:30 a.m.

Who:

Steven Martinez, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation Los Angeles Field Office

Los Angeles Police Department Commander Bob Green, South Bureau

Bruce Riordan, Assistant U.S. Attorney & Special Counsel to the U.S. Attorney

City Attorney Carmen Trutanich

Special Agent in Charge Jim Todak; Housing and Urban Development - OIG

Where:

Jim Gilliam Recreation Center; 4000 South La Brea, Los Angeles, CA 90017

This park is reportedly difficult to access by using GPS or Mapquest, etc. so this access point should work: From Martin Luther King Blvd., make a left onto Hillcrest Drive and a right onto Santo Tomas Drive to arrive at the park.

Media Contact:

FBI: 310 996-3343

United States Attorney's Office: Thom Mrozek: 213 894-6947

LAPD: Media Relations: Norma Eisenman 213 486-5925

City Attorney's Spokesman: John Franklin: 213 215-2707

ATF Undercover Storefront Nabs 19 in Venice, Culver City Area

LOS ANGELES – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) today announced the arrests of 19 defendants, for various firearm and narcotics violations during an investigation dubbed, “Operation Villainz Ink.”

ATF, in partnership with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Pacific Division, initiated an investigation targeting Venice/Culver City-area criminal street gangs known by investigators to engage in firearms-related offenses and narcotics trafficking.

ATF set up and maintained an undercover storefront in the Venice area of Los Angeles, known, according to law enforcement, to be controlled primarily by “Venice 13” (also known as Venice Trece) criminal street gang members. The ATF storefront operated by ATF undercover agents successfully attracted a number of suspected criminal street gang members and associates who in the course of the four-month investigation sold illegal narcotics, committed numerous firearms violations, and sold a firearm to an ATF undercover agent.

“ATF aggressively pursues violent gangs who threaten the safety of our citizens and our communities. ATF and the LAPD will continue working together to go after these individuals to take them off our streets. When violent crime is reduced, everyone wins – the city of Los Angeles and its citizens,” said John A. Torres, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Los Angeles Field Division.

The following six defendants are named in federal criminal complaints:

•George R. Lopez, 41, Lawndale, felon in possession of a firearm;

•Salvador Garcia, 29, Mid-City Los Angeles, conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance;

•Cesar Perez Rios, 39, South Los Angeles, felon in possession of a firearm;

•Mario Vincent Lopez, 43, Lawndale, felon in possession of a firearm;

•Joey Edward Leyba, 37, West Los Angeles, distribution of a controlled substance;

•Maribel Gordio, 35, South Los Angeles, conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.

The remaining defendants are being charged by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office on numerous state firearm and narcotic violations.

The investigation was led the by ATF and LAPD. The following agencies provided support during the investigation and today’s arrests: Drug Enforcement Administration – High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Group 52; California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation – Special Services Unit; Los Angeles County Probation Department; and the Inglewood Police Department.

Federal charges are being prosecuted by the United States Attorney Office and state felony charges by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office.

Joint LAPD - ATF INvestigation Into Illegal Gun sales Leads to Indictment of Nine on Federal Weapons Charges

LOS ANGELES — Federal and local authorities this morning arrested five defendants who were named by a federal grand jury in a 19—count indictment that alleges illegal firearms sales and drug trafficking offenses.

Two of the nine defendants named in the indictment were already in state custody, and authorities continue to search for one fugitive. An investigation is continuing into the identity of the ninth defendant named in the indictment.

The indictment, which was returned on September 28, outlines a series of firearms transactions in which guns — including machine guns, sawed—off shotguns and assault rifles — were sold to undercover operatives from April 2009 through June 2010.

During this morning’s operation, ATF agents and LAPD officers seized 12 firearms, including seven handguns and one machine gun, and at least five pounds of marijuana. With this morning’s seizures, this investigation has resulted in a total of 35 firearms being taken off the streets.

In addition to the defendants arrested in the federal case, authorities this morning arrested five suspects who are expected to be prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

“One of ATF’s strategies for preventing violent crime is to disrupt and dismantle underground firearms trafficking pipelines and take down those responsible for supplying violent offenders with crime guns,” said John A. Torres, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Los Angeles Field Division. “This investigation shows that ATF is at the frontline in combating violent crime through partnerships with fellow law enforcement agencies. ATF will continue to seek out and eradicate those threatening the safety of our communities.”

“As Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, I have been committed to working closely with our federal partners,” said;LAPD Chief Charlie Beck. “This morning, in a joint task force with our ATF partners, detectives from LAPD”Gang and Narcotics Division executed a federal warrant which targeted illegal gun trafficking. I am very pleased with the results of today’s operation. I will continue my commitment in our fight to reduce crime in our communities and to keeping these dangerous weapons off the streets.

The nine defendants named in the indictment, five of whom were arrested this morning, are:

•Oswaldo Ramirez, 29, of Lakewood, an illegal alien who allegedly arranged and was present at most of the firearms transactions;

•Victor Huerta, 20, of Paramount, who allegedly participated in several of the gun transactions;

•Ernesto Figueroa Chavez, 21, of La Puente, an illegal alien who allegedly supplied the gun in three transactions prior to being deported to Mexico in October;

•Robert Francis Evangelista, 32, of Montebello, who was allegedly involved in seven firearms transactions;

•Sergio Herrera, 30, of South Gate, who allegedly sold one firearm;

•Ivan Reyes, 34, who is a fugitive currently being sought by authorities for allegedly selling one firearm and being involved in a narcotics transaction;

•Robert Michael Roybal, 23, of El Sereno, who allegedly was involved in two firearms transactions and is currently in state custody;

•Ramon Lopez, 33, of South Los Angeles, who allegedly was involved in one gun transaction and is currently in state custody; and

•a ninth defendant who is charged with participating in one gun transaction and is the subject of an ongoing investigation into his identity

The 19-count indictment specifically alleges conspiracy (statutory maximum penalty of five years in federal prison), engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license (five years maximum), alien in possession of a firearm and/or ammunition (10 years maximum), felon in possession of a firearm and/or ammunition (10 years maximum), sale of a firearm to a prohibited person (10 years maximum), possession of an unregistered firearm (10 years maximum), illegal alien found in the United States following deportation (two years maximum); conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine (20 years maximum), and distribution of methamphetamine (20 years maximum).

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in court. The investigation that led to the indictment and today's arrests was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Los Angeles Police Department.

CONTACT: Assistant United States Attorney Max B. Shiner Violent and Organized Crime Section (213) 894-3308

Forensic Science in Homicide Investigations

On December 17, 2009, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a discussion with Vernon J. Geberth, NYPD (ret.) on Forensic Science in Homicide Investigations.

Program Date: December 17, 2009
Program Time: 1700 hours, Pacific
Topic: Forensic Science in Homicide Investigations
Listen Live: www.americanheroesradio.com/forensic_science_homicide_investigations.html

About the Guest
Vernon Geberth is a retired lieutenant-commander of the New York Police Department. As the commanding officer of the Bronx Homicide Task Force, his investigators handled more than four hundred murder investigations every year. Vernon Geberth is recipient of over sixty awards for bravery and exceptional work during twenty-three years of service. He has personally investigated, supervised, assessed, researched and consulted on over eight thousand homicides.

Vernon Geberth has master's degrees in both psychology and professional studies, is a graduate of the FBI's National Academy. Over the past twenty-five years, he has taught over 50,000 police officers his comprehensive course in Practical Homicide Investigation.

Geberth’s book, Practical Homicide Investigation has been referred to as the "Bible of Homicide." His subsequent works, “The Practical Homicide Investigation Checklist and Field Guide” and “Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives,” demonstrate his professional ability and subject matter expert command over homicide investigations. In addition to his own works Geberth has been an editor in over forty other textbooks. He has devoted his life to the study of murder and was the first law enforcement professional to devise standard guidelines and protocols for proficient death inquiries. Currently he is president of P.H.I. Investigative Consultants, Inc., a New York-based corporation that provides state-of-the-art instruction and consultation regarding homicide investigations to police officers.

About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.

About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.

Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
www.americanheroesradio.com/forensic_science_homicide_investigations.html

Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530

Poker and Leadership

July 20, 2009 (San Dimas, CA) American Heroes Press announced that the co-author of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.) will be a guest on the internet-based radio program Boris Poker Radio.

Date: July 24, 2009
Time: 7:30 PM Pacific
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Boris-Poker-Radio/2009/07/25/Boris-Poker-Radio-6

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Boris Poker Radio covers the poker world from the casual and low limit perspective. Reoccurring segments with our message board's very own on-line multi-table tournament pro help those new to the game in making the right decisions as they learn the game.

ABOUT RAYMOND E. FOSTER
Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton. He has completed his doctoral studies in business research. Raymond is a graduate of the West Point Leadership program and has attended law enforcement, technology and leadership programs such as the National Institute for Justice, Technology Institute, Washington, DC.

Raymond has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and is currently a faculty advisor and chair of the Criminal Justice Program at the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

His first book, Police Technology is used in over 100 colleges and universities nationwide. He latest book, Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style has been adopted by several universities for course work in leadership; by several civil service organizations and required reading for promotion; and, has been well received in the wider market.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Using poker as analogy for leadership, Captain Andrew Harvey, CPD (ret.), Ed.D. and Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA found the right mix of practical experience and academic credentials to write a definitive book for leaders. Working together, Harvey and Foster have written Leadership: Texas Hold em Style. Most often leaders find they are given a set of resources people, equipment, funds, experience and a mission. As Foster noted, "You're dealt a certain hand. How you play that hand as a leader determines your success."

More than a book: A fun and entertaining journey through leadership that includes an interactive website to supplement knowledge gained from the book.
Proven and Tested: Not an academic approach to leadership, but rather a road-tested guide that has been developed through 50-years of author experience.
High Impact: Through the use of perspective, reflection, and knowledge, provides information that turns leadership potential into leadership practice.
Ease of Application: Theory is reinforced with real-life experience, which results in accessible and practical tools leaders can put to use immediately.
High Road Approach: Personal character and ethical beliefs are woven into each leadership approach, so leaders do the right thing for the right reasons.
Uses Game of Poker: Rather than a dry approach that is all fact and no flavor, the game of poker is used as a lens through which to view leadership concepts.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret)
909.599.7530
raymond@hitechcj.com
www.police-writers.com

Leadership and the Odd Mind

July 20, 2009 (San Dimas, CA) American Heroes Press announced that the co-author of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.) will be a guest on the internet-based radio program The Odd Mind with host Lesa Trapp on September 3, 2009.

Date: September 3, 2009
Time: 9PM Central
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/TheOddMind

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Odd Mind Show is the voice of the independent author/artist. The host, Lesa Trapp, is also the publisher of The Odd Mind magazine. In an interview of Trapp by Yvonne Mason, Trapp said of the Odd Mind magazine, “"I want a magazine which not only highlights unknown authors and artists, I also want one which can be purchased and taken into a store to use as a guide to by books." Lesa Trapp went onto explain, “These authors have to rely one their own promoting and their own resources to get their work out there to the readers. Many have spent years trying to not only get published but about as many years getting known.” Summed up, the radio program and the magazine put the extraordinary talents of relatively unknown authors and artists into the minds of new audiences.

ABOUT RAYMOND E. FOSTER
Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton. He has completed his doctoral studies in business research. Raymond is a graduate of the West Point Leadership program and has attended law enforcement, technology and leadership programs such as the National Institute for Justice, Technology Institute, Washington, DC.

Raymond has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and is currently a faculty advisor and chair of the Criminal Justice Program at the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

His first book, Police Technology is used in over 100 colleges and universities nationwide. He latest book, Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style has been adopted by several universities for course work in leadership; by several civil service organizations and required reading for promotion; and, has been well received in the wider market.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Using poker as analogy for leadership, Captain Andrew Harvey, CPD (ret.), Ed.D. and Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA found the right mix of practical experience and academic credentials to write a definitive book for leaders. Working together, Harvey and Foster have written Leadership: Texas Hold em Style. Most often leaders find they are given a set of resources people, equipment, funds, experience and a mission. As Foster noted, "You're dealt a certain hand. How you play that hand as a leader determines your success."

More than a book: A fun and entertaining journey through leadership that includes an interactive website to supplement knowledge gained from the book.
Proven and Tested: Not an academic approach to leadership, but rather a road-tested guide that has been developed through 50-years of author experience.
High Impact: Through the use of perspective, reflection, and knowledge, provides information that turns leadership potential into leadership practice.
Ease of Application: Theory is reinforced with real-life experience, which results in accessible and practical tools leaders can put to use immediately.
High Road Approach: Personal character and ethical beliefs are woven into each leadership approach, so leaders do the right thing for the right reasons.
Uses Game of Poker: Rather than a dry approach that is all fact and no flavor, the game of poker is used as a lens through which to view leadership concepts.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret)
909.599.7530
raymond@hitechcj.com
www.police-writers.com

Unstoppable Leadership

July 14, 2009 (San Dimas, CA) American Heroes Press announced that the co-author of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.) will be a guest on Mission Unstoppable hosted by Frankie Picasso on
August 25, 2009 at 5PM PACIFIC.

Date: August 25, 2009
Time: 5PM Pacific
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/missionunstoppable

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Mission Unstoppable a mindset. It is an innate knowing that you can do whatever it is that you want to Do, and be whoever it is you want to Be! Mission Unstoppable is your new mantra. It is a way of life. It is a choice that you make on the inside that results in fruitful results on the outside. Mission Unstoppable is your call for action! Some folks find it on their own; others acquire it as they go along. Anyone can learn it. According to the host, Frankie Picasso, “That’s why I am here. I am Guerrilla Coach Frankie Picasso, aka The Unstoppable Coach. Join me and my Unstoppable Guests Tuesdays at 8 pm Est. and be inspired to live life large, live life by design, live life on a Mission, Mission Unstoppable!”

ABOUT RAYMOND E. FOSTER
Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton. He has completed his doctoral studies in business research. Raymond is a graduate of the West Point Leadership program and has attended law enforcement, technology and leadership programs such as the National Institute for Justice, Technology Institute, Washington, DC.

Raymond has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and is currently a faculty advisor and chair of the Criminal Justice Program at the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

His first book, Police Technology is used in over 100 colleges and universities nationwide. He latest book, Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style has been adopted by several universities for course work in leadership; by several civil service organizations and required reading for promotion; and, has been well received in the wider market.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Using poker as analogy for leadership, Captain Andrew Harvey, CPD (ret.), Ed.D. and Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA found the right mix of practical experience and academic credentials to write a definitive book for leaders. Working together, Harvey and Foster have written Leadership: Texas Hold em Style. Most often leaders find they are given a set of resources people, equipment, funds, experience and a mission. As Foster noted, "You're dealt a certain hand. How you play that hand as a leader determines your success."

More than a book: A fun and entertaining journey through leadership that includes an interactive website to supplement knowledge gained from the book.
Proven and Tested: Not an academic approach to leadership, but rather a road-tested guide that has been developed through 50-years of author experience.
High Impact: Through the use of perspective, reflection, and knowledge, provides information that turns leadership potential into leadership practice.
Ease of Application: Theory is reinforced with real-life experience, which results in accessible and practical tools leaders can put to use immediately.
High Road Approach: Personal character and ethical beliefs are woven into each leadership approach, so leaders do the right thing for the right reasons.
Uses Game of Poker: Rather than a dry approach that is all fact and no flavor, the game of poker is used as a lens through which to view leadership concepts.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret)
909.599.7530
raymond@hitechcj.com
www.police-writers.com

Public Safety Technology in the News

New Law to Set Voluntary Standards for 911 Dispatchers
Tallahassee.com, (08/03/2008), Nic Corbett

A new Florida State law, effective October 1, 2008, mandates that the Florida Department of Health establish criteria for certification of 911 dispatchers. The city of Tallahassee and Leon County are waiting to see what requirements are spelled out as part of the certification program. At present, the new standard calls for slightly more than 1 month of training for dispatchers. City police dispatchers, however, receive 6 months of training, which includes 4 to 6 weeks of classroom work. County dispatchers receive 4 months of training and officials are about to include classroom instruction as part of the county training. Construction of a new joint dispatch center for city and county dispatchers continues, which officials believe will make the system more efficient.
www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/200808030200/BREAKINGNEWS/80717010

DHS Plans to Unify Emergency Communications
FCW.COM, (08/01/2008), Alice Lipowicz

The National Emergency Communications Plan mandates that cities most at risk for terrorist attacks must be able to demonstrate interoperability among agencies by 2010. The plan has been in development since 2002 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and is a direct response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Goals for the plan include that by 2010, 90 percent of the 60 high-risk areas designated under the Urban Area Security Initiative demonstrate interoperability within 1 hour after a multijurisdictional event. By 2011, 25 percent of all urban jurisdictions must demonstrate communications capabilities 1 hour after a routine event. Finally, by 2013, 75 percent of all jurisdictions must have demonstrated response level communications 3 hours after an event. This plan is in line with the National Response Framework, National Incident Management System, National Preparedness Guideline, and Target Capabilities List, and was developed with input from practitioners and manufactures in the area of communications.
www.fcw.com/online/news/153354-1.html

Information Sharing Effectiveness Questioned by GAO
Homeland Security Today, (07/24/2008), Anthony L. Kimery

Nearly 7 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, State and local agencies are not the only entities questioning the impact of Federal information sharing initiatives, as well as other related reform programs. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports that the government cannot in fact assess the impact of information sharing or its effectiveness at preventing terrorism. The government needs to create milestones, results, and an overall program definition in order to implement the program successfully. According to GAO, steps have been taken to better implement the Information Sharing Environments (ISE) scope, but elements still require implementation.
hstoday.us/content/view/4394/149/

Fingerprints Provide Clues to More Than Just Identity
Science News, (08/07/2008)

Staff at Purdue University have developed a new technology that is capable of analyzing fingerprints gathered at a crime scene to determine what other materials were left behind with the fingerprint. Along with this development, the technology is also capable of differentiating between two overlapping fingerprints left at a scene. The technology relies on the compounds that comprise a fingerprint; some compounds are natural while others are based on what was handled by the person leaving the print. It is because of this uniqueness of these compounds that the technology is capable of separating multiple prints. The Purdue team's findings will be published in the August 8, 2008 issue of Science.
esciencenews.com/articles/2008/08/07/fingerprints.provide.clues.more.just.identity

West Midlands police Launch 'Untouchables' Team to Tackle Gangsters
SundayMercury.com, (08/02/2008), Ben Goldby

The Serious and Organized Crime Unit, established by West Midlands police, is tasked with the mission of apprehending the most dangerous criminals in the area. The group will be used to target gang leaders, money launderers, street thugs, and drug dealers, and can use whatever laws are at its disposal to apprehend these individuals. The task force can use crimes such as littering or driving while disqualified to make a successful arrest and subsequent prosecution. Since the unit's inception it has already made progress in the region by making two successful gun seizures and the region's largest marijuana bust. The unit consists of five teams that are not based solely in one location, but rather are capable of moving to those areas where the need exists. The unit stresses it will work with those people trying to leave the gang lifestyle, but will go after all members of organized crime with all legal means.
www.sundaymercury.net/news/midlands-news/2008/08/02/west-midlands-police-launch-untouchables-team-to-tackle-gangsters-66331-21455817/

City Would Photograph Every Vehicle Entering Manhattan and Sniff Out Radioactivity
The New York Times, (08/12/2008), Al Baker

The New York Police Department is developing a proposal dubbed Operation Sentinel to further protect the city against terrorist attacks. The program would rely on technologies, such as cameras for still photos, license plate scanners, and radiation sensors. Each vehicle crossing into the city via bridge or tunnel will be photographed and have its license plate scanned and will be checked for radioactive materials. The captured information will be time stamped and the data will then be relayed to the command post in Lower Manhattan, where it will be indexed for at least 1 month storage. If the data is linked to a suspicious vehicle or to a case, the data will be stored longer, but if no connections are made the data will be erased. The proposal is part of a 36-page plan for security at the site of ground zero, and it is hoped to be a step toward adoption of a plan similar to the system implemented in London.
www.nytimes.com/2008/08/12/nyregion/12cars.html?_r=1&ref=nyregion&oref=slogin

police, Firefighters Get New Tool in Responding to Emergencies
phillyBurbs.com, (08/14/2008), Melissa Hayes

First responders in Burlington County, Pennsylvania, will have the ability to view three-dimensional images of locations throughout the county. The county purchased the software from Pictometry International, Inc. Users will have the ability to view properties or areas from multiple angles and be able to zoom in and out on the building, which can help save time and lives during an emergency. Countywide leasing was offered by Pictometry so that other county agencies and municipalities can take advantages of the software. County 911 dispatchers will be trained immediately on the new system.
www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/112-08142008-1576662.html

GE Security Advanced technology Video Surveillance Solutions Help Support Reduction in Crime at LA's MacArthur Park
Centredaily.com, (08/13/2008)

In an effort to provide a safer environment and efficient response during the 2008 May Day Immigration Rally, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) worked with GE Security to upgrade the security system. The upgrade includes the latest in video management and in stationary and pan, tilt, and zoom cameras to help capture footage of the MacArthur Park area. According to LAPD, surveillance posted at the park has resulted in a steady decline of criminal activity in the area. The system used to update MacArthur Park includes cameras hooked to a wireless system using fiber optic cable. Information is transferred to Rampart Station, located several miles from the park, on the wireless system. The system allows police and other first responders to be more efficient with personnel deployment.
www.centredaily.com/business/technology/story/773913.html

Va. DNA Project Is in Uncharted Territory
The Washington Post, (08/17/2008), Maria Glod

Thirty-three years after a rape and murder case had been closed and a man convicted, newly discovered DNA evidence has led to the arrest of another person in relation to the crime. This finding is part of a 3 year, $1.4 million project by the Virginia State Police to reexamine bodily fluid samples from roughly 400 cases involving rape, murder, or other serious crimes from more than 30 years ago. As of yet, no determinations have been made regarding anyone being wrongly convicted. However, there have been at least eight instances in which the convicted persons' DNA does not match evidence from the scene. Defense lawyers and legal scholars are trying to help make the process more clear and open to those convicted.
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/16/AR2008081602216.html

police Cameras Scan Plates for Stolen Cars
Azcentral.com, (08/14/2008), Michael Ferraresi

The Arizona Department of Public Safety Vehicle Theft Task Force has been using Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) cameras and software to help investigators do their job more efficiently. According to staff, on a good day an officer may be able to manually process 400 plates, but with the new system in place an officer can now process 5,000 plates a day. Phoenix police share a unit between two precincts, and one precinct is attempting to get grant funding to purchase its own unit. The Arizona Department of Public Safety hopes to be able to deploy an additional 25 mobile ALPR cameras during the next 2 months.
www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/2008/08/14/20080814phx-autotheft0815.html

2100 Cop Books

April 23, 2008 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. With the addition of three books by Florida law enforcement professionals, the website now lists 2100 books written by 993 state and local law enforcement officials.

David Waksman has toiled 32 years in the criminal courts of Miami, Florida, after working the mean streets of The South Bronx for six years as a police officer and rising to the rank of sergeant in the New York Police Department. He may have tried more first-degree murder cases than any other American prosecutor.

David Waksman's trial experience spans well over 180 jury trials, primarily for such crimes as homicide, rape, child abuse, armed robbery, home invasion robbery, and public corruption. Since 1988 he has taught a monthly seminar on homicide investigation for the Southern Police Institute in various locations across the country. He also teaches new detectives, crime scene technicians, medical examiners and forensic investigators at the nationally renowned Dade County Medical Examiner's Police-Medical Investigation of Death seminar. Local police departments continually call upon David Waksman to teach refresher courses and in-service training to their investigators. David Waksman is the author of The Search and Seizure Handbook.

According to the book description of The Search and Seizure Handbook, “In a meaningful, substantive and easy-to-use way, The Search & Seizure Handbook helps readers understand key cases and issues of the Fourth Amendment that are needed to perform the important role of applying and enforcing state and federal laws. The Search & Seizure Handbook fills a long-needed void among the available materials used for training and guidance of law enforcement officers at every level of government.”

Art Adkins has been in law enforcement for the last twenty-seven years and has worked as a police officer on the Ft. Lauderdale Police Department and as a sergeant on the LAPD. He is currently a sergeant with the Gainesville Police Department. Art Adkins has a BA in Liberal Studies and is the author of The Oasis Project.

According to the book description, Art Adkins’ “knowledge of police procedure is vast, and he has woven these details into The Oasis Project.” The book description continues, “Why were they murdered? Shirley Waterbury does not believe her family's death was accidental. Shirley knows her father was too meticulous and too cautious and knew the sea too well to attempt to sail during an approaching hurricane.”

Dr. James Sewell served as the first director of the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute. He began his law enforcement career with the Florida State University Department of Public Safety, leaving at the rank of Lieutenant, and supervisor of the Support Services Section, which included the Crime Prevention Unit.

James Sewell joined the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in 1980, leaving in December 1982 to go to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles where he served as the Director of the Office of Management and Planning Services until March, 1986 when he was appointed Chief of Police in the City of Gulfport. Dr. James Sewell returned to FDLE as the Director of the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute on September 1, 1990. James Sewell retired as the Assistant Commissioner of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Support Services division in 2005.

Director James Sewell holds a BS, MS, and Ph.D., all in Criminology from The Florida State University. James Sewell is the co-author of Stress Management in Law Enforcement and Controversial Issues in Policing.

According to the book description of Stress Management in Law Enforcement, “The newly revised second edition of Stress Management in Law Enforcement by Dr. Leonard Territo and Dr. James Sewell is once again a carefully selected collection of the leading articles on stress and its consequences for police personnel.”

Police-Writers.com now hosts 993 police officers (representing 416 police departments) and their 2100 police books in 35 categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.

Inching Toward 1000 Cops

April 1, 2008 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. With the addition of three law enforcement officials the website lists 912 authors.

John Romine is a retired police officer from Maryland who served honorably in both the Prince George's County Police Department and Anne Arundel County Police Department (Maryland). John Romine is the author of The Enigma of the Wishing Rock.

According to the book description, “The Wishing Rock in Central Maryland has long been a magical and eerie place. Even the Native Americans of long ago knew the special powers of the locale; that immense strength continues to this day. Since the early days of recorded history, the Rock has exerted its influence on unknowing inhabitants of the area, often with disastrous results.”

La Mont Jerrett has been a law enforcement officer for over twenty-one years. He has worked for three different police agencies, which included a number of assignments such as narcotics, gang detail, Academy Drill Instructor and patrol duties. He is currently working as a field sergeant for the Los Angeles Police Department. La Mont Jerrett is the author of Dark Trade.

According to the book description of Dark Trade, “A team of LAPD detectives is trying to find a killer whose victims all had their internal organs removed and their bodies dumped around Los Angeles. The killer creates conflicts for the lead detective, who is also fighting personal battles.”

Mike Young has been a deputy sheriff for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for over 23 years. He has taught defensive tactics classes to police officers, SWAT officers, and DEA, ATF and INS Agents. Mike Young is the author of Martial Arts Techniques for Law Enforcement and Martial Arts Home Training: The Complete Guide to the Construction and Use of Home Training Equipment.

According to the book description of Martial Arts Techniques for Law Enforcement, Whether you’re a beat cop or a "SWAT team" specialist, you’ll benefit from the tried-and-true methods explained in this book. Destined to become a bible of law enforcement self-defense, Martial Arts Techniques for Law Enforcement offers instruction in techniques and tactics that specifically address the situations unique to police officers. These simple, easy-to-follow lessons teach readers the theory behind strikes and kicks, come-alongs and takedowns, psychological defensive tactics, and techniques including one-hand defenses and defenses.”

Police-Writers.com now hosts 912 police officers (representing 389 police departments) and their 1919 police books in 32 categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.

Defensive Tactics for Special Operations

March 29, 2008 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. Former Police Officer Jim Wagner recently released his second book titled Defensive Tactics for Special Operations.

During his career with the Costa Mesa Police Department, Jim Wagner earned a place on the SWAT team. It was through this conduit that Jim learned about logistics, command post operations, hostage negotiations, entry team tactics, and sniping. On the job training included courses with LAPD SWAT, the U.S. Army Special Forces, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Tactical Training Center, and from U.S. Marines Division Schools Camp Pendleton (Advanced Sniper Course, Military Operations Urban Terrain, Helicopter Rope Suspension Training, and Range Safety Officer). Jim Wagner’s second book, Defensive Tactics for Special Operations, was recently released.

According to the book description of Defensive Tactics for Special Operations, “The techniques and methods that form the basis of military and combat defensive training are detailed in this insightful guide from a personal protection expert. Chapters provide instruction on knife defense, unarmed fighting, weapon retention, and arrest and control techniques. Police and military personnel as well as self-defense instructors and students at all levels will benefit from simple instructions and step-by-step exercises.”

Jim Wagner’s first book was Reality Based Personal Protection. According to the book description, “Reality-Based Personal Protection system covers the complete tactical spectrum of pre-conflict, conflict and post-conflict techniques and training methods for a wide variety of worst-case scenarios. Mastering these tactics will educate you on the dangers of the modern world and how to survive them.

Police-Writers.com now hosts 900 police officers (representing 389 police departments) and their 1903 police books in 32 categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.

More Information on Jim Wagner:
www.police-writers.com/jim_wagner.html

Leadership

A recent reader review of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style:

“Raymond Foster has demonstrated his knowledge of leadership very thoroughly in this book. Coming from the LAPD, he draws upon his experience as a mid-level manager by using humor and anecdotes so aspiring supervisors and managers can develop their individual skills. I am a retired police captin from Newark, NJ and wish I had the book during the promotional testing process. Now, I am using the book in my consulting practice--very relevant, very practical and an easy read!”

About the book
Using poker as analogy for leadership, Captain Andrew Harvey, CPD (ret.), Ed.D. and Lieutenant Raymond Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA found the right mix of practical experience and academic credentials to write a definitive book for leaders. Working together, Harvey and Foster have written Leadership: Texas Hold em Style. Most often leaders find they are given a set of resources people, equipment, funds, experience and a mission. As Foster noted, "You're dealt a certain hand. How you play that hand as a leader determines your success."

More than a book: A fun and entertaining journey through leadership that includes an interactive website to supplement knowledge gained from the book.
Proven and Tested: Not an academic approach to leadership, but rather a road-tested guide that has been developed through 50-years of author experience.
High Impact: Through the use of perspective, reflection, and knowledge, provides information that turns leadership potential into leadership practice.
Ease of Application: Theory is reinforced with real-life experience, which results in accessible and practical tools leaders can put to use immediately.
High Road Approach: Personal character and ethical beliefs are woven into each leadership approach, so leaders do the right thing for the right reasons.
Uses Game of Poker: Rather than a dry approach that is all fact and no flavor, the game of poker is used as a lens through which to view leadership concepts.

More Information
www.pokerleadership.com

Public Safety Technology in the News

Company Makes Cheaper Choice to GPS
Salt Lake Tribune, (01/12/08), Tom Harvey

There are times when a person may need to locate something or someone, for example, Alzheimer's patients, stolen vehicles, or interrupted 911 emergency phone calls. A Utah company, S5 Wireless, has built a wireless test network in Salt Lake City to demonstrate a chip it developed that can track and locate almost anything the chip is placed in. The chip uses existing cell phone networks, which will reduce costs compared to current GPS systems and have a wider range than other wireless systems. Several factors make the chip unique. First is the low cost of $1 to manufacture, second is a battery life of about 2 years, and finally, the chip is traceable indoors and out. Since the tracking system piggybacks on cell phone networks, the chips can be located in about 2 seconds within a proximity of about 45 feet.
www.redding.com/news/2008/jan/12/company-makes-cheaper-choice-to-gps/

O’Malley Wants DNA Database Expanded
Washingtonpost.com, (01/11/08), John Wagner

Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley has presented a plan for the collection of DNA samples from people arrested for violent crimes and burglaries. The plan would expand the State's current repository, which only includes samples from convicted offenders. The proposal will be considered during the Maryland General Assembly's 90 day legislative session. The program is modeled after a similar law in Virginia and would cost $1.7 million a year.
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/10/AR2008011003461_pf.html

Law Enforcement Puts New Planning Technology to Use
La Crosse Tribune, (01/14/2008), Dan Springer

A new mapping program from Pictometry International Co. could have a positive effect on the public safety community. The software, now in use by La Crosse County (Wisconsin), will provide high-resolution images of any spot in the county. Unlike currently available services, such as GoogleEarth, Pictometry's images appear to be clearer, which provides viewers a much more detailed view of any area of interest. Plus, these images are taken from different angles, which allows users to obtain further detail. The images can also be used to obtain measurement data. The program has many opportunities for use by the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department, including search and rescue, standoff and hostage situations, and accident reconstruction.
www.lacrossetribune.com/articles/2008/01/14/news/01lead.txt

Schools Incorporate Wi-Fi into Disaster-Response Plans
Wi-Fi Planet.com, (01/21/2008), Amy Mayer

Environmental and population concerns, along with transportation infrastructure, have contributed to the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District's request to become part of emergency planning and disaster response. Behind this proposal is the fact that the California school district is capable of offering public safety organizations Wi-Fi network capabilities and could maintain this service using generators if the event of a power failure. Also, these services could be extended to citizens should schools have to used as temporary shelter. Those same Wi-Fi capabilities can be used by law enforcement during nonemergency times. Officers can have access to student databases and other information without taking their laptops into the school.
www.wi-fiplanet.com/columns/article.php/3722926

Online Cop Protects Helena Children
Helenair.com, (01/23/08), Angela Brandt

Grant funding from the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force has allowed a Helena Police Department detective to assume a role patrolling the Internet for those committing crimes against children. Det. Bryan Fischer is one of five detectives assuming this new role throughout the state of Montana. Since Fischer began in December 2007, seven cases are now under investigation. According to Fischer, some predators are quick to reveal their intentions, whereas others will take their time and foster a relationship before revealing their intent.
www.helenair.com/articles/2008/01/23/local/top/45lo_080123_onlinecop.txt

Wayland Police Get Night Vision
MetroWest Daily News, (01/20/08), Gabriel Leiner

Using funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), the Wayland (Massachusetts) Police Department will be acquiring the AN/PVS-14 Night Vision kit. The kit includes a monocular scope, a magnifying lens, a camera adapter, a portable mount, and head gear. The technology will be used in response to night burglaries and to monitor specific areas of town that are considered high priority. The equipment also allows the department to combine components in order to capture still photos or movies during surveillance, and then enhance the images for clarity using Video Detective, a piece of equipment purchased last year by the department.
www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1839125303

LAPD Finds a Way to Connect
Los Angeles Times, (01/16/08), Richard Winton

In an area that is rich in cultural diversity, with 224 spoken languages, last summer the Los Angeles Police Department introduced the Phraselator to assist officers in communicating with residents. The device derives its translations from preloaded police commands that were created with the assistance of officers who have some foreign language proficiency. Officers could use this device for natural disasters, crowd control, or medical emergencies. Officers simply speak a key term or phrase into the unit's microphone and select the correct phrase. The unit can broadcast the translated phrase using the patrol unit's speaker system. To ensure the message is intelligible, the speakers on the cruiser are designed to carry the sound about a half mile away without any distortion. The units are also capable of allowing police to ask questions and record responses that can be translated later. Originally the device was deployed for use by U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq.
www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-translate16jan16,1,1648880.story?coll=la-headlines-california&ctrack=1&cset=true

Portland, Oregon Police Improve Incident Tracking and Public Information Sharing Using ArcGIS
Directions Magazine, (01/22/08)

In an effort to assist officers and inform the public, the Portland Police Department extended its crime mapping services. The department has enhanced records management to include spatial data relating to highway data to improve the tracking of events on major highways. For citizens, the public website has been updated in an effort to communicate crime data to the community. The Portland Police Department's Freeway Mapping Project uses ERSI's ArcGIS 9 software to capture and plot crime data on a city map. This information can then be used to more accurately track data, as well as provide better information to field officers and commanders. This same data is used to update the agency's public website once a month.
www.directionsmag.com/press.releases/index.php?duty=Show&id=20721&trv=1

Delaware: Forensics Facility Helps Police
Daily Times, (01/23/08), Terri Sanginiti

The year-old Delaware State Police Forensics Firearms Services Unit will help speed up the process of matching rounds to a firearm for crimes committed in Delaware. The new process can potentially make a match in hours, rather than months. Comparison is done between the newly retrieved rounds and those stored in a national database. When a match is made, it is then determined if both rounds came from the same firearm. This process can work to narrow the list of suspects, or it can help to eliminate suspects. The cost associated with getting this new unit up and running was roughly $400,000 for equipment such as an Integrated Ballistic Identification System, dual comparison microscope, and a bullet recovery system. www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080123/DW01/80123021/1058/DCP

York Secures $98,000 Grant for Traffic Enforcement
North Country Gazette, (01/24/08)

The Warren County (New York) Sheriff's Department will be receiving a $98,000 grant to allow for the purchase and installation of Traffic and Criminal Software (TraCS) computers in 21 of the agency's cruisers. This award comes less than a month after the sheriff had been sworn into office, and will cost the taxpayers nothing. The system functions as an automated reporting program for law enforcement, designed to be more accurate and timelier and improve the collection and dissemination of incident data to be analyzed. Additionally, the system can produce electronic citations for patrol officers. Officials feel that TraCS will improve highway safety for both officers and civilians by reducing the amount of time spent issuing tickets or collecting accident report information.
www.northcountrygazette.org/news/2008/01/24/york_secures_grant/