TPD Blog

Call the Police!: How to Respond to Crime...

Crime happens.  It’s an adverse part of society even though nobody wants crime—and nobody wants to be a victim of crime. 

However, if you’re ever an unfortunate victim or a witness, how you respond can make a big difference. Keep these safety tips in mind.  Review them every now and again and try to remind yourself about how to respond.

SAFETY TIPS

• Call 911--IMMEDIATELY!  Don't wait! The longer you wait, the longer it will take to get help--and the suspects will have more time to get away.
• Remain calm and try not to panic.
• Get details: try to remember the appearance and clothing of the suspect(s), license plates, etc.
• Write down the details, if you don't have a pen and paper, use loose dirt, or even just your finger on a car window (the oils from your finger can leave a streak).
• When calling the police, tell them your name, where you are, and your phone number.
• Also be prepared to tell police briefly what happened, who did it, if they are still there or if they left and how (walking, running, driving off in a car, etc.)

Calling the police, remaining calm, and providing details can make a big difference in getting help quickly--and making sure suspects don't get away!

For more information, visit the Tulsa Police Department's crime prevention and safety page.

Report a Crime—ONLINE!

The Tulsa Police Department web site lets you report a crime online. It’s easy and fast—and can help keep officers available to respond to critical emergencies.

Of course, if you have an emergency, you should dial 9-1-1.  But if you just need to file a report, the online forms are available 24 hours a day.

REPORTS
You can complete reports for misdemeanor crimes such as:

• Larceny (e.g., someone took money or property from you or your business)
• Malicious Mischief/Vandalism (e.g., a broken window)
• Harassing/Threatening/Obscene Phone Calls
• Most other City of Tulsa misdemeanor offenses—without evidence or a known suspect present.

Once you complete the form, your report will be processed and a police report number will be e-mailed to you.  Once you receive the e-mail, your report will be filed and forwarded to an investigator. Learn more about online reports.

CRIME TIPS
You can also provide the Tulsa Police with tips and any other information you may have about a crime online using the online tip form.

If you want to speak with someone about your police tip, please call Crimestoppers at 596-COPS. Whether you use the online form or call, If your tip leads to an arrest, you'll receive a cash reward.

"Toodles" Takes A Ride...

Almost 68 years ago, a dog named “Toodles” took his place in Tulsa police history.

Toodles was the first canine to ride in the new TPD “Paddy Wagon.” The patrol wagon, known as “Number 88,” came stylishly outfitted with bomb racks, a two-way radio, and a 100-horsepower engine. For the era, it was one of the most completely equipped pieces of police mobile equipment in Oklahoma.

Toodles was accompanying his master, and mistress of the night, near Main and Archer Streets. She was arrested for drunkenness.

Thus, Toodles was actually one of the first to experience the “plush” leather cushions in the back of the wagon, which seated 12—but had a “jamming capacity of 30.”

Read more
http://www.tulsapolice.org/history/youngdocs/paddywagon.html

Source: The Tulsa Tribune, July 22, 1940.

Traffic Laws in Tulsa & Oklahoma

Figuring out traffic laws in the City of Tulsa and throughout Oklahoma can seem a little confusing.

So, if you want to better understand why you got a ticket, or know if your neighbor’s car is parked illegally, here are some resources that you can use…

For City of Tulsa Municipal Traffic laws, the ones most commonly cited on City of Tulsa traffic or parking tickets, consult the City of Tulsa Municipal Traffic Ordinances.

If you received a ticket from an Oklahoma Highway Patrol officer, or want to know more about traffic and motor vehicle laws throughout the state, consult the Oklahoma Statutes about motor vehicles.

Knowing traffic laws can save you the hassles of a traffic ticket—but could also save your life. 
Drive safe!

Fight Crime with Serial Numbers...

Unfortunately, most of us don’t have the time to keep track of everything in life.  And among all our other priorities, keeping good household records and serial numbers of major appliances, electronics, tools, etc., eludes most of us.

Perhaps more unfortunately, most criminals know this—and they take advantage of it.  Consider for example, how many of us buy a new drill, a new iPod, cell phone, or other item, and immediately make two records of the serial number?  Think about how even fewer of us keep a copy of all of our serial numbers in a safe place—and then keep another copy at work, in the office, or in a safe deposit box.

Keeping track of your serial numbers can help tremendously if anything is ever stolen.  More importantly, without a serial number, there is oftentimes little that the police (and your insurance company) can do to help you recover any stolen items.  And perhaps even more despairing for the Tulsa Police: burglars and thieves oftentimes get away because without a serial number, there is no way to prove ownership, prove a crime, and arrest them.

So, if you haven’t already, spend a few minutes and write down the serial numbers of all the most expensive items in your home.  If you have a little more spare time, try to record the serial numbers for all the items in your house that have one.  Keep a copy in a safe place, keep another at work, and be sure to send another copy to your insurance company.  This way, you’re covered all around.

Likewise, whenever you buy something new, record the serial number, register the product with the manufacturer (some require this for warranties), and keep a copy of your receipt.

With a record of your serial numbers, you’ll have a better chance at getting your stuff back and help the Tulsa Police dole out some prison time to the criminals who stole it.

Avoid Leaving Your Car Running: Auto Theft Alert

During this season of cold weather we are aware  that many citizens will start their vehicle to allow it to warm up. Usually after starting the vehicle  the individual goes back inside their residence, while the vehicle is left  running and unoccupied.  The Tulsa Police Department would like to encourage citizens to not leave a  vehicle running and unoccupied.

The Tulsa Police Department has experience 5 vehicles stolen over the past 5 weeks where citizens have started a vehicle and left it running unoccupied.

TPD's Fallen, African-American Heroes

In honor of “Black History Month,” it seems especially poignant to remember those African-American officers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Yet, may we always remember these officers, and others who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the public.

Officer Robert Jackson

Officer Jackson died on Oct. 31, 1927, from gunshot wounds received when he was investigating a family disturbance on N. Greenwood Avenue. As Officer Jackson started to climb the steps to the residence, the suspect stepped out of the front door and shot Officer Jackson four times. Officer Jackson also fired four times, fatally wounding his assailant.  Officer Jackson was the first black Tulsa Police Officer killed in the line of duty.

Officer Claude Lynch

Was shot Nov. 28, 1948, as he ran to assist another officer who was struggling with a prisoner in a police car. He and Officer Henry Johnson had arrested a man for discharging a firearm.  The suspect grabbed Officer Johnson's revolver while being transported. During the struggle for the gun Officer Lynch approached the passenger door of the police car.  Officer Johnson's weapon discharged through the window glass and struck Officer Lynch's jugular vein.

    

Detective Cornelius White

Was killed May 18, 1951 while transporting a rape suspect to jail.  Near 1st Street and Elgin Avenue, the suspect pulled a .32 caliber weapon and shot Detective White. Several hours later, the suspect was killed in a gun battle with officers at 1300 N. Greenwood Avenue.  Officers Bob Bivens and Willie Sanders were wounded in that shootout.

Read More About All TPD Fallen Heroes

Railroad Safety Tips

Tragically, two Eufaula teenagers were killed when their car drove around a railroad crossing gate and in front of a northbound Union Pacific train in Eufaula, OK on February 18, 2008.

Earlier in the day, a Fort Gibson man died after being hit by a Union Pacific coal-train. Regrettably, it seemed the man was trying to "beat the train" according to a witness. Railroad officials stated that it can take miles to stop a fully loaded coal train, and the train crew was not able to stop the 106-car train in time.

Railroad tracks criss-cross the Tulsa area landscape. And whether you're delighted by the sights and sounds of a rumbling freight train, or hassled by the traffic that backs up as they pass through, there's something you always need to do: be safe and smart near railraod crossings.

You may have heard the rule, "Stop, Look, and Listen," but it's also wise to consider some of these safety tips from Operation Lifesaver, a non-profit organization that promotes railroad safety:

• Freight trains do not travel on a predictable schedule; schedules for passenger trains change. Always expect a train at every highway-rail intersection.
• Train tracks are private property, no matter which railroad owns them. Trains have the right of way 100% of the time — over ambulances, fire engines, cars, the police and pedestrians.
• If there are rails on the railroad ties, assume that the track is in use, even if there are weeds or the track looks "rusty."
• A typical locomotive weighs approximately 400,000 pounds or 200 tons. When 100 railcars are added to the locomotive, the train can weigh approximately 6,000 tons. The weight ratio of an automobile to a train is proportional to a soda can and an automobile.
• A train may extend three feet or more outside the steel rail, which makes the safety zone for pedestrians well beyond the rails themselves.
• Trains cannot stop quickly. It is a simple law of physics: the huge weight and size of the train and the speed of the train dictate how quickly it can stop under ideal conditions. A 100-car freight train traveling at 55 miles per hour will need more than a mile to stop — that's approximately 18 football fields — once the train is set into emergency braking.
• There are roughly 200,000 miles of railroad tracks in the United States.
• Trains can move in either direction at any time. Trains are sometimes pushed by locomotives instead of being pulled. This is especially true in commuter and light rail passenger service.
• Modern trains are quieter than ever, with no telltale "clackety-clack." Also, an approaching train will always be closer and moving faster than you think.
• Cross tracks ONLY at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings. Observe and obey all warning signs and signals.
• Never walk down a train track; it's illegal and it's dangerous. By the time a locomotive engineer can see a trespasser or a vehicle on the tracks, it is too late. The train cannot stop quickly enough to avoid a collision.
• Remember: Rail and recreation do not mix!

And above all, remain patient and railroad crossings. The moments of hassle waiting for a train aren't worth risking your life.

Sources and Related Stories:
http://www.oli.org/education_resources/safety_tips.htm

http://www.newson6.com/Global/story.asp?S=7892716

Officers face many risks while working on our roadways

By Kevin P. Morison

October 2007

Just after midnight on October 22, 2006, Deputy Sheriff Margena Silvia Nunez, of the Lee County (FL) Sheriff's Office, was doing something that law enforcement officers do every day: directing traffic around the scene of an accident, in this case a fatal crash on State Road 82.

The seven-year veteran had placed flares on the roadway and activated the emergency lights on her patrol car to divert traffic from the accident scene. But a drunk driver, oblivious to these and other safety measures, plowed through the roadblock and struck and killed Deputy Nunez.

The daughter of a police officer and mother of two teenagers, Deputy Nunez was remembered for her smile and devotion to duty. "The day before her tragic death, Margena received a commendation for saving the life of a mentally ill person who was trying to commit suicide," Sheriff Mike Scott said at her funeral.

Her brother, the Rev. Paul Edwards of Toronto, officiated at the service, telling the 1,000-plus mourners that his sister had found her calling as a deputy. "Time does not end my purpose - purpose ends my time," he preached.

Deputy Nunez was one of 15 law enforcement officers around the country who were struck and killed by other vehicles in similarly horrendous fashion during 2006. Last year's total is about average for the last 30 years, during which 490 law enforcement officers were struck and killed by automobiles while outside of their own vehicles. According to records kept by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), that figure represents about nine percent of all peace officer fatalities during the last three decades, making it the third highest cause of line of duty deaths among officers, behind shootings and automobile crashes

HEAT RELATED ILLNESS

The City of Tulsa has been fortunate this summer with lower than normal temperatures and abundant rainfall. This has helped to alleviate summer heat related illnesses that we typically face throughout the summer. But the near term weather forecasts all predict temperatures in the mid-90’s with heat indices above 100 degrees. Here are some important reminders in regard to protecting yourself from heat related illness:

1. Drink plenty of fluids. Increase your fluid intake to 16 to 32 ounces of fluid per hour of exposure to extreme heat. Avoid caffeine or alcohol containing beverages as they actually can interfere with your ability to replenish body fluids. Ordinary cool water is the best choice for fluid replacement, however if you are to be exposed to extreme heat for more than an hour or so, you must also replenish lost salt and minerals. The use of sports beverages can greatly increase your ability to replace lost salt and minerals. Avoid sports beverages with large amounts of sugars as they can cause stomach cramps. A practical cost effective way to replace lost salts and minerals is to mix your favorite sports beverage (Gatorade, PowerAde, etc.) to half strength with extra water. Also choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to assist with evaporative cooling.
2. Avoid sunburns and the long term risk of skin cancer by wearing appropriate clothing and sunscreen. Wear a wide brimmed hat and use a sunscreen of at least an SPF of 30 that is broad spectrum.
3. Pace yourself and be aware of the common signs and symptoms of heat illnesses:
   • Persistently rapid heart beat.
   • Red, hot, dry skin or loss of the ability to perspire.
   • Throbbing headache.
   • Dizziness.
   • Nausea.
   • Confusion.
   • Weakness.
   • Muscle cramps.
4. If you experience any of the above:
   • Stop what you are doing.
   • Increase your fluid intake.
   • Move to a place to cool off, either into some shade, near a fan, or to an air conditioned vehicle or room. If you are unable to move to an air conditioned area, cool off with a damp towel, sponge or douse yourself with some water.

If you start to feel better, you should wait several hours to resume normal activities. If you do not start to improve after 30 minutes, you should seek medical treatment. If you experience or witness an episode of fainting, EMSA ambulance service should be contacted for emergency treatment and transport.

Fact: Seat Belts Save Lives

A do-or-die proposition

A recent editorial made its way into the Arizona Republic that states one out of five Arizonans doesn't buckle up. Baffling, isn't it?

Buckle up in the front seat of the car and you're 45% less likely to die in case of a severe collision. You're 50% less likely to suffer moderate or severe injuries.

So, what is it about this statistic that Arizonans don't understand? If only they'd worn their seatbelts, 229 Arizonans who died in car crashes in 2005 may be alive today.

The suffering and loss of life is heart wrenching indeed, but there are other consequences as well, such as medical bills that affect the health system, lost wages, reduced productivity and disability payments.

Throughout May and June and with the help of federal-safety funds, Arizona ran a radio and TV ad campaign to boost seat belt usage in the Valley. You've probably seen some billboards along the road that say "Click it or Ticket". This type of reinforcement is effective.

In 2004 and 2005, a similar ad campaign was run and Arizona experienced a noticeable difference. Yet once again, lawmakers opposed letting police officers pull drivers over for failing to wear a seatbelt. Instead police officers can only cite drivers when they're stopped for other traffic violations.

In 24 other states, (Oklahoma is one), putting this primary enforcement into effect has resulted in a 6-10% increase in seat belt usage. So why isn't Arizona following in the footsteps? Baffling, isn't it?

Immigration Quandry

This is a good news article about the immigration issue in Tulsa and relating to the Tulsa Police Department:

http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A17413

Off. Will Dalsing

Scott v. Harris: The Impact For Law Enforcement

Courtesy of http://www.policeone.com/

On February 26, 2007, the Supreme Court of the United States heard arguments in one of the most anticipated Federal cases to date dealing with police pursuits.

On March 29, 2001, a Coweta County (Georgia) Deputy clocked Mr. Harris’ vehicle going 73 mph in a 55 mph zone. As the pursuit entered Peachtree City, Deputy Timothy Scott joined the pursuit and took over as the lead vehicle. Although not yet trained in the Precision Intervention Technique, Deputy Scott radioed in a request to a supervisor to perform the maneuver. The request was granted.

According to a brief from the United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit (12/23/2005):

"After receiving approval, Scott determined that he could not perform the PIT maneuver because he was going too fast. Instead, however, he rammed his cruiser directly into Harris' vehicle, causing Harris to lose control, leave the roadway, run down an embankment, and crash. As a result, Harris was rendered a quadriplegic."

Mr. Harris filed a lawsuit under 42 U.S.C. 1983 alleging the use of excessive force based on an unreasonable seizure under the Fourth Amendment.

Both the District Court and the Eleventh Circuit stated that Deputy Scott’s actions "could constitute deadly force" and a reasonable jury could determine that. The case was appealed to the United States Supreme Court, and law enforcement has been anticipating the outcome for some time.

The decision by the U.S. Supreme Court had the potential to impact pursuit policy across the country. On April 30, 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court rendered its decision, sustaining summary judgment in favor of the officer.

Justice Scalia delivered the opinion of the Court; Justice Stevens filed the lone dissenting opinion. With a resounding 8-1 decision, the Court discussed a topic that is rarely discussed at the U.S. Supreme Court level: the issue of police pursuits and forcible stopping techniques.

The court simply applied the "reasonableness" test from the Fourth Amendment. Regardless of whether the action by Deputy Scott was deadly force, the court stated that "what matters is whether those actions were reasonable." The court clearly felt that Mr. Harris "intentionally placed himself and the public in danger" by participating in a high speed pursuit.

Justice Scalia, in a powerful section of his majority opinion, writes:

"The court rules that a police officer’s attempt to terminate a dangerous high-speed car chase that threatens the lives of innocent bystanders does not violate the Fourth Amendment, even when it places the fleeing motorist at risk of serious injury or death."

The lower courts had relied on the information from the suspect to determine their ruling. The U.S. Supreme Court overturned that ruling by relying on a piece of evidence that not every officer has at his disposal. A video of the incident was taken from the dashcam of Deputy Scott’s patrol vehicle that recorded the suspect’s reckless driving.

In reference to this, Justice Scalia states:

"Indeed, reading the lower court’s opinion, one gets the impression that respondent, rather than fleeing from police, was attempting to pass his driving test.. ."

The video evidence was very different, and showed the suspect driving in a very reckless manner. It is obvious from the opinion that this was a major factor in the court’s decision.

In the coming weeks, there will be countless discussions and opinions on what the impact of this case will have on law enforcement. Police administrators, lawyers and the media will all take something different from the case.

Fire official wants Tulsans to know the facts about smoke alarms

By ALTHEA PETERSON World Staff Writer

4/20/2007

Capt. Ray Evins, assistant fire marshal, said he wants Tulsans to have smoke detectors.

After all, he said, he can't remember any local fire deaths in houses with working smoke detectors.

"They give you a 50 percent greater chance of surviving a fire," Evins said.

Here are key things you need to know about your smoke detectors:

Numbers count: At a minimum, a home should have one smoke detector outside sleeping areas and at least one on each level of the house. Ideally, a home should have one in each bedroom.

It's the law: Landlords are required by law to provide working smoke detectors in rental homes.

Testing: Smoke detectors should be tested every month. Batteries should be replaced twice a year.

Placement: Smoke detectors should be mounted on a wall four to 12 inches from the ceiling. Or, they can be mounted on the ceiling, but should be four inches away from corners.

Carbon monoxide detectors: Carbon monoxide detectors are different and need to be handled differently. Evins recommends following manufacturer's instructions for placing and testing carbon monoxide detectors.

Cost is not an issue: For homeowners within the Tulsa city limits, the Tulsa Fire Department will install smoke alarms free of charge.

For more information: Call 669-6186 or go online to

www.cityoftulsa.org/PublicSafety/Fire/publiceducation.

Althea Peterson 581-8361

althea.peterson@tulsaworld.com

Copyright 2007 The Tulsa World. All rights reserved. Format differs from original publication.

Newspaper Website: The Tulsa World

Some people will always want that newspaper in their hands. I’m one of them. Regardless the paper, I just prefer to have the print in my hands, even though I spend a good portion of my day in front of a computer.

There lies the problem. Newspaper subscriptions are dramatically falling. More and more people get their news on a computer screen. Opt-in e-mails, online subscriptions, blogs, television stations, and even major mail servers like Google and Yahoo are providing news.

But one strong advantage to newspapers that cannot be dismissed is strong reporting. Do we really want a society without newspaper reporters? I don’t. So how do newspapers survive and provide strong reporting without the funding of subscriptions and retail purchases?

The Tulsa World recently answered this question. The World had for some time maintained a website. However, many of the features were unavailable unless you were a subscriber. The website saw a BIG change a few weeks ago. Everything is now available for free. Everything, including archiving search back nearly twenty years. There is a small price to pay. Advertising. I have read the comments around complaining about this but, frankly, it doesn’t bother me.

The World made the leap that only a handful of major newspapers have made and I applaud it. Love it, hate it, or indifferent, the Tulsa World is the only remaining major newspaper in Tulsa. Much of the news reported in Tulsa starts there, and a good portion of the investigative reporting. Check out the new site at:

http://www.tulsaworld.com

Off. Will Dalsing

To The New Chief: Break Dance Like Fred Astaire...

What do I think about choosing a new police chief? That’s a fair question, and one that Tulsa citizens and cops have been asking quite a bit lately. You almost can’t stand still in a uniform without this questioning arising in 30 seconds or less. As far as my own humble opinion on the latest developments, well, I’m not the mayor—but I can certainly understand the concerns of the mayor’s office about getting the best person for such a tough job. Likewise, I’m not the FOP (Fraternal Order of Police)—but I can certainly understand sticking up for your own. Yeah, so much for sticking your neck out…

But I live and work in the City of Tulsa. I’m a servant and a citizen (and yes, I pay as much of my own salary in taxes as you do, by the way). I suppose for me, at the bottom of the police ranks, what matters to me most is that our new chief understands—fundamentally, tacitly, and altruistically—what police work is all about. What do I mean? I mean, the new chief should understand that cops want to be cops. Cops like to chase bad people, arrest them, and hopefully never see them on the streets again (at least for a long while). So personally, as a cop, I would hope the new chief understands cops and the discipline, means, and resources necessary for effective policing. A bit of an aggressive and progressive attitude wouldn’t be bad either, especially if it’s tempered by an august cool-headedness at the helm of our great ship.

And personally, as a citizen (and yeah, I’m the same guy), I don’t necessarily care where the new chief comes from. I don’t care if he or she is blue-skinned, red-bellied, or iron-fisted (but in no way lilly-livered). But I do care that the new chief understands the thin lines between serving the ranks, serving the mayor, and serving the constituency. And I would hope that the new chief understands how to "break" the lines in each and every direction to get things done. And whether it’s giving cops the tactics and tools to ply their trade, strategically aligning with the vision and goals of the mayor’s office, or bolstering a sense of safety and pride among ALL the citizens of Tulsa, I hope the new chief will pull off this gig with the grace of Fred Astaire "doin' a little soft shoe number" and the grit of a hip-hop thug "spinnin' windmills and bustin' some floor rock." Undoubtedly, it’s a tough job. And one to which few aspire and even fewer can successfully negotiate—with genuine compassion, fervor, and effectiveness, that is.

So never mind my opinion. The new chief must satisfy all of our opinions and exceed all of our expectations, or so we hope. And by the way, you should be someone we all want to be like, Chief. So to the new Chief: Hey, good luck, whoever you are. We need you.

[Editor’s note: The aforementioned writing is an opinion and in no way portends nor advocates any particular position in any way.]

Off. Jay Chiarito-Mazzarella

Related Stories and News:
http://tpdblog.typepad.com/tpdblog/2007/03/police_chief_se.html

http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=070309_1_A9_hTayl62838

http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=070308_1_A9_Three78533

True Blue Heroes

Awards Banquet a Success

There is a theme I have mentioned before: police are just not very good at acknowledging the heroic acts they do. They don’t commend each other very often, and certainly the public has little opportunity to hear about it. But heroic acts they do, and the opportunity for some police officers to be acknowledged finally came to the Tulsa Police Department last night.

It has been many years since something like an awards assembly was held for the officers of TPD. The last such annual occurrences faded away in the late eighties. In the following years, it just didn’t happen. Officers continued to receive various commendations, continued to be promoted, continued to be congratulated, but all on an internal basis. Some officers received national recognition for their work, yet their own squad mates never even knew of it.

Clearly, it was time for that to stop. I will not attempt here to list all the individuals in the Department and in the private sector who helped make the banquet happen last night. Suffice to say that hundreds of hours were spent in the planning and execution, and it was worth it.

Over 300 people gathered to honor Tulsa Police officers. The stories of their selfless acts were shared as Lori Fullbright so eloquently summarized them. There was the officer who drove an ambulance to the hospital when the medics were too busy saving a life in the back of it. There were officers who faced dangerous killers and exhibited incredible bravery as they ensured that the bad guys went to either prison or their graves. Grizzled street cops had moist eyes at the telling of tales of such bravery, kindness, and esprit de corps.

But finally, there was the standing ovation for a good officer, now Chief of Police, who, after over 35 years of service, is preparing to retire. The embattled Chief Dave Been no doubt knew that, once he became Chief, he risked having to leave the Department on a bitter note. There were no bitter notes. Every one who stood for him last night, perhaps for his final ovation before leaving the Department, knows one certain thing about Dave Been: he does and stands up for what he thinks is right, and he was right a lot of the time.

So many good stories, excellent speakers, the camaraderie and support of the good citizens of Tulsa, and great organization lead me to believe that this truly will be an "annual" event. For "true blue heroes" the standing ovations should keep on happening.

Officer Will Dalsing

If you wish to read about the specific awards given last night, please click here:

http://www.tulsapolice.org/awards/awards_2006/award_2006.html

Bixby wants crooks to see video cameras

By SUSAN HYLTON World Staff Writer
2/17/2007

BIXBY -- This suburban community leads the pack among area cities that use video cameras to deter crime in public places.

The city has had cameras in place at major intersections along Memorial Drive for two years. And now it has used an $85,000 Vision 2025 allocation for neighborhoods to install surveillance cameras in its parks.

"We want them to know they're there," Police Chief Anthony Stephens said. "We hope that citizens will feel a little safer, too. We can't always have an officer here all the time."

Cameras have been placed in Washington Irving Memorial Park and Arboretum, Charley Young Park and the new Bentley Park Sports Complex.

The cameras are discreet and could be mistaken for a light pole. But large signs are posted nearby to let people know they are under surveillance.

Stephens said he doesn't think the cameras are too intrusive.

"I believe we're using it more for a deterrent," he said.

Video from the cameras will be captured via closed-circuit television at the police station. No one will monitor the images all the time, but the video will be archived for 45 days in the event police need to review it.

City Manager Micky Webb said the park cameras will help deter vandalism and protect the city's new park facilities.

Thousands of dollars were spent on the restrooms and amphitheater in Washington Irving Park. More than $4 million is being spent for renovations at the Bentley Sports Complex.

Stephens said park restrooms have been destroyed in the past, and repairs are costly.

He said his department would not be as effective without the cameras. "It's like having another police officer 24 hours a day."

Direct Communications of Tulsa is installing the system. Company President Steve Vandervort said camera sales have doubled in the past three years.

His company has 300 cameras at Bixby Public Schools and more than 600 cameras in Jenks' school system.

"It's a real deterrent," he said, noting that people are more aware of their actions when they know cameras are on.

Legislation to use the cameras at intersections to write tickets for red-light runners has not caught on, but officials believe the cameras are preventing other crimes.

It would be impossible for a fleeing robbery suspect to enter or exit Bixby without being captured on video, Webb said.

"The bad guys, I'm confident, know we have it," he said.

Having an extra set of eyes at the intersections has been a great help in accident investigations, Stephens said.

The cameras' videos have been used as evidence for probable cause against larceny suspects and in a domestic violence case when the suspect left his residence. There also is some degree of comfort in Bixby that authorities will be more prepared for an Amber Alert.

Tulsa traffic safety coordinator Craig Murray said Tulsa has real-time video cameras at some intersections, but they are not for law enforcement. The cameras are designed to monitor traffic flow so that the timing sequence of traffic lights can be adjusted.

But if officials ever do have the ability to use them to write tickets, Murray said, the foot is in the door, technology-wise.

"It's just taking it a step further," he said.

Glenpool City Manager John Rogers said officials there plan to support the use of cameras in parks in the near future.

"It's a safety issue really," he said.

---

Susan Hylton 581-8381
susan.hylton@tulsaworld.com

Stop Signs In Your Neighborhood?

With more and more vehicles on our streets, traffic speeds seem to increase. Calls to the Police Department about traffic and/or speeders in our neighborhoods also increase. Often, our “Traffic Units” respond to these calls and provide directed patrol. However, the question often is asked is “Why can’t we have some STOP signs to slow these people down or divert them?” Several studies about stop signs don’t back up the commonly held beliefs. For instance, did you know:

-Speeds are not reduced by stop sign installation. Studies have shown that speeds sometimes actually increase between stop signs, up to 3-5 mph faster. Some drivers are irritated by the obvious “speed control” placed stop signs and will speed to make up for lost time.

-Diversion of traffic is not often achieved through stop sign use. Most traffic on the street is there by choice and stop sign placement will not cause vehicle drivers to choose another route.

-Effectiveness of stop signs is much lower than most people believe. Particularly at un-warranted stop signs, where motorists are not sure why the sign has been placed, compliance is relatively poor.

-Creating a false sense of security. Stop sign placement does not improve safety or provide a more secure area for children to play. Children should always be discouraged from playing in the streets or adjacent to any street regardless the traffic volume.

When are stop signs justified?

-When high traffic volumes may suggest the need for a stop sign, typically with a lower volume street intersecting with a high volume street.

-When the frequency of accidents at an intersection suggests a need for additional traffic control.

-Stop signs might also be installed at intersections where there is particular hazard such as limited sight distance combined with high volume.

Other speed reduction devices, such as the “humps” being placed in neighborhoods, may be more effective.

Off. Will Dalsing

Teenage Drivers

Teenagers perceive a driver’s license as a ticket to freedom. It’s momentous for parents, too. Though they often are aware of 16 year-olds’ high crash risks, they’re relieved not to have to chauffeur their children around anymore. But the price is steep. Crashes are the leading cause of death among American teens, accounting for more than one third of all deaths of 16 to 18 year-olds.

An effective way to reduce this toll is to enact graduated licensing, under which driving privileges are phased in to restrict beginners’ initial experience behind the wheel to lower risk situations. The restrictions gradually are lifted, so teenagers are more experienced and mature when they get their full, unrestricted licenses. Graduated systems that are well designed restrict night driving, limit teen passengers, set zero alcohol tolerance, and require a specified amount of supervised practice during the initial phase. Graduated licensing laws have reduced teens’ crash rates in the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. But not all states have such laws, and the laws aren’t all strong. With or without a graduated licensing law, parents can establish rules based on the graduated model. In particular:

Don’t rely solely on driver education.

High school driver-ed may be the most convenient way to learn skills, but it doesn’t produce safer drivers. Poor skills aren’t always to blame. Teens’ attitudes and decision-making matter more. Young people naturally tend to rebel. Teenagers don’t use safety belts as much, and they deliberately seek thrills like speeding. Training and education don’t change these tendencies. Peers are influential, but parents have much more influence than typically is credited to them.

Know the law.

Become familiar with restrictions on young drivers. Enforce the rules. To learn about the law in your state, go to www.iihs.org/laws/state_laws/grad_license.html.

Restrict night driving.

Most young drivers’ nighttime fatal crashes occur from 9 p.m. to midnight, so teens shouldn’t drive much later than 9. The problem isn’t just that such driving requires more skill. Late outings tend to be recreational, and even teens who usually follow the rules can be easily distracted or encouraged to take risks.

Restrict passengers.

Teen passengers in a vehicle can distract a beginning driver and/or lead to greater risk-taking. Because young drivers often transport their friends, there’s a teen passenger problem as well as a teen driver problem. About 6 of every 10 teenage passenger deaths (59 percent) during 2003 occurred in crashes with a teen driver. While night driving with passengers is particularly lethal, many fatal crashes with teen passengers occur during the day. The best policy is to restrict teenage passengers, especially multiple teens, all the time.

Supervise practice driving.

Take an active role in helping your teenager learn how to drive. Plan a series of practice sessions in a wide variety of situations, including night driving. Give beginners time to work up to challenges like driving in heavy traffic or on the freeway. Supervised practice should be spread over at least six months and continue even after a teenager graduates from a learner’s permit to a restricted or full license.

Remember that you’re a role model.

New drivers learn a lot by example, so practice safe driving.Teens with crashes and violations often have parents with poor driving records. Require safety belt use. Don’t assume that belt use when you’re in the car with your 16 year-old means belts will be used all the time, especially when your child is out with peers. Remember that belt use is lower among teenagers than older people. Insist on belts all the time.

Prohibit driving after drinking.

Make it clear that it’s illegal and highly dangerous for a teenager to drive after drinking alcohol or using any other drug. While alcohol isn’t a factor in most fatal crashes of 16-year-old drivers, even small amounts of alcohol are impairing for teens.

Choose vehicles for safety, not image.

Teenagers should drive vehicles that reduce their chances of a crash and offer protection in case they do crash. For example, small cars don’t offer the best protection in a crash. Avoid cars with performance images that might encourage speeding. Avoid trucks and sport utility vehicles — the smaller ones, especially, are more prone to roll over.

Courtesy of National Driver Trainer at

www.usdrivertraing.com

Police Impersonation

In light of the story today of a citizen being stopped by an unmarked police car, I wanted to run this blog again. Remember, Tulsa Police officers will be wearing an authorized uniform with our shoulder patches, in addition to a badge. Call 911 if you are unsure.... ed.

Tulsa Police Officers are driving more unmarked cars in their traffic enforcement efforts. The latest few are unmarked Dodge Chargers in several colors.

There have always been a few questions about what to do when stopped by these unmarked units. First of all, the law does require you to stop. These cars are equipped with red AND blue lights and sirens. If you feel in anyway unsure if there is a "real" police officer pulling you over, our advice is to drive slowly and normally to a crowded and/or well-lit area.

Our officers will be in uniform. Look for the "Tulsa Police" shoulder patch and badge. If you think you have been stopped by a person impersonating an officer, call 911. The dispatchers will be able to confirm if you have been contacted by a police officer.

Off. Will Dalsing

Tulsa Edison Crimestoppers Assemblies

Sgt. Stephanie Jackson, Community Education, Tulsa Police Department.

Thank You, Steph, for all you do!

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving has almost become a buzz-word recently, but rarely do we take the time to think about what distracted driving really is. Is distracted driving using a cell phone? Is distracted driving turning our heads to talk to people (including children) in the back seat? Is distracted driving thinking about what to eat for dinner on our drive home from work? The answers are yes, yes, and yes again. Distracted driving is anything that takes us away from the mental and physical requirements of safely operating a motor vehicle. Next, you may be thinking; so what? What is the big deal if I make a phone call while driving, dream about what I’m going to do on Saturday or make sure my kids have cheerios so they don’t scream all the way home?

We care about distracted driving because it causes motor vehicle crashes. Motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of people ages 1-33 in this country. Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of injuries in the workplace and account for billions of dollars in taxpayers money. In all driver age groups, distracted driving/driver inattention is sited most often in multiple-vehicle crashes. In single-vehicle crashes, distracted driving/ driver inattention is the second most common contributing factor to the crash.

In 1991, certain states kept track of the use of cell phones in traffic crashes. On a crash report form, an officer at the scene can record none to three different "contributing factors" for each vehicle involved in a crash. One of those contributing factors is: "Driver on CB Radio/Cellular Phone." Thus, cell phone use cannot be broken out specifically. In any case, the CB/Cell Phone contributing factor was reported in 1991 in about 100 crashes, resulting in 36 injuries, and 1 death. In 2002, the CG/Cell Phone contributing factor was reported in 223 crashes, resulting in 104 injuries, and 1 death. We do know that CB/Cell Phone factor is underreported. There is no doubt that a driver using a cell phone at the time of a crash is not very likely to report it to a police officer. Instead, that person is likely to state that he/she was ‘not paying attention’ which has become the catch all, or default, contributing factor.

What this means for drivers is that we must make driving our number one priority when we are behind the wheel. If we need to make a phone call or take care of our children we must get off the road. It’s really that easy.

Emergency Vehicles and You

In an emergency, minutes can mean the difference between life and death, and critical seconds can be lost if drivers don’t make way for emergency vehicles.

Take sirens seriously — make way for an ambulance, fire truck or police vehicle.

Someday you may be the one calling for help, or the life on the line might be a friend, neighbor or someone you love.

How You Can Help
You can do some simple things to help emergency personnel reach a person in need. Use the letters S.I.R.E.N. to remember the right way to yield to an emergency vehicle.

S: Stay Alert
Drive defensively, keep the noise level down in your car and look for more than one emergency vehicle approaching when you hear a siren.

I: Investigate
Check your rear-view mirror, scan in front and on both sides of your vehicle, try to estimate the closing speed of the emergency vehicle and plan your next move.

R: React
React quickly, but calmly and scan in all directions before pulling over. Always use a turn signal when exiting the roadway and don’t slam on the brakes or pull over suddenly.

E: Enter
Before re-entering the road, make a visual sweep in all direc-tions, turn on your signal, and gradually merge back into traffic.

N: Never
Don’t stop at a place that doesn’t have enough room to pull over safely and never follow or try to outrun an emergency vehicle.

At Intersections
Be alert for pedestrians who may be in the crosswalk or at the edge of the roadway. They might be looking for the emergency vehicle too and not be aware of your efforts to yield properly.

On the Highway
Always use your signal so that other drivers know how you intend to exit the road and look for other cars that may have to move across lanes of traffic to yield. Pull as far off the highway as safely possible and gradually brake to avoid losing control in loose gravel on the shoulder.

As Pedestrians
Always check for turning vehicles before you step into the street because drivers may not see you. Be sure to stop at the curb, look left-right-left before crossing the street, and keep looking for vehicles.

Do not cross in front of an emergency vehicle which may be stopped at a busy intersection, wait for the vehicle to pass.

As Bicyclists
Always wear a helmet on every ride and equip your bicycle with reflectors on the front and rear. Bicyclists must obey traffic laws that apply to motor vehicles. Ride single file and on the right side of the road with traffic.

When an emergency vehicle is approaching, pull as far to the right as possible. Do not cross in front of an emergency vehicle which may be stopped at a busy intersection, wait for the vehicle to pass.

Let them through... It could be you!

Not every emergency medical response requires lights and sirens, but next time you encounter such a situation, yield immediately so that the emergency personnel can reach the person who is waiting for help to arrive. Remember, it’s important to let them through...next time, it could be you.

The information on this page is from a brochure developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

New Consent Decree Website

A new website utilizing the data the Tulsa Police Department collects as required by the Consent Decree has appeared. Titled "Consent Decree Database," it is by all appearances a truly accurate collection of the data we collect and provide to the public.

I would like to thank the anonymous person or persons who built the website. The data has been arranged in an excellent fashion and it is clear that the creators of the site are fully aware of the difficulty in analyzing such data as it pertains to policing.

The raw data we collect is available for the public and posted on our public website. We added the following statement on that page:

"According to the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) there is no agreement among academics of how much disparity is acceptable. There is no single preferred benchmark for analysis of collected data and, according to PERF, no perfect method for analysis. PERF goes on to state that the existence of disparity does not equal the existence of bias."

TPDD.ORG collected this raw data for their website and I am glad they did. They also left the analysis to you, the public. The context in which it is provided is "right on."

Please visit the website at: www.tpdd.org

The Tulsa Police public website is: www.tulsapolice.org

You may access the raw Consent Decree data on the "Public Education" page.

Off. Will Dalsing

Holiday Shopping Online

Here are some holiday tips from the Federal Trade Commission regarding shopping on the internet:

• Know who you're dealing with. If you've never heard of the seller, check on the physical location and reputation with the Better Business Bureau or the State Attorney General's office.
• Protect Your Privacy. Provide personal information only if you know who's collecting it, why, and how it's going to be used.
• Guard your passwords. Use different passwords when you're making a purchase than when you log on to your computer or network.
• Pay the safest way. A credit card offers the most consumer protections.
• Order only on a secure server. Look for an unbroken key or padlock at the bottom of the browser window to ensure that your transmission is protected.
• Check shipping and handling fees. Don't forget to factor these costs into the total cost of the order. Choose the delivery option that best meets your needs and budget.
• Track your purchases. Keep printouts of the web pages with the details about the transaction, including return policies if you are not satisfied.

Off. Will Dalsing

Residential False Alarms

False Alarms

There are thousands of residential alarm systems within the City of Tulsa. Though a good security investment for homeowners, the obvious downside remains the thousands of false alarm calls police officers respond to.

It normally takes three police staff members to handle an alarm:  a police dispatcher and two officers. Other additional costs in resources include: opportunity costs, service loss to the public, fuel and equipment.

To help reduce the unnecessary use of police resources, we ask that alarm users please do the following:

• Make certain that all the members of your family understand and can properly set and operate the alarm system.
• Make certain authorized visitors to your residence understand the alarm system operation.
• When a problem with the system is discovered, contact the alarm provider immediately and take necessary corrective action.
• If pets, moving objects, windows/doors rattling, etc are causing false trips, take corrective action.
• Contact the Police immediately to report a false alarm.
• Keep information and contact numbers current with your alarm monitoring service.
• Work with your alarm provider to solve problems as they arise.

And finally, for those alarms when you or your contacts cannot respond, it may be a good idea to have a trusted neighbor who has a key and alarm code to assist responding Police officers if needed.

Thank You,

Off. Will Dalsing

Readers Forum: Enforcing traffic laws saves lives

Courtesy:  Tulsa World

Complaints when officers write citations are nothing new to law enforcement. Enforcing traffic laws may never be a popular public safety activity. Often times getting stopped by an officer is the only personal contact a citizen has with local law enforcement. We have all heard stories from fellow drivers of a traffic stop they didn’t agree with. Often as the story is repeated the actions of the officer are made to sound more and more severe. However, this police function is vital to the safety of citizens, even though those we seek to protect sometimes misunderstand it.

Traffic collisions are the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 1 to 44. An incident were someone ignored a traffic law has impacted nearly everyone in some way. More people are seriously injured in traffic collisions than are seriously injured by criminal assaults and more property is damaged or destroyed in traffic collisions than in the same number of burglaries or thefts. Many citizens will pay more for car insurance than for insuring their home. Due to the impact that violating traffic laws has in our community, enforcing the traffic ordinances of the City of Tulsa is just as much a part of an officer’s job as responding to a 911 call for help.

The Tulsa Police Department understands the inherent priority to enforce criminal statutes such as robbery, burglary, homicide, etc. and as such has assigned 40 officers out of 800 to focus on traffic responsibilities. This frees our patrol officers from investigating traffic collisions and issuing citations and lets them focus on emergency calls for service.

Not only do traffic stops play an integral role in making the streets of Tulsa safer; they also have an impact on crime. Criminals do not typically walk to and from their crimes, they drive. It should not be a surprise that large portions of police arrests are made out of vehicles. These arrests include everything from the distribution of drugs to arrests for warrants issued for violent offenses. These arrests occur because Tulsa Police officers are enforcing traffic laws.

If that fact doesn’t widen the perspective, it should also be noted that of the citations issued, only about one-third of them deal with speeding. In July, one of our traffic units reported that one-third of the vehicles stopped were cited for no insurance or no drivers license and another 20% were cited after they caused a collision. Vehicles are stopped weekly going in excess of 100 M.P.H. and our officers are risking their safety in their efforts to reduce traffic-related injuries and deaths. The recent death of Baton Rouge Motorcycle Corporal Christopher Metternich and the injuries suffered by Tulsa Police Corporal Ron Clark are stark reminders of the sacrifice that traffic officers make in an effort to make their community safer.

Officers hear many colorful comments when enforcing traffic laws. The term "ticket quota" is often used against our officers and is simply an invalid allegation. Tulsa Police officers do not work for ticket quotas but do work to improve the safety of all citizens. Traffic enforcement is a proactive method designed to reduce deaths, property damage and to arrest criminals. It has proven to be an effective tool and is one that virtually every citizen expects the police to use.

Travis Yates is a Captain with the Tulsa Police Department. One of his duties includes the management of the Public Information Office.

SERVICE

From the jungles of Vietnam to the deserts of Iraq, the United States Military has long protected the freedoms that we as Americans enjoy. The Armed Forces are composed of everyday Americans that choose to wear the uniform.

Upon completing their missions, these soldiers and sailors return home and often continue their service by joining one of the nation’s law enforcement agencies. Many of these veterans have joined the Tulsa Police Department; officers including Chief Dave Been who served in the United  States Army, Officer Carmen Brown who continues her service in the Army National Guard, and Officer Warren Bigelow who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom in the Marine Corp. These Officers, along with many others, continue to protect the citizens of Tulsa. Of the 800 Tulsa Police Officers, over 150 officers are veterans or are still actively serving in a Reserve Unit of the United States Armed Forces. To these officers, we as citizens owe a great deal of gratitude, and we say Thank You!

On September 11, 2001, the United States was attacked. These attacks outraged America. As a result, citizens from across the country signed up in record numbers to serve their country. Soon after, America declared war on terrorism. With this Declaration, hundreds of citizen soldiers were called to duty. These soldiers included many from within the Tulsa Police Department. Whether being called to protect a Port in Italy, guard a diplomat in Washington, or hunt terrorists in Afghanistan, these officers left their family, friends and careers to protect America. Since September 11, 2001, Tulsa Police Officers have served over 9,944 days on foreign lands, promoting peace and democracy.

On January 11, 2002, Officer Mike Avey was deployed to the Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in Puerto Rico. Officer Avey was assigned to the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) and he subsequently traveled in more than 9 countries. "Many of the ports we assessed were in industrial areas and usually poor sections of the cities. Traveling to these places made me appreciate living in the United States, where we have superior food, lodging, and medical facilities. Many of the average incomes of these countries are less than I made in a month as an E-5 Enlisted Petty Officer" commented Officer Avey.

Corporal Matt Hart was activated on August 23, 2003 until January 1, 2005. Corporal Hart was assigned to Washington D.C. and was attached to a security detail assigned to protect members of the United States government, including Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul Wolfowitz and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Richard Myers. During Corporal Hart’s deployment he visited 23 countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, Qatar, Bahrain, Germany and Malta. Corporal Hart stated "It was a stressful time. I had a wife and a four year old daughter, and it was hard to explain to my daughter why I could not tuck her into bed every night."

Officer Todd Henley was deployed from January of 2003 to January 2004 with the United States Marines and was assigned to the Combined Joint Task Force/ Anti-Terrorist Unit. Officer Henley spent time in Africa, Kuwait and Germany providing outside reconnaissance and patrol, base security, and hunting for terrorists and terrorist camps. Officer Henley stated "Having to leave my new wife and my new job with the Tulsa Police Department wasn’t easy, but I signed up to serve my country and when the time came, I knew that I had a mission to complete."

These are just three of the Tulsa Police officers that have served in the post 9-11 era. With the dedicated service of individuals like these, the United States and the City of Tulsa will continue to thrive, and be the best place to live, work, and raise a family.

Home Repair Fraud

Recently our Fraud and Forgery Unit has received a couple of cases involving home repair fraud that citizens should be aware in light of the recent high wind damage that occurred in mid-town. These same suspects may be still working in the area and may be targeting elderly citizens. In one of the cases received, the suspects approach and advise that a squirrel had gone down a pipe on the victims roof and offered to go up on her roof to get it out so it wouldn't go in her attic. When the suspect got down off the roof he said he observed some holes in the roof next to the chimney and offered to repair them. He said all he needed to do was get some fiberglass, which runs about $46 dollars a quart and would not charge her for the labor. She agreed and they spent a couple of days working on the roof. When they were finished they presented her a bill for $8,400 dollars. Citizens should be aware and always ask for references before allowing any work to be completed. It is always a good idea to get another estimate before allowing any work to be completed. Any citizen that has encountered the same situation is encouraged to call the non-emergency number at (918) 596-9222.

What do you want to see on the blog?

Hello, I'm Officer Carl Goforth. The picture is of me and my lovely daughter, Ashley. This is a photo that I designed when the Tulsa Police Department went from Green Uniforms to Blue. It happens to be one of my favorite photos.

I have been a police officer for over twelve years. A few months ago I was asked to leave the field and serve the public in a new way. My new job was to rebuild the Tulsa Police Web Site. This has turned out to be a much bigger challenge than I first expected. In the end, I think you will find the new web site informative, helpful and maybe even a little entertaining. The redesign is almost finished and it will be revealed to the public soon....Real soon. This very blog is one of the many changes that have been made. Right now I am seeking public feed back from all of you about the blog or any other areas of the site that you might have feedback on. What do you want to see on the TPD Blog? We love to hear your comments so keep them coming.

Tulsa Police Memorial

In September 1996, a small group of individuals came together to form the Tulsa Police Officers' Memorial Committee.  The dream to build an everlasting memorial to Tulsa Police Officers followed the death of Tulsa Police Officer Dick Hobson.  Police officers, family members and citizens needed a place to honor fallen Tulsa Officers and those currently serving.

Every new Tulsa Police Officer takes the following oath: "I will protect the rights, lives, and property of all citizens and uphold the honor of the police profession with my life if need be."

39 Tulsa Officers have given their life for the community.  Today, The Tulsa Police Memorial stands tall on the grounds of the Tulsa Police Academy, 6066 East 66th Street North.  It serves as a reminder to the sacrifice and dedication of Tulsa Police Officers.