3. Operational Improvements

Strategic Direction
Goal Goal
3: Operational Improvements

Operational improvements advance the delivery of quality police services and enable the department to meet short and long-term goals. In order to address the emergent challenges that confront all law enforcement agencies, it is critical that FWPD make modifications to the operational structure to address inefficiencies. For example, the January 2016 return to a traditional beat concept facilitates the connection between every patrol officer and the neighborhoods they serve. In contrast to the eight years away from the beat concept, newer officers are now learning the importance of beat integrity, beat accountability, and the value of familiarity with residents and business owners, and their role in proactive crime prevention. The revision of dispatch policies during the last 6-months and the addition of the Patrol All-Call channel, enhanced officer safety, continues to improve our response to crime, and ensures police supervisors maximize the efficient deployment of patrol officers. Another example is the use of Neighborhood Police Officers (NPOs) to train beat officers in the Field Training Program in community relations and community problem solving. It reinforces the FWPD expectation that every officer attempt to solve the problems relating to each call in the attempt to prevent repeat calls to the same locations. This applied concept will lead to reduced calls for service, less workload, and increased disposable time dedicated to preventive patrol activities. The continuous reevaluation of department policies and procedures in contrast to state and national law enforcement best practices, as established by accrediting bodies like the Texas Police Chiefs Association and CALEA, also ensure an ongoing commitment to improved operational efficiency.