NCJ Number
112154
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 36 Issue: 6 Dated: (June 1988) Pages: 21-23
Date Published
1988
Length
3 pages
Annotation
In 1977, the Lewistown Police Department (Montana), initiated planning in an attempt to modernize its underfunded and antiquated agency.
Abstract
Following development of a statement of fact outlining existing deficiencies, a 3-year plan for updating the armory was developed, and a financial evaluation was conducted to establish a purchase plan. A combined police and fire department facility was established as the result of a community project. Additional planning focused on developing the concept of prevention, creating a tactical thinking department in which every officer is cross-trained to deal with any problem, and developing a training program. As part of the training, floor plans and photographs were obtained for all of the town's buildings, and each officer examined the buildings and evaluated potential situations. Firearms training requires officers to qualify once a month under a variety of changing situations. An emergency plan was developed, and emergency procedures are practiced through drills and rehearsals. Emphasis is placed on slow planned results. A key point emphasized by the department and accepted by the community is that, when police arrive, they are in charge. The practical planning and concepts developed by the department have paid off in increased effectiveness.