ITEM TITLE:
Receive a report regarding the Lawton Police Department Sentinel Program, a volunteer-based initiative that enhances police services to the community and take action as necessary.
INITIATOR: Dewayne Burk, Deputy City Manager
STAFF INFORMATION SOURCE: Dewayne Burk, Deputy City Manager
BACKGROUND: The Sentinel Program is a volunteer organization that supports the Lawton Police Department. It is composed of men and women over the age of 21 from diverse backgrounds who assist in enhancing the department’s services. While Sentinels do not engage in duties that would put them in harm’s way, they play a vital role in community safety and support. The program currently has seven active Sentinels and one inactive Sentinel. Two department personnel oversee this operation: Lt. Mike McCallick, serves as the Program Supervisor, while Detective Rucker is the Program Manager. The head Sentinel, Earl Howard, holds the title of Program Coordinator. Sentinels receive monthly training sessions, primarily covering mandatory topics set by the City of Lawton. Their responsibilities include assisting with traffic control at road closures and accident scenes, enforcing handicap parking citations, addressing abandoned vehicles on roadways, conducting funeral escorts, supporting special events, serving subpoenas for Municipal Court witnesses, taking photographs and fingerprints at minor scenes, and aiding in searches for missing persons. To become a Sentinel, applicants must complete a detailed application and undergo a background check. If they pass, they participate in an interview panel before their application is submitted to the Chief’s office for final approval.
EXHIBIT: Sentinel Program Presentation
KEY ISSUES: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE: N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: Receive a report regarding the Lawton Police Department Sentinel Program, a volunteer-based initiative that enhances police services to the community and take action as necessary.