Body cameras: In 2009, our department was one of the first in the KC Metro area to purchase body cameras for our officers. Today, every one of our officers is issued their own body camera to be worn on duty. It is our policy that the body cameras are activated during traffic stops, calls for service, and other citizen contacts. Patrol officers do not have the capability to delete videos from their body cameras or from the retention system.
Dash cameras: Our patrol cars have been equipped with in-car/dash cameras for over 20 years. These cameras are automatically activated when the patrol cars emergency lights are turned on. These cameras capture both video and audio. In addition to dash cameras, all of our patrol cars also have cameras that face the back seat area where arrestees are placed. Patrol officers do not have the capability to delete videos from their in-car cameras or the retention system.
Random review of video: Each supervisor is required to conduct random reviews of officer video. The video platform we utilize selects the videos on a random basis for the supervisor to review. The supervisor reviews the selected video to see if the officer handled the situation as trained, or if additional training, coaching, or counseling is necessary. This system also allows for oversight of the supervisor actions by the next level of command to ensure videos are being reviewed and what if any action was taken. Checks and balances are built into the program.
Citizen complaints: We believe the image of our department depends on the personal integrity and discipline of all our employees. To a large degree, the public image of our Department is determined by the professional response to allegations of misconduct against our employees. We believe in competently and professionally investigating all allegations of misconduct by our employees and complaints about our response to community needs. We encourage citizens to bring forward legitimate grievances regarding misconduct by our employees. Citizens should expect that their complaints are received in a courteous manner. Formal written complaints are strongly encouraged. We will however also receive complaints in-person at our station located at
12500 W. 87th Street Parkway, Lenexa, KS 66215, or over the telephone by calling 913.477.7300. Complaints should be made as soon as practicable after the alleged incident has occurred. Investigation will occur upon receipt of the complaint, however failure to report a complaint in a timely manner may hinder the availability of evidence pertinent to the investigation. Complaints are investigated by a field supervisor, with review at the commander level, then the Deputy Chief and finally the Chief of Police. This affords many levels of accountability within our process. Additionally, complaints alleging biased policing can be made directly to the office of the Kansas Attorney General by completing their
Complaint of Racial or Other Biased Based Policing form (PDF).
Community Advisory Board: The Board was established to advise and assist our department on issues of biased policing, particularly in the areas of policy development, community outreach, education and communications, as well as, recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. This board is comprised of civilian participants reflecting the racial and ethnic populations of Lenexa.
Relationships: Our department enjoys a good working relationship with the
Johnson County chapter of the NAACP, of which we are a member. This includes sponsorship and attendance of NAACP fundraisers, community events and regular conversations with NAACP members. We also partner with Johnson County Mental Health, and National Association for the Mentally Ill.