Report of the Police Department 2009

As the economy crumbled 2009 was a trying year for everyone. Through proactive restructuring of the police budget we were able to provide the same quality and professional service to the residents of Southwick that they have come to expect. The police department was forced to eliminate one police officer position and reduce its operational budget. Community policing activities such as RAD and the Citizen Police Academy had to be eliminated. The DARE program has been streamlined and will be taught at Woodland School only.
 

Despite the economic problems that surround our community the Police Department continues its attempts to maintain a highly trained and professional department. We have initiated new on-line training programs to reduce costs. The department has obtained grants and other funding to partially offset budget reductions.
 

In May 2009 Officer Sean O’Brien resigned to take employment with a Connecticut Police Department. His position was filled by Michael Westcott. Michael Westcott is a Southwick resident. He was the first student at STRHS, through the Business Education Alliance Program, to be an intern at the police department. Michael has served as a Southwick Reserve Police Officer since 2007. He graduated from the Police Academy in December 2009 and has been assigned to the 12-8 shift.
 

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the heroic efforts of Officer Brad Fisk and Officer Greg Burt. On a cold dark wintry night in February 2009 a snowmobile went through the ice on Congamond Lakes. The operator was in the water clinging to the ice as best he could. When the officers arrived they realized this person was quickly losing his strength and hypothermia was setting in. The officers realized this person would not survive much longer. The officers used a ladder and garden hose to make their way onto the ice to rescue this person. Their own safety in jeopardy the officers were able to pull the person from the water. These officers are a true testament to the high caliber of officers that serve the residents of Southwick. Putting their own safety aside they saved the life of another. One month later, these same officers, while performing their patrol duties, came upon a person attempting to commit suicide in a vehicle. Their quick actions again prevented a tragedy from happening. These officers are true heroes and Southwick should be proud of them.
 

I would like to commend all the police officers. Without their dedication to duty and the honor and pride with which they serve, Southwick would not have a highly professional police department. I thank all the officers for the hard work and commitment they provided throughout the year.
 

I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the Southwick Reserve Police. These men and women who have full-time jobs and families devote their time and effort to assist the police department in providing service to the public. Without them we would not be able to accomplish our mission. They are willing and able to assist when necessary.
 

Reserve Officer Vincent Lafluer retired in August 2009 at the age of 65 from the police department. He was a 9 year veteran of the reserve force. Vincent started his career with the Granville Police Department and was hired by Southwick in 2000. Reserve Lafluer worked in a full time capacity for one year when the department was understaffed in 2006. Reserve Officer Lafluer’s dedication, professionalism, and eagerness to work will be greatly missed.
 

Reserve Officer Douglas Costa was appointed in 2009. Reserve Costa attended the full-time academy on his own. These credentials made him a highly qualified candidate for the reserve force. Unfortunately for Southwick, Reserve Costa was hired in late 2009 by the Hadley Police on a full-time basis. We extend our congratulations to Doug Costa on reaching his goal.
 

The work and dedication of the Southwick Emergency Dispatchers is greatly appreciated. These men and women have a high standard of professionalism in a demanding job. They must greet the public, answer multiple telephones, operate several computers, and handle radio transmissions from every Town Department. They are the first point of contact for service and direct and assist those that call. The community can be proud of the way these emergency dispatchers handle these calls and provide service.
 

In October 2009 David “Butch” Labombard was appointed as a part-time emergency dispatcher. His prior experience as an emergency dispatcher and his ties with the Fire Department and DPW made him a highly qualified candidate for this position.
 

All the personnel at the police department, police officers, emergency dispatchers, and support staff, display high standards of conduct and professionalism. I am proud of the way they comport themselves. I thank them for the hard work and dedication they put forth every day.
 

The Police Department appreciates the support of the Board of Selectman, the Finance Committee, and all other departments, and Town Officials.
 

I especially want to thank the citizen’s of Southwick for their continued support. Without you we would not have a police department that is one of the best. We will continue to be responsive to community needs and concerns and provide a professional response when called.
 

Respectfully Submitted,
 

Chief Mark Krynicki