Tag Archives: Wyoming Department of Public Safety

GM awards $75,000 in grants to local charities

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Environment, Our Cities, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

To help educate potential new drivers on the dangers of driving impaired, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety will be purchasing a distracted and impaired driver simulator thanks to a $25,000 grant from GM Motors Corporate Giving.

GM Grand Rapids Operations Plant Director Troy Comiskey (center) announces the 2023 GM Corporate Giving grant recipients from the Grand Rapids area. (WTKV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

The grant, which was given to the Wyoming Greater Resource Alliance for the public safety department’s use, was one of three grants awarded by the GM Grand Rapids Operations, which is located in Wyoming. The grants totaled $75,000 with the two other organizations also receiving $25,000 each was The Right Place and West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC).

“GM has made a concerted effort to bump up its local giving to the communities,” said Troy Comiskey, plant director for the Grand Rapids Operations. “They take corporate giving very seriously. They have upped it the last two years in a row with definitely a jump this year from the $10,000 mark to the $25,000 mark.” 

Through the GM Community Grant program, the company has donated around $3 million to a 157 charities over the last year in U.S. communities that surround GM manufacturing sites. Since its inception, GM’s Corporate Giving has investing has helped communities across the U.S. in a variety of initiatives focused on STEM, vehicle and road safety and community impact.

Comiskey noted that the giving has gone beyond just monetary but with many of the Grand Rapids Operations employees giving time to a variety of events such as Teach for the Watershed, the Mayor’s Grand River Clean-Up, and FIRST Robotics programs. He noted this is on top of employees working sometimes 40-plus hours a week and taking care of their own families that “they still find time for a couple of hours per week or month to help local communities.”

From left, Lt. Eric Wiler from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, UAW Local 167 Chairman Chris Newman, The Right Place Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Brad Comment, WMEAC Director of Engagement Marshall A. Kilgore, and GM Grand Rapids Operations Plant Director Troy Comiskey (WKTV/Joanne N. Bailey-Boorsma)

Educating the Future about the Environment

One of the beneficiaries of that volunteer support has ben WMEAC which among its programs host the Teach for the Watershed. which is an interactive watershed education program based on Michigan Science Curriculum Standards, and the Mayor’s Grand River Cleanup, the state’s largest riverbank cleanup.

“We are so thankful to GM for this,” said Marshall A. Kilgore, WMEAC’s director of engagement. “This grant started back a few years ago at $200 with them kind enough to extend their philanthropy from $200 to $25,000.”

Kilgore said WMEAC has seen growth in its programs and through the grant will be able to reach more students about how to better take care of their environment.

“So we plan to use this money for the water that connects all of us here in West Michigan and also teach our youth how to be better stewards of their land, water and soil,” he said.

Making the Roads Safer

Lt. Eric Wiler said his department is working to purchase the distracted and impaired driver simulator which they are hoping to debut at this year’s National Night Out as well as other events, such as Metro Cruise. Plans are also in the works to bring the simulator to local school districts to educate potential new drivers about driving with cellphones or while intoxicated.

According to the Michigan State Police, 16,543 crashes in 2021 involving distracted driving. Fatal distracted driving crashes increased by 14% from 2020 to 2021. According to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration, 3,522 people died because of districted driving in 2021.

To help combat the issue, the Michigan legislature passed a ban on using phones while driving in May.

Building a Workforce Pipeline

Brad Comment, senior vice president of strategic initiatives for The Right Place, said the organization plans to use its grant funding toward growing Michigan’s manufacturing, technology and life science sectors, which Comiskey had commented is “very near and dear to our heart here at GM because we have such a technical workforce.” 

Through its programs, Comment said The Right Place will continue to work to bring students into manufacturing facilities and introduce them to careers in manufacturing and technology. 

GM was started in 1908 by William C. Durant as a holding company for the Buick Car Company. Within two years, Durant brought some of the biggest names in the automotive industry, including Oldsmobile, Cadillac, Pontiac and the predecessors of GMC Truck. For more than 75 years, the GM Grand Rapids Operations, which is at 5100 Burlingame SW, has been producing high prevision, high volume automotive components for GM products as well as non-GM products. 

Wyoming investigates crash, Sheriff recovers stolen vechiles

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Kent County, , , , ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Wyoming

On May 9, at approximately 7:30 a.m., police and fire personnel from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety and Grandville Police responded to the area of 28th Street near Clydon Avenue on a report of a head-on collision involving two vehicles.

When officers arrived they located two patients, an unresponsive 7-year-old female and a 31-year-old male both with serious injuries. The uninjured driver remained at the scene to speak with police. the injuries driver and child were both transported to an area hospital in critical condition.

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety’s Accident Investigation and Forensic Services Units are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Kent County Sheriff’s Department

At 2:30 a.m. this morning, a homeowner called 911 stating three suspects were checking car doors in the neighborhood along South Park Drive SW. Deputies arrived in the area and located the vehicle described by the homeowner and attempted to stop it. The vehicle fled from deputies but ran over spike strips just down the road. A pursuit continued up Kalamazoo Avenue nail the driver lost control and came to a stop along Kalamazoo Avenue near 52nd Street.

One occupant ran away and a second was arrested in the vehicle. The vehicle itself was stolen form Plainfield Township on May 3. Inside the deputies located two pistols along with cash and other items stolen from vehicles. An 18-year-old Grand Rapids man was arrested on charges related to the case. The other suspect remains outstanding.

This follow a similar incident Monday morning in Byron Township. At 6 a.m., KCSO dispatch received multiple calls of suspects breaking int o cars in the area of Marshwood Court SW. Two vehicles fled from deputies, which were later found at 68th Street and Clyde Park Avenue. As deputies closed in they located four suspects running form the cars, who were all apprehended (ages 15, 16, and two 17-year-old males from Grand Rapids). Three stolen vehicles in total were recovered.

According to a statement released by the Kent County Sheriff’s Department “We continue to see the brazen action of these suspects continue. Please keep your firearms, keys, and cash out of your vehicles. All areas of Kent County are being targeted.”

Texting survey designed to increase engagement with Wyoming Public Safety

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, , ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org


Wyoming community members will be among the first in West Michigan to use a new community engagement and feedback solution after an interaction with the Wyoming Department of Public Safety. This new service uses text messaging to contact community members after calls to dispatch or after receiving certain police services.

These text messages are sent shortly after the incident and will ask community members to take a quick survey about their experience with the dispatch and our officers. It will also allow them to provide comments, feedback, or words of gratitude after receiving public safety service. Text surveys will begin going out later this week.

This product, called PowerEngage, will send text message surveys to those whose number is recorded as part of a call for service or in an officer’s report. Community members can also take a text message survey and provide feedback even if they did not receive a text message. The department will soon be announcing a number dedicated to sharing feedback, and QR codes will be made available to scan and start that conversation.

Residents that do not want to participate can simply not respond or let the department know in advance by calling 616-530-7309 and the person’t number will never receive a survey. As with all texts, residents may reply with STOP and that will opt them out of all future text surveys from the department.
It is important that everyone know that these surveys should not be used to report any type of emergency or crime. Call 9-1-1 for any emergency or to report any criminal activity.

“It is important for our department to hear from the community about how we are doing, especially from those that we have recently met,” said Wyoming Department of Public Safety Chief Kim Koster. “This new product, called PowerEngage, will give me access to community feedback in near real time, providing insights into areas where we can improve the service we provide to Wyoming. It also has potential to boost officer morale when positive feedback is provided.”

Members of the community may provide feedback to the Wyoming Department of Public Safety through the new survey option or at City’s website feedback option at https://www.wyomingmi.gov/Contact.

With help from a business owner, Wyoming adds new K9 to police department

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Hard News, Pets/Animals, , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

Pictured from the left, Sgt. Robert Robinson, Kato and Officer Logan Wieber, Tommy Brann, Mayor Pro Tem Sam Bolt, Amanda Clark from K911 Foundation, Lt. Brian Look, and Chief Kim Koster (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

Through the help of a local business owner, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety was able to introduce its newest K9 member, Kato, at Monday’s Wyoming City Council meeting.

State Rep. Tommy Brann, who owns Brann’s Steakhouse in Wyoming, and the K911 Foundation, each contributed 50 percent of the total cost to purchase Kato. The City of Wyoming purchased Kato from the Shallow Creek Kennels in Pennsylvania for $4,450.

“For several decades now, Wyoming police K9 team has been an important part of our organization,” said Chief Kim Koster at the meeting. “These canines are part of our entire police family and they are speciality trained in enforcement activities such as clearing buildings, tracking suspects and searching for narcotics. They also assist officers enforcement actives such as searching for lost of missing persons.”

Koster noted one of the greatest benefits from the K9 program is the impact it has had on police and community relationships.

“Most kids love dogs and they ask their parents if they can come over and touch the dog,” she said. “They say ‘hi’ to the dog and from there, there have been many good conservations that we have had that have helped start and build upon on our relationships with our community.”

The new additions

The Wyoming police’s K9 unit is overseen by Lt. Brian Look and Sgt. Robert Robinson and consists of four handlers who live, work and train with the four K9 officers. In August, Officer Ryan Paterson received a promotion which lead to him moving on from his position as a handler. His partner, Chase, also retired from the unit after seven years of service.

Through a selection process, Officer Logan Wieber was chosen to fill the vacancy on the K9 unit. He is partnered with Kato, a 14-month old German Shepherd who was imported from Poland to the United States.

The newest member of the K9 team, Kato. (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

“Although he is a green dog in the world of canines, as you can probably tell,” Koster said as Kato took in his new surroundings. “He will be trained by the staff.”

The importance of community support

Koster expressed her appreciation to Brann for his continued support of the Wyoming police department.

“Tommy has made serving people his biggest priority and the investment he made with our K9 team is another extension for that heart for service,” she said.

Brann said he his appreciative of all the support he has received in the past 51 years as a restaurant owner.

“I own a bar, and so when you have bar fights, who comes? The police,” Brann said, adding that he supports the police and the work they do and plans to continue doing so in the future. 

Wyoming Public Safety secures national accreditation for fourth time

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Hard News, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

In March, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety installed license plate readers. Within six months, it has been able to identify and recover 13 stolen vehicles and arrest 18 suspects.

“The real story is that we are able to find missing persons,” said Chief Kim Koster. “If an older family member gets into a car and takes off and the family cannot find the person, we can enter the person’s license plate number into the reader. If the person has passed a reader, it will let us know and give us an idea where to start searching for that missing person.”

From left, CALEA Executive Director Craig Hartley, Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt, Wyoming Public Safety Chief Kimberly Koster,, Wyoming Sergeant Jeremy Walter, Wyoming Captain Eric Wier, Wyoming Lt. Brian Look, and CALEA Commissioner Marcus Brown. (Supplied)

Through that process, the department has been able to find two missing persons since March.

 

It is because of the Wyoming Department of Public Safety‘s commitment to utilizing best practices in law enforcement that it has earned its fourth in a row accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). This includes implementing new technology, such as the license plate readers, as well as reviewing policies and procedures.

Meeting the standards

CALEA is considered the “gold standard in public safety.” Of the approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies in the United States, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety is one of 770 agencies nationwide that has CALEA accreditation. It is one of 12 in the State of Michigan. Wyoming received accreditation in 2012.

Wyoming Department of Public Safety Chief Kim Koster (Supplied)

“It is the blueprint for success for a department,” Koster said. “I always say it is the people, our officers, who make the department where we work but CALEA helps to organize us and achieve our goals.”

Reaccreditation happens every four years. To receive reaccreditation, the department must provide proof every year that the agency is in compliance with about 180 of the 452 CALEA standards. Commissioners review different guidelines each year and on the fourth year, all 452 standards are reviews with assessors coming to the department to meet with officers and the public, and department officials coming before the Commission.

“Today, one of the things that departments need to do in general is to be transparent and accountable,” Koster said. “By having this accreditation, we are doing both and it assures the public that we are performing the best practices in law enforcement.

Keeping Up-to-date

Once such practice that came out during the 2020 George Floyd situation was the development of the duty to intervene policy, which the Wyoming Department of Public Safety has incorporated.

“While it was the expectation that an officer would intercede and help de-escalate a situation when he or she sees the use of of force in excess, departments did not have that as a policy,” Koster said.

CALEA also provides direction on other police activities such as witness identification of suspect, best practices in training, evidence handling and storage, and recruiting.

In fact, by being a part of CALEA, the department has the opportunity to learn about what others across the nation are doing in police and public safety. Koster said during the reaccreditation process, the assessors asked about areas the department was looking for assistance. She chose recruiting and was offered a number of ideas including working with MichiganWorks!

But it is not only reviewing policies to assure they are meeting current modern-day needs, but also keeping up on technology and the possibilities of how it can help in police work. That encouragement to consider new ideas is what lead to the department purchasing the license plate readers.

Following the road map

“This is a map in how we should be doing things,” Koster said. “For example, in training, it focuses on best practices in such items as the use of the force, handling calls or helping someone with a mental health issue. By making sure that you are revisiting that topic every year, it assures that you are using the most update-to-date information and techniques.”

CALEA was formed in 1979 through the combined efforts of four major law enforcement organizations: the International Association of Chiefs of Police, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, National Sheriff’s Association, and the Police Executive Research Form. The main purpose of the Commission is to develop standards based on international best practices in public safety, and to establish and administer the accreditation process which looks at how a department meets recognized criteria for excellence in management and service delivery. Accreditation is voluntary. 

Wyoming police continue search for missing Wyoming man

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Darriol Stephens has been missing since Dec. 11. (Supplied)

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety needs the public’s assistance in locating Darriol Stephens, a 66-year-old white male from Wyoming. Stephans has been missing since Dec. 11 when he was seen leaving his residence by his roommate. Stephens requires medical attention which he has not received and there is growing concern fo this safety.

Wyoming Police are also trying locate Stephens black 2012 Chevy Impala with Michigan registration DSG2228. The vehicle has tinted windows and is similar to the vehicle pictured.

Wyoming Department of Public Safety detectives have conducted an extensive investigation and have followed up on all leads, but the leads have reduced significantly. We are again reaching out to the public for their help in locating Stephens or his vehicle.

“We are hopeful that someone may have information that we have not yet received and that they will reach out to our team,” read a press release from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety.

Wyoming Police are also looking for Stephens’ black Chevy Impala which is similar to the one pictured above. (Supplied)

Anyone with information about Stephens may call the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or 911. You can report information anonymously by calling Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

$750k grant allows Wyoming police to add six officers

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Hard News, Our Cities, , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Thanks to a federal grant totaling three-quarters of a million dollars, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety hopes to curtail gun violence and violent crimes by adding six community police officers to its department.

During a National Night Out event, a Wyoming police officer helps a resident on a motorcycle. Through a federal grant, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety plans to expand its Community Services Unit. (WKTV)

The Department was awarded the $750,000 Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program grant from the United States Department of Justice. The Wyoming City Council accepted the grant at its Dec. 20 council meeting. With the grant money, the Department will be able to add six officers to its department, bring the police department’s total number of sworn officers to 99.

“We have seen a significant increase in violent crimes,” said Capt. Timothy Pols, the department’s public relations officer. “Last year, we had eight homicides, which is an all-time high for the city.”

Pols said the department could not contribute the increase specifically to COVID, as there was a rise before the pandemic started. However, current conditions have impacted the community with there having been an increase in reported shootings involving property damage and people being hurt, he said.

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety has been searching for funding to help increase its numbers. The COPS Hiring Program is designed to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by proving direct support to state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies nationwide. The program funding supports the hiring of career law enforcement officers to increase an agency’s community policing capacity and crime prevention. The funding covers up to 75 percent of the approved entry-level salaries and fringe benefits of full-time officers for three years. The city is required to cover the remaining 25 percent.

The COPS Hiring Program is an open solicitation. For the 2021 fiscal year, COPS received 590 applications from about every state and U.S. territory. It awarded grants to 183 state, local, and trial law enforcement agencies totaling $139,232,523 to support the hire of 1,066 full-time officers and deputies.

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety was one of four police departments in Michigan to receive a COPS Hiring Program grant. The other cities to receive funding were Battle Creek, West Branch, and Hamtramck. Wyoming received the highest awarded grant monies out of the four Michigan cities that received funding.

“Obviously this is a great thing for the City of Wyoming and it is really hard to turn money like that down,” said Mayor Jack Poll during the Dec. 20 City Council meeting. The grant does come with the requirement that the city fund the new six positions for at least 12 months beyond the three-year time period. The department hopes through additional local funding to maintain the new positions beyond the three-year timeframe.

The Community Services Unit works on building relationships. (WKTV)

The COPS Hire Program grant is dedicated to community policing. With the six new hires, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety will be able to move seasoned officers into its Community Services Unit, which currently consists of four Community Services Officers, three School Resource Officers, and a supervisor. By expanding the community policing, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety hopes to curtail gun violence and violent crimes through expanded evening coverage; adding a dedicated crime analyst office, gang intelligence officer, dedicated apartment liaison, and dedicated hotel/motel liaison; and increasing participation with juvenile offender reentry programs and area summer camps comprised predominately of at-risk youth along with high visibility patrols, especially in high crime areas and other community policing initiatives.

Currently, the Department is in the hiring process, Pols said adding that they have interviewed some strong candidates.

“With all that has happened in the past couple of years with COVID, I believe it has given us some dedicated candidates who have a good understanding about what is involved with today’s police work,” Pols said.

The department is seeking to fill the six positions along with several other positions that will be opening up due to retirements this year. Pols said the goal is to have the positions filled by the end of 2022. 

Wyoming, Kentwood officers join others to help spread some holiday cheer

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Our Cities, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

On a brisk, cold Tuesday morning, representatives from about 17 area first responders and law enforcement agencies — including Wyoming and Kentwood — helped Santa Claus by delivering about 500 new toys to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

“This is just awesome to have this opportunity to spread some holiday cheer especially among some children who may not be able to be home,” said Wyoming Department of Public Safety Officer Chad Lynn.

The Toy Express to the children’s hospital was made possible through a grant from the First Responders Children’s Foundation (FRCF), a national nonprofit organization that provides financial relief to the families of first responders who have been injured or killed in the line of duty. The event was spearheaded by the Grandville Police Department, which wrote the grant request to FRCF.

Wyoming police officers Chad Lynn and Devin Quintard and Kentwood officers Jamie Karwowski and Jeff Augustyn help deliver presents to the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

“On the second Wednesday of the month, local first responders come out and turn their lights on for the children [at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital],” said Grandville Chief Paul Anglim, who had served with the Wyoming Public Safety Department for 27 years.

 

“It was just a natural extension of the Project Night Lights since the group was already formed.”

Project Night Lights is a program of Silent Observer, a non-profit established in 1972 to help solve and prevent serious crime in the Grand Rapids area.

“Silent Observer is so appreciative of this donation and is thrilled that Grandville Police Department and the FRCF are recognizing Silent Obersrver’s efforts involving Project Night Lights and all the First Responders who give up their time, month after month, to show their love and support of the patients at the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital,” said Silent Observer Executive Director Chris Cameron.

 

The parade went from the Grand Rapids Community College’s parking garage off of Ransom Avenue and made its way up to the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital on Lake Michigan Drive. Officers then unloaded the toys to carts which were wheeled inside to the hospital.

“We’re so pleased to have donations like this from the generosity of the community,” said Kelly Dyer, president of Spectrum Health and Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundations.  “The generosity is simply amazing. It has been such a challenging year for everyone, and we are grateful for those who make time for this kind of thing.”

It’s all about bringing a little bit of joy, she added with a smile.

Grandville Chief Paul Anglim (WKTV)

“Making a child feel normal while managing a challenging situation like being in the hospital is what it’s all about.  Bringing a little bit of joy…that’s what we’re trying to do here.”

Glenn Colbert, a former Kentwood Police officer who is now manager of security at Spectrum Health, agreed with Dyer, adding he felt it was a great opportunity to showcase the public outreach many officers do for the community.

“We are happy to have this opportunity to partner with our fellow law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel by supporting the children in the hospital,” said Matt Brinkman, director of security at Spectrum Health.

 

Along with Grandville, Wyoming and Kentwood police departments, other law enforcement and first responder agencies that participated in the Toy Express event were Spectrum Security Police, Grandville Fire, Michigan State Police. Kent County Sheriff’s Office, Grand Rapids Police, Walker Police, East Grand Rapids Department of Public Safety, Rockford Department of Public Safety, Grand Rapids Community College Police, Plainfield Township Fire, American Medical Response, Life EMS, Lowell Police, and Grand Valley State University Police.

  • Kentwood officer Jamie Karwowski and Jeff Augustyn help unload toys.
  • Kentwood Officer Jamie Karwowski hands a present to Officer Jeff Augustyn
  • Wyoming Officer Chad Lynn helps to unload a truck
  • Wyoming Officer Chad Lynn and Kentwood Officer Jeff Augustyn help with the toys
  • Wyoming Officer Chad Lynn places boxes full of toys on a cart
  • All of the law enforcement officers who helped on Dec. 7

Recent ‘bomb scare’ serves as reminder to call police first

3-bottom, , ,
The inert mortar round and .30 caliber bullets were brought into the Wyoming Department of Public Safety on Feb. 18. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

When a person comes back from a vacation, it is not uncommon for them to also bring back a few souvenirs. It is no different for those who have fought in a war, especially World War II, Korea, or Vietnam — except their souvenirs could possibly be explosive.

“It was not uncommon for veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam to bring these items (munitions such as mortar shells) home,” said Sgt. Joe Roney, one of 12 members on the Michigan State Police Bomb Squad that services the westside of Michigan. “As these veterans pass, it is when family members come across these items.”

Such was the case last week when a resident came to the City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety with munitions, which turned out to be an inert mortar round and .30 caliber bullets, to the the department’s headquarters at 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW. For safety, the department closed its offices until the Michigan State Police Bomb Squad was able to clear the items.

“We usually ask people to call the police department before bringing stuff in,” said Roney, who was one of the members from the Michigan State Bomb squad to respond to last week’s call. “We really do not want people to drive around with these items in their car because they don’t know if they are live.”

According to experts, munitions can become more volatile and unpredictable as the items age, so police urge residents to leave the items where they are discovered and call the police. 

“Some of the items can be highly explosive,” Roney said, adding that dynamite and blasting caps are examples of such items.

“Farmers often had dynamite or blasting caps to blow up stumps,” he said. “If you come across these items, they can still be very dangerous.”

Roney said his unit gets quite a few calls for found old munitions. There are stories of a person who noticed a neighbor’s doorstop was an old 60-millimeter shell but most people just find items stored in in a forgotten box in the home after the person has died. 

For people who come across such items, evacuate the area and call the local police department which in turn will reach out to the the Michigan State Bomb Squad, Roney said.

All items are properly disposed of by the Michigan State Bomb Squad, he said.

It is estimated that 500,000 World War II, 2.25 million Korean War, and about 850,000 Vietnam War veterans were still living in 2018.


Wyoming Department of Public Safety recognizes officers, firefighters during annual event

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, ,
2019 Civilian of the Year: Forensic Science Unit Technician Todd Masula (Photo by WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

It seems like it only takes a keystroke for a television forensic scientist to determine who left that fingerprint on the wall, but Wyoming Department of Public Safety Forensic Science Unit Technician Todd Masula knows better than that.

He has spent countless hours hours putting in latent prints, manually scanning each useable print and carefully marking as many small details with each print as he can find. The more details Masula’s can isolate, the greater the chance of making an identification. 

“The computer does not find the match for Todd, but instead gives him a list of candidates that most closely match the latent he entered,” said Wyoming Department of Public Safety Lt. Tim Pols. “This means Todd may have to look at 20 or more candidates for each latent print he enters into the system.”

The number of prints Masula looked at last year alone were in the thousands. In 2019, of the 600 latent prints Masula entered into the new Automated Fingerprint System, 348 were identified to an individual. According to Pols, in the previous three years combined, 550 latent prints were entered, resulting in 281 identifications. 

“It is hours of difficult, tedious, and often unnoticed work,” Pols said. “The latent work is in addition to the science work, photography, training and property management still required of Masula.”

It is this reason that the Wyoming Department of Pubic Safety group of civilian employees named Masula as the 2019 Civilian of the Year for the department.

Masula was recognized along with about 60 other Department officers, firefighters, and civilians during the annual Wyoming Department of Public Safety Employees Recognition Ceremony, which was held Feb. 20 at the Wyoming Senior Center. Pols, from police, and Lt. Chris Velzen, from fire, were the master of ceremonies.

Coming in during off hours to help prevent a suicide, returning a teenager safely to her home, noticing a suspicious car that leads to a drug arrest, or even spending countless hours logging latent prints are all part of the job for many of the officers, firefighters, and civilians who work for the department, said Chief Kim Koster.

 

2019 Officer of the Years: Officer Marcus Donker (Supplied)

“None of these officers seek out the accolades for doing any of this,” Koster said, adding this is a time for the department to recognize just what the team at the Wyoming Department of Public Safety does.

Once such officer is Officer Marcus Donker, who was recognized at the beginning of the hour-and-half event with the first two Individual Commendations for his work that lead to the recover of stolen vehicles. He also was recognized at the end of the program as the 2019 Officer of the Year.

“Since joining the Wyoming team, he has quietly earned a reputation as an outstanding police professional with a keen ability to catch criminals and a heart for serving his community,” Pols said during the ceremony.

Donker has been in law enforcement for 14 years coming from the Constantine Police Department three years ago to serve on the Wyoming Department of Public Safety. He has received praise and accolades across the board from his peers, Pols said.

The Unit Commendation went to Shift B Nights (Photo by WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

A total of 12 awards were given out to about 60 officers, firefighters, and civilians. Those awards and recipients were:

Citation of Valor

Officer Phil Swiercz

Certificate of Merit 

Sgt. Cory Walendzik

Officer Erich Staman

Officer Lee Atkinson

Achievement Medal 

Officer Daniel Patterson

“Unit” Commendation

B Nights Shift

Sgt. Robert Meredith

Officer Aaron Gray

Officer Daniel Patterson

Officer Aaron Brooks

Officer Erich Staman

Officer Michael Nachtegall

Officer Chad Wells

Officer Andrew Koeller

Field training officers who were recognized included Officer Daniel Patterson, Officer Joshua Yancho, Office Antonio Hutchins, Officer Dwayne Holmberg, Firefighter Anthony Bennett, Firefighter Jason Hanlon, Firefighters Jesse May, and Firefighter Mike Updyke. (Photo by WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Life Saving Award

EO Tom Marsman

EO Steven Boetsma

Inspector Brad Dornbos

Firefighter Daniel Royce

Firefighter Brandon Travis

Lt. Brad Deppe

Firefighters Matt Frazee

EO Lacey Koens

LT. Christopher Velzen

EO Brian Ilbrink

Firefighter Zachary Jones 

Firefighter Daniel Rettig

Firefighter Jason Richardson

Firefighter Todd Yonkers

EO Daniel Deppe

Firefighter Jesse May

Firefighter Michele Kelly

Firefighter Matthew Young

Firefighter Jason Hanlon

Officer Ben Hecksel

Individual Commendation

Sgt. Ross Eagan

Officer Marcus Donker

Officer Daniel Patterson

Officer Daniel Sanderson

Officer Chad Wells

Officers Aaron Freeman

Officer Blair Shellenbarger

Officer Antonio Hutchins

Officer Lee Atkinson

Officer Joshua Yancho

Officer Christian Bomer

Officer Jacob Bylsma

Officer Brandon Knowling

Officer Ben Hecksel

2019 Chief’s Award of Professional Excellence: Officer Jennifer Eby (Photo by WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Field Training Officer

Officer Daniel Patterson

Officer Joshua Yancho

Office Antonio Hutchins

Officer Dwayne Holmberg

Firefighter Anthony Bennett

Firefighter Jason Hanlon

Firefighter Jesse May

Firefighter Mike Updyke

Chief’s Award of Professional Excellence

Officer Jennifer Eby

Outstanding Police Administrative Service Award

Celia Rhodes

Citizen Commendation 

Robert Prelewitz 

Larisa McMartin

Wyoming Police seeking info on Jan. 19 homicide

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By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is seeking information regarding a homicide that took place Sunday, Jan. 19.

At approximately 10:35 p.m. on Jan. 19, members of the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a shots fired called in the 5000 block of Curtis Drive SW. Officers located a victim with a fatal gunshot wound near 5027 Curtis Drive SW. The victim was later identified as Wyoming resident Medardo David Ibuado, who was 23-years-old.

The relationship between the victim and the shooter or shooters is not known but preliminary information suggests that while the suspect or suspects are not in-custody, there is no specific threat or reason to believe there is any elevated danger to the general public, according the Wyoming Department of Public Safety.

There is no suspect description available at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this homicide is asked to contact the Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or 911. They can also report information anonymously by calling Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

After first snow fall, Wyoming police reminding drivers to slow down

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

A morning accident that involved a Wyoming police car has Wyoming Department of Public Safety officials reminding drivers to slow down.

At approximately 7:30 a.m., a Wyoming Police officer was policing a five-car crash on Chicago Driver near the westbound I-196 ramp. As vehicles were slowing down for the crash, one vehicle lost control and struck another vehicle before striking the police vehicle, according to a department press release about the accident. There were minor injuries in the original five-car crash and not injuries in the three-car crash involving the police vehicle.

Lt. Eric Wiler said during the first snowfall, there seems to be a number of crashes as people relearn how to drive in the snow. In fact, stations reporting the weather on Sunday night reminded viewers of being careful on the roads as West Michigan got its first taste of winter.

“We just want to remind people to slow down,” Wiler said. “Make sure they are leaving plenty of room between them and the car in front of them and approach accident scenes with caution.”

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Study, bad weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 deaths every winter. For winter driving, the National Safety Council and AAA recommend the following driving tips:

Avoid using cruise control in wintery conditions

Steer in the direction of a skid so when your wheels regain traction, you don’t have to over correct to stay in your lane.

Accelerate and decelerate slowly.

Increase following distances 8 to 10 seconds.

If possible, don’t stop going uphill.

According to the National Safety Council, if the weather looks iffy, wait out the storm if possible. The council also notes that there are a number of safety features built in on today’s cars. For more tips and what those car features are, click here.

Wyoming Police look for suspects in Russell and Ballard Jewelers burglary

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By the Wyoming Department of Public Safety

At approximately 11:30 pm on Nov. 3, officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a commercial burglary alarm at Russell and Ballard Jewelers (5751 Byron Center Ave SW). The suspects had forced entry into the business and stole an undisclosed amount of jewelry before fleeing the store.

The suspects are described as two males with hoods pulled over their faces. We are working on obtaining video surveillance footage from the business and will release photos of the suspects as soon as they are available.

Community Action:

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Wyoming police mark 60 years by honoring two of its own

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, , ,
Former Wyoming lieutenant Dan Bigalow (seated with ball cap) looks over the certificate he received with family and friends. Bigalow was honored during a special 60th anniversary celebration for the city’s police department which started in 1959. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

For Dan Bigelow it all started when he came back from the Korean War in 1953.

“My brother-in-law stopped by the house and said he had put in an application to the Wyoming Police Department,” Bigelow said. “I thought if he could do it, so could I. So I put an application as well.

“I got hired and he didn’t and I have to say, it was not a bad decision.”

Bigelow along with Bill Catlin were honored during a special program celebrating the Wyoming Department of Public Safety’s 60th Anniversary. They each received a certificate and retired officer badge.

“I think you cannot build upon the future and look forward if you don’t know you history, where the community came from, what was the culture, what changes were made,” said Chief Kim Koster about the importance of celebrating those who have served the department.

Wyoming Township became the City of Wyoming Jan. 1, 1959, with the Wyoming Township Police Department becoming the City of Wyoming Police Department. Years later, the city’s fire and police departments merged to create the Wyoming Department of Public Safety.

Retired detective Bill Catlin (seated with Veterans hat) visits with friends and family. Ctalin also was honored during the 60th anniversary celebration. (WKTV)

Bigelow joined the Wyoming Township Police Department in 1955 and Catlin joined in 1956. They were among the 17 township officers who were part of the city’s first police force. Both followed the department through its many transitions, each serving the department for 33 years. Bigelow retired as a lieutenant in 1988 and Catlin as a detective in 1989.

In attendance at the event were several retires spanning the 60 years of the department, including former Chief Edward Edwardson, who along with others shared stories about the department. Capt. Kip Snyder talked about the history of the department. The department now has 86 sworn officers. About 45 are on road patrol with another 11 serving as detectives.

The department also has a forensic science department and a canine unit that includes four dogs, who Snyder admitted were often more popular than the officers. Koster said the department will be adding four new motorcycles this year, another item that is often popular with the public.

Bruce Fogerty, with his wife Doreen, has been retired from the department for 26 years. (WKTV)

“I really enjoyed the work,” said Bruce Fogerty, who has been retired from the department for 26 years. “This was a great way for us to get together and see people we haven’t seen in awhile.”

Also as part of the 60th anniversary for the police department, Senator Peter MacGregor and Rep. Tommy Brann presented the department with a proclamation from Brann, MacGregor, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer at the City Council regular meeting on Monday, May 6.

Wyoming Police looking for information about shooting at Lamar Park

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
The alleged suspect vehicle leaving the scene. (Wyoming Department of Public Safety)

By City of Wyoming

At approximately 8:30 pm on Monday, April 22, 2019, officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a shooting complaint at Lamar Park. Officers located a subject that sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the arm. The initial investigation indicates that this was not a random shooting.

After the gunshot was fired, the suspects fled the scene in a silver Jeep Grand Cherokee with a black colored rear bumper (possibly has black trim around the entire lower portion of the vehicle) and a blackcolored spare rim/tire on the driver’s side rear. The shooting suspect is described as a white male, approximately 20-years-old, 5-feet 7 inches – 5-feet 9 inches, heavy set, and last seen wearing a t-shirt and shorts. There were two additional subjects in the Jeep at the time of the shooting. One was described as a white male, approximately 20-years-old and the other was believed to be a Hispanic male, also approximately 20-years-old.

A picture of the alleged suspect’s car. (Wyoming Department of Public Safety)

As stated earlier, this does not appear to be a random event and there is no further danger to anyone in the Lamar Park area.

Anyone with information about his case is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or to contact Silent Observer at 1-866-774-2345.

Wyoming police looking for robbery suspect

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  • Images of the suspect captured from a security camera. (Supplied)
  • Images of the suspect captured from a security camera. (Supplied)

By Wyoming Department of Public Safety

At approximately 4:55 pm on Tuesday January 22, 2019, officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a bank robbery at the 5/3 Bank, 1031 Chicago Dr SW. The suspect entered the bank, demanded money, and implied he had a weapon. The suspect obtained an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene, possibly in a grey SUV. There were no injuries during this incident.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic or Puerto Rican male in his 40s, 5’11” tall, thin build, and had a mustache. He was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, gray winter hat, blue jeans, and black tennis shoes.

Anyone with information about his case is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or to contact Silent Observer, 1-866-774-2345.


Snapshots: Kentwood, Wyoming Holiday Weekend News You Need to Know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , 
"May your walls know joy, may every room hold laughter, and every window open to great possibility."  
                                                                                     -  Author Mary Anne Radmacher

Kentwood resident Cecilia Nguyen (far left holding the nutcracker) stars as Clara in the Grand Rapids Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker.”

Tiny Dancer

There is still time to catch Kentwood resident Cecilia Nguyen in the role of Clara at the Grand Rapids Ballet’s presentation of “The Nutcracker.” The show runs through Sunday, Dec. 23 at the DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. The production features the world-famous design of Chris Van Allsburg (“The Polar Express,” “Jumanji,”) Broadway-quality sets by Tony Award winner Eugene Lee (“Wicked,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Saturday Night Live”), festive choreography by Val Caniparoli, and live music from the Grand Rapids Symphony. For tickets, visit grballet.com.

The Santa’s Rocket Express is now on display at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Holiday Memories

Remember those days of yore when you and your family visited the Herpolsheimer and rode the Santa’s Rocket Express? The Grand Rapids Public Museum has the train on display for the holidays. Speaking of the Public Museum, the organization will be hosting its Snowflake Break activities again this year centered around two exhibits: “Expedition: Dinosaur” and “TOYS!” Or take a trip down memory lane to the mall, where many people will be this weekend, as WKTV takes a look at how malls in America not only changed shopping habits, but holiday traditions as well.

The Ford Airport has a few tips for those flying home, or just traveling, over the holidays.

Here’s a tip, and one more for the road

Heading out for the holidays to visit family or just to travel? The Gerald R. Ford International Airport has a few tips on flying such as arriving between 90-120 minutes before your flight leaves as lines will be longer (and also because of airport construction) and not wrapping gifts, but putting them in gift bags. Also, a recent traffic incident this past Thursday had the Wyoming Department of Public Safety reminding drivers about drowsy driving and how to avoid it. So safe travels everyone!

Fun Fact:

25 Million Tons

According to Stafford University, Americans throw away about 25 percent more extra trash during the holidays with the extra trash being about 25 million tons of garbage. Want to help reduce that? The Kent County Department of Public Works has a few suggestions.

Wyoming police offer tips on avoiding drowsy driving during the holidays

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , ,

At approximately 2:45 am on Dec. 20, 2018, an officer from the Wyoming Dept. of Public Safety was traveling southbound on US 131, near 44th St SW, when he observed a wrong way driver going northbound in the southbound lanes. The officer immediately activated his emergency lights and siren to warn other drivers of the possible impending danger and pulled alongside of the wrong way vehicle, which was traveling at approximately 50-60 mph. The officer noticed that the driver appeared to be sleeping and used his cruiser to push the car to a stop. This quick thinking action almost certainly prevented a head-on collision which could have injured or killed someone.

It does not appear that alcohol or drugs were a factor in this incident and there were no injuries to the driver or officer. The driver of the vehicle stated he had been awake for more than 40 hours and was sleep deprived.

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety would like to take this opportunity to remind drivers of the dangers associated with “drowsy driving” or “fatigued driving.” The National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) estimates that approximately 90,000 vehicle crashes in 2015 were caused by drowsy drivers in the United States. Additionally, there were 795 traffic fatalities in 2017 due to drowsy driving. Below are some tips from the NHTSA on how to avoid driving drowsy:

How To Avoid Driving Drowsy

1. Getting adequate sleep on a daily basis is the only true way to protect yourself against the risks of driving when you’re drowsy. Experts urge consumers to make it a priority to get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. For more information on healthy sleep, see Healthy Sleep At A Glance (PDF, 1.81 MB) at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website.

2. Before the start of a long family car trip, get a good night’s sleep, or you could put your entire family and others at risk.

3. Many teens do not get enough sleep at a stage in life when their biological need for sleep increases, which makes them vulnerable to the risk of drowsy-driving crashes, especially on longer trips. Advise your teens to delay driving until they’re well-rested.

4. Avoid drinking any alcohol before driving. Consumption of alcohol interacts with sleepiness to increase drowsiness and impairment. 

5. Always check your prescription and over-the-counter medication labels to see if drowsiness could result from their use. 

6. If you take medications that could cause drowsiness as a side effect, use public transportation when possible. 

7. If you drive, avoid driving during the peak sleepiness periods (midnight – 6 a.m. and late afternoon). If you must drive during the peak sleepiness periods, stay vigilant for signs of drowsiness, such as crossing over roadway lines or hitting a rumble strip, especially if you’re driving alone.

Short-term Interventions

1. Drinking coffee or energy drinks alone is not always enough. They might help you feel more alert, but the effects last only a short time, and you might not be as alert as you think you are. If you drink coffee and are seriously sleep-deprived, you still may have “micro sleeps” or brief losses of consciousness that can last for four or five seconds. This means that at 55 miles per hour, you’ve traveled more than 100 yards down the road while asleep. That’s plenty of time to cause a crash. 

2. If you start to get sleepy while you’re driving, drink one to two cups of coffee and pull over for a short 20-minute nap in a safe place, such as a lighted, designated rest stop. This has been shown to increase alertness in scientific studies, but only for short time periods. 

Wyoming Fire Department receives $138,573 FEMA grant

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , ,
The Wyoming Fire Department received a grant that will go toward purchasing new rescue equipment.

The City of Wyoming will be able to purchase new emergency equipment – thanks to a $138,573 grant awarded to its Department of Public Safety – Fire Division.

The City has received an Assistance to Firefighter Grant through the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Association. The grant will be used by the department to purchase emergency equipment to aid with automobile extrications, hazardous material incidents, rope, water, ice and trench rescues, and medical and technical rescue incidents.  

City of Wyoming firefighters spend nearly 5,000 hours in training each year, with a large portion of that time focused on fire operations and technical rescue. The new equipment, which was carefully selected to serve multiple purposes, will allow them to grow their skills and further prepare for a variety of rescue situations that may arise in the community. 

“The safety and well-being of our residents is the focal point for everything we do,” said Deputy Fire Chief Dennis Van Tassell. “This new rescue equipment will enhance our current capabilities and allow us to demonstrate additional leadership related to a wide variety of emergency incidents and operations.

“We’re grateful for FEMA’s confidence in our department – both our skills and abilities, and the manner in which we steward our resources.”

About the Wyoming Department of Public Safety – Fire Bureau: The Wyoming Department of Public Safety – Fire Bureau is a citizen-focused provider of fire protection, emergency medical and rescue services. First established in 1968, the Department now serves more than 75,000 residents and covers approximately 27 square miles. From fire protection to EMS, inspections, training and more, each section of the Fire Bureau plays an important role in ensuring the safety of the citizens of Wyoming. For more information, please visit www.wyomingmi.gov.

Wyoming Gives Back in a big way

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, , ,
  • Area residents had fun with the Christmas greetings at the WKTV booth.
  • Council members Rob Postema, Marissa Postler, and Dan Burrill
  • Mayor Jack Poll makes a few announcements before the event starts.
  • Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD TV 8’s Eva Agurrie Cooper
  • The boys and girls choir from San Juan Diego Academy
  • Many area businesses were sponsors of the Wyoming Gives Back event
  • Area businesses had booths at the Wyoming Gives Back event showing services and products.
  • SuperMercado Mexico showcased some of the products they offer at their store.
  • Several area businesses were at the Thursday night event.
  • The big goal of the evening was to fill that truck with toys.
  • Wyoming residents gave back with the truck overflowing.
  • Officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety were at the event.
  • It got to the point were the toys would not fit in the truck as it was so full.
  • Some Christmas greeting fun at the WKTV booth.
  • Toys were everywhere at the Wyoming Gives Back.
  • A big part of the night were the raffle prizes donated by area businesses.
  • Residents who donated were able to get a raffle ticket for prizes.
  • The Rogers Plaza Mall was packed for the Wyoming Gives Back event on Dec. 6.
  • A raffle winner receives his prize while others visit the booths of local businesses.
  • The crowd waits for the next group to perform.
  • Mayor Jack Poll announces the next raffle prize winner.
  • The choir from Godwin Heights High School await to go on to perform.
  • The Wyoming Fire Department members were also on hand for the event.
  • The choir from Godwin Heights performs.
  • The jazz band from the Wyoming High School performs.
  • The jazz band from the Wyoming High School wows the Wyoming Gives Back crowd.
  • Area residents fill the truck at the Wyoming Gives Back.
  • One full truck at the Wyoming Gives Back.
  • A bike awaiting to board the truck at the Wyoming Gives Back.

Thursday, Dec. 6, residents came out in full force to help those in need at Wyoming Gives Back.

 

By the end of the night, the Wyoming Department of Public Works truck was overflowing with gifts from residents for the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree. Residents were able to bring in a gift and for every gift donated, received a raffle ticket for prizes. The prizes were donated by area businesses. 

 

Many local business had booths sharing information about services and products they provided. Performances featured the choir from the San Juan Diego Academy, the jazz band from the Wyoming High School, and the choir from Godwin Heights High School. The Salvation Army was handing out hot chocolate and cookies and several area businesses had candy and other items for those who attended.

 

Organizers said they were pleased with the success of the event. This was the eighth annual Wyoming Gives Back. Mayor Jack Poll noted the city decided several years ago to move its annual holiday event indoors and to focus on the spirit of the season. He said the event has been well received every year with residents and staff looking for to it.


Wyoming Police K-9 Unit featured in ArtPrize entry ‘Blue Courage’

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By Micah Cho

WKTV Intern

 

Inside Flanagan’s Irish Pub in downtown Grand Rapids, you can find food, drinks, and Nidal Kanaan’s ArtPrize entry “Blue Courage.” Photographing the Wyoming Police K-9 unit, Kanaan produced images that ArtPrize attendees will enjoy while stopping in for a quick refreshment.  

 

“I learned quite a bit” Kanaan told the WKTV Journal. “These dogs are extremely hard working and the humans are also extremely hard working. There’s a lot of teamwork and community between them.” 

 

The largest photograph featured in Kanaan’s entry highlights the relationship a K-9 officer has with his/her partner.  

 

Nidal Kanaan’s ArtPrize piece “Blue Courage” can be found at Flanagan’s Irish Pub.

“My favorite picture is the one in the middle…” Said Kanaan. “It’s officer Ryan [Patterson] and his dog Chase. Just that eye contact between them is so powerful. And it’s not just the eye contact in the training sense that, what is my next move? What do I need to do next? But there’s a lot of love there. They are officers and partners, but they do have that human and dog bond too.” 

 

“I would describe my relationship with my K-9 partner as a love/hate relationship,” said Officer Patterson. “They’re trained to be dominate, and with that there’s always a struggle…But it’s definitely a close relationship when you spend more time with them than you do your spouse”. 

 

From having role models that were police officers to raising dogs for hunting, all four officers have a different story in why they wanted to be part of a K-9 unit. Officer Kelsey Eisen originally wanted to become a dog trainer. She decided to join the  Wyoming Public Safety Department in hopes of pursing her passion by becoming a K-9 officer. Her dream came true a year-and-a-half ago when she was paired with her partner Dutch. 

 

Overall, Kanaan is grateful with the time he was able to spend with the officers. A combination of the two parties created photographs that not only represent teamwork, but also love and affection between officer and K-9. 

 

Officer Ryan Patterson with Chase, Officer Kelsey Eisen with Dutch, and Officer Daniel Sanderson with Azar

All photographs featured in Kanaan’s entry are up for sale. Proceeds go towards adoption fees for West Michigan shelters. During last year’s ArtPrize event, Kanaan was able to cover 25 adoption fees for West Michigan dogs. 

 

ArtPrize runs through Oct. 7. All law enforcement officers and firefighters receive 25 percent off their bill at Flanagan’s during ArtPrize.

 

If you would like to see Wyoming’s K-9 officers in action, the police department will be hosting its annual K-9 carnival at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW, on Saturday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m.  

 

To learn more about Nidal’s ArtPrize entry, visit his page on the ArtPrize website, https://www.artprize.org/67259. Flanagan’s Irish Pub is located at 139 Pearl St. NW, just a couple of buildings east of the corner of Monroe Avenue and Pearl Street.

National Night Out shines a light on crime prevention by bringing neighbors together

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , , , , , ,

Area mayors and law enforcement officials will  gather for the Consumers Energy kick off for National Night Out on Aug. 7.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Once again the communities of Kentwood and Wyoming will be participating in National Night Out — this year on Tuesday, Aug. 7 — where residents are encouraged to turn their porch light on and come out and meet their neighbors. 

 

A nationwide movement started by the National Association of Town Watch in 1984, the annual event promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. 

 

“The City of Kentwood is committed to fostering a strong sense of community where neighbors look out for neighbors, which is what National Night Out is all about,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “The City’s police, firefighters, and entire leadership team encourage all to participate and to become active citizens in their neighborhoods.”

 

Various activities will be offered at several neighborhood National Night Out event.s

All residents have to do is turn their porch light on between 7— 10 p.m. to participate although many neighborhoods do much more hosting block parties that range from potlucks to an array of activities. Between the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood. there are about 35 different neighborhood parties taking place, most between 5— 8 p.m with local officers and firefighters attempting to make it to as many events as possible. 

 

The day kicks off with Consumers Energy hosting an early morning event with both Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll and Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley there along with Kentwood Police Chief Tom Hilton and Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster. The event also will be attended by officials from the Walker, Grandville and Grand Rapids communities as well as representatives from the Michigan State Police and the Kent County Sheriff’s Department.

 

Two large Consumers Energy trucks also will have buckets extended 75 feet above U.S. 131 to help draw attention to the event. which is from 5:30— 8 a.m. with a proclamation read at 7:15 a.m. Police and fire vehicles will line up in front of the Consumer Energy’s building at 4000 Clay Ave. SW.

 

City of Kentwood National Night Out Activities

 

The City of Kentwood will get its National Night Out activities started with an event at Woodland Mall from 3— 5 p.m. Residents will have to opportunity to met with Kentwood police and firefighters and get an up-close look at emergency vehicles. There will be a bicycle raffle and a special visit from McGruff the Crime Dog.

 

There is about 20 different neighborhood events taking place throughout the city, several of which will have a variety of entertainment. Those with special activities are:

 

• Christ Community Church, 2400 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 5— 7 p.m., will have water slides, games, food and beverages.

 

• Wingate Apartments, 3151 Wingate Dr. SE, 5— 7 p.m., will have a dunk tank and live music.

 

• South United Methodist Church, 4500 S. Division Ave., 6— 8 p.m, will have live music, a water slide, games, hot dogs, ice cream, snow cones and punch.

 

• Faith Church, 1412 44th St. SE, 6— 8 p.m., will have face painting, music, games, hot dogs, and pop.

 

• Pentecostals of Kentwood, 2627 44th St. SE, 6—8 p.m., will have a bounce house, puppets, live music, games, food and beverages.

 

• St. Paul’s United Method Church and Forest Pointe Apartments, 3334 Breton Ave. SE, 6—8 p.m., will have lawn games, sidewalk chalk, basketball, food and beverages. 

 

“A strong alliance between citizens and law enforcement is necessary for achieving safer neighborhoods,” said Police Chief Tom Hillen. “Members of our department are always eager to connect with residents during National Night Out as it offers a great opportunity to build positive relationships and promote open communication.”

 

For a complete list of events, visit www.kentwood.us/national_night_out.

 

City of Wyoming’s National Night Out

 

The City of Wyoming’s biggest National Night Out event is in conjunction with the Concerts in the Park series hosted by the Wyoming Community Enrichment Committee. There will be activities from 6—7 p.m. with Chief Koster making a presentation at 6:55 p.m. Then at 7 p.m. the Yellow Brick Road dueling pianos take over for a night of Billy Joel and Elton John music. The theme for the concert is super hero with everyone encouraged to dress as or where something from their favorite super hero.

 

The City of Wyoming has about 15 neighborhood parties ranging from small gatherings to those with an arrange of activities. Those open to the public are:

 

• Oriole Park Neighborhood Watch will host an event at Oriole Park, which is located off of 40th Street, from 6—8 p.m.

 

• South Godwin Neighborhood Watch will host an event at Southlawn Park, 4125 Jefferson Ave. SE., from 6—8 p.m.

 

• Grace University, 1011 Aldon St. SW, from 5—7 p.m.

 

Kent County Sheriff’s National Night Out Activities

 

The Kent County Sheriff’s Department will be part of the South Kent National Night Out event from 4—8 p.m. at Kentwood Community Church, 1200 60th Ave. SE.  The event will include a number of emergency vehicles from several area departments, food and other activities. The event will have demonstrations by the K-9 Unit, vehicle extraction demonstrations, the Kent County Sheriff’s Mounted Unit, children ID packets, a bounce house and dunk tank.

 

For more on the South Kent National Night Out event visit its Facebook page.

Wyoming police seeking assistance in June purse snatching

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

On June 28, 2018, at approximately 9 p.m., Wyoming Police Officers were dispatched to Walgreen’s, 4425 S. Division Ave., on a report of a purse snatching. The 72-year-old female victim was unlocking her vehicle when the suspect pulled her purse off of her shoulder. The suspect then fled towards 28th St SW on a black mountain bike.

 

The suspect is described as a white male, 25-30 years old, with long hair. He was last seen wearing a white baseball style hat, gray t-shirt, blue jeans, and riding a black mountain bike.

 

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Wyoming police looking for assistance in locating local woman

City of Wyoming,

Tina Louise Glass

UPDATE: Relatives reported they have spoken to Tina Louise Glass, according to the Wyoming Department of Public Safety.

 

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is asking for the assistance in locating Tina Louise Glass.

 

According to officers, investigators believe she is missing voluntarily but are concerned for her safety. Glass was last seen late night of July 4 or early on July 5. She is not know to have access to a vehicle. Glass is 45-years-old and 5 feet, 3 inches.  It is not known what she was wearing.

 

Anyone with information are ask to call the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 866-774-2345.

Wyoming Police in search of missing 62-year-old woman

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,

UPDATED 6/28/2018: From the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, Marilyn June Lukso has been located and she is safe.

 

Wyoming Police are requesting the public’s assistance in locating a woman not seen by family since Saturday, June 23.

 

Marilyn June Lukso is a 62 year old white female, 5’-4”, 130#, has gray hair and green eyes. We are not sure what clothing she might be wearing. She is believed to be driving a silver 2008 Chrysler 300, four-door with a Michigan plate of 2LGK18. She may not have access to important medication.

 

If you have any information as to her whereabouts, please call the Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer.

Wyoming Department of Public Safety investigating a suspicious situation

City of Wyoming, ,

On May 12, 2018 at approximately 2:01 p.m. officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a suspicious situation which occurred on the southeast corner of Chicago Drive and Wendler Avenue. A witness observed a female walking east on the sidewalk on the south side of Chicago Drive, when a white Ford pick-up pulled onto Wendler Avenue. A male exited the truck and appeared to have a brief conversation with the female. He then grabbed the female and compelled her to get into the passenger side of the truck. The truck left southbound on Wendler Avenue. The exact nature of this exchange, the relationship between the male and female, or the circumstances that may have led up to this event are not immediately evident.

 

The truck is a white mid-2000’s Ford F-150 crew cab with an open bed and no topper. It had tan or beige trim starting at the bottom of the doors and running approximately one-quarter of the way up the side of the truck. The truck has “step-ups” on the sides of each door to assist in entering the vehicle. The truck had stock rims and no other distinguishable characteristics.

 

The female was described as a black female in her teens to early 20s, approximately five feet five inches tall, with an average build. She was wearing blue jeans, a pink shirt, and possibly a jean jacket. She had a short ponytail.

 

The male was described as a black male in his 20s to 30s, tall, with an average build. He had dread locks pulled back onto the top of his head and part way down the back of his neck. He was wearing a red t-shirt, blue jeans, and white tennis shoes.

 

If anyone has any information regarding the identity of these subjects, the whereabouts of this truck, or can clarify the nature of this exchange they are asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety’s Investigative Division at 616-530-7335 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345

Wyoming City Council promotes Kimberly Koster to Public Safety chief

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Capt. Kim Koster has been named the new Wyoming Pubic Safety Chief. She will be sworn in on April 25.

In a unanimous vote, the Wyoming City Council has named Kimberly Koster its new director of public safety during its regular April 16 meeting. She will be sworn in Wednesday, April 25.

 

In this role, Koster will lead a team of nearly 130 full-time personnel, including 86 sworn police officers and 29 full-time firefighters. She is the first woman to lead the Department of Public Safety. Koster will replace Chief James E. Carmody, who will retire on April 26 after more than four decades of service in public safety – including 11 with the City of Wyoming.

 

““Capt. Koster has been an exceptional officer and instrumental member of our public safety team, and I am fully confident she will soar in this new role,”” said Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt. “”She has gone above and beyond in her various positions, and I believe is a role model and trusted figure for our residents.

“”We look forward to seeing her future accomplishments as she leads our public safety team in its ongoing mission to protect and to serve our community.””

 

With more than two decades of law enforcement experience, Koster began her career with Wyoming as a school resource and community policing officer. In this position, she worked with neighborhood groups and organized community events to bridge gaps and build solidarity among neighbors.

 

She worked her way up through the ranks to detective, sergeant, lieutenant and, most recently, captain, a position she has held since 2010. In this role, she assisted with the formation of the Public Safety Department through the administrative consolidation of police and fire services, created a new staffing model, facilitated dispatch operation transitions and led a collaborative effort in the development of the department’s five-year strategic plan.

 

““It has been an honor to watch Capt. Koster grow professionally and to form such strong bonds of trust with colleagues and the public,”” Chief Carmody said. ““This department has some of the very best public safety professionals.  They work extremely hard, and Kim is at the forefront of this team.

 

““I have complete confidence in her ability and look forward to watching her take this department to the next level, while providing second-to-none police and fire services to our community.””

 

As the chief of police and fire services, Koster plans to develop strategies that will improve the delivery of the department’s public safety services. She will ensure the open and lasting dialogue necessary to keep the community safe is maintained and members of the community are served with dignity, respect, fairness and compassion.

 

““The Wyoming community has been such an incredible place to begin and to progress in my career,”” Koster said. “”Chief Carmody has been a phenomenal mentor, and I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to take the reins and lead this first-rate public safety department, which is committed to exceptional service and strong community relations.””

 

Throughout her career, Koster has been recognized with several commendations, including the Life Saving Award, Chief’s Award of Excellence, Outstanding Young Public Safety Officer and Safe Driving Award.

 

 

She served as a 911 communications supervisor, during which time she led the consolidation of police and fire operations in multiple communities, including Wyoming’’s, move to Kent County. She has also served as lead detective in homicide investigations and as a crisis negotiator, among other critical roles throughout her career.

 

With a commitment to training, she graduated with Class 251 of the FBI National Academy. She also attended the Leadership Institute training hosted by Grand Rapids Police Department and the Police and Staff Command training hosted by Northwestern University.

 

Koster received her associates degree from Grand Rapids Junior College, her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Grand Valley State University and her master’s degree in criminal justice administration from Ferris State University.

 

She resides in Grand Rapids with her wife, Marie, and three of her children, Bonham, Cash and Jett. She also has two adult stepchildren, Samantha and Alex.

School News Network: Retiring Police Chief Says Teen Sessions Will Continue

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Godwin Heights is among four high schools where Chief Carmody meets with students

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

At a recent luncheon of about 200 educators, business people and church and community representatives involved in the One Wyoming collaborative, Wyoming Director of Police and Fire Services Chief James Carmody posed a question to the crowd: “Will anyone who is currently attending high school please raise their hand?”

 

No hands were raised, and thus Carmody made his point. At a meeting of passionate, committed leaders, why weren’t youth present? It was an all-too-common scenario. “Here we are again, finding ourselves talking about the future of our community and the future of our young people, but we are not allowing them to be at the table.”

 

Godwin Heights freshman Madisyn Rogers said she’d enjoyed talking about issues with the police chief

Carmody himself has made it a priority over the past three years to give high school students a voice at the table. Every week he spends an hour meeting with students, rotating between Wyoming, Godwin Heights, Lee and Kelloggsville high schools to hear their thoughts, receive input and help bridge any divide that may exist between the police force and community.

 

“I think the importance of how you guys fit into the whole thing is: What do you see in terms of your future here in the city?” Carmody told Godwin students at a February session. “The bottom line is hopefully at some point, whether it’s here or some other community, you realize the value of getting involved.”

 

While Carmody, who has served in law enforcement for 43 years and has headed the Wyoming force since 2006, is retiring April 26, he said the department’s work with high school students will continue under his successor.

 

“I’m old enough be your grandfather but young enough to know you have a big, big impact on what’s going on the city,” he told the Godwin Heights students. “This isn’t going away. It’s been too valuable.”

 

Wyoming Director of Police and Fire Services Chief James Carmody talks with Godwin Heights students about his plans to retire

During sessions, students ask for information about law enforcement and crimes. They seek Carmody’s perspectives on issues and share their own thoughts. They said they’ve learned a lot about the role of officers in Wyoming.

 

“We can talk to him about issues now. He can do something about it and we get a lot of useful information,” said Godwin Heights freshman Madisyn Rogers.

 

Students said they’ve also learned that police officers’ main objective is not to lock people up. “He wants to make the world a better place,” said freshman Jeffrey Young.

 

Carmody said the sessions humanize both teens and officers: “(Teens) don’t want to be defined by that one person who goes out and does horrible things. They don’t want to be painted with a broad stroke of the brush. On that same token, neither do we.”

 

Senior Mark Herrera listens to Chief James Carmody talk about his hopes for students to be involved in the community

Looking Beyond the Uniform

Students have gotten to know the candid Carmody, who always encourages two-way dialogue and listens to different points of view. He said he started the meetings to give students a chance to get to know him as more than a cop and to directly address what matters to them. He said he’s learned that he and students care about a lot of the same things.

 

“I really wanted to get down and find out what they think of us,” he said, noting that nothing good is gained from fear of police officers, and that reaching students at a young age is important. Still, police mistrust has become a heated issue nationwide. “I don’t ask for people to do anything other than be objective and to question both sides.”

 

In Wyoming, he said his role is to serve and protect the public, regardless of anyone’s legal status.

 

“I’ve gone out on public record where I fall on immigration, and I’m not ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). When I go to someone’s home, I’m not asking for their identification because I want to find out what their status is. I’m asking for their identification because I’m going to have to reach back to that person and talk to them. That’s an uphill battle. But we are not here to do (ICE’s) work.”

 

Two years ago, students from the groups were invited to a Wyoming City Council retreat and offered valuable input, Carmody said.

 

“A lot of them want a safe, secure community whether it’s here or anyone else,” he said. “They want to have jobs. They want to know their families have resources and that their families are taken care of. Those are the same questions everybody asks.”

 

At the Godwin meeting, students asked if they could come to Carmody’s retirement party and mentioned hosting their own. Carmody talked about his past, including highlights of serving on the force and how public safety has evolved over the years. They also talked about the Super Bowl, applying to colleges and planned majors.

 

It was a conversation between a police chief and teens who have taken the time to get to know one another. “We’ve found mutual respect,” Carmody said.

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Travelers are asked to avoid 32nd Street due to train derailment

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On Feb. 20, at approximately 9:31 p.m., officers and firefighters from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a train derailment which occurred underneath the 28th Street overpass just east of US-131. Two engines pulling the northbound train overturned when they reached a section of track that had been washed out due to recent heavy rain combined with snow melt. Emergency personnel rendered aid to two railroad employees who were injured as a result of the derailment. One patient was subsequently transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

 

The derailment resulted in an unknown amount of fuel being spilled from the engine. Emergency crews worked with Young’s Environmental Cleanup Inc. and Wyoming Public Works personnel to contain and mitigate the spill. No other chemicals or cargo spilled and there were no hazardous materials being carried in the train cars. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the Department of Natural Resources were notified.

 

This incident resulted in 28th Street and 32nd Street being shut down overnight. 28th Street has reopened, however, 32nd Street remains closed at this time. It will remain closed until the train can be moved later today. The incident is still under investigation and the public is being asked to avoid the area.

Wyoming Director of Police and Fire Services James Carmody announces his retirement

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After an award-winning career spanning more than four decades, Wyoming Director of Police and Fire Services Chief James E. Carmody has announced his retirement, effective April 26.

 

Chief James Carmody

Chief Carmody has served in his role since 2006, leading a team of nearly 130 full-time personnel, including 86 sworn police officers and 29 full-time firefighters. During his tenure with the department, he has built a strong foundation of community trust and led his team to serve and protect the public during natural disasters, organized crime and medical emergencies, among others. Carmody also developed innovative programs improving the department’s ability to address key issues, while bringing a hands-on approach to police services.

 

Under his leadership, the City of Wyoming:
·       Consolidated police and fire services into a single Department of Public Safety, improving efficiencies while expanding services and saving money
·       Worked to secure accreditation for the Department from the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies, making Wyoming one of the few CALEA-certified departments in Michigan
·       Developed cross-training of City employees so they can serve as on-call firefighters, supplementing full-time firefighters as needs arose
·       Directed safety and recovery efforts during two tornadoes that did significant property damage in the City
·       Instituted a community policing model that placed officers in every Wyoming school every day of the school year in an effort to build relationships
·       Built stronger relationships with the business community by developing an after-hours program of checks and visits

 

“Chief Carmody has been a significant asset and leader not only within our City offices, but especially for our residents, whom he has built countless positive relationships with,” said Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt. “I’m deeply honored to have served with him for more than a decade and am incredibly proud of his accomplishments and contributions to improve Wyoming.

 

“Jim has become a personal friend as well over the years, and I know that I speak for all of us at the City in wishing him the best as he begins his next chapter.”

 

With more than four decades of law enforcement experience, Carmody began his career as a police officer in Port Huron in 1975, where he held positions of increasing responsibility – up to a major – until joining the City of Wyoming as chief. In 2013, he managed the development of a joint public safety department and was named public safety director with responsibilities for both police and fire services in Wyoming.

 

“The departure of Chief Carmody is tremendously bittersweet,” said Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll. “He has exemplified superb professionalism and leadership during his time here, while bringing an incredible amount of energy, passion and commitment to his profession, his City and his department.

 

“We wish him well as he transitions into his retirement and thank him for his remarkable service throughout the years.”

 

As it begins its search for Carmody’s replacement, the City plans to look first at internal candidates before expanding beyond the department.

 

In his letter to Wyoming’s City Council, Carmody wrote: “…I leave you with an organization that is at the top of its game. The police and fire services that are provided to the residents and visitors of the City of Wyoming are second to none. You have, without question, some of the very best public safety professionals who work extremely hard every day for you and the people of this City.”

 

During his career, Carmody has received multiples awards and recognitions for exemplary service. Most recently, Carmody was recognized as Michigan Police Chief of the Year in 2016 by the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police.

 

Carmody received his bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University and his master’s degree from the University of Michigan. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy, the Michigan Police Executive Development School and the Michigan Law Enforcement Leadership Institute.

 

Carmody has served as longtime assessor with CALEA, evaluating departments across the country and in Mexico. He has also served on Michigan District 5 MACP as executive board alternate representative. In 2017, he was appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder to serve on the Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Commission.

 

Carmody sits on the interview panel for Congressman Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, reviewing high school students who have applied for appointment to West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy and the nation’s other military service academies. In January 2016, Carmody represented the MACP and Michigan’s law enforcement community when he attended Pres. Barak Obama’s final State of the Union address in Washington, D.C.

 

A passionate advocate for law enforcement, he has taught several police executive training classes that focus on topics ranging from suicide prevention to officer-involved shootings.

 

Carmody and his wife, Ralene, will continue to make their home in Wyoming.

Wyoming hosts Great Candy Cane Hunt this Saturday

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The Great Candy Cane Hunt is Saturday, Dec. 9.

Santa is coming to Wyoming for a special event: the annual Great Candy Cane Hunt set for Saturday, Dec. 9.

 

There is still time for people to register for the hunt, which is from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Registration is $4 for resident hildren 3-14 years old ($6 for non-residents). Additional family members who are over the age of 14 may attend and enjoy lunch for $2.

 

The annual event features a candy cane hunt, lead by St. Nick himself, outside the Wyoming Public Safety Department, 2300 DeHoop Ave. Activities including lunch will be moved inside to the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW.

 

Pre-registration is required. To register or for more information, call 616-530-3164.

Wyoming Public Safety Department seeks assistance in identifying robbery suspect

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Wyoming Department of Public Safety is asking for help to identify this suspect who allegedly robbed the Clyde Park Foods.

On Tuesday, Nov. 7, at approximately 9:25 p.m. the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the report of a robbery at Clyde Park Foods, 4227 Clyde Park Ave. SW.  The employees reported that a male subject jumped the service counter and demanded money.  The suspect is described as a black male, late 20’s, 5’9” – 5’11” with a medium build. The suspect was wearing a black mask which only revealed his eyes, black winter style hat, white gloves, a dark colored Pea Coat type jacket, and dark colored pants. The handgun that was seen is described as a black full-frame semi-automatic. An undisclosed amount of money was taken in the robbery.

 

It was reported that the suspect left west bound from the building. A K-9 track was attempted with negative results. The photos that are attached are from store security cameras.  It should be noted that one photo (on the right) is from an outside surveillance camera and it washes out the color of the items described above.  What it does show is the exact style of coat that the suspect was wearing.  We are hoping that someone may recognize this coat.

 

Wyoming Public Safety personnel continue with their investigation and ask the public’s assistance for information that may lead to the identification of the suspect.  Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Train derailment causes rerouting on 36th Street

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Wyoming Public Safety

The train was four cars long and at least two cars derailed.  Officials are reporting that there are no hazardous substances on the train.

 

According to an update from Wyoming Department of Public Safety, the engine was pushing three rail cars that derailed.

 

The engine is still on the tracks. The reason that the rail cars derailed was due to a safety mechanism that was put on the tracks for rail workers further up the line. According to the report, the safety mechanism is designed to derail the cars to protect the workers. This is much like a “lock out” tag system used by electrical or mechanical engineers / maintenance workers so that machines don’t start up while they are performing maintenance work. Police said the system did exactly what it was designed to do.  Officials said they have been told that normally these derailers are placed a little further down the line so that if cars are derailed they don’t block the roadway.

 

There has been a report of one minor injury reported (sprained ankle) to one railroad worker.

 

Currently 36th Street is blocked at Buchanan Avenue SW on the east end and it will be blocked at Clay Avenue on the west end while the rail cars are taken care of.  Also all vehicles that take the north bound off ramp from 131 to 36th Street will be directed to the west. Drivers are being encouraged to find alternative routes.

 

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety said it does not have an anticipated time that the roadway will open. Officials said barricades will be in place to assist with traffic control.

Wyoming Police asks public’s help in locating missing Wyoming woman

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Ana Marie Carrillo

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the disappearance of Ana Marie Carrillo of Wyoming.

 

Carrillo, a 35-year-old Hispanic female was expected at an address in Wyoming on Sunday but never arrived.  Her vehicle was located in a business parking lot near 40th and Clyde Park Avenue.  Carrillo is described as 5’2”, 140, brown hair and brown eyes.  She was last seen wearing a white Aeropostle sweater, gray sweatpants and white shoes.

 

According to the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, at this time officers have no reason to suspect foul play but her lack of contact with friends and family without explanation is unexpected and unexplained.

 

Ana Marie Carrillo

In a statement today, officers said that the investigative staff is actively working this case with interviews and following up on any tips from. Friends and family still have not heard from Carrillo and are still appealing to the public to assist us with attempting to local her, according to police.

 

Anyone with information about Carrillo or her whereabouts are asked to call the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Two Wyoming employees attain international professional designation

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Firefighter Bradley Dornbos

By Mark Easterly

Wyoming Department of Public Safety

 

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is pleased to announce that two employees have successfully completed the process that awards the professional designation of “Chief Training Officer” (CTO). The Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC) met on July 26, 2017, to confer the designations upon Wyoming’s Fire Lieutenant Dennis VanTassell and Firefighter Bradley Dornbos. VanTassell and Dornbos have become two of only 104 CTOs nationwide.

 

The Designation Program is a voluntary program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate their excellence in seven measured components including experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association membership, community involvement and technical competence. In addition, all applicants are required to identify a future professional development plan.

 

Captain Dennis VanTassell

The CTO designation program uses a comprehensive peer review model to evaluate candidates seeking the credential. The Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC) awards the designation only after an individual successfully meets all of the organization’s stringent criteria. Achieving this designation signifies the commitment that VanTassell and Dornbos have made to their careers in the fire and emergency services.

 

This professional designation is valid for three years. Maintaining the designation requires recipients to show continued growth in the areas of professional development, professional contributions, active association membership and community involvement as well as adhere to a strict code of professional conduct.

 

The Commission on Professional Credentialing, an entity of the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Inc. (CPSE) administers the Designation Program. The CPC consists of individuals from academia, federal and local government, and the fire and emergency medical services profession. To learn more about CPC, visit www.cpse.org.