1. law, govt and politics
2. law enforcement
3. police

2012 PORT HURON POLICE
ANNUAL REPORT
Port Huron Police Department
Mission Statement
The Port Huron Police Department will respond to community needs through a
combined strategy of preventative, proactive and reactive policing programs, using the
concept of a total integrated team effort by all employees and volunteers, the whole of
which will be supported by a progressive, participatory management environment.
Our Values
"The Constitution. We guarantee the constitutional rights of all citizens. We believe in
the principles contained within the Constitution of our nation and our state. We
recognize the authority of federal, state, and local laws."
"Honesty, Integrity, and Fairness. We will maintain the highest standards of honesty
and integrity. We believe that integrity is the basis for personal and public trust.
Fairness is the glue that holds our organization together.”
"Professionalism. We will demonstrate honor and integrity in all that we do through
ethical behavior by the pursuit of the highest standards of professionalism in
managerial, operational, and personal performance. This requires all members of the
department to accept an individual responsibility for achieving the highest professional
standards, and in particular, by demonstrating impartiality to all, regardless of color,
race, sex, creed, or social position.”
"Dedication. The department maintains a force of well trained, thoroughly professional
police officers dedicated to public service and the protection of the people of this city."
"Efficiency. This requires the effective balance of limited resources to meet increasing
calls for service with the exercise of professional judgment in setting priorities to
achieve the goals of the Department."
"Accountability. We are accountable to each other and to the citizens we serve, who
are the source of our authority."
"Cooperation. We are dedicated to improving the quality of work life in our Department
through interaction and concern for each other. We will work to enhance the
relationship between the Department and this community's neighborhoods. We believe
that cooperation among ourselves, members of the community, governmental entities,
and other enforcement agencies will enable us to combine our diverse backgrounds,
skills, and styles to achieve common goals.”
PORT HURON CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Pauline Repp
Mayor Pro-Tem
Sherry Archibald
Council Member
Alan Lewandowski
Council Member
Rachel Cole
Council Member
Brian Moeller
City Manager
Bruce Brown
Council Member
Ken Harris
Council Member
Rico Ruiz
CHIEF’S MESSAGE
March 25th, 2013
Director of
Public Safety
Mr. Bruce Brown –City Manager
Mayor Repp – City Council Members thru channels
City of Port Huron
100 McMorran Boulevard
Port Huron, MI. 48060
Chief of the Police
and Fire Divisions
Michael Reaves
Re: Annual report on the activities of the Port Huron Police Department – year 2012 Interpretation of the
Departmental Statistics – Crime Trends
City Manager Brown,
I wish to present the annual report on the activities of the Port Huron Police Department for the calendar
year 2012. I must note that the crime trends of several serious criminal offenses continue to increase, as does the
departments work load, with calls for service to the department increasing over 9%. We have made significant
strides on our enforcement efforts, including an 18% increase in the arrests of adult and juvenile offenders.
Since then, the re-organization of the Port Huron Police Department began in the winter of 2011, it has
continued on in many different fronts. One of the most noteworthy changes was the implementation of the
Department’s heralded Community Oriented Policing (COP) Program that uses distinctive zones to give officers
ownership and accountability while keeping them directly involved with citizens, neighborhood watch and
community groups. Citizens have access to their zone officers through telephone or email through our new PHPD
website www.porthuronpolice.org. The website also gives citizens access to new crime mapping software that
allows users to view incidents of crime, sex offenders, etc. This improvement in communication has really
blossomed our neighborhood watch programs and brought many other area organizations to want to “partner” in
our Community Oriented Policing program. This program has clearly given the PHPD an identity with the
community that we serve. It shows that it is a good thing to be affiliated with the Port Huron Police Department.
Another new program launched in 2012 was our internet based crime reporting solution called “COPLOGIC”. This program allows access to our criminal reporting system for a variety of different incidents by the
public. They may report electronically their complaint to our department at their convenience. This solution will
provide better service to the general public and allow officers more proactive capability. I can report that our
efficiency and effectiveness have greatly increased. We work under continued increases in calls for our service,
investigation of criminal incidents, in a time that our resources become increasingly more limited. Never the less,
we strive to continue to be a service oriented agency, centered upon working to develop a long term partnership
with the community that we serve.
Late in 2012 the Port Huron Police Department accepted change again when our status was changed to
that of a combined Public Safety Department. Now the Police and Fire Divisions of the Port Huron Department of
Public Safety will work together to ensure an elite level of effective and efficient service to our constituents.
I commend the men and women of the Port Huron Police Department for their outstanding work in this
transitional year. It has been a fast paced, exciting year in the City of Port Huron. I am pleased to present the year
2012 in review. We work very hard to make this city a safer, more enjoyable place to live, work, and visit. We are
very proud of our efforts, but we do not rest upon our accomplishments. Our future will continue to be one of
change, of continued evolvement as we transition toward our goal of being the best.
Sincerely,
Chief Michael Reaves
CAPTAIN’S MESSAGE
The year 2012 was one of
continuing change for the
Port
Huron
Police
Department. The goal of the
organization
was
to
improve services to the
residents of Port Huron as
well as the many daily
visitors to our area.
Capt. Jeff Baker
Beginning his first full year
in Port Huron, Chief Reaves
focused on improvements to the structural side of
the department. As the economy continued to
struggle in 2012, our focus and direction was to
improve police services with less financial
resources. To achieve this goal, our agency made
community partners with several entities in and
around Port Huron. The department works closely
with the Port Huron Area School District, TriHospital EMS, Port Huron and Mercy Hospitals,
The Community Foundation, Acheson Ventures
and many other local businesses and institutions.
To further our mission, the Department has
applied for and received several state and federal
grants. For example, the department received
funding to purchase COPLOGIC, a state-of-the-art
self reporting system developed to reduce wait
times for citizens and free officers to handle higher
priority crimes. Towards the end of the summer,
our agency received a grant to fund Operation Safe
Streets, a driven, dedicated police response to
problem areas in the City. The program was very
successful, resulting in over 60 arrests,
confiscation of various drugs, guns, and over
$16,000 in forfeitures. At the end of 2012, PHPD
received notice that another grant was approved
similar to Operation Safe Streets and will be
utilized in 2013 to further target criminal hotspots
in the City. This state level grant is formulated on
the principal that crime and traffic patterns
coupled together will identify hotspots that will
have dedicated officer patrols. Deemed Operation
TCR(traffic crime reduction), citizens will see
increased police presence and aggressive crime
fighting strategies as a result of this grant
throughout the spring and summer of 2013. Other
grant funds received have allowed our agency to
offer its 9th Citizens Police Academy, increase
police patrol along the waterways, update an aging
booking software system and purchase a side-byside ATV for patrolling parks, beaches and special
events.
The change at PHPD was not just limited to the
structure as two relatively new officers resigned
due to personal reasons. Determined, the
Department set out to find the best candidates to
fill the vacancies and after a lengthy search hired 3
great individuals that were honored to serve this
community. PHPD welcomed Officers Brandon
Rossow, Derek Paret and Eric Rossow to our team
in 2012.
PHPD continues to work on its Community
Policing approach to crime prevention. Officers
can be seen on a regular basis walking through the
hallways of our schools or attending the frequent
Neighborhood Watch meetings. Our crime
prevention efforts are stronger than ever and are so
because of the great work by Community Services
/DARE Officer Laura Phillips. Officer Phillips
completed her term as CSO/DARE Officer in
2012. She returned to road patrol but is still
involved in Community Policing on a regular
basis. Her replacement, Officer Adrianne
Mynsberge, has taken over the reigns and looks
forward to 2013 and beyond to continue
improving the program.
The PHPD would like to thank all of its
supporters, and in particular the citizens of this
town that have been resilient in the fight against
crime. The response by the public to assist the
Department is tremendous which is exemplified by
the banner year for the Port Huron Police
CAPTURE program. CAPTURE is a witness line
where callers can remain anonymous and report
crimes. Information that leads to an arrest is
eligible for a reward which is typically paid the
next business day. Citizens are reminded to
contact our agency whenever they feel suspicious
or criminal activity is taking place and can do so
by contacting dispatch at 810-985-8115. Those
wishing to remain anonymous can call CAPTURE
at (810)987-6688. Rewards of up to $1000 are
available.
DETECTIVE BUREAU
The Port Huron Police Department Detective Bureau conducts follow up investigation for
felony and misdemeanor complaints that are generated and forwarded by the Patrol
Division. Detectives follow up with crime scene processing, evidence collection, and
interviews and interrogations for a wide variety of cases. Detectives process other
information such as Protective Service referrals, CAPTURE, and Crime Stopper tips for
wanted fugitives. Detectives complete sex offender checks with other divisions/agencies
and they also monitor the licensed liquor establishments that are located within the City.
Detectives are responsible for preparing cases to present to the prosecutor to review.
Detectives conduct surveillance and work closely with many other police agencies in the
thumb area.
The Port Huron Police Department Detective Division is commanded by Detective
Lieutenant Duane Loxton and consists of five detectives; Detective Malissa McBride,
Detective Karen Brisby, Detective Chris Frazier, Detective Keith Merritt, and Detective
Eric Krikorian. Each detective attends basic detective school, advanced detective training, and are capable of
properly handling any type of investigation. Detectives receive specialized training in areas such homicide and
death investigation and fire investigation. Two detectives are trained in Child Forensic Interviewing for the
investigation of criminal sexual conduct cases involving children. One detective is trained in advanced fire
investigation. All of the detectives are highly skilled in interviewing under any circumstance. Detectives also
investigate complaints that are received regarding liquor law violations as well as cigarette sales to underage
persons.
Lt. Duane Loxton
*
DETECTIVE BUREAU STATISTICS
2012
2011
2010
COMPLAINTS ASSIGNED
COMPLAINTS CLEARED
COMPLAINTS CLEARED WITH WARRANT
COMPLAINTS CLEARED ADMINISTRATIVELY
COMPLAINTS CLEARED BY INACTIVITY
STATUS OFFENSES
FELONY PROSECUTION REQUESTS
MISDEMEANOR PROSECUTION REQUESTS
FELONY PETITIONS
MISDEMEANOR PETITIONS
FELONY ARRESTS
MISDEMEANOR ARRESTS
CONTACTS
PROPERTY RECOVERED VALUE
F.I.A. REFERRALS
SEARCH WARRANTS
INTERVIEWS
1259
1159
688
427
47
32
502
391
26
91
198
126
3175
$17,692
153
62
882
1251
1033
567
433
33
57
520
336*
49
111
168
170
2391
$24,066
93
29
1245
1235
1512
727
777
8
59
396
368
34
78
135
136
2191
$6,509
57
1234
With regards to 2010-2011 misdemeanor prosecution requests, it should be noted that due to the increase
of police complaints, misdemeanor complaints are now returned to the original reporting officer for
follow up and closure. The only misdemeanor complaints that are assigned to detectives are in-custody
misdemeanors; i.e. domestic violence arrests.
MAJOR CRIMES UNIT
The Major Crimes Unit continues to maintain their partnership between the Port Huron
Police Department, St. Clair County Sheriff Office and the St. Clair County Prosecutors
Office. MCU had another stellar year in 2012. MCU assisted various agencies
throughout St. Clair County, which led to the arrest of numerous dangerous criminals
that have been taken off the streets of Port Huron and throughout St. Clair County. Here
are just a couple of the highlights. MCU completed an investigation into a “Home
Invasion Ring” that had been responsible for approximately 200 Home Invasions that
had been occurring in Port Huron and St. Clair County since December 2009. This
investigation led to the arrest of Bryan and Lisa Thibodeau (husband and wife team) that
Sgt. Joseph
had
been operating together since 2009. Bryan and Lisa Thibodeau respectively pled
Platzer
guilty to multiple counts of Home Invasion, 1 count of Racketeering and Felon Firearm.
Bryan Thibodeau received a sentence of 56 years in prison and Lisa Thibodeau received a 5 year sentence.
MCU was assisted by the St. Clair County Sheriff Office Drug Task Force. In June of 2012, a shooting
occurred in the south end of Port Huron, which resulted in the death of Jason Williams. MCU lead the
investigation of this Homicide and two suspects were identified. Cidney Ingram and John Little were
eventually located and charged with Open Murder. In November of 2012, Cidney Ingram was found guilty of
First Degree Murder and Felony Firearm and John Little pled guilty to Accessory, Tampering with Evidence
and Felony Firearm. MCU was able to close a “Drive-By Shooting” that occurred in 2011. MCU arrested
and charged Phelepe Lunn with the crime. In 2012, Phelepe Lunn pled guilty to a Home Invasion,
Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Dwelling, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Felony Firearm,
Discharging a Firearm from a Motor Vehicle and received eight years in prison. As you can see with the stats
of the Major Crimes Unit, this is just the tip of iceberg with the investigations that MCU handled in 2012.
The Major Crimes Unit continues to be a highly productive, highly motivated investigative unit that is
determined to make the streets of Port Huron and the County of St. Clair a safe place to live.
MAJOR CRIMES 2012 STATISTICS
COMPLAINTS ASSIGNED
FELONY ARRESTS
MISDEMEANOR ARRESTS
INTERVIEWS COMPLETED
INTERROGATIONS
CONFESSIONS
PERSONAL INVESTIGATIONS
WARRANT ATTEMPTS
SEARCH WARRANTS
WEAPONS RECOVERED
STOLEN PROPERTY RECOVERED/VALUE
FORFEITURES
FORFEITURES - PROPERTY
275
154
58
224
133
99
148
154
63
19
$30,000.00
$7,870.65 Cash
(6) Vehicles, Jewelry, Radar Detector, Bike,
(20) Cell Phones
DEPARTMENTAL STATISTICS
To: Mr. Bruce Brown –City Manager;
Mayor Repp – City Council Members thru channels;
Citizens of Port Huron.
Re: Annual report on the activities of the Port Huron Police Department – year 2012
Interpretation of the Departmental Statistics – Crime Trends, notes of interest
City Manager Brown,
In your review of this year’s annual report you will be able to find additional information
relative to the work product of the Port Huron Police Department for 2012. As I indicated in my
annual report message, 2012 continued as an exciting year of “change” for the PHPD. In this year’s
annual report we have statistical information that is reported to and included in the FBI’s annual crime
report. Additionally, you will find statistical information concerning the activities of the Criminal
Investigations Bureau and our Major Crimes Bureau.
I offer some comment relative to what our annual report speaks to. First off, the Calls for
Service for this Police Department continue to increase. The increase in 2012 service calls was 9%.
Additionally, police incident reports increased another 11% from the previous year. We sadly report
one (1) Homicide incident for 2012, in which both perpetrators were arrested, tried and convicted.
There was a significant increase in Robberies of 18%, Criminal Sexual Conduct complaints of 7%,
along with charged Assault crimes reporting an increase of 20%. There continues to be an increase of
Larceny complaints of 10%, but we did note decreases in Auto Theft of 15%, Arsons of 71%, and
Burglaries of 4%.
I continue to be concerned about the number of assaultive crimes occurring within the city. An
increase in the number of motor vehicle accidents of 2%, with a decrease of reportable injuries in
accidents of 5% are indicative of the consistent construction seasons we continue to endure, lack of
modern highway infrastructure to handle the vehicle load, and of the amount of vehicle traffic
travelling our roadways. We sadly report there was 1 fatality in 2012 from a motor vehicle accident. A
by product of our increase in workload showed a 2% increase in traffic violations, but a decrease in
parking violations of 59%, and a increase in OWI arrests of 6%.
We began to address the increase of assaultive crimes in this community through it’s
attachment to illegal narcotics trafficking. We have utilized many more directed patrols and special
operations such as Operation Safe Streets, which made a direct impact towards known narcotics
dealers, and we have presented a comprehensive plan for an increase in resources to specifically deal
with the amount of narcotics trafficking occurring in our streets and neighborhoods.
CRIME STATISTICS
34874
Calls for Service
9% Increase from 2011
31493
31805
29398
2009
2010
2011
2012
7329
Police Reports
11% Increase from 2011
6518
6348
2009
6378
2010
2011
2012
CRIME STATISTICS
Criminal Sexual Conduct
7% Increase from 2011
66
68
105
Auto Theft
98
53
92
15% Decrease from 2011
84
2009
46
2010
2009
2011
2010
2012
2011
14
2
2
2012
13
Homicides
Arsons71% Decrease
100% Increase from 2011
11
from 2011
1
4
0
2009
2009
2010
2011
2012
2010
2011
2012
CRIME STATISTICS
933
383
Larcenies 10% Increase
from 2011
849
764
721
379
Burglaries 4% Decrease
from 2011
373
366
2009
2009
2010
2010
2011
2011
2012
2012
579
Damaged Property Crimes
55
54
Less than1% Increase from 2011
467
Robberies 18% Increase
from 2011
49
447
449
40
2009
2009
2010
2010
2011
2011
2012
2012
CRIME STATISTICS
Charged Assaults 20% Increase
from 2011
455
351
364
253
2009
2010
2011
2012
*Charged Assault statistics only include assaults that warrants were requested.
Juvenile & Adult Arrest
18% Increase from 2011
2644
2168
1948
1895
2009
2010
2011
2012
*Arrest statistics include total arrests, some of which would not be reported in MICRS.
POLICE REPORT STATISTICS
Open Reports
7329
6518
6378
6348
Reports Taken
Open Reports
2009
345
271
317
2010
2011
104
2012
Reports Closed by Warrants
7329
6518
6378
6348
Reports Taken
Closed by Warrants
1485
2009
1780
1450
2010
2011
1798
2012
TRAFFIC STATISTICS & ENFORCMENT
Traffic Violations
4691
2% Increase
4617
4574
4255
2009
2010
2011
2012
179
6620
Parking Violations
O.W.I
59% Decrease
4377
170
6% Increase
4231
163
159
2653
2009
2010
2009
2011
2012
2010
2011
2012
TRAFFIC STATISTICS & ENFORCEMENT
Accidents
2% Increase
1233
1204
1126
1095
2009
2010
2011
2012
210
3
177
1
200
Injuries in Accidents
5% Decrease
F atal A ccidents
100% Increase
176
1
0
2009
2009
2010
2011
2012
2010
2011
2012
2012 PHOTOS
PORT HURON’S FINEST
Corporal Jason Barna started off his
career in the US Air Force as a
military police officer, he then
continued on to the Detroit Police
Department and then came to Port
Huron in 2002. Jason received his
associates degree in General Studies
from Macomb College.
Since becoming a Port Huron Police
Officer he has worked with the Drug Task Force, is an
Evidence Tech, a Field Training Officer and a member of the
Bike Team. In 2011, Jason was promotoed to the rank of
Corporal where he supervises a day shift platoon.
Jason enjoys the spontaneous nature of being in law
enforcement. Although some of the things police officers see
and do are not pleasant, the fact that you may have saved
someone from a threatening situation or prevented one is
gratifying.
Some of Corporal Barna’s future goals are to become a
Sergeant in the near future. He has received numerous awards
and recognitions over his 17 plus years in law enforcement in
many different areas.
In Jason’s off time he enjoys weight lifting, running, fishing,
spending time with his family and keeping up on house work.
Officer Jeremy Young has been
employed with the Port Huron Police
Department since 2003.
Jeremy is
currently assigned to our Major Crimes
Unit which is a 3 year commitment.
Jeremy graduated with an Associate’s
Degree from St. Clair County
Community College with a degree in
Criminal Justice. He has been trained
as an Evidence Tech, Accident
Investigator, is a member of the SRT
team, and member of the bike team as well as performing
duties of a Field Training Officer when he was on patrol.
Jeremy’s hobbies include spending time with his family,
staying active by exercising, and playing different sports.
Officer Tom Rumley began his
career at Port Huron Police
Department in 2002. Prior to
becoming a Port Huron Police
Officer he served in the US Navy.
Tom completed his Associates
Degree in Liberal Arts in 2001.
Throughout the years Officer
Rumley was offered specialized
training in Evidence Technician, Accident Investigator,
and a Bike Team member. He has received awards /
recognitions over the years some of which include; a Life
Saving Medal and Unit Citations.
In the future Officer Rumley would like to be promoted to
the Detective Bureau and would like to become a
supervisor within the Department at some point in his
career.
Tom plays hockey enjoys hunting, fishing, boating, skiing
and wood working in his spare time.
Officer Grafton Sharp has been
with Port Huron Police Department
since 2003.
Grafton graduated
from St. Clair County Community
College with an Associates Degree
in Fire Science in 2002.
Currently Officer Sharp is a sniper
on the SRT team, a member of the
Bike
Team,
an
Accident
Investigator and a Use of Force/Firearms Instructor.
When asked what Officer Grafton Sharp likes about his
job, he would reply that he enjoys the workload, his coworkers and the type of police work that he does on a day
to day basis.
Officer Young enjoys the opportunity to help people in the
City of Port Huron in many different ways, including helping
with medical treatment, working out family problems, or by
investigating criminal offenses for a victim.
Grafton is hoping to ascertain advancement in the future,
to include working in the Major Crimes Unit, at Drug Task
Force and being a Detective. He has received awards /
recognition of Meritorious Service along with several Unit
Citations.
Some of Jeremy’s future goals include continuing his
education towards his bachelor’s degree and hopes to promote
to a Detective or Sergeant someday.
Outside of work Grafton enjoys reading, home projects
and spending time with his family.
Officer Jeremy Young has received numerous awards which
include: meritorious service, distinguished service and
numerous unit citations.
PORT HURON’S FINEST
Officer Chris Smith started at Port
Huron Police Department in 2005. He
completed his Associate’s degree at St.
Clair County Community College
where he studied Criminal Justice.
Currently Chris is a member of the SRT
team, is an Accident Investigator and an
Evidence Technician.
Officer Chris Smith enjoys working with people as well as
his co-workers. He says that he enjoys not knowing what is
coming next (on a call or traffic stop).
One of Chris’s future goals is to work in the Detective
Bureau and states maybe he will become the Chief
someday.
Some of Officer Smith’s extracurricular activities include
working out, running, bowling, reading and traveling.
CLERICAL STAFF
Karen Kaercher has been an
employee of the City of Port Huron
since 1999. Karen started out as part
time and then was able to gain full
time status by 2000. Karen received
her certificate for office specialist and
data processing from the Port Huron
School of Business in 1985.
Karen currently is a Records & Identification clerk,
property room clerk and typist. She enjoys her job as she
likes talking to people that come in that need her help. She
really enjoys the older crowd as they have a great sense of
humor. She also enjoys learning new computer programs
and appreciates the police department’s advancement in
technology by electronic tickets and reports.
Karen enjoys baking and reading books, she is an avid
computer game geek. She has two sons that keep her busy
and two very active cats. She also enjoys photography
especially of nature.
Cadet Robert Weaver has been a Cadet
with the Port Huron Police Department
since 2010. He currently attends SC4
and Ferris State University where he is
studying criminal justice and has plans
to graduate in 2014. After completing
his degree he plans on attending the
police academy in the hopes of becoming a police officer.
Robert enjoys being a cadet as it is a great way to serve the
community and share in the excitement of police work. His
future goal is to become a patrol officer and he believes
being a cadet has given him an amazing foundation with
all the on the job training he has received.
Cadet James Morgan has been a cadet
with Port Huron Police Department since
2010. He currently attends St. Clair
County Community College and Ferris
State University where he is studying
Criminal Justice and will graduate with
his bachelors in 2014. James enjoys his
current position at PHPD as he is given
the opportunity to gain first hand knowledge in law
enforcement and also has the opportunity to help others.
His long term goals are to complete his education with a
Masters in Criminal Justice and to become a police officer
at the local level.
James enjoys hunting, playing guitar, playing football and
coaching when he is not working or at school.
Cadet Andrew Teichow started with the
Port Huron Police Department in 2011
where he enjoys interacting with
citizens and is given the opportunity to
learn about being a police officer. He is
graduating in 2013 from Ferris State
University and hopes to become a
police officer and then someday a
homicide detective.
Andrew enjoys working out, watching sports, playing
sports, videogames and spending time with his family
when he isn’t working or at school.
Andrew has received the Presidents Honor List award for
the last 4 years at both SC4 and Ferris State University.
CRISIS NEGOTIATION UNIT
The Port Huron Police Department must be prepared for any
situation that may occur within our community. Although all
Port Huron Police Officers are trained to deal with a wide range
of highly volatile incidents, some situations may require
additional resources and tactics. To address certain critical
events affecting our citizens, the Port Huron Police Department
created a Hostage Negotiation Unit in 1989. The Unit later
changed its name to the Crisis Negotiation Unit (CNU) to reflect
a more accurate description of the incidents the unit responds to
from suicidal subjects such as bridge jumpers, to barricaded
subjects, to subjects who have taken hostages during the course
of a criminal act. The goal of the CNU is to peacefully resolve
life threatening situations by listening and responding to the person’s concerns through the use of proven verbal crisis
management techniques.
About the Negotiators
The crisis negotiators are another group of caring professionals within the Port Huron Police Department who are
dedicated to maintaining the safety of the residents and visitors to the City of Port Huron. These officers volunteered for
this position and were selected after successfully completing interviews which demonstrated their proficient
communications skills. Officers selected receive additional training in negotiation and crisis intervention tactics
through the Public Agency Training Council (PATC), Management and Behavior Consultants (MBC), and/or the
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The unit also trains internally using scenarios, speakers, discussions and videos.
Since the Port Huron Police Department’s CNU and the Special Response Team (SRT) goals – the successful resolution
of a crisis situation by peaceful means – are closely intertwined, the two units also train together.
The team is made up of a Sergeant in charge of the unit and 5 other team members. In 2012 the team received a donated
ambulance from Tri Hospital EMS that was renovated by Bob’s Auto to house our CNU team and our Traffic
Investigators with grant funds from St. Clair County Community Mental Health.
.
VOLUNTEERS (VIPS)
Volunteers in Police Service can be an important part of any organization and are
proven to be a valuable asset to law enforcement agencies. Volunteers help to
increase police responsiveness, service delivery, and information input. In addition,
volunteers can bring new skills and expertise to the job and prompt new
enthusiasm. Incorporating volunteers into a law enforcement environment allows
the department to achieve the best possible public safety product, beyond what a
department’s budget can purchase.
Volunteers were incorporated to make communities safer and stronger by creating a
partnership between citizens and police to curb crime in our neighborhoods.
Qualified volunteers are assigned specific tasks and duties that can create
efficiencies for the department and improve services to the community. Some of the activities our
volunteers participate in include; parades, special events, night patrols, foot patrols, and office work.
2012 CAPTURE Spaghetti Dinner
LIGHT UP THE CITY
Background: A city resident was concerned about the lack of security lighting in an alley way adjacent to their home. A neighbor
that had previously lived in the area had a security light attached to their home. The light provided a sense of security to the alley
during the evening hours. That light was destroyed by vandals, and the neighbor ultimately moved from the neighborhood,
leaving the alley way dark once again. At that point there was nothing that the City of PH could do to facilitate an answer to this
issue.
With the mindset of the PHPD Community Policing Program being to “solve problems” in our community, Corporal Lee
Heighton of the PHPD Community Policing Program had an idea to address this issue that was brought to the attention of the
police department in the late spring of 2012. Corporal Heighton took the initiative to create the ‘Light up the City” program, by
getting those organizations that partner with the PHPD-COP program such as local businesses, and our faith based organizations
to address this issue. Through his diligent work, this program was created.
Concept: PHPD-COP zone officers and Neighborhood Watch groups will assist in the identification of qualifying private
residences or commercial businesses within the city for the instillation of motion activated security lighting to illuminate dark
residential alleys. Faith based organizations within the Port Huron Police Community Oriented Policing Program would be
notified of these locations and would coordinate the purchasing or donation of the motion-activated security lights for these
alleys.
The faith based organizations would also coordinate volunteer efforts to install these lights at no cost to the qualified
homeowners. The home or business owner will ultimately be responsible for the costs of electricity for the security lights
operation.
Goal: To utilize C.O.P. program resources, primarily faith based organizations and local businesses, to provide illumination of
dark city alleys. The goal of this program is to increase our citizen’s sense of security and safety, preventing random acts of
violence or theft, and decreasing citizens as targets of opportunity for random criminal acts.
CITIZENS’ POLICE ACADEMY
The Citizens’ Police Academy is comprised of local citizens
that gather every Tuesday evening in a classroom setting to
learn about the various aspects of police work. Topics
discussed are police operation related and include both
lecture and hands-on training. Sessions meet once a week in
the evening for twelve weeks. Participants will meet several
members of the Port Huron Police Department through
presentations, a patrol ride along and role playing scenarios.
Participants will also be introduced to the Volunteers in
Police Service (VIPS) is a grassroots effort through a
collaborative partnership between citizens and police to curb
crime in our neighborhoods.
2012 Citizens’
s’ Police Academy Graduates
The purpose of the Port Huron Police Department’s Citizens’
Police Academy is to develop positive relationships between
the Police and the community through education. Citizens
will be exposed to the problems and challenges facing law
enforcement and experience decision making issues that the
officers face on a daily basis.
Community Oriented Policing (C.O.P.)
The C.O.P. philosophy promotes problem-solving techniques and partnerships to proactively address
the immediate conditions that give rise to public safety issues such as crime, social disorder, and fear of
crime. We are collaborating with individuals and organizations that serve to develop solutions to
problems and increase trust in police. This will enable us to identify and examine problems to develop
effective responses.
Our community policing program is a partnership between police, business, schools, churches,
volunteer groups, and citizens designed not only to solve crime, but to help solve community related
problems. Criminal behavior must be made sociably unacceptable and economically unrewarding, as
well as unlawful. Thus, people must become directly involved in the solving of community issues or
crimes and increase community wellness. We evaluated input from citizens and officers, compared to
the number and types of calls for service, demographics of the neighborhood, and geographical
considerations. This enabled us to create 23 communication zones throughout the City of Port Huron.
This plan is evolving and will be amended or modified as necessary to meet the needs of the
community.
Each zone has one primary officer to focus on problems that arise. Each zone would also have a
secondary officer assigned who will cover when the primary officer is unavailable. Corporals and
Sergeants are assigned multiple zones to coordinate officers’ efforts and insure that citizens’ concerns
are being addressed. This increases ownership and accountability.
The zone officers focus on being a communication resource for the citizens within their zone. They
have direct contact with Neighborhood Watch Captains and facilitate Neighborhood Watch groups.
Neighborhood Watch is an organized effort by concerned citizens to improve the quality of life in their
neighborhood. In cooperation with the police department, neighbors work to safeguard each other’s
homes and reduce the risk of crime in their community.
The Port Huron Police Department has also increased the ways citizens can communicate with us.
Most people know they can reach police by calling 911 in an emergency or calling the Central Dispatch
Authority for non-emergency calls at (810) 985-8115. We also have a new website,
www.porthuronpolice.org. Citizens can use this website to report crimes or fugitives on our
C.A.P.T.U.R.E. Secret Witness hotline or by calling C.A.P.T.U.R.E. at 810-987-6688. If citizens have
community related issues they can contact their primary zone officer at the (810) 984-8415 or by
clicking on their e-mail address listed on the new website. For immediate assistance they can call
Central Dispatch at (810)985-8115.
We have made strong relationships with the church community and have partnered with them to be a
part of the C.O.P. Program. This has increased communication between police, church leaders,
parishioners, and the citizens who live in their zone. Thus being a resource for one another to help
eradicate evil and improve quality of life. Half of the churches in the city have become a part of the
COP Program and are beginning to meet with their zone officers. Our goals for 2013 include increasing
church involvement with our program, increasing the number of Neighborhood Watch groups within
the city and reaching out further to the businesses within our zones. Pastor Alex Crittenden was quoted
as saying, “You are either part of the solution, or a part of the problem.” If you are interested in more
information about these programs you can log into our website at www.porthuronpolice.org or call
Officer Adrianne Mynsberge or Sergeant Marcy Kuehn at (810) 984-9715.
COMMUNITY POLICING ZONES
AWARDS AND COMMENDATIONS
On Tuesday, May 15, 2012, the Port Huron Police Department recognized citizens and police
personnel whose actions and/or accomplishments were extraordinary or exceptionally
meritorious, and those acts which were above and beyond the call of duty. Police Officers and
Citizens alike are annually rewarded for their efforts. In total certificates, awards and medals
were presented to the following individuals.
Dept.Commendation
Ashley Reifert
Officer Eash
Cpl. Barna
Life Saving Medal
Officer Adrianne Mynsberge
Officer Coleman
Officer Rumley
Meritorious Service
Cpl. Heighton
Officer Bean
Officer Conley
Officer Ryan Mynsberge
Officer Young
St. Clair County Sheriff’s
Deputy Verwys
Lake County Sheriff’s Dept.
Commander Matt Eaton
Det. Thomas Huber
Distinguished Service
Sgt. Kuehn
Det. Brisby
Det. Frazier
Det. Kerrigan
Officer Fantin (2)
Officer Hunger
Officer Ochadleus
Officer Rickert
Officer Ruedisueli
Officer Chris Smith
St. Clair County Sheriff’s
Deputy Mashke
St. Clair County Medical
Examiners Office
Mary Palmateer
St. Clair County Prosecutors
Mona Armstrong
Admin. Excellence
Det. Frazier
Cpl. Heighton (2)
Officer Phillips
Officer Finnie
Sgt. Stuewer
Unit Citation
Det. Lt. Loxton
Lt. Wood
Sgt. Platzer
Sgt. Wesch
Sgt. Georgia
Cpl. Heighton
Det. Frazier (3)
Det. Kerrigan (2)
Det. Krikorian
Det. McBride (2)
Det. Merritt (2)
Officer Bean
Officer Conley
Officer Decker
Officer Eash
Officer Finnie (2)
Officer Gilbert (2)
Officer Godwin
Officer Haefner
Officer Adrianne Mynsberge (2)
Officer Ochadleus
Officer Rickert (2)
Officer Ruedisueli (2)
Officer Sharp
Officer Sly (2)
Officer Chris Smith (2)
St. Clair County Sheriff’s
Deputy Stoyan
Deputy Pokriefka
Deputy Maschke
Sanilac County Sheriff's Office:
Sergeant Paul Rich
Sergeant Washkevich
Sergeant Jane Johnson
Deputy Heilig
Deputy Kutach
Deputy Laming
Deputy Steve McKenny
Deputy Park
Deputy Siemen
Deputy Wendling
Dispatcher Sandra Robinson
Croswell Police Department:
Officer Brenda Krumenaker.
EMS:
Mike Mayes
Karen Wilmoth
Shelly Withey
Tony Ardent.
PHFD:
Captain Mark Ford
Firefighter Matthew Oleaga
Captain Jeff Finnegan
FirefighterTerry Blackmer
Battalion Chief Greg Garry
Firefighter Aron Bulman
MSP:
Sergeant Steve Nowicki
Trooper Cynthia Edwards
K-9 Trooper John Sholz
Forensic Scientist
Eric Cervenak
Mike Kusluski
Guy Nutter
Stephanie Tomasic.
Prosecutor's Office:
Steve Guilliat
Hilary Georgia
Jennifer Deegan
Judge Mike Hulewicz
CBP
Tommy Ontko
U.S. Marshal Service
Diane Mack
CBSA
Ron Flowers
Saint Thomas, Ontario P.D.
Sergeant Chris Perrin
Constable John Crosby
Canadian Investigative Liason
Deputy Jody Nidiffer
U.S. Department of Justice
Lisa Roberts
Citizen Commendation
Gary Adams
Alyssha Reim
Kyle Rix
Kandie Barr
Jesse Dammer
Christopher Hauler
Darlene Aiello
Wayne Sevy
Michael Hogsett
Jeremy Kenney
Monica Liverance
Michael Myron
Timothy Johnson
David Maushund
Samantha Walters
Stephanie Wyatt
CITIZENS CERTIFICATES
Volunteers In Police Service
Operation Transformation
Evangelical Minister’s
Association
Port Huron Minister’s
Association
South Side Minister’s Alliance
Shannon Finnie
Cathy Stuewer
Elaine Marchand
AWARDS TRANSFER
Chief Reaves
Officer Brandon Rossow
COMMUNITY EVENTS
On March 26, 2012, Port Huron Police
Department faced the Port Huron
Firefighters in a Hockey Game
Fundraiser to benefit Lt. Kevin Anderson
of the Port Huron Fire Department who
was battling cancer. The money raised
supported one of our own.
PHPD and PHFD hockey teams
On May 5, 2012, Port Huron Police
hosted its first annual Dodge Ball
Tournament. All proceeds went to The
Special Olympics. PHPD was looking
something new for many to enjoy to
raise money for a good cause.
Participants of the 1st annual
Dodge ball tournament
On August 24, 2012, Port Huron Police
Department sponsored its 2nd annual
Honor Guard Golf Outing at the Port
Huron Elks Golf Course. The money
raised helped to provide uniforms and
equipment for the Honor Guard Team.
On October 16, 2012, Port Huron Police
Department C.A.P.T.U.R.E. hosted its
11th annual Spaghetti dinner. Proceeds
from the dinner went to the
C.A.P.T.U.R.E. tip program which
works closely with the community to
help fight and eliminate criminal
activity.
PHPD
Honor Guard
Golf Outing
participants
PHPD volunteers and Radio First volunteers take a break
from serving dinners for a photo.