The recent events that have occurred across the nation over the last week have stirred a national discussion on policing in America. Although we enjoy a safe and supportive community, we recognize that issues involving the police and the community are at the forefront of national news, specifically police use of force and police interactions with the African American community. Several of our residents have contacted the City Council and me asking what steps are being taken to prevent a similar event from happening in the City of Sunnyvale. This is a very broad subject, but to begin, please know that the department continually works to provide the highest level of public safety services while engaging with the community.

We believe this begins with our hiring standards and our practice of only selecting highly qualified candidates with diverse backgrounds who embrace our unique model of service, providing fully integrated public safety services (Police-Fire-EMS). We truly believe that our standards and our service model result in a well-rounded and highly trained officer. The initial and on-going commitment to training is far and above what most other departments provide. In addition to mandatory training requirements, the department proactively provides training on contemporary issues that prepare our members to handle challenging situations. The following are some of the training topics covered this year:

Crowd control with emphasis on officer discipline and restraint in the face of hostile groups or individuals.
Laws of detention, arrest and search and seizure
Racial or biased based profiling, issues and impact
Control devices and techniques
Use of conducted energy weapons
Use of force and response to resistance
Autism risk and safety management
De-escalation with emotionally distressed people
Tactical communications

The department strives to stay at the forefront of national and local issues by actively participating in the various professional groups such as the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the California Police Chiefs Association and the California Peace Officers Association. These resources allow us to have information, best practices and training for contemporary issues facing law enforcement. To that end, we have recently concluded a review of all department law enforcement policies while we transitioned to a nationwide policy system, Lexipol, which allows us to receive instant notifications regarding Federal and State law changes and agency best practices. This includes a recent review and revision of our department policies including the "Use of Force and Response to Resistance," "Control Devices and Techniques," "Conducted Energy Weapon" and "Racial-or Biased-Based Profiling." Each member of the department must read and acknowledge every individual policy, including 32 policies which are identified as critical policies. Supervisors and managers are responsible for ensuring that each team member has a clear understanding of the policies and make sure that they adhere to them in their daily activities. This is an on-going and never ending practice.

Chief Grgurina

TEL 408-730-7140
TDD 408-730-7501

or email to: pubsfty@sunnyvale.ca.gov

Chief's message continues...

Although we enjoy a very safe environment in the City of Sunnyvale, the public safety profession remains inherently dangerous. This is why we place so much focus on community interaction and the appropriate response to resistance in the use of force. This includes the deployment and use of less lethal equipment, such as conductive energy devices (Taser), baton projectiles, OC spray, etc. This equipment is utilized on a regular basis to stop violent events, such as a case that occurred earlier this week involving a suicidal man armed with a knife. He charged at the responding officers with the intention of being shot, but fortunately, the officers were able to successfully deploy a less lethal device to stop the individual and take him safely into custody. This is our hope with all incidents, but we realize this is not always possible, and on some occasions officers have no choice but to use deadly force to protect the public and themselves.

When the use of deadly force does occur, multiple protocols fall into place to closely examine all aspects of the incident to determine what actually occurred and what follow up actions need to be taken. This includes a complete criminal and administrative investigation by the primary agency and a collateral investigation completed by the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office. In each officer involved shooting, Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen publically releases a detailed report of his findings, including whether or not the use of force was legal and appropriate. Internally, we conduct a comprehensive review of the incident to determine if the actions were lawful and compliant with department policy. For every incident, we determine if we need a change in policy or additional training for the department and/or the individual officer.

We feel that communication is the key to success, and the department is always looking for ways we can improve and better engage with the community. Over the last year, DPS has held a series of informal meetings throughout the City titled "Coffee with a Cop" in an effort to provide an opportunity for residents and citizens to ask questions and receive information about the department. The last meeting was held at Philz Coffee on May 31st. It was our fifth meeting since last year, and it was well attended. The department has also expanded its social media efforts to better communicate with the public about public safety activity in Sunnyvale. This includes active participation on Nextdoor, Twitter and through our NIXLE messaging system. Additionally, a weekly blotter of public safety activity is sent out for public awareness, we have maintained our monthly community newsletter Beyond the Badge, and we continue to provide highlights to the City Manager's Blog. Finally, we applied for a State grant to begin a Public Safety Citizen's Academy, but unfortunately we were not chosen for this year's funding.

In the area of transparency, the City Council recently authorized the purchase and implementation of a department wide Body Worn Camera (BWC) program. BWC's will be issued to every sworn officer and uniform professional staff member assigned to field operations. These will work in conjunction with our In-Car Cameras that the department has utilized for many years. The devices have been ordered, and we expect them to be fully deployed during the month of September. In addition to the BWC's, State Legislators have enacted laws which direct police agencies to collect data regarding citizen contacts and stops, citizen complaints and the use of force. The data collection methods and reporting requirements are currently being developed, and we anticipate no issues in providing the data once the reporting system is completed.

I hope that the information provided gives you an insight into the level of effort being done to maintain the trust of our community. I understand and appreciate the concerns of our citizens, and I am thankful for those who took the time to ask questions. We welcome and encourage communication, whether it's a compliment or a complaint, to ensure that we are meeting the needs of our residents while providing the highest level of public safety services.

Over the past week, our department has been truly touched by the members of our community who have reached out to us after the tragedy in Dallas. The phone calls, cards, flowers, food and other expressions of support have let our members know that they are very much appreciated, especially during this difficult time. It is clear that as a nation we have a lot of work to do, and we will continue to be a part of the solution, but please know how grateful we are for the community support.

Wishing peace and safety for all.

Note: The above article was written on Friday, July 15, 2016. Sadly, two days later three more officers were killed and several others seriously injured in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Below is a portion of a message I sent to the members of DPS on Sunday afternoon:

It's hard to believe the news today coming out of Baton Rouge. I, along with you, am extremely angry and incredibly sad about the senseless killing of police officers across the nation. While it is difficult not to become emotional, we have to remember that the majority of our nation is supportive and appreciative of law enforcement in general. Our profession is certainly not without fault, but the lack of trust based on a small number of events is not reflective of the outstanding work that the vast majority of law enforcement officers do on a daily basis. Unfortunately, that reality does not make headlines. Please keep the Baton Rouge officers and their families in your thoughts and prayers. Department members shall wear mourning bands until the conclusion of the funeral services.

Chief Grgurina

TEL 408-730-7140
TDD 408-730-7501

or email to: pubsfty@sunnyvale.ca.gov

Make Summer's Home Alone Time Happy and Healthy

The movie "Home Alone" and its sequel, have portrayed a child's survival skills in a very humorous, but unrealistic manner. The realities facing children who find themselves home alone, particularly over the summer, are very different. There are many issues, potential risks and dangers that parents should consider before a child is placed in this situation, such as:

Childproofing Your Home

Reduce the risk of health and safety hazards by locking up or removing the following items:

alcohol
prescription medication and over the counter medicine
tobacco
car keys
lighters and matches
guns (if you do own one, make sure it's locked up, unloaded, and stored away from ammunition)

Set Ground Rules

Consider setting rules about:

having friends over and playing in the neighborhood / park
TV and computer rules (set parental controls)
kitchen and cooking guidelines (do you want them using the oven?)
not opening the door for strangers
answering the front door and phone
not telling anyone he or she is home alone

Touch base
Set up a schedule for calling. Make sure your child knows when you're available and when you might be unable to answer a call. You might have your child call in as soon as they get home, especially if they are coming home to an empty house, or set up a time when you'll call home to check-in. The goal is to figure out something that is convenient for the both of you.

What to Have on Hand
Make sure your kitchen is stocked with healthy snacks and emergency supplies. Post important phone numbers, talk about when to call 9-1-1 and leave flashlights in an accessible place in case of a power outage. It's also a good idea to set out the precise dose of medication your child needs to take, but be mindful of leaving the bottle out if younger siblings are present as they may ingest.

Source: Santa Clara Police Department

What to Do If You See a Pet in a Parked Car?

It takes only minutes to save a life

Leaving pets locked in cars is never safe. But when the weather gets warmer, it can be deadly. High temperatures can cause irreparable organ damage and even death. Protecting animals from an unnecessary death is a problem we can all agree to prevent.

How to help a pet left in a hot car:

Take down the car's make, model and license-plate number.
If there is a business nearby, notify the manager or security guard and ask them to make an announcement to find the car's owner. Many people are unaware of the danger of leaving pets in hot cars and will quickly return to their vehicle once they are alerted to the situation.
If the owner cannot be found, call Sunnyvale DPS's non-emergency number (408-730-7180) and wait by the car for them to arrive.

Source: Santa Clara Police Department

2016 Explorer Competition

On June 24, the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety Explorer Post traveled to Tracy for a three day event at the 6th Annual Central Valley Explorer Competition. There were more than 300 Explorers and 32 different teams competing from numerous Police and Sheriff Agencies, with five CHP Explorer Posts, and U.S. Border Patrol teams. Their hard work and preparation paid off and the Explorers came back with lifelong memories of a successful team in action.

Sunnyvale's Explorers took 2nd place in a Disturbance Call where the suspect assaulted an Explorer. They were required to maintain officer safety throughout the contact, while maintaining control, separating the involved parties and deescalating the individuals who were involved in an altercation.

Thank you to those who attended the competition during the three day event - the Explorers enjoyed the support and motivation you provided. The Explorers have worked extremely hard over the past year and their efforts should be commended.

We want to thank the department and the community for their continued support of Explorer Post 417 fundraising efforts. In addition, we would like to thank the Sunnyvale Public Safety Officers Association for their generous contribution. The cost to attend the competition was covered by this support. The Explorers look forward to continued success and representing the City of Sunnyvale in future events.

2016 LETR Torch Run for Special Olympics

Every year since 1981, law enforcement officers from across the United States have participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run with the purpose of raising awareness and funds for the Special Olympics. As a result, this event has turned into the largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for the Special Olympics.

Now a global event, all 50 states and more than 35 foreign countries participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run�, generating more than $34 million a year for Special Olympics Programs around the world. Since its inception in 1981, the Law Enforcement Torch Run� has raised more than $100,000,000 worldwide. It is the largest grass roots fundraising program and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics. In addition to the fundraising and awareness benefits, officers are able to meet, support and encourage the athletes.

On June 16, several Sunnyvale DPS personnel, along with Special Olympics athletes participated in the 2016 Law Enforcement Torch Run. Sunnyvale DPS runners received the the Flame of Hope from members of the Santa Clara Police Department in front of the Fish Market Restaurant. They ran westbound along El Camino Real, down Sylvan and then passed the torch to members of the California Air National Guard for Moffett Field. The Torch continued its journey from police department to police department until it reached its final destination - the 2016 Special Olympics Northern California Summer Games at UC Davis, June 24-26.

If you are interested in learning more about the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, please visit www.sonc.org

2016 LETR Plane Pull for Special Olympics

Special Olympics Northern California provides athletic opportunities to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, instilling the confidence they need to succeed in life. Just like Torch Run, local law enforcement officers and local companies come together once a year during summer time to fund-raise for the Special Olympics.

The Plane Pull is all about brute strength and team work. Fifteen person teams with lots of heart will pull a 90,000 lb. jet a distance of 20 feet. The FASTEST team to pull the jet the distance wins bragging rights.

Each registered team member will receive lunch, admittance for one spectator to cheer on their team and a Special Olympics commemorative t-shirt. If you are interested in attending this event, or wish to donate, please go to the Plane Pull website.

Sunnyvale PAL's KLD Soccer Camp Turns 10!

For hundreds of local youngsters, summer started this year in a very familiar way as they participated in the 10th annual Kick, Lead, and Dream (KLD) Soccer Camp. KLD is a two week, half-day, co-ed recreational soccer camp where about 350 elementary school-aged campers play soccer, make friends and have fun in the summer sun under the watchful eyes of about 90 high school-aged volunteer coaches.

KLD was founded in 2007 to provide a positive day camp experience for at-risk and low-income students in grades 3-8, in partnership with Mountain View Police Activities League (PAL). Sunnyvale PAL has been a KLD partner almost since its inception, and in recent years, has become its lead public agency sponsor and fiscal agent. KLD serves kids from both the Sunnyvale and Mountain View-Whisman elementary school districts, striving to build bonds between children of both communities, between boys and girls, and between younger campers and elder coaches.

KLD is the largest all-volunteer summer camp in the south Bay Area, organized by a small team of local high school students and their parents in coordination with Sunnyvale Fire Captain Doug Moretto, President of Sunnyvale PAL. "Four years ago when I assumed the lead role on the parent team from founding father Pavan Nigam, he made sure I met Doug first," says parent volunteer Joe Seither. "Even though Doug is a very busy guy, he's been a long time, indispensable supporter of KLD. There's no way we could put on this camp without his ability to rally support and knock down hurdles for us."

rough ten years of growth from 35 campers and four coaches in its first year, to over 350 campers and 90 coaches this year, plus support from parent volunteers, KLD has proven it has value, staying power and a bright future with strong community support. The two week camp costs campers ten dollars, just one dollar per camp day. Most of its funding comes from private, foundation and corporate donations.

KLD encourages campers to aim high in life, dream big, work hard in school make good life choices. "We can tell we're affecting kids in a positive way when so many former KLD campers return to be volunteer coaches once they reach high school," added Homestead High mom Sonya Lee, this year's leader of the parent organizing team. "It's amazing to see the older kids giving back, making time to be friends and mentors for the new, young campers, as they were once cared for by their coaches."

After five years at Cherry Chase Elementary School in Sunnyvale, KLD Soccer Camp has been held the past three years at Cooper Park in Mountain View. KLD provides bus transportation for campers who need a ride to and from camp. For more photos and information about KLD soccer camp, including how you can connect with organizers to offer time and financial support, visit www.kldsoccer.com.

JUNIOR GIANTS July 2016

Sunnyvale's Junior Giants league provides more than baseball to the families who participate. In addition to volunteer activities that provide services to the community, there are quite a few fun events throughout the season.

A number of families volunteered for the Fit & Fun Fair on April 30, and helped Gigantes, the San Jose Giants mascot, recruit players and coaches.

For a special Mother's Day treat, the league was invited to participate in Kids Take The Field before the Giants game at AT&T Park. It was hard to tell who was more excited - the coaches and parents, or the Junior Giants.

Just prior to the game, the Sunnyvale players ran onto the field with a ball to be autographed by their assigned Giants player. Brief conversations ranged from 'Hi, what's your name?' to a discussion with Brandon Crawford about the importance of practice. Center fielder Gregor Blanco told Annalynn that he would steal a base for her, which he did in his first at bat. The Sunnyvale kids were thrilled with their interaction with the Giants and will treasure the memory for a long time.

On May 21, a number of families participated in the Children's Champions program at Menlo College. They met professional and college athletes while taking part in fun games meant to keep kids active and healthy. Former 49er great Jerry Rice was one of the participants.

Coaches and Team Parents met with League Commissioner Ross Spencer on 6/28 for an in-house clinic to gain tips on how to manage practices. They learned how to organize drills, skill-building activities, and ways to discuss the Word of the Week with their teams. These words include the 4 Bases of Character Development: Confidence, Integrity, Leadership and Teamwork, in addition to Education, Health, and Anti-Bullying.

Thirty players, along with 8 Coaches and Team Parents, were chosen for a special glove give-away on July 5th. They received baseball gloves from Giants All Star Catcher Buster Posey. They were invited to stay for the Giants game that night.

The season has started, and almost 200 Junior Giants players and over 40 adult volunteers are busy with weekly practices and Saturday games. They are reading daily for a chance to attend a Junior Giants Festival in August or win a backpack, are learning about their Word of the Week, and mostly are having fun playing baseball.

ASSET OF THE MONTH - Community Values Youth

Asset #7: Youth perceive that adults in the community value children and youth.

COMMUNITY VALUES YOUTH

Research shows that youth who feel valued in their community enjoy better mental health; a greater sense of personal control and optimism; reduced delinquency, violence, and fighting; less substance abuse; and higher academic performance.

All adults in the community have a role to play in showing their support for youth. If young people perceive that they are valued only by the adults that they know, they are not fully connected to their community and miss the benefits that such a connection can provide. But, it can be difficult for even the best-intentioned adults to explicitly communicate that they value youth: frequently, adults feel that youth already know that they're valued and appreciated.

The following discussions topics can help you work with young people to identify the ways that the community does and does not provide them with the empowerment associated with this asset:

Do you ever encounter adults who have negative perceptions about people your age? Do you know how to respond politely but effectively to their criticism or comments?
Are there good places for kids your age to hang out after school and on the weekends? If there aren't, what kind of place would you like to see?
Do you feel that adults at school and other organizations give you an opportunity to voice your opinion? Can you suggest some ways that adults could provide opportunities for youth to provide feedback and suggestions about programs?

Community Values Youth is intrinsically linked with other external assets-the more that adults provide children with support, empowerment, boundaries, and positive expectations, the more children and youth will feel that they are welcomed and valued by the community at large. In other words, the more effective that we are as a community at building assets in general, the more effective we will be at raising the levels of this woefully lacking asset.

ACTIVITIES

The activities below are a starting point to help adults find ways to show youth that they are valued and appreciated.

FOR FAMILIES

One way to help young people understand that they are valued is as simple as pointing out that many of the programs, activities, and facilities they enjoy-e.g., libraries, parks, and playgrounds-are created and maintained by the community.
Your children can participate in civic life regarding issues that concern them. Help them identify issues that affect young people and write letters to newspapers or government officials about ways to address their concerns.
Encourage your children to write letters of appreciation to the organizations and businesses that treat young people well. Doing so will encourage them to continue their efforts, and your child's letter may be publicly displayed.

FOR ALL ADULTS

Remember to treat all young people-regardless of their age or appearance-with respect, and take their ideas and suggestions seriously.
If you work in a business where youth may be customers or clients, train your staff to treat young people respectfully make sure that your policies are youth-friendly. If your business serves adults who may have children with them, make sure the space is inviting and provides age-appropriate diversions.
Publicly celebrate youth contributions to your organization, and recognize individual contributions daily.
Attend and contribute to local government meetings to make sure that the needs of young people are being addressed.

AT SCHOOL OR IN YOUTH PROGRAMS

Ask businesses in the community to show support for your program. In addition to financial donations and sponsorships, they can display artwork, host tours of their facility, or find other ways to demonstrate that they care about the youth in the community. (Doing so makes good business sense-today's youth are tomorrow's customers!)
With older children and teens, discuss whether the community has good places for kids and teens to hang out, and whether there are more positive opportunities for younger kids than for older ones. Use the results to create an action plan to make adults in the community more aware of the issue.
Invite distinguished members of the community to attend performances and events.

This article was provided courtesy of Project Cornerstone. For more information, visit www.projectcornerstone.org.

Nixle

What is Nixle?

Nixle is a free community messaging system which utilizes a secure network to ensure creditability and reliability of information. DPS will use the NIXLE system to notify residents about important events happening within, or affecting the city. Residents receive updates via text, web, and email to stay informed of important notifications.

How can I sign-up for Nixle notifications?

Go to www.nixle.com
Click on "Sign Up Free!"
Enter information on this screen (There is no need to enter home phone since the cell will be used for text alerts)
Your account is started. Go to "Settings" and sign up for "Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety." Just be sure to click "Save" when completed. (You can sign up for other agencies by using either their name or a zip code to receive alerts.)

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For questions and comments about the Sunnyvale DPS newsletter Beyond the Badge, you can e-mail us at: DFontaine@sunnyvale.ca.gov
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