Charles City Police Chief Mike Wendel said in an email that “2011 has been difficult for the police department.”
According to its website, the Charles City Police Department consists of 14 sworn officers and serves approximately 7,800 residents. The department handles approximately 12,000 calls for service each year including approximately 1,500 traffic stops.
Wendel, who has served as Chief of Police since 1987, explained the difficulties his department has faced.
“In addition to the many day-to-day incidents that we deal with on the street we were confronted with some internal challenges as well. We experienced some unexpected vacancies on the department with the resignations of our police Investigator and our police Secretary/911 Administrator and the unexpected retirement of our police Captain. These are key positions that contribute to administrative issues of the department. In all three cases it was for personal reasons, and we wish them all the best as they pursue other options.”
Wendel said things are fine at the CCPD and hs team is pulling together.
“Our team is strong however, and they have been pulling together to keep things running smoothly. The quest to fill the vacancies has been slow to develop as these positions are being considered as part of a new public safety department concept that the city is seeking to create. Sometime later this month we should have clear direction as to where we are headed. We did hire a new Secretary/911 Administrator”
Wendel provided some information on the 2011 activity of his department.
“As for regular police business there seems to be plenty to do for the entire department. Statistical data for the police department as far as arrests, complaints, and services is in line with years prior. The police department handled over 8,000 calls last year that required an officer’s attention. These calls range from being as serious as you might imagine to as minor as giving directions or just letting someone vent. Thankfully the minor calls far outnumber the serious calls every year.”
You can follow the activity of the Charles City Police Department at this link.
