Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Agenda (PDF)

Town of Waterford, Connecticut, Police Commission Meeting Agenda
Training Room at the Waterford Police Department
5/8/2023 5:00 pm
Call to order and establish quorum:
Pledge of Allegiance:
Public input:
Acceptance of minutes: April 10, 2023 Regular Meeting
Correspondence:
Thank you email from Kerry Tetreault, Citizen’s Academy
a.
b. Thank you email from Ellen McMahon, Citizen’s Academy
co
Thank you email from LT Timothy Henderson, Commanding Officer, CT State Police Troop E
d. Email of Appreciation from Mark Greczkowski, Director of Operations, Waterford Ambulance
Traffic Commission Review:
a. Sign Proposal North Phillips Street
b. Sign Proposal Coolidge Court
c. Sign Proposal Burlake Road
Chief's report:
a. K9 Reports for April
b. Youth Report for April
c. Investigative Services Report for April
d. Training Report for April
©
Records Report for April
Fal
Community Service Officer Report for April
Patrol Report for April
> @
Animal Control Report for April
Community Engagement Report for April

Old Business:
a. Police Chief Selection Process
New Business:
a. Staffing Discussion

MINUTES
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
April 10 at 5:00 p.m.
PRESENT: Commissioner Brule, Chairperson T. Sheridan, Commissioner M. Gelinas,
Commissioner J. Dimmock
ABSENT: Commissioner C. Gamble
DEPARTMENT: Chief M. Balestracci, LT T. Silva, LT N. VanOverloop, Sgt T. Gelinas,
Traffic Officer J. Nickerson, Training Officer N. Surdo
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
PUBLIC INPUT:
No public input.
CALL TO ORDER AND ESTABLISH A QUORUM:
Commissioner Dimmock called the meeting to order at 5:05p.m. in the General Meeting Room
of the Waterford Police Department. A Quorum was established.
ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES:
MOTION: Made by Commissioner Dimmock and seconded by Commissioner Brule to accept
the minutes from the March 13, 2023 Regular Meeting. Commissioner Gelinas abstained.
Motion passed.

CORRESPONDENCE:
Correspondence was reviewed.
TRAFFIC COMMISSION REVIEW:
Traffic Officer Nickerson presented the proposed roadway changes to Willetts Avenue due to
increased traffic from new housing developments and the pending second phase of additional
housing. He stated that this proposed roadway project will cost the Town nothing and will not be
up for approval from the Traffic Commission until the plan is finalized.
Officer Nickerson presented a proposed plan to help mitigate speeding on Fog Plain Road.
MOTION: Made by Commissioner Gelinas and Seconded by Commissioner Dimmock to
approve the plan for painting to be completed on Fog Plain Road which will be completed when
fiscally achievable by Public Works. Motion passed unanimously.
Officer Nickerson presented a request for approval of a plan to narrow the roadway with fog
lines on Oswegatchie Road that will slow traffic speeds and add a buffer for pedestrians.
MOTION: Made by Commissioner Gelinas and Seconded by Commissioner Dimmock to
approve the plan for painting to be completed on Oswegatchie Road which will be completed
when fiscally achievable by Public Works. Motion passed unanimously.
CHIEF’S REPORT:
a. K9 Reports for March
March report was received.
b. Youth Reports for March
March report was received.
c. Investigative Services for March
March report was received.
d. Training Report for March
March report was received.
e. Records Report for March
March report was received.
f. Community Service Officer Report for March
March report was received.

g. Patrol Report for March
March report was received.
h. Animal Control Report for March
March report was received.
i. Community Engagement Report for March
March report was received.
OLD BUSINESS:
a. Discussion of the current draft of the Police Chief Selection Process Policy.
Commissioner Dimmock asked for any modifications to be completed before the next
BOPC meeting.
NEW BUSINESS:
a. In-series Budget Transfer Requests were presented to the Commission.
b. Discussion of continued Zoom access to BOPC meetings. Chief Balestracci cited
required retention schedule and storage are issues and noted that the BOPC was one of
the few Boards still using Zoom. Chief suggested participation by phone if not able to
attend in person. The Commission agreed. Commissioner Brule stated that the Town is
working on being able to record and post meetings on YouTube.
There was discussion of letters sent to Town Officials from various groups concerning proposed
Data Center on the Millstone property.
Chief Balestracci announced that a meeting for the purpose of promotions will be scheduled the
week of June 12.
MOTION: Made by Commissioner Brule and Seconded by Commissioner Dimmock to adjourn
the meeting at 6:00 p.m. Motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted by:
Diane Driscoll
Recording Secretary

Diane Driscoll
aa wr eS I
From: Marc Balestracci
Sent: Monday, April 17, 2023 1:18 PM
To: Diane Driscoll
Subject: FW: Citizens Academy Ride Along
Diane,
Can you please place a copy in Officer Barrows’ file and forward to the next BOPC meeting.
Thank you,
Marc Balestracci
Chief of Police
Waterford Police Department
41 Avery Lane, Waterford, Connecticut
860-442-9451 Ext. 2282
From: Kerry Tetreault, RE/MAX LEGENDS <kerrytetreault@gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, April 15, 2023 7:08 PM
To: Marc Balestracci <mbalestracci@waterfordct.org>
Subject: Citizens Academy Ride Along
Chief Balestracci,
I just wanted to let you know I had my ride a long Friday night with Officer Barrows.
Right when he greeted me in the lobby he was upbeat and friendly. Thought the evening wasn't busy he
engaged in conversation, answered all my questions, showed me how the computer system in his car worked
etc. He drove me right to my car when the ride was over. He couldn't have been nicer. He is a real asset to
your department.
Regards,
Kerry Tetreault

April 17, 2023
Chief Balestracci ~
I wanted to personally reach out to tell you what a wonderful program I believe the
Citizen’s Police Academy to be. The town offers many programs - I feel this one to be
the most important. A special thank you to Officer Fredericks (Hodges) and all the
other officers who gave their time to organize and participate in this program. Every
single one of them was fascinating and easy to listen to.
Each class has shown just how much it takes to be chosen to work on (and stay on) the
force. To be honest, I just don’t know how it is possible for any one human being to do
what they do in such tense and emotional situations. What I see are Officers who are
asked or should I say “expected” to perform without any missteps. They must know
the law, be social workers, EMT’s, mechanics, peace makers, investigators,
constitutional historians, compassionate human beings, protectors of fellow officers
and so much more. Iam not aware of any other profession that requires as much from
an individual.
I spent Friday evening with Officer Caler. In three hours, I saw him exercise great
judgement, concern for his fellow officers, the ability to think ahead and size up a
situation quickly. He is detail oriented and thorough. Several times he mentioned
other officers as being “great officers” going on to explain why. He too, is one of those
great officers. Each one of the instructors was fascinating to listen to. They frequently
commented that “they are lucky to work in Waterford. I believe we are lucky ones to
Last - ALL the officers have nothing but wonderful things to say about you. As the
saying goes, “it starts at the top”. Whatever you are doing, it is working and working
well. Thank you for being the kind of Chief that inspires them.
I love the Waterford Police Department.
Ellen McMahon
Quaker Hill
CC; Officer Eric Fredricks

Diane Driscoll
From: Marc Balestracci
Sent: Monday, April 24, 2023 3:53 PM
To: Diane Driscoll
Subject: FW: Gold Star Bridge Incident
Diane,
Please include in the BOPC meeting packet for May.
Thank you,
Marc Balestracci
Chief of Police
Waterford Police Department
41 Avery Lane, Waterford, Connecticut
860-442-9451 Ext. 2282
From: Henderson, Timothy <Timothy.Henderson@ct.gov>
Sent: Sunday, April 23, 2023 12:48 PM
To: Marc Balestracci <mbalestracci@waterfordct.org>; mfinkelstein@eastlymepolice.org
Cc: Gregorzek, John <John.Gregorzek@ct.gov>
Subject: Gold Star Bridge Incident
Chief Balestracci and Chief Finkelstein
lam sorry for the delay in this email, but the last two days | have been pulled in a few directions. | want to personally
thank your departments for the help with the incident on the Gold Star Bridge on Friday 4/21/22. Although your Officers
may have not been physically on the Gold Star, your departments were vital to making that critical incident go the way it
did. Unfortunately, at the same time, Troop E was dealing with a pursuit that resulted in a crash and another fatal
accident, so we did not have any Troopers close by. In fact, | ended up being the first CSP unit on scene. Your Officers
assisted in shutting down on ramps to 195 Northbound in both your Towns.

| was advised that both your departments assisted in shutting down 195 Northbound at the 1395 Northbound split, and
sending all traffic 1395 NB. I did not have any Troopers available to be able to accomplish this task and you Officers’
assistance has not gone unnoticed. In 17 years in law Enforcement in Southeastern CT, | don’t remember a time when
both sections of the Gold Star Bridge have been shut down for that long, except for the President and Vice President
visits. Even those visits, the shutdown is only 5 minutes. | know this caused significant issues within your Towns,
especially with Exit 74 being under construction.
| believe Region 4 DEMHS is planning an AAR / Debriefing of the Incident soon.
Thank you for your time and as always, stay safe.
Lieutenant Timothy Henderson #066
Commanding Officer
Connecticut State Police
Troop E - Montville
Timothy.henderson@ct.gov

Diane Driscoll
==
From: Marc Balestracci
Sent: Monday, April 24, 2023 3:54 PM
To: Diane Driscoll
Subject: FW: Thank you
Diane,
Please include in the BOPC meeting packet for May.
Thank you,
Marc Balestracci
Chief of Police
Waterford Police Department
41 Avery Lane, Waterford, Connecticut
860-442-9451 Ext. 2282
From: Mark Greczkowski <operations@waterfordambulance.org>
Sent: Friday, April 21, 2023 10:34 PM
To: Marc Balestracci <mbalestracci@waterfordct.org>
Subject: Thank you
Chief, good evening!
I wanted to take a moment to recognize all your officers that were on scene of the the RT 32 accident today.
This accident involved two (2) very critical patients. All your officers on the scene offered their assistance in
anyway possible, which allowed us to quickly extricate both patients and transport them to definitive care.
Without their assistance, this would not have been possible.
Please pass along my appreciation to all your involved staff, they were a huge assistance!
Regards,

Mark Greezkowski NRP, EMSI
Director of Operations
Waterford Ambulance Service, Inc. (WAS)
204 Boston Post Road Waterford, CT 06385
Voice - 860.448.5642
Email- Operations@WaterfordAmbulance.org
AMBULANCE
Waterford Ambulance Website

WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT TRAFFIC REPORT
° April 20236
Traffic Complaints:
The Traffic Officer (TO) received 5 Complaints for speeding. The roads with the most complaints were Dimmock
Road, Shore Road and Gurley Road.
Trailer Display Signs
The display signs and battery powered speed display signs were used throughout the town according to
complaints received and historical issues on roadways.
Speed Bumps
The temporary speed bumps were once again deployed at the Waterford High School to aid in slowing down
traffic in the parking lot. Discussions with Board of ED and the Friendship school resumed regarding a more
permanent solution.
Sign Requests
Three sign requests were received, two from Public Works and one from a resident.

North Phillips Street “Hammerhead”
A request was made by our public works department to install signs in the “hammerhead” section of
North Phillips Street. The signs will be “no parking signs” and will be installed at the curb lines of the
intersection.
Cars are usually parked within the section of roadway and make trash pickup very difficult and drivers
are concerned about causing accidents as they maneuver the trucks. Limiting parking in the area where
the intersection is will allow for the trucks to maneuver easier and safer.

Sign Proposal
Coolidge Court Stop Sign
A request was made by our public works department to install a stop sign at the intersection of Coolidge
Court and Robin Hill Road. It appears to have been an oversight as there is no record of a stop sign being
installed at that location.
The other intersections in the development have stop signs associated with the intersections but
Coolidge Court does not. I request on stop sign be placed at the exit of Coolidge Court onto Robin Hill
Road, it will be the only stop sign at the intersection.

Sign Proposal
Old Norwich Road @ Burlake Road
A request was made by a resident as a result of another accident at the intersection of Old Norwich
Road and Burlake Road. A vehicle continued to drive straight on Old Norwich and did not navigate the
hard left turn onto Burlake. The result was the vehicle traveling off the roadway into the wooded area.
This is not the first accident of this type at this location. The resident requested any addition signs to
alert drivers.
| request an advanced warning sign for the sharp left curve be installed prior to the turn. | also request
Two left Chevron signs be installed on the corner/intersection. The signs will be reflective and will aid in
notifying drivers of the hard left turn and the abrupt end to Old Norwich Road.

THE WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
K-9 Activity Report
April 2023
K-9 Neo
Monthly Uses: 2 Training
2023 Uses: 16 Monthly K-9 training was conducted on 04/11
& 04/25 in obedience, tracking, article search,
K-9 Ozzy narcotics, and aggression.
Monthly Uses: 3
2023 Uses: 17
K-9 Usage
Neo
¢ On 04/12/2023 K-9 Neo was deployed to assist the Investigative Services Unit with a
narcotics investigation. During this investigation a traffic stop was conducted and K-9
Neo was deployed for an exterior open air sniff and interior search of the vehicle. Drug
paraphernalia was located inside the vehicle. oe i
¢ On 04/25/2023 K-9 Neo was deployed for a narcotics
search for a demonstration with the Citizen’s Academy.
Ozzy
+ On 04/04/2023 Officer Genung conducted a traffic stop
and after making contact with the operator, he recognized
the operator as someone who had an extensive narcotics
and distribution history. Officer Genung then deployed
K-9 Ozzy for an exterior open air sniff of the vehicle.
¢ On 04/13/2023 Officer Genung and K-9 Ozzy assisted
East Lyme Police with a traffic stop after officers ob-
served a hand to hand drug transaction. K-9 Ozzy was deployed for an exterior open air
sniff and an interior search of the vehicle. K-9 Ozzy showed alert behavior on a purse
located on the front passenger floorboard. 63 wax paper baggies containing a white pow-
dery substance were later located in the purse where K-9 Ozzy alerted to. K-9 Ozzy was
also utilized for an article search for this same incident after it was suspected heroin was
thrown into a backyard.
¢ On 04/21/2023 K-9 Ozzy was deployed for a search of a missing 76 year old female with
medical issues. K-9 Ozzy tracked for a short time and located the female deep under-
neath a bush.

THE WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
@. Youth Office Activity
| Report
April 2023
¢ SRO Malbaurn took a student attending the Waterford Country School to lunch during spring
break in an ongoing attempt to build a mentorship with the student due to the students
behavior and substance abuse issues.
fy,
¢ SRO Malbaurn and SRO Lane continue to aN
conduct numerous meetings with parents during
the month involving various concerns including
social media and mental health issues. These
issues occur during and outside of school hours,
but often carry into the school day. 5
¢ SRO Lane held a safety meeting with Clark Lane
Middle School security and staff to ensure proper
safety measures are in place and to make the
school safer.
¢ SRO Malbaurn assisted Investigative Services
with a shooting that happened on Anthony Road
in New London.
¢ SRO Lane taught numerous classes on the topic of social media to various grades. SRO Lane
also assisted with teaching Youth Promise classes at the elementary schools and gave some
first graders a tour of the police department.
¢ SRO Malbaurn coordinated and assisted with many officers going to the Waterford High School
to teach various topics in the Criminal Justice Classes. SRO Malbaurn also attended coffee
with a cop with a few high school students.
Month at a Glance
0 — Home Visits
1-—CAD Report
1- Case Reports
0 — Arrests
SRO Lane & SRO Malbaurn continue to meet and talk with students on a daily basis for school, personal, and social
related topics in an effort to develop lasting relationships between the department and the youth in our community.

THE WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
Investigative Services
Division
April 2023
In the month of April 2023 the Investigative Services Division worked or assisted with 29
active investigations.
Current Active Investigations (18 Cases):
(These numbers do not include assist’s to the Patrol Division)
Fraud—1
Pistol Permits—9
Homicide—1
Burglary—4
Crypto Scam—1 Narcotics—2
Year to Date Statistical Report
Det. Sgt. Mike Fedor has been utilizing Neighborhood Watch Captains as a conduit for
security footage related to car thefts, car burglaries, and catalytic converter thefts. By utilizing
the Neighborhood Watch as a force multiplier, Investigative Services has been able to obtain
data from privately owned security cameras when crimes occur within the community.
Case Amount Recovered - Search Sex Arrests
Numbers Investigated Seized Warrants Assaults
40 $172,268.98 | $119,387.00 18 8 18
Ex-Parte’s Auto Theft Burglary Unattended Robbery Background
Deaths Checks
0) 0 4 1 0 0)

THE WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
Investigative Services
Division
April 2023
April 2023 Arrests:
Denetria Griffin — 40-Years-old of New London, CT was charged with three counts of Failure
to Appear in the Second Degree
April 2023 Investigations:
Det.’s Bonkowski and Carroll located a vehicle involved in an on-going larceny investigation.
They were able to interview a suspect who admitted to being present in the vehicle during the
crime. This information was forwarded to the investigating Patrol Officer.
Investigator Zaldivar identified a larceny suspect and completed an arrest warrant for their
arrest. This suspect was involved in 2 separate crimes in Waterford.
Investigative Services conducted multiple surveillance operations related to different
neighborhood narcotics complaints. In one operation, the reported activity was not verified,
but a wanted person was identified and arrested on 3 active warrants. The second is on-going.
Investigative Services assisted the Federal Bureau of Investigation with a search warrant
execution on a residence in the Quaker Hill section of Waterford, Connecticut.
Det. O’Connell obtained three (3) extraditable arrest warrants for the subjects identified in a
$94,000.00 commercial burglary. All the stolen goods were recovered and the subjects are
currently in custody in the State of New York.
Task Force Report:
In the month of April, the VCTF executed 2 search warrants resulting in the recovery of 1
handgun and various narcotics in Norwich & Groton.
The Task force was asked by Connecticut Major Crime to conduct surveillance on churches.
They had two (2) churches set on fire and were looking for suspects. CSP Major Crime had not
obtained any suspect or vehicle descriptions. TFO Rodriguez was surveilling a church and
observed a vehicle enter the parking lot and 2 subjects exit a car. These subjects were
positively identified, found to be under 18 years old, and the vehicle contained a gas can. The
vehicle was photographed and the subjects were released. CSP Major Crime later obtained
security footage of a suspect vehicle from a previous arson, which matched they one identified
by the VCTF. CSP Major Crime has the investigation.
VCTF has opened 4 narcotics and weapons investigations, as well as currently investigating a
Waterford narcotics case.

THE WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
TRAINING REPORT
APRIL 2023
New Officer Updates
Hiring Process: Waterford Police Department has opened up the hiring process
for both entry level and certified officers through April 30, 2028. Training Officer
Nicolas Surdo continues his efforts in recruiting by attending the monthly Law En-
forcement Council (LEC) written examination. This is a good opportunity to engage
with the candidates, inform them of the opportunities at the police department and
provide information on the next steps and what to expect going forward in the hir-
ing process. A physical agility test is scheduled for May 7, 2023 at the Waterford
High School.
Recruit Andrew Reed is continuing his training at the Law Enforcement Council
(LEC) Eastern Regional Police Academy and continues to accelerate. Recruit Reed
is currently assigned as a squad leader (Corporal) for the class.
In-House Trainings: Officer Gilbert Maffeo conducted a one-hour standardized
field sobriety test (SFST) and advanced roadside impairment driving enforcement
(ARIDE) refresher. All members of the police department attended the training
which consisted of classroom discussion and practical's.
Chief Marc Balestracci and Officer Gilbert Maffeo conducted a four-day Advanced
Driving Under the Influence course held at the Waterford Police Department. The
course included classroom instruction and a wet lab, which is required by the State
of Connecticut to be eligible to attend the ARIDE training. Three (3) members of the
Waterford Police Department attended the training.
Supervisory Assistant States Attorney Louis Luba came to the police department to
speak with officers regarding search and seizure. Attorney Luba answered officers
questions regarding search and seizure and elaborated on certain aspects of search
and seizure that officer’s had questions to.

THE WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
INTEGRITY
TRAINING REPORT
APRIL 2023
Officer Stephen Rogers attended a five-day Basic SWAT Operator I course at the
Sig Sauer Academy in Epping, NH. The course focused on basic fundamentals of
room clearing, breaching, planning, scouting and warrant service.
Officer Kyle McComic and Christopher Ewing attended a five-day Crisis Interven-
tion Training (CIT) in Hartford, CT. The course brings community and law en-
forcement resources together to address common issues related to mental health.
Officer Eric Fredricks attended a five-day Gracie Survival Tactics (GST) Level 1
Instructor course in Bethel, CT. The course focused on technical instruction,
teaching methodologies, and a final evaluation.
Detective Raymond Carroll and Officer Nicolas Surdo attended a five-day Ad-
vanced SWAT II course at Sig Sauer, Epping, NH. The course focused on numer-
ous hostage rescue techniques.
Officer Nicholas Genung attended a four-day Power & Control K9 Collaboration
course in Hartford, CT. The course focused on building search and tactics, obedi-
ence, limit barking, multiple scenario events with a team and how to implement
K9 in tactical teams.
Officer Norman Malbaurn and Officer Daniel Lane attended a one-day United
States Secret Service (USSS) Research and Recommendations on Prevention of
Targeted School Violence course. The course was a free seminar and held in West-
erly, RI.

The Waterford Police Department Records Department
Activity for APRIL 2023
This activity reflects daily activity for the reporting month inclusive of; administrative and
court paperwork or processing, contact with members of the public, and state or federal
mandated reporting requirements.
Ticket/Written | Freedom of | Motor | Warrants | Phone Walk in | Background
Warning Information | Vehicle | (Entering | calls Lobby Check
Entries Requests | Accident or Window | Requests
Entries | clearing)
216 148 51 88 177 107 7
=
Protective Officer Case State/Federal | Supervisor DCF
Order Tasking Erasures Report Tasking Requests
Entries Requests Entries Requests
43 19 206 0 26 27
Court Request Case Copies Abstracts
33 5 201

CSO Monthly Statistical Report
April 2023
Waterford Arrests #
Adult 19:
Juvenile 0
Total Processed 19
Fingerprints #
Pistol Permits LS:
Employment 9
Miscellaneous 7
Peddler / Precious Permits 1,
Total Fingerprints 39
Firearms #
Firearms Transfer 50
Pistol Permits Issued 2
Initial Complaints (3A’s) #
Total 42
> CSO’s covered 62 shifts during the month.
> CSO Beebe has submitted his letter of resignation effective June 26, 2023. CSO Beebe
has accepted a position as a Police Officer with the Town of Stonington.
> Hiring process has been started with 4 candidates applying for the position of CSO

Patrol Report
Commissioners Activity Report
April 2023
. . . Patrol Calls for Servi
Assist to the Connecticut State Police Monthly sing Shot!
On April 21, 2023 there were two fatal motor vehicle accidents on
the highway that significantly affected traffic in town. The first Total Service Calls 2310
accident involved a fuel tank truck on the Gold Star Bridge that set
fire, causing I-95 N and I-95 S to be shut down for quite some time. Case Numbers — 164
The second accident was on the RTE 32 Connector in Quaker Hill a Areas 72
short time later that caused the connector to be shut down. For both
accidents officers assisted by shutting down the highway in Juvenile Arrests !
multiple locations and managing the overflow of traffic in town. Larcenies 27
en ie = Arrest Warrants 18
Domestic Violence 16
Investigations
Traffic Crash 50
DUI Investigations 4
EDP/Welfare 37
Check
School Checks 47
Suspicious Vehicle Arrest dictor Velie = aD
Stops
On April 24, 2023 officers were dispatched to Sam’s Mart Gas Station at ; ;
the intersection of RTE 1 and Clark Lane for the report of two people acting | Written Warnings 137
suspicious in a vehicle in the parking lot. The people in the car were
reportedly acting strange and appeared to be hallucinating. When officers Infractions 46
arrived on scene they investigated and later determined both subjects were
in possession and under the influence of crack cocaine. Both parties were Verbal Warnings 195
arrested and charged with Illegal Possession of a Controlled Substance and
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Misdemeanor 17
SELF INITIATED MOTOR VEHICLE ACTIVITY BY BADGE NUMBER
86-Officer Scarpa with 35 stops
72-Officer DiFusco with 33 stops
73-Officer Epps with 31 stops
Bes 3H
26
23 ay
IS Toco.
ta
13 13 13
ee eae 1D 83-Officer Barrows with 30 stops
a 8
6
TV Nea ines ees pee
TT TTT ee
Fe] BS eee ee
86 72 73 83 §2 78 85 88 87 9% 84 G& 77 91 74 92 90 75 S17 S13 89 54 64 80 S16 44 Sli 40 S18 D21 022 023

0 Page 2 Patrol Report
Weapon in a Motor Vehicle Arrest
On April 15, 2023 Officer Caler conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for traveling fast and running a
red light. During the course of his investigation he noticed the operator acting suspicious by refus-
ing to make eye contact, refusing to provide proper documentation, and attempting to hide what was
inside the center console when he had opened it. Officers on scene noticed ammunition in the rear
of the car, therefore the occupants were instructed out of the car and a vehicle search was conducted.
An unregistered firearm was located inside the vehicle and the operator, who stated the firearm was
his, did not have a pistol permit. The operator was charged with Carrying of Pistol or Revolver
without Permit, Weapons in a Vehicle, and Traveling Unreasonably Fast.
Larceny / Warrant Arrest
On April 7, 2023 officers were dispatched to Target for the report of a shoplifting in progress. Of-
ficers located the female and during their investigation determined that she had four PRAWN war-
rants out of other local police departments. The female was charged with Larceny Sth Degree and
four counts of Failure To Appear for the PRAWN warrants.
Breach of Peace Arrest
On April 5, 2023 officers were dispatched to Henny Penny on RTE 85 for the report of a male in the
store that seemed intoxicated, was swearing, and was trying to fight people. When officers arrived
on scene the male was gone, but they located him in a parking lot a short distance away. When of-
ficers were dealing with the male he continued to scream obscenities at them, was intoxicated, and
kept encroaching on the officers personal space. The male was arrested and charged with Breach of
Peace.
Suspicious Vehicle / Drug Arrest
On April 28, 2023 Officer Barrows was conducting a business check at Home Depot, a location
where shopliftings happen often. Officer Barrows noticed a vehicle that was parked in a location out
of the view of the cameras with a male in the operators seat constantly checking his cell phone. The
vehicle left the parking lot a short time later, and due to it not being registered Officer Barrows con-
ducted a traffic stop and made contact with the operator. During the course of his investigation, Of-
ficer Barrows determined the operator did not steal anything, however he located illegal Suboxone
strips and determined the operator had numerous other motor vehicle violations. The operator was
charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Misuse of Marker Plates, Operating an Unregis-
tered Motor Vehicle, Failure to Insure a Private Motor Vehicle, and Operating a Motor Vehicle
without a License.

Monthly Report April 2023
CALLS FOR SERVICE
AFTER HOURS CALL OUTS
DOG BITES
INFRACTIONS
WRITTEN WARNINGS
ANIMALS REDEEMED
ANIMALS ADOPTED
ANIMALS DOA
EUTHANIZED
ANIMALS PROCESSED TOTAL
TOTAL MONEY TAKEN IN
DONATIONS TAKEN IN
WATERFORD EAST LYME
72 30
2 HI
2 2
0 0
1 2
0 3
4 8
2 0
0 0
6 11
S 20.00 § 179.70
5.00 S 99.70

1)
2)
In the shelter we have two dogs that were seized on an animal cruelty
warrant by the state way back on 3/25/2022. Animal control facilities
across the state assisted in housing animals for them, without cross
cooperation, large seizures like this would be overwhelming. The court
system has finally come to a judgement and allowed the state to take full
custody of the 100 assorted animals that they seized and attempt to find
them new homes. We are in the process of finding places for them after a
full year in our shelter.
4/10/23 Each year, just after Easter, many animal control facilities find
roaming rabbits, this is because some parents purchase “Easter bunnies”
for their children and then realize that they are difficult to care for and just
abandon them outside thinking they will fend for themselves. This is often a
death sentence for these domestic rabbits who have no idea how to forage
for food or avoid predators. This handsome bunny was found on Avery lane
near the WPD.

3) 4/11/23 In the early morning hours, | received a call from a citizen in
Salem, who is a personal friend of mine. He told me that he had found two
dogs roaming in Salem. For some reason when he contacted the
Connecticut State Police, he was told there was no one who could assist
him, so he called me. Knowing that Montville was covering Salem for
animal control services, | met with him and took custody of the two dogs.
When | contacted Montville, | learned that they had no room to house the
dogs so we kept them at our facility until they could open up some kennel
space or adopt the dogs out. Local municipal shelters often help each other
out like this, it greatly reduces the need to euthanize good animals for
space constraints.

4) 4/25/23 the camera system we had installed at the shelter was
instrumental in helping to identify the license plate of a vehicle who
dumped 2 dogs. Sadly, the plate was a misuse and New London authorities
are still looking into the incident. Regardless of the outcome, the camera
system, (that we got installed FREE OF CHARGE) is doing its job.

THE WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
Community Engagement Report f
) April 2023 ipLic
Internships: Intern Brian Dec shadowed Day Shift Patrol, SRO Lane, and Dispatch. Intern
Dec helped at the Central CT University Police Job Fair and observed SFSTs refresher
training. Intern Anthony Jessuck shadowed Day Shift Patrol and the Records Department.
Intern Jessuck was brought to the CT Police Academy for a tour.
Citizen’s Academy: Participants attended classes about the Youth Office, Investigative
Services, Offensive Tactics, Use of Force, Dispatch, Marine Patrol, the K-9 unit, and
Electronic Crimes. They witnessed a Phazzer demo and K-9 demos.
Domestic Violence Follow-ups: Conducted 5 follow-ups with DV victims.
Rotary Club: Attended monthly meeting and student scholarship award ceremony.
= A I OOTTY
K-9 Officer Hodges: Visited M&T Bank, Ballestrini’s Daycare, Shoreline Eye Group, and
Citizen’s Bank. Visited with a victim’s family during a homicide trial. Performed a K-9
Demo at Lillie B. Haynes School. Hodges interacted with attendees at the Traveler’s
Insurance Safety Fair and WTFD Little League South’s Opening Day.
Interaction with Youth Services: Spoke to students at a Youth Promise class. Attended the
Youth Promise Final Jeopardy Event.
Recruiting: Held 3 recruitment sessions at Eastern CT State University. Assisted Mitchell
College with two mock police interviews for students. Created a Waterford Police career
board to use at job fairs. Attended Central CT State University’s Police Job Fair.
Assistance to Youth Officers: Organized Great Neck School first grade students to visit the
police department for a tour and a K-9 Hodges demo. Spoke about traffic stop safety at
Rae’s Driving School. Received a donation of sports equipment from Dick’s Sporting
Goods that will be distributed to Waterford schools.
Dancing with the Stars: Participated in the Camp Dash fundraising event.
Interaction with Senior Services: Hodges visited Bayview Healthcare.
Officer Buchanan Memorial Peer Support Award: Received an award for peer support
work along with other facility K-9 handlers at CIT Conference.
Coffee with a Cop: Organized the event where police officers and citizens had causal
conversations at the WTFD Community Center. Starbucks donated free coffee and other
WTFD emergency services participated.

DRAFT (2)
Purpose: To outline the procedure for appointing/hiring a new Chief of Police for the Town of
Waterford Connecticut Police Department
To outline the procedure for appointing an Interim Chief of Police should the existing Chief of
Police retire, separate from employment for any reason, or is deemed unable to perform the
duties required.
To detail the criteria for application and potential promotion from within the agency and to detail
the criteria required should it be necessary to seek a Chief of Police from outside the agency.
This may refer to candidates within the State of Connecticut as well as nationwide if so desired.
Chief of Police: The Police Commission will first consider internal candidates that meet the
criteria set forth below. If no suitable candidate is identified, the Police Commission will then
consider external candidates, taking into consideration what is best for the members of the
agency as well as the Town of Waterford.
Internal Candidates Required:
e Bachelor’s Degree related to Criminal Justice/ Public Safety
Administration or related field
e Must hold/held a promoted rank as a Division Commander for a minimum
of two years
e Continued police service of at least fifteen years.
e POSTC Certified
e Active Connecticut driver’s license
Internal Candidates Preferred:
e Master’s Degree related to public Safety Administration or Criminal
Justice.
e FBI National Academy or similar advanced training
Interested candidates will notify the Police Commission in writing of their intent to be
considered for selection as Chief of Police and will submit all requested documentation as
requested by the Police Commission, which may include an updated resume and biography that
outlines/illustrates qualifications.
Upon identifying all candidates from within the agency that wish to participate in the selection
process and meet the required criteria, the Law Enforcement Council of Connecticut or other
organization in contract at the time, will be notified that a Chief of Police selection process is
being started by the Town of Waterford. The organization will be asked to organize a Chief of
Police oral board interview process.

Upon completion of the external interview process, the Police Commission will obtain the results
and consult with the Waterford Human Resources Director and Town Labor Attorney, if so
desired, before initiating an interview process with the candidates advancing in the process.
To advance through this part of the process, all candidates shall have received a score or
combined score of 80 and above.
If the existing Chief of Police is still active, an interview with them shall be held in executive
session for the purpose of evaluating potential candidates. If the Chief of Police is no longer
available, the Police Commission will meet with senior ranking officers who hold the rank of
Lieutenant or above for additional perspective.
Upon completion of the oral interview process, the Police Commission may decide to appoint an
Interim Chief of Police for a set probationary period before consideration of full appointment,
appoint an Interim Chief during a period in which the Police Commission explores Connecticut
certified external candidates or select an Interim Chief of Police while a larger search is
conducted.
Any internal candidates selected as Interim Chief of Police will coordinate with the Waterford
Police Union, the Waterford First Selectman and the Town of Waterford Human Resources
Director to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding in regards to compensation.
If no internal candidates are identified, a statewide search may be conducted. The posting will
consist of the Town of Waterford Chief of Police job description and any other relevant details as
determined by the Police Commission and Human Resources Director. The following criteria
will be detailed for external candidates:
External Candidates Required:
e Bachelor’s Degree related to Criminal Justice/ Public Safety Administration
or related field
© Must hold/held a promoted rank as a Division Commander for a minimum of
two years
e Continued police service of at least fifteen years
e POSTC Certified
e Active Connecticut driver’s license
External Candidates Preferred:
e Master’s Degree related to public Safety Administration or Criminal
Justice.
e FBI National Academy or similar advanced training
e Experience in Police Administration
Candidates who are interested will submit the application through the Town of Waterford
Human Resources Department.

After obtaining all valid applications as detailed in the job posting, the Police Commission will
follow the process as detailed for internal candidates to include external interviews, Police
Commission interviews and consultation with the Chief of Police and/or Lieutenants, the Human
Resources Director and the Town of Waterford Labor Attorney, if so desired.
The Waterford Police Commission reserves the right to makes necessary changes to this process
as long as they discuss and approve the changes in public at a properly advertised public
meeting.

WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
41 AVERY LANE
WATERFORD, CT 06385-2819
Marc Balestracci (860) 442-9451 TEL
Police Chief mbalestracci@waterfordct.org
To: First Selectman Rob Brule
Cc: Board of Police Commissioners
From: Marc Balestracci, Chief of Police
Date: May 10, 2023
Re: Request for additional officers
First Selectman Brule,
Over the past year, you and | have had many discussions in reference to public safety in the Town of Waterford.
Our discussions outlined ways that the police department can best prepare for the current and future needs of
our community. This request, which you have supported in our conversations, allows the department to better
manage several major concerns, most notably traffic enforcement and school safety.
The Waterford Police Department is currently authorized forty-nine (49) sworn officers. Since the mid 1980’s, our
department has only increased in size by two (2) officers. The department, which remains one of the busier
departments in eastern Connecticut, has an incredibly positive relationship with the community, handles calls for
service in a professional manner and makes every effort to prevent, interrupt and solve crime in our jurisdiction.
As our department manages the changing laws in the State of Connecticut and the impact of those laws on how
police officers work to reduce criminal and motor vehicle violations, we are also planning and preparing for the
future needs of our community. Over the past year and a half, we have reviewed policies, procedures,
assignments, staffing and long standing challenges in our community. For many years, we have continued to shift
patrol officers from their main function in an attempt to positively impact school safety and traffic concerns in
town. Those efforts have not resulted in long lasting results and have reduced effectiveness in other areas, of
which patrol officers should be focused on. Although Waterford is a safe town to live, work and visit, the
residents have also made it clear that school safety and motor vehicle enforcement are priorities.
Beyond the school safety and traffic concerns, our department is planning for the significant amount of
development currently being constructed and other projects that are approved and will likely be built in the
following areas:

WATERFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
41 AVERY LANE
WATERFORD, CT 06385-2819
Marc Balestracci (860) 442-9451 TEL
Police Chief mbalestracci@waterfordct.org
e Approximately 400 apartments on Willetts Avenue and approximately 400 apartments on Hartford
Turnpike
© Stand-alone residential developments on Clark Lane and Great Neck Road
e Large commercial projects on Hartford Turnpike, Oil Mill Road and potential redevelopment at the site of
the Crystal Mall
e Various other proposed projects in town to include a potential multicultural magnet school on Daniels
Ave.
Therefore, | am respectfully requesting an increase to the police department by three (3) sworn police officers. If
approved, this increase will allow the department to improve in both school safety and traffic enforcement as we
plan to add another School Resource Officer assignment and form a much needed traffic unit.
The new School Resource Officer will complement our current staffing of two (2), which will increase our presence
in all Waterford Schools. In addition, two officers will be assigned to work with our current Traffic Officer to form
an effective traffic unit. The officers assigned to the traffic unit will focus on motor vehicle enforcement such as
speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, reckless driving and traffic crashes, reducing patrol’s heavy tasking
in those areas and allowing them to prioritize calls for service and criminal activity.
As you know, the recruitment, hiring, training and certification process for police officers can take between six (6)
to eighteen (18) months to complete. Due to this extended process, | am seeking authorization of the increase in
sworn officers as soon as practicable.
In an attempt to be fully transparent, with current collective bargaining agreement considerations, this request
would increase the operating budget for the police department in FY24 by approximately $234,000 if fully
approved and funded. The Police Union CBA states that salaries for police officers will increase by 2.75% each
year until the end of the contract.
| again thank you for your support of all public safety efforts in Waterford and appreciate any consideration of this
request.
VMa—d
Marc Balestracci
Chief of Police
Waterford Police Department