Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Westminster announces police chief retirement and confirms body-worn camera mandate
Summary
Police Chief Leadwell told the council he will retire Sept. 1; the department noted state or program guidance making body-worn cameras mandatory for officers with regular public contact effective July 1 and outlined local crime-prevention partnerships and youth programs.
The Westminster Mayor and Common Council heard announcements from the police department that Chief Leadwell will retire Sept. 1 and that body-worn cameras became mandatory July 1 for officers who have regular contact with members of the public.
Council members offered congratulations to Chief Leadwell for more than 10 years of service and praised what the mayor called a community-based policing approach. Chief Leadwell addressed the council and noted that the department's body-worn camera program has been in place for several years and that a mandate took effect July 1 requiring wearing the cameras for officers with regular public contact.
The department also reported ongoing work with Dick's Sporting Goods management and regional partners to address group shoplifting and prevention strategies at that retailer, and noted community outreach efforts including Camp Cops and a youth program called "Baking with a Badge." Councilors asked about enforcement of the city's scooter initiative and Chief Leadwell said enforcement and education are ongoing and that staff would provide enforcement statistics through the city administrator.
The chief's retirement announcement drew council thanks and recognition; no personnel action was taken at the meeting. The body-worn camera update reported the local program is now required in practice for officers with regular public contact, effective July 1, and the department described multiple ongoing community policing and prevention activities.
