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Pocomoke police chief outlines public-safety app plan and praises retiring captain
Summary
Chief Hancock detailed department compliance achievements, proposed a city public-safety app and website redesign (vendor OCV LLC), and the council recognized Captain Brian Craven on his retirement; the chief proposed using department funds to cover initial app development and suggested adding QR codes to marked units.
Council recognized Captain Brian Scott Craven with a retirement proclamation and then heard an extended report from Police Chief Hancock about department performance and proposed technology investments.
The chief said the department’s community-policing report was reviewed by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission and found to meet standards of compliance and best practices. Hancock defended officers’ reports and described a strong working relationship with the state’s attorney. He also said the department is adapting to leadership changes after Captain Craven’s retirement and emphasized training and phased promotions rather than immediate elevation without preparation.
On technology, the chief described a vendor (OCV LLC) that develops first-responder apps and web pages; he said the vendor works with neighboring jurisdictions. Hancock told council the service could be delivered in roughly 12 weeks and that the one-time development cost would be substantial; he proposed using available police-department balances and proceeds from vehicle sales to cover start-up costs so the app would not draw on taxpayers. He also proposed placing QR-code decals on marked patrol vehicles linking residents to the app and city events.
The chief raised concerns about derelict properties — noting roughly 22 abandoned or derelict properties within a short corridor — and asked whether city government could accelerate enforcement or remediation processes. Council and the chief discussed tying code-enforcement and public-works efforts into a broader crime-suppression approach.
