Law Enforcement leaders from across Delmarva gathered at the Wicomico Civic Center on June 11th for the Annual Law Enforcement Leaders of Delmarva Forum, a crucial platform for discussing the pressing issues facing law enforcement and their respective departments. Local Police Chiefs, County Sheriffs, and Maryland State Police leaders shared a panel moderated by Wicomico County States Attorney Jamie Dykes.
Topics discussed ranged from the challenges in recruiting and retaining personnel, the ever-changing legal dynamics governing the ‘use of force,’ technological advances in policing, and what the future holds for law enforcement.
Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli shared, “Competition to attract personnel is a national issue; in Worcester County, we try to build a culture that is as attractive to candidates as the compensation.”
Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack Commander Lt. Tim Corbin agreed and added, “While our department has been more salary driven and we attract talent from other agencies, that is just not a sustainable model moving forward.”
Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis spoke about what he considered to be the best technology his deputies have at their disposal, “Body-worn cameras protect our deputies; they even transcribe the interaction in real-time. I have always embraced new technologies. Various citizen groups once lauded body-worn cameras; now, many of those same groups and civil rights watchdogs are dissatisfied with the results. In most cases, the footage supports the actions of police officers.”
Dover, Delaware, Police Chief Thomas Johnson commented on the changing legalities regarding police use of force policies.
“We train our officers very differently than we did five years ago. The use of force continuum has drastically changed.”
Salisbury Police Chief David Meienschein shared his insights about retention and recruitment. “We lose veteran officers through retirement or transfer to other agencies. We then have very young officers that we train and try to retain, but turnover is an issue.”
Salisbury University Police Chief Edwin Lashley, a forty-eight-year law enforcement veteran, shared what technology has meant for a major college campus. “The worst place to commit any crime is on campus; we have thousands of cameras on the SU campus along with license plate readers. The campus is a very secure environment.”
Each of the chiefs and sheriffs emphasized that law enforcement work is now considered a job by younger personnel, whereas, for all of the veteran leaders, it was a career and a calling, a testament to their dedication and service.
The July General Membership Luncheon will be held on Thursday, September 18th at Green Hill Country Club in Quantico, MD. Tickets can be purchased at salisburyarea.com. $35 for Members, $45 for Non-Members.
