Spring 2020 Hometown Messenger

Go behind the scenes with Shakopee Police Ever wondered what a police officer's job is really like? Or how the department trains its officers to handle such a variety of situations? The Shakopee Police Department will be

CHIEF’S NOTES

Two of the biggest goals for fire departments are to prevent the loss of life and to protect property and the environment. To accomplish these goals, many fire departments have specialist teams or special operations. Shakopee has two special rescue teams that support these goals. One is a technical rope rescue team and the

hosting its Citizen Police Academy this spring. The six-week course meets from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, April 22 through May 27. The course is designed with a “hands-on” approach. Some of the topics to be covered in the Academy include traffic enforcement, use of force, investigations, SWAT, school resource officers and more. Applicants must be over the age of 18 and pass a background check. Applications are due April 3. Space is limited. Apply at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/citizensacademy.

other is a dive team. The technical rope rescue team is led by Deputy Chief Dave Giddings. Team leaders received their training and rope rescue technician certifications from CMC Rescue School in Waukesha, Wis., which covers skills in high- and low-angle

Shakopee Fire Chief Rick Coleman

NEWS & NOTES

rescue techniques, mountain, industrial and confined space rescue. The team trains monthly and uses its expertise to train other firefighters during regular fire department training sessions. The dive team is led by Deputy Chief Joe Simon. All rescue divers have trained with and received certifications from Emergency Response Diving International (ERDI). Its training consists of preparing for dive operations, handling a drowning victim, vehicle and evidence recovery and many others. The team meets for monthly training at local lakes, as well as at the Community Center and middle school pools. Both the technical rope rescue and dive teams train hard and often, so they are prepared for that emergency call when needed. Fortunately, these types of calls don’t happen very often, but that also places them in a higher-risk category for injuries and loss of life. We do everything in our power to reduce that risk. When you call 911, you can count on a knowledgeable, well-equipped, trained and prepared group of firefighters ready to perform a safe and effective rescue operation.

Tucci named 2019 Officer of the Year Officer Greg Tucci was selected as the 2019 Police Officer of the Year.

Tucci, a 33-year veteran of the department, was recognized for his professionalism, outstanding service to the residents of Shakopee and his kind and caring attitude. He is an excellent resource and highly respected by his fellow officers, who describe him as an outstanding partner who is very personable and knowledgeable. Officer Tucci also participates in many community activities, including Night to Unite, Shop with a Cop and Coffee with a Cop. He enjoys being out among the Shakopee residents. "Tucci is an excellent representation of what the Shakopee Police Department stands for, as well as a tremendous person," said Chief Jeff Tate. Police host Crime Free Multi-Housing training April 18 All rental property owners or managers are required to attend the Crime Free Multi- Housing training. The next training is Thursday, April 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the police department, 475 Gorman St. The Crime Free Multi-Housing (CFMH) program is designed to reduce crime, drugs

and illegal or nuisance activity in rental communities. Registration information is available on the city website.

Shakopee Police Diaper Drive nets 25,749 diapers The Shakopee Police Department's annual diaper drive collected more than 25,000 diapers for Shakopee Community Assistance. The diaper drive is held in memory of

former crime prevention specialist Janna Wood, who died in 2017. Mark your calendar for 2020 Night to Unite

Get ready for a carnival of fun at the annual Night to Unite celebration Tuesday, Aug. 4. Shakopee Police Department invites residents to lock their doors, turn on their porch lights and gather with their neighbors for an evening of community togetherness. Registration for this year’s carnival-themed event begins June 1 at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/nighttounite.

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