CitizenObserver

JCPD Wins TechStar Award

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:34:16 GMT

Story Published on Thursday, October 15, 2009

Sgt. John Hames holds a PDA in one hand and the department’s award in the other. (Jeff Keeling / Johnson City Press)

By Jeff Keeling
Press Business Editor
jkeeling@johnsoncitypress.com

Johnson City police officers have their world at their fingertips these days.

The technology that got them there won this year’s “TechStar” award for development of new technology, one of nine awards presented at the Northeast Tennessee Technology Council’s Seventh Annual TechStar Awards.

Sgt. John Hames initiated a program three years ago to somehow move the Johnson City Police Department to a wireless approach. Chief John Lowry had given the computer-savvy officer a directive to find a solution to a cumbersome paperwork environment that slowed officers down, created space problems due to storage of records and diverted money to old-fashioned data entry in a digital age.

Hames said going paperless in a department that annually generates 25,000 traffic tickets, at least 15,000 incident reports, 4,000 crash reports and up to 8,000 arrests has made a huge difference in terms of cost and effective use of officers’ time.

“It increases efficiency because officers are on the scene for less time and it’s that much less paper coming into the building, so there’s no data entry clerk needed after the ticket comes in,” Hames said.

The PDAs capture signatures of traffic violators and print out tickets immediately, and can be used to call up anyone’s photo through links with the National Crime Information Center and state and local sources. So if a bad guy is pulled over and pretending to be somebody else, Hames said, an officer can figure it out pretty quickly.

The department didn’t replace a retiring records clerk as the program was starting in 2006, and another vacancy since then wasn’t filled, saving tens of thousands of dollars annually.

The department was looking at $4,000-plus “rugged laptops” as it started the program, but settled instead on devices that look like cell phones and cost only $150 apiece, Hames said. About 150 of them are in use today, and Lowry is more than happy.

“The information was always days to weeks behind, (but) now we are live and real-time,” Lowry said. “I think it’s a win-win situation for us and for the public. If we can cut the amount of time we’re spending on paperwork, then it gives us more time to be out here being more proactive in the community.”

In addition to handing out awards and recognizing the region’s leaders in technology, the symposium’s schedule included a variety of sessions in the morning and afternoon geared toward education, implementation and execution of technological resources as related to businesses, both large and small.

The luncheon included a keynote address from Timothy Lindstrom, vice president of operations for Nuclear Fuel Services Inc., of Erwin.

With his naval background, Lindstrom discussed Navy submarine technology from the lens of a career submariner.

“Few people recognize that every submarine in the U.S. Navy has its birthplace in Erwin, Tennessee,” Lindstrom said. “The technology built into these machines is both rugged and cutting edge.”

Other TechStar Award winners were:

• City of Kingsport, Higher Education Center for the Use of Technology in Government Agencies for its “Smart Center Classroom,” a key component of the new center that gives teachers access to a variety of interactive resources to effectively manage the classroom. The award also noted the center’s use of green building technology in its new building.

• Tennessee Technology Center at Elizabethton for Use of Technology in Education. High school juniors and seniors in Elizabethton and Carter County will be one step closer to entering the 12-month practical nurse training program at the Technology Center when they complete an online dosage calculations training class in December.

• Wellmont Health Systems and First Tennessee Human Resource Agency for Use of Technology by Non-profit Group/Agency, Wellmont for a systemwide mammography reporting system and FTHRA for software that enhances its aging in place programs for elderly and disabled residents.

• Tri-Cities Economic Development Alliance for Use of Internet or Web Technologies for “Tri-Cities Prospector,” a Web site developed to assist companies with selecting sites/buildings in the Tri-Cities region.

• Advanced Technical Solutions for Application of Technology within a Small Business for gaining “Authorized Technology Provider” status with Cisco, something that has put ATS in consideration for large contact center projects throughout the Southeast.

• Internetwork Engineering for Application of Technology within a Large Business, for its provision of full wireless coverage using Cisco’s Lightweight Wireless Control System for a healthcare provider with 40,000 employees.

• Connected Tennessee for Community Service for its Computers 4 Kids program, which has placed more than 2,000 computers over the past 18 months in the hands of disadvantaged populations so they can perform basic computing functions and have access to abundant educational, informational, governmental and research resources that are available on the Internet.

Identify Suspects

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 15:10:53 GMT

THE CITY OF JOHNSON CITY

Police Department

NEWS RELEASE

Prepared By:

Inv. Andy Clevinger

Date:

09-25-09

Time:

10:00am

Subject:

Burglary Investigation

Approved:

Lt. Steve Sherfey

The Johnson City Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Unit is currently investigating a Burglary to a local business that occurred in the early morning hours on 09-24-09.

Two white male subjects were seen on the business surveillance video and Investigators are requesting help with their identification. Anyone with information on the identity of the two subjects seen in the video are asked to notify the Johnson City Police Department calling 423-434-6114 or Crime Stoppers hotline at 423-434-6158.

Information can also be sent via text to 423JCPD and text your tip to 847411(TIP411). All tips and information given can be anonymous.

2009 National Night Out

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 15:47:15 GMT

JC Police Department announces 2009 National Night Out Events on August 4th

08/03/09

The Johnson City Police Department is pleased to announce the 2009 National Night Out Events will be held on August 4, 2009.

National Night Out is an annual event held in partnership with local Law Enforcement Agencies and Members of our community. It is held on the first Tuesday Night in August and the theme is quite simple, “Get out and meet the members of your community”. Getting to know the people who live in and around your neighborhood is one of the most effective ways to detect and deter criminal activity throughout our communities.
Events will be held at the following times and communities.

Strawberry Fields @ Clubhouse
6:30-8:00pm
Sherwood Forest @ 1000 Block of King Richard Blvd
6:00-9:00pm
The Johnson City Housing Authority and their Resident Associations
will host the following:
Pinecrest from 6-8pm
Keystone 12-3pm
Lake Terrace / Fairview from 6-8pm
Parkway / Dunbar from 3-5pm
Memorial Park 4-6pm
Carver from 6-9pm

If you have planned an event in your community or would like help planning one, please contact the Johnson City Police Department’s Community Relations Unit @ 423-434-6121

Armed Robbery

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 01:29:49 GMT

Bank surveillance photos

On 06-22-09, at approximately 2:06 pm, officers of the Johnson City Police Department responded to a robbery of Northeast Community Credit Union. Upon arrival officers were told that a white male had entered the credit union, approached a teller, and then demanded money. The white male did not show a weapon but did indicate that he possessed one. The male then fled the business with an undisclosed amount of cash. The male was described as approximately 5’9 – 6’, 180-200 lbs, wearing a green and yellow John Deere ballcap, blue jeans, green button-up short sleeve short, and dark colored shoes or boots. The male appeared to be unshaven and could possibly have a goatee.

Anyone with information about this robbery is asked to call the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Johnson City Police Deparment at 434-6166 or CrimeStoppers at 434-6158.

To send an anonymous text message to the Johnson City Police: text 423JCPD and your tip to 847411 (tip411). Or log onto www.citizenobserver.com

Armed Robbery

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:25:45 GMT

THE CITY OF JOHNSON CITY

Police Department

NEWS RELEASE

Prepared By:

Inv. Bob Odom

Date:

06-22-09

Time:

3:45 pm

Subject:

Aggravated Robbery

Approved:

Sgt Billy Chuch

     On 06-22-09, at approximately 2:06 pm, officers of the Johnson City Police Department responded to a robbery of Northeast Community Credit Union. Upon arrival officers were told that a white male had entered the credit union, approached a teller, and then demanded money. The white male did not show a weapon but did indicate that he possessed one. The male then fled the business with an undisclosed amount of cash. The male was described as approximately 5’9 – 6’, 180-200 lbs, wearing a green and yellow John Deere ballcap, blue jeans, green button-up short sleeve short, and dark colored shoes or boots. The male appeared to be unshaven and could possibly have a goatee.

     Anyone with information about this robbery is asked to call the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Johnson City Police Deparment at 434-6166 or CrimeStoppers at 434-6158.

     To send an anonymous text message to the Johnson City Police: text 423JCPD and your tip to 847411 (tip411). Or log onto www.citizenobserver.com

Wanted

Tue, 26 May 2009 19:20:51 GMT

WANTED

Crystal Gail Lingerfelt W/F 31 years of age, see photo

A warrant is on file for her for Theft of Property under $500.00. We need leads as to her whereabouts.

WANTED

Tue, 19 May 2009 20:19:56 GMT

WANTED

Douglas Allen Smith Jr. B-M, 05-18-87 wanted for Criminal Simulation, counterfeit money.

Wanted

Tue, 19 May 2009 20:14:08 GMT

WANTED

Danny R. Cross – Poss living on Wilson Ave

DOB: 08-04-1969, W/M, 5'7", 150 lbs, Brown hair, Blue eyes

** Use caution ** Possibly ARMED. Cross is also a convicted felon with a violent criminal history that includes assault on a officer, reckless endangerment, and multiple counts of felony evading and resisting arrest.

ROBBERY

Fri, 15 May 2009 22:59:25 GMT

ARMED ROBBERY ALERT

TCBY ROBBERY The description that was given of the suspect when dispatched was a W/M, 5’ 10”, 180 pounds, 25-30 years old, with short sandy blonde hair and a day old beard. The suspect was wearing a tan t-shirt, khaki cargo shorts, and tennis shoes. He was last seen on foot at the intersection of N. State of Franklin Road and Nathaniel Lane at 1515 hours today.

WANTED

Thu, 14 May 2009 20:30:54 GMT

WANTED

Brandon D. Horvath

01/12/88

6’3”, 160lbs, Brn hair, Brn eyes

Warrant on file for three counts of theft under $500. Subject has been stealing lottery tickets from several local convenience stores.

SCAM ARTIST

Thu, 14 May 2009 17:07:06 GMT

CANCEL, SUBJECT ARRESTED!

WANTED

Warrant for theft under $500

Ronald J. Phillips

6’, 215lbs

10/18/59

Phillips is known to drive a white 1998 Ford Bronco (full size) with a GO HOKIES tag on the front and a Hokies towel lying across the dash. Phillips has been in the Steeplechase area of zone 6 soliciting work on houses. He tells people he will pressure wash their residence, takes their money, and then never returns to perform the work.

Inv. Teresa Higgins

SCAM ALERT

Thu, 14 May 2009 17:05:07 GMT

CANCEL SUSPECT ARRESTED!

WANTED

Warrant for theft under $500

Ronald J. Phillips

6’, 215lbs

10/18/59

Inv. Teresa Higgins

WANTED

Tue, 12 May 2009 11:26:26 GMT

WANTED

David F. Williams, DOB of 05/03/65, 5’8”, 190lbs. Mr. Williams is wanted for Aggravated Assault. He is known to walk the downtown area.

WANTED

Fri, 08 May 2009 11:25:42 GMT

WANTED

Michael Stanfield DOB 09/14/1960 5’5” 170 LBS BLUE EYES He was driving an older spray-painted blue Ford pickup a few nights ago It could have an Arkansas or a Tennessee tag on it. Possibly in the Keystone area of town.

Wanted

Fri, 08 May 2009 11:19:31 GMT

WANTED

Troy Wilder, DOB 01-06-84 Warrants for him for 7 cts of theft under $500.00, 6 cts of Fraudulent Use of Credit Card, and 3 cts of Forgery.

WANTED

Fri, 08 May 2009 00:36:31 GMT

WANTED

Warrant on file for the listed subject for Aggravated Burglary and Theft of Property over $1,000.00 if anyone makes contact with her.

Angela D. Mcinturff

W/F, 509, 160 lbs, brown hair, hazel eyes.

Crimes in Your Area?

Mon, 04 May 2009 23:05:41 GMT

The Johnson City Police Department publishes crime data daily on the internet for you to review. We feel you need to know what is going on in your neighborhoods. We hope you utilize this service by visiting the site regularly.

You can enter your address, or simply pan and zoom around the map to see the crimes you choose.

Sex Offender Search

Mon, 04 May 2009 22:56:58 GMT

Tennessee Sexual Offender Registry
Tennessee Bureau Of Investigation
SOR Hotline 1-888-837-4170

Crime Prevention Month

Mon, 04 May 2009 22:50:17 GMT

Kick Off Crime Prevention Month With An Event In Your Community!
October 1-3, 2009

Special Olympics Torch Run

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 15:04:50 GMT

POLICE DEPARTMENT

NEWS RELEASE

Prepared By:

Terry Hardin

Date:

4-29-09

Time:

1:00 PM

Subject:

Special Olympics Torch Run

Approved By:

Captain Mark Sirois

On May 1, 2009, approximately 100 area law enforcement officers will be involved in the Area 3 (Washington, Unicoi/Carter counties) Special Olympics Torch Run. The officers will be involved in transporting the torch from the Johnson City Police Department to the ETSU Mini-Dome where the Special Olympic Games will be held. For several years, the officers have proudly taken on the responsibility of running the torch from the Police Department to the Mini-Dome as part of the opening ceremonies.

The group is expected to leave the Police Department shortly before 9:00 a.m. and arrive at the Mini-Dome by 9:25 a.m., at which time they will join with selected members of the Special Olympics and run the opening lap. The torch will be handed to one of the participants, who will assist with the lighting of the Olympic Cauldron to signify the beginning of the games.

Officers and participants will stage at the Johnson City Police Department around 8:30 a.m. The run will start at the Police Department and follow State of Franklin Road to the Mini-Dome.

The director for the Area 3 Special Olympics is Chad Wampler.

He can be reached at 1-888-915-7227.

Participating agencies: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives * Carter County Sheriff’s Office * Children’s Advocacy Center * Department of Veteran’s Affairs Police * Elizabethton Police Department * Erwin Police Department * ETSU Public Safety * Johnson City Police Department * Jonesborough Public Safety * State of TN Bomb & Arson Section * Tennessee Bureau of Investigation * TN Wildlife Resource Agency * Unicoi County Sheriff’s Office * Washington County Sheriff’s Office

Contact Community Relations Officer Terry Hardin at 483-5899 with any questions

Suspect identity

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:12:58 GMT

CITY OF JOHNSON CITY

JOHNSON CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

NEWS RELEASE

Prepared By:

Inv. Bob Odom

Date:

April 28, 2009

Time:

1520

Subject:

Robbery Investigation

Approved By:

Sgt. Kevin Peters

On April 25, 2009, the Walgreens Pharmacy, located at 2240 N. Roan Street, Johnson City was robbed by a black male by the threat of having a firearm in his possession. The male robbed the Pharmacy of various narcotics before fleeing the scene. The black male was described as approximately 5’5” to 5’7” tall, weighing 190 to 200 pounds. He was described as having a dark complexion, with a small amount of facial hair in the chin area and wearing a black sweatshirt with a hood and a black billed baseball cap. As a result of the investigation, a composite of the robber was completed and is now being released with requested assistance from the public in an attempt to identify him. Anyone having any information on the possible identity or whereabouts of the subject shown in the attached poster is asked to contact the Johnson City Criminal Investigation Unit at 423-434-6166 or Crimestoppers at 423-434-6158.

Armed Robbery

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 13:48:04 GMT

JOHNSON CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

NEWS RELEASE

Prepared By:

Inv. Deborah Carey-Dunn

Date:

04-25-09

Time:

0241 Hrs.

Subject:

Armed Robbery

Approved By:

Capt. Matt Howell

On April 25, 2009 officers of the Johnson City Police Department responded to Walgreens, 2240

Roan St., in reference to an armed robbery. The victim advised that a black male approached the pharmacy counter with a note demanding prescription narcotics. The suspect obtained the narcotics and fled the store. Suspect is described as a black male, early to mid twenties, dark hair and dark eyes, 5’-5” to 5’- 7”, small to average build, (190-200 lbs.). Suspect was said to have a dark complexion and possibly had a small amount of facial hair on his chin. He was wearing a black sweatshirt and black, flat-billed baseball cap.

Anyone with information concerning the robbery is urged to contact the Johnson City Police Department Criminal Investigation Unit at 434-6166 or to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers at 434-6158.or TEXT your tip to 847411 with 423JCPD in the body of your message.

Armed Robbery

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 13:22:17 GMT

JOHNSON CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

NEWS RELEASE

Prepared By:

Inv. Deborah Carey-Dunn

Date:

04-25-09

Time:

0241 Hrs.

Subject:

Armed Robbery

Approved By:

Capt. Matt Howell

On April 25, 2009 officers of the Johnson City Police Department responded to Walgreens, 2240

ARSON

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 03:27:30 GMT

Fire Marshal Lori Ratliff says the fire that destroyed four buildings downtown at the intersection of West Market Street and West Watauga Avenue was intentionally set. In hopes of finding the people responsible, Ratliff says the owner of the buildings, Marvin Carter, is now offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people involved.

Testing of System

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 14:36:15 GMT

Greetings this is only a test of the alerting systems

Robbery

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:09:15 GMT

On 04/14/09 at 08:56 hours, officer(s) responded to a Robbery/Individual at VA Police Headquarters and Vic: advised writer that he was walking to the VA early this morning when he was robbed by three unknown black males at W Unaka Ave//Boone Street.

The victim stated that no weapon was displayed by either of the suspects. Victim stated that he was approaching the males on the sidewalk and after he acknowledged them one suspect kicked his cane from his hand. The tallest suspect then hit the victim in the face and about his body before punching the victim in the chest and knocking him to the ground. The suspects took the victim’s wallet from his pocket along with a small knife and his walking cane. The victim stated that the suspects then fled on foot towards the downtown area on Boone Street. The suspects are unidentified at this time.