--- title: "The Westport Dichotomy" type: "pdf" year: "2003" canonical: "/projects/605" --- # Nomination for the # Table of Contents - [Nomination for the](#nomination-for-the) - [Herman Goldstein Award for Excellence In Problem Oriented Policing](#herman-goldstein-award-for-excellence-in-problem-oriented-policing) - [KC/MO](#kcmo) - ["The Westport Dichotomy"](#the-westport-dichotomy) - [THE WESTPORT DICHOTOMY](#the-westport-dichotomy) - [Summary](#summary) - [Scanning](#scanning) - [Analysis](#analysis) - [Response](#response) - [Assessment](#assessment) - [SCANNING](#scanning) - [Problems Identified](#problems-identified) - [ANALYSIS](#analysis) - [RESPONSE](#response) - [Staffing](#staffing) - [Saturday Evening](#saturday-evening) - [Crowd Control Plan](#crowd-control-plan) - [Establishing and Enforcing Rules of Conduct](#establishing-and-enforcing-rules-of-conduct) - [Closing Plan](#closing-plan) - [Juvenile Curfew Plan](#juvenile-curfew-plan) - [Traffic Plan](#traffic-plan) - [Disturbance Response](#disturbance-response) - [Training](#training) - [Youth Activities and Programs](#youth-activities-and-programs) - [Westport Merchants](#westport-merchants) - [ASSESSMENT](#assessment) - [AGENCY AND OFFICER INFORMATION](#agency-and-officer-information) - [ATTACHMENTS](#attachments) - [Westport Pictorial](#westport-pictorial) - [WESTPORT PICTORIAL](#westport-pictorial) - [LETTERS OF SUPPORT](#letters-of-support) - [Troy Nash](#troy-nash) - [Councilman-at-Large, 3rd District](#councilman-at-large-3rd-district) - [Major Jan Zimmerman](#major-jan-zimmerman) - [Dear Major Zimmerman,](#dear-major-zimmerman) - [Westport Merchants Association 425 Westport Road, Suite 200 Kansas City, Missouri 64111 (816) 756-2789* (816) 756-2919](#westport-merchants-association-425-westport-road-suite-200-kansas-city-missouri-64111-816-756-2789-816-756-2919) - ["KANSAS CITY STAR" NEWSPAPER HEADLINES AND ARTICLES](#kansas-city-star-newspaper-headlines-and-articles) - [Privatize streets, Westport suggests](#privatize-streets-westport-suggests) - [Paper: THE KANSAS CITY STAR](#paper-the-kansas-city-star) - [Headline: Toward an orderly Westport](#headline-toward-an-orderly-westport) - [Reported crime declines in Westport](#reported-crime-declines-in-westport) - [CURFEW AWARNESS POSTER](#curfew-awarness-poster) - [Let's Build Awareness of the Curfew Ordinance and Work Together to Improve our Communities](#lets-build-awareness-of-the-curfew-ordinance-and-work-together-to-improve-our-communities) - [What You Need to Know](#what-you-need-to-know) - [What Parents \& Officers Need to Know](#what-parents-officers-need-to-know) - [Together](#together) - [We can keep our young people safe](#we-can-keep-our-young-people-safe) - [What Parents \& Youth Can Expect](#what-parents-youth-can-expect) - [Exceptions to this Ordinanos](#exceptions-to-this-ordinanos) - [Hours Curfew is in effect](#hours-curfew-is-in-effect) - [WESTPORT CRIME STATISTICS](#westport-crime-statistics) - [Westport Crime Statistics](#westport-crime-statistics) - [2000 - 2002](#2000-2002) - [TOTAL OFFENSES](#total-offenses) ## Herman Goldstein Award for Excellence In Problem Oriented Policing ![img-0.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-0.jpeg) Richard D. Easley Chief of Police Richard D. Easley Chief of Police # KC/MO Richard D. Easiey Chief of Police April 22, 2003 Herman Goldstein Award Selection Committee Police Executive Research Forum 1120 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 930 Washington, D.C. 20036 Dear Selection Committee Members, It is with great pleasure that I offer my endorsement for the nomination of the "Westport Plan" to receive the Herman Goldstein Award for Excellence in Problem Oriented Policing. As you will learn in reading the attached document, Kansas City Missouri has struggled with large crowds in the Westport Entertainment District for many years. The area had a high concentration of taverns and had become a focal point for negative public perception as crime and disorder escalated dramatically. Citizens, city government and police officials all recognized an increasing need to confront problems in the area but had been unsuccessful in finding a viable solution. Some collaboration had occurred among different agencies, but not nearly enough to provide a sustained solution to the problems. Officers assigned to the Central Patrol Division identified stakeholders and utilized their input to develop a comprehensive approach to address concerns of the youth, business owners, and neighborhoods alike. Since the safety of individuals in that area was our primary concern, a significant portion of the plan concentrated on the police response to crowd and traffic control issues. However, considerable energy was dedicated to opening lines of communication and exploring other venues for our youth. All of these efforts have resulted in lower crimes rates, improved perception of safety, and increased community support surrounding Westport. The success of the Westport Plan to this point has reflected favorably on the Kansas City Missouri Police Department. I genuinely appreciate the creativity and initiative of all the officers who dedicated themselves to this project. They are deserving of this recognition. Sincerely, Richard D. Easley Richard D. Easley Chief of Police # TABLE OF CONTENTS ## "The Westport Dichotomy" Problem Solving and Community Partnerships in The Westport Entertainment District Summary ..... 1 Scanning ..... 3 Analysis ..... 5 Response ..... 9 Assessment ..... 13 ATTACHMENTS Westport Pictorial Letters of Support Newspaper Headlines and Articles Curfew Awareness Poster Crime Statistics # THE WESTPORT DICHOTOMY PROBLEM SOLVING AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS IN THE WESTPORT ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT ## Summary The Westport Entertainment District in Kansas City, Missouri is comprised of an eight-square block area, which is a mixed development of taverns, restaurants, retail shops, and hotels. As a typical entertainment district, Westport hosts a large number of visitors and often experiences problems associated with such an area. However, in the past several years large crowds have flocked to the area on Saturday nights during the summer months and have seriously threatened the ability of the police department to control the subsequent problems. These problems consist of large crowds on the streets and sidewalks, congested vehicular traffic, fights, assaults, intoxication, excessive noise and property crimes. Police department members from the Central Patrol Division working the area have had to address the problems with limited staffing and often had to bring in additional resources to quell large-scale disturbances. ## Scanning The problems in Westport had been a growing public concern in the Kansas City metropolitan area for many years. It had drawn the attention of the media, public officials, neighborhood associations, Westport merchants and property owners, as well as special interest groups. Concerns centered around racial tension between the largely AfricanAmerican crowd on the street and the Caucasian bar patrons. Conflicting agendas between the property owners and night-time tavern operators contributed to poor public perception regarding safety in the area at all hours of the day, which was compounded by inadequate staffing by Westport Merchants Security officers. Basically everyone in the city knew about the problem, but little had been done to address the underlying factors. # Analysis With the identification of this problem, the command staff from Central Patrol brought together members of an internal work group to identify issues that contributed to the problems. A thorough review of all facets of the problem was conducted to include: a five-year analysis of crime statistics, past police and community response, identification of stakeholders, demographics and behavior of the crowd, physical environment or layout of the area, and other cities with similar venues. During discussions, a concerted effort was made to include all entities, both public and private, as the problem was being analyzed. ## Response Upon completion of the analysts stage, the Central Patrol Division partnered with all stakeholders to develop a comprehensive response plan designed to address the problems but remain sensitive to the needs of everyone. It was believed by many that the police response to these issues would be to "run the kids out of Westport," however safely managing these crowds ultimately emerged as the real goal. A careful balance between the rights of young people enjoying time in the area and business owners' concern regarding shrinking revenues had to be found. ## Assessment As work in the area progressed, an assessment group of police department members and stakeholders was formed to review all successes and continuing challenges. The group reviewed after action reports from on-scene commanders, media coverage, crime statistics, arrest summaries, staffing and fiscal impact, as well as citizen comments and complaints. # SCANNING Through the scanning process, it was discovered that over the past several years, large crowds gathered in the Westport Entertainment District in the summer months. The district encompasses an eight-square block area within the Central Patrol Division. There are approximately 20 restaurants/taverns in the Westport area, 12 of which are open until 3:00 AM, which is the only area in the city with this concentration of late night taverns. From 1:30 to 3:00 AM outside crowds estimated from 7,000 to 10,000 people are within a smaller two-block area in the inner core. Research was conducted and it was found that no other municipality in the country has this particular crowd control problem during each summer weekend. Although the crowd problem was acute during the summer months, it had begun to extend months throughout the year. While there were still a large number of people in the Westport area during these other months, the situation has been managed with on-duty district personnel. Larger crowds requiring increased police presence were visible on Friday and Saturdays, with Saturdays having the greatest numbers. An estimated 90\% of the crowds consist of individuals from 16-30 years after 1:30 AM. During the scanning process it was determined that the race of the crowd differed according to time: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM - predominately Caucasian 10:00 PM to 1:00 AM - diverse 1:00 AM to 3:00 AM - predominately African-American ## Problems Identified - Large crowds and traffic congestion - Consensual and non-consensual sexual activity/contact causing fear among women walking to cars and around bars - Fights, assaults, disturbances - Intoxication, drugs, driving under the influence - Excessive noise - Property crimes (stealing and vandalism) in Westport and surrounding areas - Juvenile curfew violations - Littering - Traffic violations - Allegations of racial profiling and discrimination Many individuals and entities were aware that a problem existed in the Westport area because of the large numbers of youth there on weekend nights and the subsequent reports of the problem and media coverage. However, the difficulty had become acute because each stakeholder had a different perception of what the "problem" actually was and how best to respond. Stakeholders had never come together in a true dialogue to address the issue and there was mistrust among them. The entire situation carried significant racial concerns as young African-Americans vocalized their feelings that they were "not wanted in Westport" by white bar owners. The police recognized the challenge of the opposing views and the potential for serious violence to erupt at any time. The members of the Central Patrol Division looked at the problem objectively and worked with these divergent groups to craft a more unified approach to the problem. The need to respond to this problem was essential as the crowds had grown very large and the problems in Westport began to intensify. There was great concern for the safety of all citizens and police personnel in the area due to escalated levels of disorder, crowd control, and traffic issues. # ANALYSIS For many years, youth growing up in the Kansas City metropolitan area have viewed the Westport Entertainment District as their ultimate goal when they reach drinking age. This eight-square block area has long been a gathering place because of the concentration of taverns, restaurants, and retail establishments designed to appeal to young adults. The district became viewed as a place to congregate, to "see and be seen," in the absence of other venues for this age group. Unfortunately, the proliferation of false identification and the failure of tavern staff to adhere to liquor codes increased the number of underage drinkers in the area over the years. In the past ten years, a phenomenon began to occur in Westport that had not been seen previously as the demographics and size of the crowd in Westport changed significantly. On Saturday nights during warm summer months, very large groups of African-American youth began flocking to the area between midnight and 1:00 AM. The race of the young people was an important factor that could not be ignored and had created a certain level of volatility on both sides of the issue. The youth perceived that merchants unfairly stereotyped them and the police harassed and excessively supervised their activities. Many of the primarily white tavern owners and managers viewed the large crowds and their conduct as "bad for business." This was compounded by the fact that most of the young people who came to Westport did not enter the establishments or make purchases. It can be supposed that some complaints might have been exaggerated or motivated by bias. The conduct of the young people may "bother" community or business members, but be perfectly legal and constitutionally protected. In addition, at times the group size may influence individual behavior and perception. As members of the police department began to analyze the situation, many organizations and individuals (such as the Department of Justice Human Relations Service, print/electronic media, NAACP, city government, neighborhood leaders and the faith community) offered theories about reasons the crowds permeated the area as well as why they arrive at a certain time of night. Suggestions included the following: - The significant police presence provided greater safety than most neighborhoods. - The majority of the Westport taverns had 3:00 AM licenses. - The youth came from events or establishments that closed around 1:00 AM. - The area provided a well-lit environment with food, outside entertainment, and multitudes of other young people. - Most of the youth remained on the streets and sidewalks, never entering the taverns. Therefore, a night socializing in Westport could be virtually cost-free. - Formal and informal surveys of youth indicated their dissatisfaction with other facilities and activities, Or the general lack thereof, in Kansas City. - The presence of extremely young children (ages 7-12) could be attributed to a lack of parental supervision. - It was suggested that traditionally Friday nights are for dates and Saturday nights are reserved for large group activities or "hanging out" with friends. In recent years as this issue gained momentum and public exposure, the Kansas City Missouri Police Department experienced changes that directly impacted the response. A workload study changed patrol division boundaries, moving the Westport Entertainment District from the Metro Patrol Division to the Central Patrol Division. This shift made an entirely new group of officers responsible for an area with which they were previously unfamiliar. Additionally, division and watch commanders have been rotated fairly frequently, which created challenges regardless of the assignment. A change in command staff often brought a complete transformation in the police approach to Westport, which caused confusion and turmoil among the young people, bar patrons and business owners alike. For example in the mid 1990's, a division commander partnered with merchants in Westport to close the streets at night to individuals under the age of 21. This tactic was extremely popular among many of the merchants. Ultimately, the police department and city legal advisors rendered the opinion that this method of operation was unconstitutional because it restricted certain individuals' access to a public street. The division commander that followed adopted more of a lenient approach, directing officers to provide a safe environment for the crowd but conducting limited enforcement activity. This determination was made through interviews with the past commander, merchants, and officers who were assigned to work in the area in the preceding years. This fact was exemplified when an attempt was made to locate the previous years' data for comparison and it was found there were very few arrests and statistical information was not captured. An analysis of the situation in Westport revealed a number of important factors that had to be considered: - The racial, cultural, and age diversity in the crowd varies widely depending on the time of the night. - During the summer, a Saturday night crowd might reach 7,000 to 10,000 people. - The appearance of large crowds late at night began as a summer problem, but became far less seasonal in nature. Although summer crowds were still far larger, a "mild" Saturday night in the fall or winter often brought crowds of significant size. - Only a very small percentage of the crowd caused problems that resulted in police intervention. However, in the past this group carried weapons, sold drugs, and committed crimes that were a constant drain on police resources. (See attached Crime Statistics). - A city curfew ordinance had been in effect for approximately ten years allowing citations to be issued to individuals under the age of 18, out past midnight on Friday or Saturday night. This ordinance had never been strictly enforced in Kansas City. - A large amount of the crowd in Westport was under the legal drinking age and some were under the curfew age allowed by ordinance. - In the true tradition of the "Broken Windows Theory" minor nuisance violations, left unchecked, had escalated into major crimes causing the public perception that it was unsafe to visit Westport at any time of the day or night. - Business owners continuously complained of lost revenues due to the problem. - The racial composition of the police presence had to be considered when interacting with the nearly all African-American crowd. The situation in Westport had generated interest and concern in our community for so long that the analysis had to consider political ramifications as well as the needs of everyone involved. Many thought that the police response would be to "run the young people out of Westport" as they had been run out of so many places before. Therefore, the challenge was to provide a safe environment for those who have a legitimate right to be in Westport, whether they choose to enter the establishments or not. This safe environment could only be created through the elimination of those who break the law or could not conform to basic rules of conduct. # RESPONSE Merely increasing the presence of uniformed police officers is expensive, inefficient, and usually ineffective. It was believed that in order to be successful, a more comprehensive strategy would involve implementing several different responses. Careful consideration by the police department was given to who in the community shared responsibility for the problem and could help the police respond more appropriately. The following Westport Response Plan was developed through extensive effort over a three month period utilizing the expertise of department members and many other groups and organizations that had a stake in the issue. The response plan was instituted as a result of this community and police input. ## Staffing Friday Evening 2 Sergeants 14 Officers ## Saturday Evening 1 Captain 4 Sergeants 30-33 Officers ## Crowd Control Plan - The inner core was closed at 11:00 PM, utilizing pole barricades set in the street. - Wooden "Police Line" barricades were set up on Westport Road from Mill to Pennsylvania in the parking lane. No parking was allowed along that street. The value of these barricades was demonstrated the first weekend they were in place when an ambulance was needed in the inner core for a sick female in the crowd. - The barricades were placed out in the parking lane of Westport Road to allow unobstructed passage when pedestrians block the sidewalk. - The department was proactive in addressing all violations observed. Warnings and arrest were used to address violations. - Crowds were not moved from the streets or sidewalks unless absolutely necessary. - The area was divided into "zones," with specific beat assignments for officers. # Establishing and Enforcing Rules of Conduct Rules of conduct were developed with input from all of the stakeholders and disseminated widely throughout the community. - A curfew information flyer and poster (See attached) was created with the assistance of Parks and Recreation and City Human Relations and provided to churches, schools, community groups, and media to ensure people were aware of the ordinance. - Curfew violations were enforced. - All traffic laws and city ordinances were strictly enforced. - The integrity of the police barricades was strictly enforced. - Persons driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs were arrested. - Drinking alcohol/urinating in public, and disorderly conduct resulted in arrest. - Uncivil behavior was not tolerated. - Abusive behavior was not tolerated. - Information regarding activities made available for those people 18-20 years old. ## Closing Plan - Public address announcement. - Officers moved through crowd and encouraged people to depart. - Collapse of inner perimeter barricades and opening of street. - Opening of traffic perimeter when most vehicle traffic has left the area. - Final sweep of area to ensure business lots/neighborhoods not congested. # Juvenile Curfew Plan - Curfew violators taken into custody and transported to Central Patrol Division or the Juvenile Section. - City ordinance citations were issued to parents of the violators 16 years old or younger/or to the violator if 17 years old. - The Juvenile Section assisted in the processing of the violators. - Juvenile sweeps were recommended and conducted citywide. ## Traffic Plan - The traffic congestion was a high priority and had to be controlled for public safety, protection of surrounding neighborhoods, and to maintain order. - A traffic squad arrived at 10:30 PM for traffic enforcement throughout the Westport area and remained until the 3:00 AM closure. - A cruising plan was created to allow vehicles to circle the area repeatedly without interfering with the large pedestrian crowds or residential neighborhoods. ## Disturbance Response - Disturbances handled quickly and arrests made. A patrol wagon was assigned to the area and transported all arrests to free officers to conduct crowd control. - A three-stage disturbance response plan was created to provide the appropriate police reaction for varying levels of disturbances depending on size and violence. ## Training Each primary member of the Westport Security Detail and Westport Merchants private security officers participated in joint training to prepare them to work in the Westport area. Through training, communication problems and improper response to incidents were avoided. # Youth Activities and Programs Members of Central Patrol actively participated in workshops, forums, and meetings regarding the need for an increase in activities for the youth in our community. The following are some examples of youth initiatives in which the police department have been involved: Westport Transformation Network - A faith-based approach in partnership with area nonprofit agencies engage youth (18-20) in activities in the Westport Area and attempt to direct youth to other venues in the city. The Westport Transformation Network (WTN) established an entertainment venue for youth at the Quarterage Hotel, which is located just outside the core. Furthermore, the WTN encouraged other venues for youth such as Christian Coffee Houses and other faith-based organizations to join the network. The Westport Merchants Association established a Summer Youth Jobs Program that involved over 10 merchants in a joint internship effort from June through August 2002. Curfew Ordinance Awareness Campaign - The Kansas City Police Department partnered with City Parks and Recreation and Human Relations to distribute information about the city curfew ordinance to the media and area schools, community centers, churches, neighborhood associations, etc. Members from Central Patrol aggressively sought opportunities to get the message out to the public by participating in radio programs targeting youth such as "Generation Rap" on Saturday morning. In addition to countless interviews by the print and electronic media, they took part in panel discussions on a radio talk show called "Under the Clock" hosted by the former mayor. The Police Athletic League and other members of the Police Department participated with Parks and Recreation to provide a variety of programs and activities during the summer of 2002, which included: "Night Hoops", "Summer in the City", Soccer, Swimming and T-Ball. # Westport Merchants The Westport Merchants Association and their security staff have remained a critical component in this plan. The department has developed open communication with the association and strives to improve upon that cooperative effort. During this process, the Merchants Association provided the following: - Specific staggering of tavern closing times to control the street population. - Controlled noise from clubs and restricted use of sound trucks/radio vans. - No parking signs along Westport Road from Mill to Pennsylvania. - Free standing "no parking" signs were used to eliminate parking congestion and unnecessary towing of vehicles. - Developed public address message to inform the crowd of closing. - Enhanced lighting ## ASSESSMENT An assessment group was created, comprised of one member from each police department element involved in the detail. The group met monthly or as needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the plan and create solutions to new problems encountered. The Westport Merchants were included as active participants in the assessment process. It was believed that certain indicators would provide some feedback as to the effectiveness of the plan. Additionally, members from the Police Executive Research Forum Youth Initiative Workgroup were included in the assessment of the plan and provided feedback and suggestions for improvement. To track efforts each weekend and provide assessment criteria, officers were required to provide an account of their activity by completing an activity sheet at the end of each night. This was recommended to ensure officers remained active and provided a record of the arrests made, tickets issued, positive citizen contacts, and disturbances handled. Supervisors were required to complete a recap sheet to document the activities of the officers in their assigned areas and any problems noted with police response, crowd control, traffic control, or external problem areas. Additionally, commanders were required to complete a final recap report that outlined all enforcement activities and problems noted. The assessment group was comprised of one member from each of the elements involved and met monthly or as needed at the request of the commanders to discuss problems discovered through the above process and gauge the effectiveness of the plan based on enforcement activity and other variables. The following factors were considered when assessing the effectiveness of the plan: - Number of Arrests - Citizen Complaints/Compliments - Feedback from Westport Security - Number of Disturbances Handled - Effectiveness of Traffic Plan - Number/Type of Citations Issued - Feedback from Westport Merchants - Media Reports - Feedback from Department Personnel - Effectiveness of Crowd Control Plan Crime dropped dramatically in Westport since the inception of the plan in the year 2001, for a total reduction of $22 \%$. (See attached) There have been significant reductions in assault, stealing from autos, burglary and auto theft. These decreases, as well as smaller deaeases in other categories are attributed to a number of factors such as greater communication between police and the community, increased police presence throughout the year, and an organized plan for the crowded summer months which provided for strict enforcement of city code violations. As previously mentioned, enforcement activity during the year 2000 was not recorded. The following is a synopsis of enforcement activity resulting from the Westport plan. | Offense | 2001 | 2002 | | :--: | :--: | :--: | | - Disturbances | 320 | 241 | | - Narcotics Arrests | 18 | 21 | | - City Ordinance Arrests | 382 | 406 | | - Curfew Arrests | 11 | 26 | | - CCW Arrests | 6 | 11 | | - State Arrests | 50 | 46 | | - Traffic Tickets | 1,742 | 2,445 | | | | 2002 | | | | 241 | | | | 21 | | | | 406 | | | | 26 | | - CCW Arrests | 6 | 11 | | - State Arrests | 50 | 46 | | - Traffic Tickets | 1,742 | 2,445 | Assessment team members view the $25 \%$ reduction in disturbances from the first year to the second as indicative of greater understanding among young people regarding the expected code of conduct. The Office of Citizen Complaints reported no complaints as a result of the weekend plan in Westport, which is significant considering the thousands of contacts made between the police and citizens. Due to the reduction in number of officers and better utilization of committed police department personnel, the cost for staffing Westport in 2002 was $\$ 122,086$, a decrease of approximately $\$ 59,000$ from 2001. Besides quantifiable results, another measure of the success of the Westport Security Plan has been the initiation of open communication and the creation of effective relationships with the community. The # AGENCY AND OFFICER INFORMATION 1. Although the concerns surrounding the Westport Entertainment District affected an area contained within the boundaries of the Central Patrol Division, the problem solving initiative incorporated many other elements from throughout the entire department. These divisions and units included the Special Operations (Traffic) Division; Vice Unit; Central, Metro, and East Patrol Tactical Response Teams, Juvenile Section, and Gang Squad. In 2001 the plan was presented in written form to the Patrol Bureau Deputy Chief and Chief of Police for approval, prior to implementation. 2. Members of the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department receive training in problem-oriented policing and problem solving from the moment they enter the academy as recruits. However, it is important to note that during this time period the police department retained the Police Executive Research Forum to assist in addressing communication barriers both inside the organization and with the community. Department members and citizens were chosen to participate in forums and workshops as specific problem areas were identified. Extensive discussions were conducted surrounding the SARA Model and it's application to the selected project. The Youth Initiative Workgroup ultimately narrowed their focus to problems occurring in Westport and members from Central Patrol joined them with this plan. 3. The officers who participated in the Westport Plan received a Special Unit Citation from the Chief of Police for their efforts. Additionally, a number of plaques and awards have been presented by organizations such as the Westport Merchants and Valentine Neighborhood Associations for improving the quality of life in the area. At the end of the summer activities in 2001 and 2002, a celebration was given for the officers with food and beverages provided. A special "Westport 2001" tee shirt was given to team members. 4. When the problem solving initiative was originally undertaken, individuals were brought into the group who had experience working in Westport and other large crowd control situations. Input was also solicited from the Westport Merchants Security Patrol because of their intimate knowledge of the area, property owners and managers. Extensive research was conducted (to include a trip to "Beale Street" in Memphis and the POP Conference in San Diego) regarding other initiatives addressing large crowds in entertainment districts. Although it was determined that this same problem does not apparently exist in any other jurisdiction, valuable information was garnered from each contact. 5. The SARA Model consistently provided a guide for the problem solving efforts surrounding this project. It is important to note that during the time since this initiative began, the SARA Model served as a continuum of refinement and modification. The team has been proud of the positive recognition they have received, but realized there were still many more opportunities to improve or be responsive. 6. The salary figures contained in this report cannot adequately measure the amount of time or energy that has been expended with regard to Westport. The staffing amount of approximately $\$ 181,000$ in 2001 and $\$ 122,000$ in 2002 did not include the Major's salary or any other specialty elements that participated such as the Juvenile Section. All of these costs were absorbed by the existing police department budget, as financing was not available from any other source. Officers participated in the Westport assignment as either a part of their regular tour of duty or on an overtime basis. In addition to the time actually spent in Westport on summer weekends, members of the team have prepared volumes of written documents and participated in countless planning sessions, meetings, presentations, and media interviews. It would be impossible to either compensate or recognize all of the department personnel and citizens who provided valuable input and dedicated themselves to this problem solving initiative. 7. Project Contact Person(s): Jan Zimmerman Major/Division Commander - Central Patrol Division Jesse Holt Captain/Assistant Division Commander - North Patrol Division Robert McLees Sergeant/Operations - Central Patrol Division Kansas City, Missouri Police Department 1125 Locust Kansas City, Missouri 64106 Telephone: 816-759-6320 FAX: 816-759-6307 E-mail: jzimmerman@kcpd.org # ATTACHMENTS ## Westport Pictorial Letters of Support Newspaper Headlines and Articles Curfew and Awareness Poster Westport Crime Statistics # WESTPORT PICTORIAL ![img-1.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-1.jpeg) # LETTERS OF SUPPORT ![img-2.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-2.jpeg) # Troy Nash ## Councilman-at-Large, 3rd District Vice Chairman: Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development Committee Member: Legislative, Rules and Ethics Committee 24th Floor, City Hall 414 East 12 th Street Kansas City, Missouri 64106 (816) 513-1368 Fax: (816) 513-1612 April 17, 2003 Major Jan Zimmerman Kansas City Missouri Police Department Central Patrol Division 1200 East Linwood Boulevard Kansas City, Missouri 64109 Dear Major Zimmerman, It is with great pleasure that I offer my strong recommendation for you and the Kansas City Missouri Police Department to be the recipient of the Herman Goldstein Award for Excellence in Problem Oriented Policing. As a community leader, I witness the many complicated problems city police officers struggle with in protecting the greater good. I understand that solving community problems is just as difficult and important as law enforcement. In the instance of Westport, where an entertainment district was attracting under-aged youth during summer months, traditional law enforcement was not enough. You and your staff were dedicated, intuitive and steadfast in assisting with the vision for the Westport Plan. By taking the time to collaborate with all parties involved and understand the underlying issues, a situation that could have easily gotten out of hand was dealt with the highest standards of professionalism and cooperation. In my opinion, you and your team deserve this award for your admiral display of decisive strategy, courage and compassion. As the summer months roll back around, I am confident that the Westport Plan will be successful in achieving its goal thanks to the hard-working team of the Kansas City Police Department. Thank you for all the work you do to make our community safer. If there is anything else I can do, please don't hesitate to let me know. I can be contacted directly at (816) 513-1605. Respectfully Submitted, Troy L. Nash Councilman-at-Large, Third District Kansas City, Missouri # Major Jan Zimmerman Kansas City Missouri Police Department 1200 Linwood Kansas City, Missouri 64109 ## Dear Major Zimmerman, It has been brought to my attention that the Kansas City Missouri Police Department is seeking nomination for the Herman Goldstein Award for Excellence in Problem Oriented Policing. I understand that the project being submitted for consideration is the comprehensive strategy to address large crowds the past two summers in the Westport Entertainment District. As you know, I am currently a member of Move-Up (the Community Movement for Urban Progress) and as such am actively involved in many areas to improve the quality of life for the citizens in our community. I was especially pleased when Chief Easley selected me to participate in the Police Executive Research Forum "Kansas City Together" initiative which has been a problem-solving collaboration between the community and Police Department. As you know, the workgroups focused on four major areas of concern as determined by survey results: Accountability; Mutual Trust and Respect; Minority Recruitment, Hiring and Retention; and Youth. I was honored to serve on the Youth Initiatives Group, which ultimately narrowed its attention to concentrate on the large groups of youth that have been congregating in Westport for many years. In that capacity, I had the opportunity to travel to the Problem Oriented Policing Conference in San Diego in 2001. You may remember that you and I attended a workshop entitled "Disorderly Youth in Public Places." We had the idea that we could benefit from the experience of others but quickly learned that there weren't any other cities having the same sort of problem. Although I was originally assigned to another workgroup, I "defected" to join you and the rest of the Westport group since I have such an interest in initiatives affecting our youth. Prior to becoming a part of the workgroup, you and your officers had done a great deal to provide a safe environment for the thousands of young people who gather on weekend nights during summer months. I believe the success of your plan can be directly attributed to the input you solicited from stakeholders in the community. Business owners and citizens, such as myself, have played an active role in development of your plan and the modifications that have taken place since its inception. Please accept my support for all of your continuing efforts in Westport and as your department seeks this prestigious award. ![img-3.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-3.jpeg) # Westport Merchants Association 425 Westport Road, Suite 200 Kansas City, Missouri 64111 (816) 756-2789* (816) 756-2919 April 17, 2003 Major Jan Zimmerman Kansas City Missouri Police Department Central Patrol Division 1200 East Linwood Kansas City, MO 64109 RE: Herman Goldstein Award for Excellence in Problem Oriented Policing DearJan, Please accept this letter of support as a token of gratitude for the ongoing efforts of the KCMO Police Department in dealing with the summer time challenges in the Westport area. It is no small task, in the best of situations, to balance the needs of residential neighborhoods, business owners, and everyday citizens in a way that meets everyone's expectations. Add the challenges of thousands of congregated youth and the intrinsic issues of an entertainment district and the task becomes absolutely colossal. This is a situation that has no easy answers but is rather a never-ending string of adjustments, modifications, and negotiations that have to be executed by law enforcement personnel in a very unpredictable environment. There is no doubt in my mind that the success of the Westport Ran can be attributed to two key elements. The first is the incorporation, within every level of the participating agencies, of a strong proactive strategy based on experience, sound law enforcement tactics, and the input from affected parties. The second is the dedication to a strong community solution from the leadership entities in the KCMO Police Department. These two pieces together have turned a potentially explosive situation into a model of cooperation and success. Jan, I would like to thank you and your staff again for the hard work and dedication you have put into the Westport area. I look forward to the continued success of the partnership between our two groups. Sincerely, ![img-4.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-4.jpeg) Tom Brenneis President Westport Merchants Association # "KANSAS CITY STAR" NEWSPAPER HEADLINES AND ARTICLES Curfew enforcement tonight in Westport People under 18 must leave the area by midnight Finally, a curfew is enforced ## Privatize streets, Westport suggests Westport crackdown carried out smoothly Crowds small as police enforce curfew Curfew to be enforced in Westport ![img-5.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-5.jpeg) ![img-6.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-6.jpeg) ![img-7.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-7.jpeg) Westport, teen-agers don't mix Toward an orderly Westport KC's message: Curfew is for real City's publicity focuses on youths, parents Reported crime declines in Westport Weekend arrests up even as less is spent on crowd control WESTPORT: Police to detain curfew violators CURFEW: Crowd smaller as crackdown begins "We don't want anyone to think we are not being fair by changing the rules. ... Still, we want parents to know there are some pretty serious penalties for not taking care of their kids." *Maj. Jan Zimmerman of the Kansas City police* Police "should have enforced the curfew a long time ago. Now, it seems like they are waiting until after the fact." *Jermaine Reed, a senior at Northeast High School* Westport crowds are now Major's concern # Paper: THE KANSAS CITY STAR ## Headline: Toward an orderly Westport Date: 20010605 06/05/01 Day: Tuesday Edition: METROPOLITAN Section: METRO Page: B1 Columa: STEVE PENN The battle of westport won't be won or lost on one weekend night. But the measures police put in place Saturday might be a step toward some peace in the entertainment district. Let's face it: Young people are drawn to Westport on Saturday nights. And last Saturday drew one of the largest crowds this season. But new barricades and strategically placed police officers managed to keep pedestrians moving. The result: Less tension and fewer altercations. Here's how the operation worked: As always, police kept traffic from entering Westport from either the west or the east. But now no one is allowed to walk down the middle of Westport Road, either. Instead, police placed barricades in the street along the curbs, in effect widening the sidewalks for pedestrians. No more massive crowds in the middle of the street. "So far our plan is working. It's been quiet," Maj. Jan zimmerman, commander over the Central Patrol Division, told me at 1:30 a.m. The barricades read: "Police line. Don't cross." Anyone who did was arrested. The barricades probably will be adjut ted next weekend so pedestrians can have even more walking room. Safety is one reason for keeping crowds out of the street. The open roadway gave police an access in case $\sim$ an emergency. "Last week (May 26), we had to physical..y carry a lady out of the area because we couldn't get emergency equipment through," zimmerman said. Keeping the peace in westport is a challenge for zimmerman. She must consider sensitive issues, such as finding police officers with the right temperament for the assignment. Police Sgt. James Rubenstein has worked the Westport area each Saturday night since the crowds began gathering this spring. "Tonight is a piece of cake," Rubenstein said. Kendall Fells, 21, who frequents Westport, appreciated the way people responded to the barricades. "I'm just a young guy who likes to see all these cultures come together without an altercation," Fells said. "There just aren't too many places we can go." By 3 a.m. police had made eight arrests, including six for crossing barricades and one for assaulting a police officer. "I'm pleased with the way things have gone," zimmerman said. "The barricades won't seem as unusual next week." Zimmerman has other ideas as well. Officials at a nearby high school might provide her with counselors willing to mingle with the masses. And zimmerman plans to approach some Kansas City Chiefs about speaking to the crowds. "A lot of different people are willing to help out," zimmerman said. "We're willing to try just about anything." Craig Glazer, co-owner of Stanford's Comedy House, was pleased. "This is the best performance by the police since we've had this situation," Glazer said. Glazer acknowledged that he had concerns about the Police Department's plan. "I didn't want it to look like a police state," he said. Glazer has seen many procedures put in place over the years to control the crowds. "But this is the first time I've seen a system that works," he said. Sure, it was only one Saturday night of many to come this summer. But the steps taken should go a long way toward keeping the peace in Westport. # Reported crime declines in Westport Veekend arrests up ven as less is spent on crowd control By CHRISTINE VENDEL The Kansas City Star Reported crime dropped 37 per- nt, but police made slightly bre, weekend arrests this sum- er in Westport, Kansas City po- b officials said Tuesday. The police spent nearly $\$ 60,000$ is on salaries controlling this mmer's crowds in the city's en- tainment district than during a previous summer. And the de- riment had no formal com- tints against officers. The statistics about the depart- ent's efforts were presented to a Board of Police Commission- It's a miracle," said Maj. Jan nmerman, who commands the a containing the Westport en- tertainment district. "These num- bers are great." She told commissioners that re- ported crimes such as assaults and burglaries from June, July and August had dropped to 224 this year compared with 353 the previ- ous summer in Westport. Weekend arrests ranging from narcotics charges to curfew viola- tions were up 9 percent to 510 for this summer. Traffic tickets were up 40 percent to 2,445 this sum- mer. Police handled 241 disturbances this summer compared with 320 last summer. On Aug. 4, police ar- rested about 10 persons and sprayed several of them with pep- per spray to quell a large distur- bance. A few clashes with police can be expected with crowds in the thou- sands, said Tom Brenneis, presi- dent of the Westport Merchants Association. He is an associate vice president with Gould, Evans and Goodman. Brenneis said police presence was a success. "I spent almost every Saturday night in Westport and saw no Kansas City officers or Westport security officers using excessive force," he said. "Keep in mind there are 40 to 50 officers trying to control a crowd of 7,000 to 8,000 people." Brenneis said Westport mer- chants had seen a 30 percent to 40 percent decrease in business this year, partly because of the econo- my, and partly because of fears about the youths who congregate in Westport. He said there were fewer youths under 17 years old on Westport streets, but still a good number of youths between 18 and 21. He said the merchants planned to begin meeting in November to discuss what to do about those youths for next summer. "We will try to answer two ques- tions," he said. "Where can the kids go? And what can we do to bring out customers back?" Also at Tuesday's board meeting commissioners discussed city- wide crime statistics that showed a slight increase in burglaries. Po- lice Capt. Kevin Chrisman said residential burglaries had in- creased about 1 percent through August this year compared with the same time last year. The only trend he noted was thefts from garages that had been left open. # CURFEW AWARNESS POSTER # Let's Build Awareness of the Curfew Ordinance and Work Together to Improve our Communities ## What You Need to Know Under the curfew law, Ordinance \#50.237, it is unlawful for any minor under the age of eighteen (18) years of age to loiter, wander, stroll or play in or upon the public streets, highways, roads, alleys, parks, playgrounds or other public buildings, places of amusement, eating places, vacant lots or any place unsupervised by an adult having the lawful authority to be at such places during the curfew hours. ## What Parents \& Officers Need to Know All members of the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department want to treat the young adults with respect and educate all individuals about the curfew ordinance. ![img-8.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-8.jpeg) ## Together ## We can keep our young people safe Members of the Juvenile Section of the Kansas City, MO Police Department will appear in a number of areas to work with citizens, business owners and on-duty uniformed officers to encourage positive participation in the program. ![img-9.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-9.jpeg) ## What Parents \& Youth Can Expect The Kansas City, Missouri Police Department is attempting to make Kansas City safer for young people and adults by enforcing the Curfew Ordinance. Please be aware that violations could result in fines up to $\$ 500$ dollars. ## Exceptions to this Ordinanos Ordinance \#50.237 shall not apply in the following instances: + When a minor is accompanied by his/her parents, guardian or other adult person having the lawful care and custody of the minor; + When the minor is on an emergency errand directed by his/ her parent or guardian or other adult person having the lawful care and custody of such minor; + When the minor is returning directly home from lawful employment that makes it necessary to be in the prescribed places during the designated period of time; + When the minor is returning directly home from school activities and entertainment events and recreational programs. I.D. may be required. For Further Information: Contact the Detective/Supervisor of Juvenile Section at 816.234 .5150 ## Hours Curfew is in effect ![img-10.jpeg](https://popdatasets.blob.core.windows.net/popdatasetmdimgs/03-20/img-10.jpeg) # WESTPORT CRIME STATISTICS # Westport Crime Statistics ## 2000 - 2002 | Crime Category | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | MURDER | 2 | 0 | 0 | | RAPE | 1 | 4 | 5 | | ROBBERY | 35 | 46 | 43 | | ASSAULT - AGG | 28 | 37 | 29 | | ASSAULT - NAG | 146 | 116 | 89 | | BURGLARY - RES | 21 | 20 | 9 | | BURGLARY - NON | 30 | 33 | 27 | | STEALING - AUT | 350 | 333 | 272 | | STEALING - OTH | 260 | 186 | 138 | | AUTO THEFT | 142 | 148 | 125 | | ARSON | 0 | 1 | 0 | | PROPERTY DAMAGE | 91 | 106 | 86 | | NARCOTIC POSSESSIONS | 9 | 37 | 35 | | CCW | 3 | 6 | 11 | ## TOTAL OFFENSES | CRIME STATISTICS BY YEAR | 1118 | 1073 | 869 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 1200 | 1118 | 1073 | 869 | | 1000 | | | | | 800 | | | | | 600 | | | | | 400 | | | | | 200 | | | | | 0 | | | | | 2000 | | | | | 2001 | | | | | 2002 | | | |