SPOKANE POLICE DEPARTMENT

SPD
Inside this
month’s issue
FAFB Football 2
Game
Chaplain’s Corner 3
Jerry Mertens
Retires
Mertens Says
Goodbye
3
3
Lunch with Chief 4
P.A.T Team 4
Spokane
Community Safety
Forum
Survivors Among
Us
4
Tip a Cop 6
Robertson
Employee of the
Month
Patrol Dog Handler
School
Citizens Applaud
Our Officers
Spokane Skill
Center Pre-Law
Enforcement
Academy
Shop now for
Holiday Sounds
5-6
7
7
8
9
9
Upcoming Events 10
SPOKANE
POLICE
DEPARTMENT
CHIEF’S CORNER
November 2006
NEWSLETTER
By: Chief Anne Kirkpatrick
I have just finished two months here at the SPD and at the
same time have finished all of my unit meetings. I want to
take this opportunity to explain what I’m doing and why
I’m doing it. The purpose of the unit meetings was to accomplish
a few things... first, I believe that leadership is
personal and relational. Hence, that is one reason why I
wanted to meet everyone as quickly as possible. I want to
know something about each of you and to share something
about me (beyond what you might read on a resume). I
will be building on that through our one-on-one meetings
that are in the process of being scheduled. Secondly, I
have been listening to, and watching for the stressors in
the department. Stressors are those issues that need attention, in other words, they
are the leaks in the ship. The main stressors I have heard are (1) swing shift officers
were getting beaten up on the call load and it was evident that there was an officer
safety concern, (2) loosing the 24/hour Crime Check had a huge systemic negative
impact on our policing, (3) property crimes could not be worked at the pace to keep
up, (4) we were not responding well to the media in getting our side of the story out
and that was taking a toll on morale, (5) lack of accountability, and (6) a leadership
deficit. Although this has been extremely time-consuming, I believe it has been well
worth it. I believe I have gained a fairly good understanding of the department.
Most importantly to you is the burning question, “With this knowledge, what changes
am I going to make?” First, I have made one change already and that is moving the
weekend traffic unit to swing shift to meet that immediate officer safety concern.
Officer safety is the top item on the Department’s Top Ten Wanted List. With that
has come the return to a 16 team patrol division.
The revitalization of the Crime Reporting Center (formerly Crime Check), is already
in the works with City Hall, the Sheriff’s Office, and City Council. We do not want
to bring back the old Crime Check, but retool it. Some money has already been
committed to bringing the Crime Reporting Center back up to a more serviceable
level. There is still a lot of work to do and there is a lot of attention being put on it.
With respect to property crimes, we have asked for six more detectives and four
Neighborhood Resource Officers (NRO’s) to help with proactively dealing with
property crimes as well as all other types of crimes. The detectives need help in
every category of crimes they work, especially child sex crimes.

Page 2
SPOKANE
CHIEF’S CORNER….CONTINUED
By: Chief Anne Kirkpatrick
As for the media, I have had a few meetings already with the Spokesman Review and several of the other
media outlets. I have asked each media outlet the question, “What are your guiding principles?” and “Are
you purveyors of fact (only) or purveyors of truth?” I stated that this is a time for us to try to know each
other’s guiding principles and to work toward giving the public all the information that is rightfully theirs
and to work toward a respectful relationship. Only time will tell.
As for accountability, your entire senior staff is in the process of attending mandatory In-Service training.
This is a first step of putting actions to our words. I’ve even attended, although I had to leave the room
several times throughout the day to take care of some business, but I was bound and determined to make
it through the day, and I did. As I get into the rhythm of attending, I hope that the “emergency calls” will
quiet down. You will be seeing more acts of accountability on the way.
Lastly, as for the leadership deficit I have been hearing about, I am not in a position to give you my action
steps on that subject, however, your message has been heard loud and clear.
I have much to be thankful for at this time of Thanksgiving. One of my greatest blessing is the opportunity
to work with you. I wish you all well during this holiday season and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your
families.
NETWORKING THROUGH FOOTBALL
By: S.P.O. Mark Howard
On October 13, the Fairchild AFB Security Forces hosted a law enforcement football game. The
Security Forces (SF) were excellent hosts. The field was set up with yardage markers, Gatorade,
team jerseys, and two referees to officiate. The SF had about 25 guys there to play, including
some of their retirees. There were approximately 75 spectators. Mike Carr and Dan Waters of
the SPD rallied with Tom Litts Jr. from the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) representing
the local law enforcement team. The SF loaned the local LE team some bodies and the game began.
It went very well and good sportsmanship prevailed. The SF team won 14-12, which is pretty
amazing when you consider the SF guys practiced for the game and the LE team just showed up
and played. With no time left on the clock, the law enforcement team failed to tie the game with
a two-point conversion on the last play.
The whole purpose was to create some networking
and esprit de corps among local law
enforcement and the SF. There were lots of
smiles and great fellowship. Best news of
all…….No one got hurt!!!
Cpl. Mike Carr attempts a pass at the
FAFB Football game

Page 3
SPOKANE
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
Chaplain Ron Alter
By: Chaplain Ron Alter
Did you know that your chaplains respond to all calls in the city when someone has died
to help the bereaved families, notify family members of a death, respond to injuries or
sickness to SPD employees, counsel employees, provide emergency help to SPD employees
when we can, and teach at the academy? We also activate the “Care Van,” which is
used to provide food, drink, and shelter to officers during long calls, pray for our employees
and their families daily, ride with our officers and give help when needed, train chaplains
from around the area, and do numerous other requests. We are supported by employee
donations, so don’t forget that you can support this work by getting a payroll deduction
card from the chaplain’s office and turning it into payroll. Now you know.
MERTENS RETIRES
By: Cpl. Muzatko
Police Officer First Class Jerry Mertens has retired after 25-years with the Spokane
Police Department. He was one of the original members of the Tactical Team and
quickly emerged as a squad leader. Mertens has great organizational skills which he
used to help develop the team into the quality organization it is today.
He was also among the first members of the Dignitary Protection Team which is
well regarded and frequently assists the Secret Service when VIP’s visit Spokane.
He also helped develop the riot school that resulted in hundreds of officers from
throughout the Northwest getting trained in controlling violent crowds.
Jerry Mertens
Mertens’ teaching skills lead to an assignment at the Regional Training Center
where he not only taught classes, but served as TAC Officer for many state Basic Law Enforcement Academy
(BLEA) classes. From there he moved to the Spokane School District Skills Center where he developed
a training program for high school students interested in law enforcement.
Mertens’ dedication and professionalism set a high standard for law enforcement officers everywhere and
gave a positive impression to the public.
MERTENS SAYS GOODBYE
By: Jerry Mertens
First I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers for my wife Judy. She is doing great and
has returned to work full time as of October 23. She will not be able to drive until December 26, but that
is only a small hurdle. I would like to say thanks to everyone at the department. It was my pleasure to
have worked with such a great bunch of people. I would like to thank all the evaluators and suspects who
have helped out with mock scenes at the academy and especially Dave Overhoff and Jim Muzatko. These
two were the backbone of the program. A special thanks to all the senior volunteers, explorers, co-ops,
and reserves for being there for us. Without you it would not have been possible to have a quality program.
I will miss all of the TAC Team and Dignitary Protection members that I have worked and trained
with for all these years. You are all tops in the department. It was a great 25 years and I hope to stay in
touch with you.

Page 4
JOHN WILLARD WINS LUNCH WITH THE CHIEF
Detective John Willard was the winner of
“Lunch With the Chief.” He was selected
from among some 200 people who attended
the recent open house at the new
Forensic Unit. The open house was held
in September to show off the unit’s new
offices and labs located in the Public Safety
Building. Detective Willard and Chief Anne
Kirkpatrick enjoyed lunch at Clinkerdagger’s.
Det. Willard and Chief Kirkpatrick
P.A.T.
By: Chaplain Ron Alter
We have a Personnel Assistance Team (P.A.T.)? When a critical incident occurs, your brain stores all the
facts about that incident (sights, sounds, smells, emotions, etc.). After a couple of days, all those facts get
locked away until some other sight, sound, smell, or emotion unlocks those facts and they all come crowding
back. We call this Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Immediately following a critical incident you
may feel fine because your adrenaline is pumping, but 24-hours later, you may feel dazed, depressed, and
have physical, cognitive, spiritual, emotional, or behavioral changes.
P.A.T. can help prevent or lessen those changes or PTSD by doing a debriefing. The results can mean a better
life, healthier relationships at home, and avoiding work burn-out. All of our P.A.T. members are trained
in Critical Incident Stress Management and are fellow co-workers who know the stresses of our work.
If you need P.A.T., call Radio and have the team activated.
SPOKANE COMMUNITY SAFETY FORUM
By: Cpl. Tom Lee
Zan Deery (left) and Lynn Dahmen of Partners in Crime
Prevention (PICP) met Chief Kirkpatrick Oct. 19 at the
Community Safety Forum. PICP was one of many
groups to show displays and meet citizens at the forum,
which was held at Lewis & Clark High School. Another
forum will be held in the spring.

Page 5
SPOKANE
THERE ARE SURVIVORS AMONG US
By: Hilary Thompson
In Their Own Words
Most people know that October is Breast Cancer awareness month, but
what most people don’t know, is that we have breast cancer survivors
among us at the Police Department. On October 18, the Records department
hosted a breast cancer awareness celebration for the employees.
I had the opportunity to meet a few of our survivors and hear their
stories. I asked each of them to write a brief story of their personal
battle and recovery process.
SPD Breast Cancer Survivors:
Sandra Alter, Neorla Howell,
Jan Roys and Sue Bryant
Sandy Alter, Volunteer Services: “As awful as cancer is to have, it brings
out the kindness, thoughtfulness and caring in so many people who want to do
something for you. I have met wonderful people through this journey. I found
out I had breast cancer April 23, 2003 and completed surgery, chemotherapy,
and radiation November 10, 2003, so my three year anniversary is coming
up.”
Sue Bryant, Administration: “There are angels watching over me, I believe, I believe.” How very true are the words of that
song. Nine years ago, I was doing my monthly breast exam and felt a bump that was the size of a BB. I called my doctor and
although I wasn’t due for a mammogram for a few more months, he arranged for a mammogram. As it turns out, it was a
good thing, as a couple of spots were discovered that turned out to be cancerous. No, it wasn’t even close to where I felt the
BB! If I hadn’t gone in for the mammogram, we would not have discovered it. Because there was more than one cluster of
cancerous cells found in the biopsy, I elected to have a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. As added insurance, I also followed
through with chemotherapy. I consider myself to be one of the fortunate ones. During a time like this, you really realize
that you have more than one family. You have those related by blood, the friends that you chose to be your family, and we have
a very special family here at SPD. Thanks everyone, for your support, your prayers, your encouragement, and the time you generously
donated.”
Jan Roys, Records: “Since diagnosis in December 2004, I was/am a “participant” in my surgery, chemotherapy, radiation
therapy, hormone therapy and equally important, spiritual therapy. I say “participant”, because for example, regarding the
“medical” process, I “showed up” for my appointments and the researchers and medical personnel “worked their magic.” You
may not be aware of this, but the “spiritual” therapy has been, and continues to be, administered by you through your kindness
everyday. Make no mistake that this is an integral part of my recovery. Throughout life’s journey, I will forever remember the
care, concern, thoughts and prayers offered by the SPD community. A great factor in the recovery of a life changing event such
as cancer is care of the Spirit. Time and again, that care has been a constant reminder of the caliber of the people in Records.
You will not find a group of people who are more genuine, and with that comes a great deal of gratitude. I am proud to be a
part of that group. Thank you, Records.”
Neorla Howell, Police Administration: “I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in May of 2004. I was pretty shocked! I have
no history of cancer anywhere in my family, and was under the mistaken impression it was something I would never have to
worry about. Mr. Doctor had told me because of the size of my tumor, I would have to have chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
I have to admit I was really freaked out about losing my hair. I went in for my pre-op appointment and was told plans
had changed because they thought they found a “spot” on my back, which meant my cancer had spread. This changed my
treatment plan as well as my survival rate. After further tests, and a few really anxious days, they discovered there was no spot
on my back, the cancer had not spread. Those few days weren’t very fun but they really changed my attitude. I was feeling
pretty positive, ready to face whatever treatment was in store and really never gave losing my hair another
thought.
I opted to enter a clinical trial with an intensive treatment plan. My treatment plan started with chemo
every week for 15 weeks, daily injections of drugs that fight infection, followed by another chemo drug
every other week for six weeks. The last chemo drug was discontinued after four weeks because it had
caused my feet to become numb. All of the chemo was followed with six weeks of radiation...which was
followed with a week in Hawaii! I walked away from this experience with a lot of positives. I have
stronger relationships with my family and friends and a deep appreciation of my restored health.”

Page 6
SURVIVORS...CONTINUTED
In Their Own Words
Patti Plotzki
Pfc. Sue Mann
Patty Plotzki, Training Center: “Breast Cancer? Never…it doesn’t run in my family! That was my
first thought as I was told I needed another mammogram. Going through the ordeal of having to wait
until it was confirmed that I did have breast cancer was the worst. There were tests, doctors, and more
tests! The kind of breast cancer I had was slow growing. It had been detected very soon and the prognosis
was very good. I went through radiation and compared to chemotherapy, this was nothing. One of
the main thoughts of most of the survivors I talked to was that they were the lucky ones. Whatever
pains and problems they endured, they felt a little guilty that they were as lucky as they were. One thing
I do about bad times is to find a reason why things happen. Usually, it may take awhile, but you can
always find a reason. I had found God about six months before this happened. I look upon my breast
cancer experience as my first journey knowing Jesus and having Him with me. What a way to have a
journey with Jesus—but we made it! I now have been taking tamoxifen for 2 1/2 years with 2 1/2 years
to go.
Pfc. Sue Mann, Front Desk: “ In September 2003 a lump was found in my right breast. This lump was
surgically removed and was found to be benign. In October 2004 a second lump was found in my left
breast. This lump was surgically removed as well, but unlike the first, this one was found to be malignant.
December 2005 was a trying time for me. Two more lumps were found, one on each side. Once again I
had surgery to remove the lumps. It was on this occasion the dreaded word “Cancer” reared its ugly
face. Surgery has been successful to this point. Radiation and chemotherapy were offered to me, but I
opted not to go that route. I go in for check-ups every six months. My family and friends have been very
supportive throughout my ordeal.
Thank you to all of them.
Jan, Sandy, Sue, and Neorla supported by Records Staff
TIP A COP
On September 30, Red Robin and the Kalispell Tribe
sponsored the “Tip a Cop” event for the Special Olympics.
It costs approximately $500 per athlete to participate
in the Special Olympics each year. This particular
event raises thousands of dollars in this area alone.
By: Sgt. Cox
SPD Sgt. Russ Cox, (on the right) President of the
Spokane Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #20,
presenting a $500 check from the lodge to Ofc.
Craig Martin of the Kalispel Tribe.

Page 7
ELISE ROBERTSON NAMED NOVEMBER EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
By: Marlene Feist
Congratulations to Detective Elise Robertson who has been chosen as City Employee of the Month for
November. She has been employed with the City for approximately 12 years and has worked in several
different areas including the Law Enforcement Information Systems Unit.
Elise has taken on many critical functions to assist both the Spokane Police and Spokane County Sheriff in
deploying new technology and equipment. During her “Automated Field Reporting” assignment, she
assisted with the necessary dramatic organizational changes to move the police reporting function from
paper to a computerized paperless system used by hundreds of officers throughout Spokane County. This
new system not only minimized cost and time, but also allowed greater sharing of knowledge and problem-
solving between officers and supervisors from different agencies. It has been critical to get this valuable
technology into the officer’s hands so they can in turn, be more effective and efficient in the performance
of their duties.
Congratulations Elise! Your service and commitment to the City of Spokane and the Law Enforcement
Community is greatly appreciated.
PATROL DOG HANDLER SCHOOL
The Spokane Police K-9 Unit designed and hosted Washington’s first Advanced Patrol Dog Handler School
October 16 - 19. Even though the state requires 400 hours of training for an officer to become a Patrol
Dog Handler, the majority of that time must be spent working on what is considered just the basic skills.
Our K-9 Unit recognized that an advanced level of training was needed to focus on skills for K-9 handlers.
With that in mind, they designed a course that is recognized by the Washington State Criminal Justice
Training Commission.
Because of the nature of the training, the class size was very restrictive. Five teams attended the course:
Seattle PD, Redmond PD, Federal Way PD, Lynnwood PD, and Hillsboro Oregon PD. The course was
enthusiastically received by everyone.
Some of the training included various K-9
firearms scenarios, using K-9 in SWAT situations,
tactical tracking, deploying K-9 in gas
environments, report-writing skills, and defensive
tactics/handcuffing with the K-9. The
K-9 Unit hopes to offer the course again in
the near future.
By: Pfc. Kevin King
SWAT team members and K-9 take "suspect"
Officer Matt Cowles into custody after simultaneously
deploying a flash bang, bean bag
rounds, and a K-9.

Page 8
SPOKANE
CITIZENS APPLAUD OUR OFFICERS
Received October 26—”There has been a huge traffic problem with construction trucks on Five Mile where I live.
After I reported this problem to the SPD Traffic Unit, within fifteen minutes the problem was taken care of. I have
never had a response from the Spokane Police Department as quickly as this. I believe this is in part due to our new
leadership.”
~Spokane Citizen
Received October—We want to send a heartfelt thanks to five members of your department. Once again this
year, they helped our school educate our kids and families through their visit, complete with motorcycles and two
different vehicles. They were engaging with the students of our kindergarten and preschool, answering their questions,
describing the purposes of their uniforms, and especially emphasizing safety rules and reminders. Many of our
parents attended this presentation on September 12, and were impressed with their warmth and professionalism.
We are truly indebted to them in helping us keep kids safe. Officers responding were: Bill Workman, Glen Bartlett,
Kenny Applewhaite, Chris Lewis, and Ryan Snider.
~JoyBell Christian School House
Received October 6—I am writing this in response to an urgent situation that arose involving my daughter who is
currently charged with possession of a controlled substance. I met with her attorney and his investigator. I was very
concerned about the physical and emotional safety of my daughter. The investigator called Lt. Judi Carl about it.
Without compromising police confidentiality, Lt. Carl was able to reassure us that my daughter was safe and out of
danger. I was to say the least, a very distraught mother. Lt. Carl’s compassionate response to my distress was very
much appreciated. Law enforcement is not only about enforcing the laws, but should also take into account the dramatic
impact it has on people’s lives. In my opinion, Lt. Carl exemplifies what “good” law enforcement is all about.
~Spokane Citizen
Received October 6—On September 18, Officer Steve Arredondo encountered a mental subject who attacked
him. As his supervisor, I responded to investigate the incident and to complete a use-of-force report for the officers
involved in the situation. I reviewed the store surveillance video and what I observed, was the suspect, without warning,
initiating an explosive attack against Officer Arredondo. The suspect had cocked his fist back and then tried to
punch him. Officer Arredondo reacted without hesitation and according to training. He side stepped the attack and
avoided being punched. He quickly drew his side handle baton and used it appropriately under the circumstances.
Officer Arredondo and Corporal Kevin Keller then controlled the subject and quickly and appropriately de-escalated
the situation, lowering the level of force to match the suspect’s behavior/actions. The store manager complimented
Officer Arredondo and Corporal Keller on their professionalism and calm demeanor during the incident. She specifically
stated that Officer Arredondo and Corporal Keller spoke to the suspect in a calm and clear manner directing
them on what they wanted him to do. Officer Arredondo and Corporal Keller did not let their emotions dictate their
response. They gave calm and clear orders to the suspect to stop fighting and follow directions. Due to the actions
of Officer Arredondo and Corporal Keller resulting in quick de-escalation, the injuries to the suspect were minimal.
Officer Steve Arredondo and Corporal Kevin Keller should be recognized and put forward as an example of the standard
professionalism that our police department represents.
~Sgt. Yamada
Received October 10—Officer Brenda Yates, I am one of the three Gonzaga students you arrested the other day
at the Military Recruitment Station in Lincoln Heights. I truly did appreciate your services the other day and really
respect the way you handled the situation. I know it’s not your normal, every day occurrence and so I’m sure that as
different as it was for me, it was also very different for you as well. I really felt like you handled yourself with great
character and discipline and really represented not only yourself, but your entire department very, very well. It also
meant a lot to me personally, how respectful you were to why we were there and your understanding of who we
were too. I felt respected and treated with dignity, something I was so scared that I was not going to receive. So
from the bottom of my heart, whatever it is worth to you, I just wanted to say thanks a lot and I really hope you have
a great rest of your week.
~Spokane Citizen

Page 9
SPOKANE
SPOKANE SKILLS CENTER PRE-LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY
By: Hilary Thompson
Pfc. Stormi Koerner has taken Jerry Mertens’ place at the Spokane Skills Center. Koerner is an excellent
teacher and has great expectations for the program to grow. She is dedicated to teaching the youth in our
community.
Now completing its sixth year, the Skills Center Pre-Law Enforcement Academy is designed to provide high
school students with an awareness of the elements of criminal science, law enforcement techniques, and
emergency response techniques. Students are taught the basics of criminal law, criminal procedures, traffic
enforcement, crime scene investigation, and patrol procedures.
The Skills Center is a technical education school that allows students to train in their chosen field and actually
do the work to see if it is something they like. Students must have good attendance and grades to attend.
Many of the students move on to become Spokane Police Explorers and Cooperative Education volunteers
(CO-OPS).
The students are strictly taught the basics, which is mostly centered around actual book lessons, not handson.
However, there are some mock scenes such as collision investigation, traffic stops, crime scene search,
fingerprint, corrections cell search, and corrections transport. This helps to broaden the understanding of
the lessons taught.
This is a great program because it not only allows students to explore their interests, but it also provides
an education that focuses specifically on things the students can use simply as a citizen whether or not they
decide to be in law enforcement. They are learning how the law works, why people are arrested, and what
crimes are. The goal with this program is to help them become more informed and knowledgeable members
of the community and hopefully have a more positive outlook on law enforcement in general.
SHOP NOW FOR HOLIDAY SOUNDS!
Detective Stephanie Barkley’s Christmas CD, “The Best Gift of All” is available in the Police Chaplain’s
Office as well as your local Hastings. The CD contains 12 holiday songs and sells for only
$15. All proceeds benefit the Spokane Police Chaplaincy. Copies of Stephanie’s previous CD, “A
Shield Around Me” are also available. Contact the Chaplain’s office soon for your CD’s.

Spokane Police Department
1100 W. Mallon Ave.
Spokane, WA 99260-0001
www.spokanepolice.org
SUGGESTIONS? COMMENTS?
Contact the SPD Newsletter
Editor, Hilary Thompson
509-625-4456
Or by email
hthompson@spokanepolice.org
UPCOMING EVENTS
C.O.P.S. East Central Coffee Fundraiser
Third Tuesday of every month
7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Monroe Court Bldg. Lobby
Free Pancake Breakfast
Hosted By the United Way
November 17
7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.
City Employees who work on floors 4, 5, 6 & 7
and those outside City Hall
6th Floor Lunchroom in City Hall
Amazing Race through Spokane history
November 25
12 p.m. -4 p.m.
City Hall
Town Hall Meeting
Meet the Chief
November 28
7 p.m.—8:30 p.m.
West Central Community Center
1603 N. Belt
Neighborhood Observation Patrol
citywide meeting combined with Block
Watch
November 29
6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Monroe Court Bldg. Ste. 300
Spokane’s 125th Birthday Party
November 29
4:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m.
Spokane Convention Center