Fort Worth Police Department Strategic Plan
Police Executive Research Forum Staffing Study A staffing study for the Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD) was completed in October 2014 by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). Founded in 1976, PERF is an independent research organization focused on critical issues in policing and is comprised of former police officers. PERF provides management services, technical assistance, and executive-level education to support law enforcement agencies.
The FWPD staffing study provides recommendations regarding optimal patrol, investigative, and support staffing levels. Analysis for this report looked at both current and future staffing needs. PERF conducted several on-site visits and interviewed sworn and civilian personnel from nearly all components of the department. The staffing study examined the multifarious aspects of the organization and its needs as it moves forward. The study identified many of the department’s challenges and strengths, providing nearly 50 recommendations to best serve the needs of the citizens of Fort Worth. The study provides guidance as the organization works to meet staffing challenges while still providing quality police service. The following tables outline each recommendation and include PERF’s priority ranking, whether the department agreed with the recommendation, if the recommendation was implemented, funding status if applicable, and which of three bureaus in the department is responsible. The staffing study was intended to be a proactive measure to ensure the department maintains its service-oriented philosophy in a growing and changing environment.
POLICE EXECUTIVE RESEARCH FORUM FORT WORTH POLICE DEPARTMENT STAFFING STUDY RECOMMENDATIONS IMPLEMENTATION
PERF Priority
Recommendation
Agree / Disagree
Complete
Funding
Bureau
Reduce NPOs. The FWPD should reduce the number of NPO sergeants and officers in each division to one sergeant and five officers. The five officers would each have approximately three patrol beats. This reduction would allow five sergeants and 60 officers to be redeployed back to the patrol function. By adding patrol staffing, the time available for each officer will be increased as identified previously in this section. Reducing the time patrol officers are committed to calls for service will increase each officer’s availability to conduct problem solving and community policing efforts. In addition, the NPO program should identify clear and reportable outcomes of their efforts, particularly regarding quality of life issues. This could include a reduction in calls for service at particular locations, reductions in crime, and the outcomes of community complaints addressed.
Disagree (Numerous community impacts)
High
No
N/A
Patrol
APPENDIX E
Page E-1
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