San Diego Police Foundation

Programs: Five canines, including a bomb sniffer, six multi-dog kennel systems for vehicles, and a rolling sunshade for training sessions and community tours were provided to the k9 unit. Sdpds police dogs de-escalate violent situations, increase the likelihood of apprehension of suspects and evidence, and accelerate suspects willingness to surrender without a fight. These dogs keep officers and community members safer. Emergency response: trauma kits for responding to a mass casualty scenario were distributed to all nine divisions of sdpd, traffic, k9, swat, and field lieutenants, and were placed in every sergeants vehicle city-wide, allowing life-saving measures to be administered within seconds. Swat safety gear: quick release maritime retrofit kits upgraded the tactical vests of the swat unit, making the officers safer during the many times they deploy near water while safeguarding san diego. Bullet proof vests: plate carrier vests augment the soft body armor used by officers, providing protection from rifle fire, which is a growing threat to officer safety. Catch poles: special devices were provided to patrol units to enable the humane apprehension of agitated dogs and other animals, decreasing the possibility of injury to community members, officers, and animals. Helicopter equipment: new loud speaker/siren systems now enable airborne officers to record and broadcast descriptions of missing persons and suspects, freeing the officer to focus on the primary duty of visual search in an emergency. Training simulator: the acquisition of a portable force options simulator brought vital scenario-based, interactive training to personnel in the field, enabling officers to make better split-second decisions. It was also used in interactive educational sessions conducted at community events, enhancing police/community relations. Road safety: a portable 360-degree nighttime scene light, vehicle mounted radar units, hand held radar devices, a thermal imaging night vision device, and drug test analyzers were added to the traffic divisions tools to keep san diegans safe on our streets. Four police bikes: bicycles provided a green alternative to vehicle patrol, allowing officers greater contact with community members in urban neighborhoods. Filling the gaps: break area furniture for the 911 dispatch operators to rest and recharge for their intense work, and equipment for the honor guard and northeastern division, increased effectiveness as well as morale. Relief for the families of fallen and injured officers: community donations brought comfort and assistance to the deguzman and irwin families. We were honored to be a special conduit for the communitys mercy and generosity following this unspeakable tragedy. Volunteer appreciation: a day of recognition and training was provided for community members who augment sdpds capability with tens of thousands of hours of volunteer service. Youth programs: the boxing program instilled confidence and leadership skills while diverting young people from gang recruitment. The tattoo removal program helped young people exiting gang involvement reverse the markings of gang membership. Safetynet: cyber safety training in school assemblies and parent presentations made more than 17,000 middle school children less vulnerable to internet predators and cyberbullying, and equipped them to be more responsible citizens of the online world. National night out: funding was provided to enhance the relationship between san diego communities and the police department during this annual outreach event. Jsk boxing program: a second year of funding was provided for this program, which includes usage of a gym, boxing instructor, equipment, and upkeep.