The Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training (DOCJT) has announced 25 dispatchers from across the state graduated from the Public Safety Dispatch Academy and are now ready to begin answering the call to aid both citizens and law enforcement officers of the Commonwealth.
“Thank you for answering the call of service,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “Your mission is an important one, as you are now the lifeline to those facing some of their darkest and scariest times. Thank you for being a hero and the ears to Kentucky’s first responders.”
Dispatch basic training is mandatory for any sworn or civilian employee who will dispatch law enforcement officers by radio at a Criminal Justice Information Systems agency. Graduates of the academy have successfully completed a highly structured and comprehensive curriculum to satisfy mandated training requirements. The graduates of Class 155 received 164 hours of academy instruction to satisfy these requirements over four weeks. Major training areas included identifying the role and responsibilities of the dispatcher, correct phone and radio procedures, handling emergency and non-emergency calls for service, emergency medical dispatch protocols and use of the state and national criminal databases.
“I am proud of your accomplishments while at the academy,” DOCJT Commissioner Nicolai Jilek said. “Your four weeks of training have laid a solid foundation for a rewarding career for years to come. I wish you the best of luck in your careers.”
DOCJT is a state agency located on the Eastern Kentucky University campus. The agency is the first in the nation to be accredited under the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies’ public safety training program designation.
Class 155 graduates and their agencies are:
• Elizabeth M. Baudino, Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office • Jeffrey Boone, Bluegrass 911 Central Communications • Taylor J. Bosley, Owensboro Police Department • Kimberly Bravo, Oak Grove Police Department • Erin F. Embry, Logan County ECC • Hannah M. Frymire, Hardin County 911 • Lisa L. Gates, Lexington E-911 • Kylee M. Godbey, Bluegrass 911 Central Communications • Cassidy Jackson, Hopkinsville Police Department • Christopher N. Johnson, Clinton County Emergency Services • Shelby Ranae Johnson, Boyd County PSCC 911 • Tracy Lee Lightfield, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport AOC • Bailey B. Lucas, Georgetown Police Department • Savanna D. Miller, University of Louisville Police Department • Darian J. Mitchell, Greensburg Police Department • Austin Kunath Music, Pikeville Police Department • Lisa J. Norton, Bracken County 911 • Shawn Marie Regis, Georgetown Police Department • Austin T. Rowland, Boone County PSCC • Amber TeShae Russell, Monticello/Wayne County 911 • Jeri A. Spencer, Barren-Metcalfe County ECC • James Michael Spradlin, Prestonsburg Police Department • Alexis Gail Thomas, Pikeville Police Department • Cody J. Wells, Lexington E-911 • Hannah Faith Wise, Georgetown Police Department
DOCJT provides basic training for city and county police officers, sheriffs’ deputies, university police, airport police throughout the state, only excluding Louisville Metro Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Bowling Green Police Department, and the Kentucky State Police, which each have independent academies.
Control rooms|Narrowband|Broadband|Satellite| 2024-03-12
At BAPCO2024 main stage sessions, hosted by John Black and Cate Walton, drew the largest crowds as they provided a much-anticipated update on the ongoing publicsafety mission-critical communications journey – ESN.
The British APCO (BAPCO) Annual Event 2024, bapco2024, brought together industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to explore the latest developments in public safety, mission-critical communications. The event was notable for its focus on the Emergency Services Network (ESN), spearheaded by Programme Director John Black and Chief Engineer Cate Walton.
The main stage sessions, hosted by John Black and Cate Walton, drew the largest crowds as they provided a much-anticipated update on the ongoing publicsafety mission-critical communications journey – ESN. The session began with a warm welcome from UK Home Office Crime, Policing & Fire Minister, Chris Philp, setting the tone for the informative presentations that followed.
John Black revisited last year’s memorable “shopping trolley” slide, highlighting the re-procurement of Lot 2 – Services. The decision on this procurement is anticipated “by the end of the summer,” adding a layer of suspense to the proceedings. The significance of MCX testing at scale took center stage in John’s presentation, emphasizing continued testing of Motorola Solutions’ Kodiak app. However, the app faces imminent replacement at the end of 2024 following Motorola’s removal from the program.
The complexity of delivering an end-to-end, nationwide solution was a recurring theme, along with updates on coverage, including the Extended Area Services (EAS). Unfortunately, the eagerly awaited new ESN timeline (2026?, 2029? 2030s?) hinges on the signing of new contracts and the agreement of a roll-out schedule.
Cate Walton took the stage to shed light on ESMCP’s international collaboration efforts. Notable mentions included TCCA, 3GPP, ETSI, and the Global Certification Forum. Partnerships with organizations such as the French Ministère de l’Intérieur et des Outre-mer ACMOSS, Direktoratet for samfunnssikkerhet og beredskap (DSB), Suomen Erillisverkot -konserni, and the First Responder Network Authority were also highlighted.
The event welcomed familiar faces like Renaud Mellies, Ari Toivonen, and others, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. BAPCO Chair, Chris Lucas, added an element of interactivity by correctly predicting the first questioner. Attendees refrained from posing technical questions, keeping John and Cate on their toes during the session.
Senior Industry analyst Ken Rehbehn brought attention to teh recent AT&T FirstNet, Built with AT&T outage, sparking anticipation for further discussions at IWCE 2024 in two weeks time. Gratitude was extended to John Black and Cate Walton for their insightful update and engaging offline conversations during the Coventry event.
Reflecting on the decade-long challenge of ESN/ESMCP, the hope was expressed for clarity on its delivery by the incoming UK Government by the same time next year.
The diverse conference program offered engaging options, including tech tours and a networking lounge. Valuable market insights into tech challenges faced by the public safety communications sector were gained through encounters with both familiar and new faces.
Events like BAPCO are invaluable to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and technology suppliers. They provide a platform to test assumptions about what’s truly important to customers. For Cloud Gateway, engagement with those on the front line is critical to ensuring the relevance and impact of the solutions designed.
Special acknowledgments were made during the event, such as congratulating Georgie Green, ARP PMO Analyst, for receiving the Ian Thompson Bursary Award. Georgie’s plans to attend Critical Communications World in Dubai later this year to enhance her technical knowledge were celebrated.
Sepura dedicated a moment to celebrate International Women’s Day, recognizing and appreciating the contributions of women in their events. The commitment to diversity and inclusion was reiterated, acknowledging the importance of inspiring inclusion in the tech sector.
Motorola Solutions participated in an insightful session led by Ian Williams, exploring how AI can address challenges in policing.
Peter Jones ILG, showcased a new release. Notably, the introduction of the NEW Klick Fast MOLLE Dock by KlickFast products and the OW10HV land mobility terminal wa launched for the first time by the Excelerate Technology Group..
At BAPCO, Sepura PLC unveiled the SCL3 Hybrid Vehicle Device, emphasizing its potential as a tool to facilitate the transition to missioncritical broadband. The device’s versatility, with optional TETRA and LTE modules, positions it as a potent tool linking to future MCX developments.
While the event buzzed with excitement, new innovations and new releases from various companies were relatively low. However, the event provided a platform for engaging discussions and valuable insights. A summary of notable interactions with specific companies follows:
Motorola Solutions: A Glimpse into Cutting-Edge Technology
Motorola Solutions took center stage at the BAPCO Annual Event 2024 by unveiling the highly anticipated TLK25 device. This innovative addition to their repertoire promises to redefine communication standards, aligning with the evolving needs of the industry. Beyond just unveiling new hardware, Motorola Solutions showcased their prowess in video solutions, unveiling the V500 Body-Worn Camera (BWC). The V500 BWC brings forth advanced features, highlighting Motorola Solutions’ commitment to providing comprehensive solutions for public safety and critical communications.
Hytera Communications Europe made an impact at the event by presenting an array of their existing products. Notably, the PT590 caught the attention of attendees, offering a unique perspective into Hytera’s capabilities. The positive experience was amplified by the cooperative efforts of Andrej Dodic, who played a pivotal role in providing insights and facilitating interactions. This collaboration added an extra layer of engagement and made Hytera’s stand a focal point for those exploring the latest advancements in communications technology.
Despite a relatively sparse stand, Tait Communications managed to impress attendees with the display of high-quality radios. The emphasis on quality over quantity spoke volumes about Tait’s commitment to delivering reliable and efficient communication solutions. Visitors to Tait’s stand were treated to a focused showcase, demonstrating that Tait Communications places paramount importance on the excellence of their products, ensuring they meet the highest standards in critical communications.
Airbus Public Safety and Security: Solutions-Driven Interaction
While Airbus Public Safety and Security (yes this is the new name fcompany focused on critical communications) did not unveil new devices, their focus on presenting updated solutions resonated with the attendees. The friendly and approachable staff played a crucial role in turning the booth into an interactive hub. Engaging discussions on the showcased solutions provided valuable insights into Airbus’s commitment to evolving technologies. The absence of new devices was compensated by an enriching experience that emphasized the practical applications of their solutions in the ever-changing landscape of public safety and security.
Sepura: Contrasting Experiences with Innovation
Sepura’s presence at the event drew mixed experiences. On one hand, the introduction of the SCL3 LTE device marked a notable release, indicating a forward-thinking approach to communication solutions, especially in consideration of the new ESN. At the show, Sepura succeeded in leaving a lasting impact with their innovative SCL3 LTE device.
Handsfree Group UK: Professionalism in Innovation
Handsfree Group UK emerged as a beacon of professionalism by showcasing new solutions with a level of sophistication that reflected their commitment to excellence. The professionalism extended beyond the product display, creating an environment conducive to meaningful interactions. The stand not only demonstrated the innovation within Handsfree Group UK but also communicated their dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions in the realm of critical communications.
RugGear: Minor Discrepancy Amidst Professionalism
RugGear’s professional presentation was slightly tainted by a minor discrepancy noted in the labeling of the RG750. Nevertheless, the overall impression remained positive, emphasizing RugGear’s commitment to presenting their products in a polished and engaging manner. The minor labeling issue did little to detract from the professional and informative nature of RugGear’s showcase.
Sonic Communications (Int) Ltd: Consistency Amidst Stability
Sonic Communications (Int) Ltd maintained a consistent stance by not introducing new releases at the event. While the absence of new products might have been anticipated, the stability and reliability associated with Sonic Communications (Int) Ltd products were reaffirmed. The booth served as a testament to the enduring quality of their existing offerings, providing attendees with a reliable choice in the realm of critical communications.
Panorama Antennas: Quality Over Quantity
Panorama Antennas opted for a quality-focused approach by displaying their range of good-quality models without introducing new ones. The decision to focus on existing products underlines Panorama Antennas’ commitment to delivering reliable and effective solutions. The showcase highlighted that, sometimes, maintaining excellence in proven models can be as impactful as introducing new innovations.
Cradlepoint, part of Ericsson: Smart Devices and Knowledgeable Staff
Cradlepoint, part of Ericsson, chose not to unveil new releases but succeeded in showcasing smart devices with a knowledgeable staff. The emphasis on intelligence and the expertise of the staff highlighted the depth of understanding within Cradlepoint, creating an informative and engaging environment for attendees. This approach reinforced the notion that sometimes, the smart utilization of existing technologies can be just as impactful as introducing new devices.
BelFone Communications: Openness to Discussions
BelFone Communications did not display new releases, but the staff exhibited openness to discussions regarding their products. The willingness to engage in meaningful conversations with attendees created an environment conducive to learning and exploration. The open approach showcased BelFone Communications’ commitment to understanding the needs of their audience and fostering connections within the critical communications community.
Leonardo: Quality Discussions on Gateway Solutions
Leonardo made its mark by engaging in quality discussions about their gateway solutions. The emphasis on meaningful conversations demonstrated their commitment to addressing the specific needs and queries of attendees. The focus on gateway solutions indicated Leonardo’s strategic approach to providing comprehensive and tailored offerings in the critical communications sector.
3tc Software Ltd.: Innovative Dispatch Solutions
3tc Software Ltd. captured attention by presenting innovative dispatch solutions, including their latest update. The inclusion of the latest update showcased their commitment to continuous improvement and staying at the forefront of technological advancements. The interesting dispatch solutions provided attendees with a glimpse into the evolving landscape of critical communications technology.
Frequentis: Versatile Control Room Solutions
Frequentis left a lasting impression by displaying multiple control room solutions. The versatility showcased in their solutions hinted at the adaptability of Frequentis to meet the diverse needs of critical communications. Friendly staff further enhanced the overall experience, creating an interactive space where attendees could explore and understand the capabilities of Frequentis in the context of control room solutions.
In conclusion, the BAPCO Annual Event 2024 served as a dynamic platform for companies to showcase their innovations and engage with industry professionals. Each participant, with its unique approach, contributed to the diverse landscape of critical communications technology, emphasizing the ongoing evolution and adaptation within the industry. As the event concluded, attendees departed with a wealth of insights and a sense of the current state and future trajectory of critical communications technology.
CASPER, Wyo. — Firefighters were dispatched to, and put out, a fire at an apartment on the 3000 block of Provence Court on Monday afternoon, according to a press release from the Casper Fire-EMS Department.
After hearing activated smoke alarms and smelling smoke, residents of a neighboring apartment notified neighbors and evacuated them.
The call came in at 12:34 p.m., after which firefighters located the fire and quickly extinguished it.
Search crews also found a family dog and removed it from the building. Firefighters and officers tried to resuscitate the pet, but it succumbed to smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported.
The occupants of the apartment were not home at the time of the fire.
Firefighters responded to the scene with five units, the on-duty battalion chief, investigators and chief officers. Other responders included the Casper Public Safety Communications Center, Casper Police Department officers, officers with Metro Animal Control, ambulances from Banner Health Wyoming Medical Center and technicians from Rocky Mountain Power.
The apartment’s occupants were displaced by smoke and fire damage. They are receiving assistance from the Natrona County Burn Fund.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Casper Fire-EMS Department.
The Department complimented the swift action of neighbors alerted by properly working smoke alarms as a major factor in keeping this fire from burning down the entire building. The department also urges community residents to check their own smoke alarms with the change to Daylight Saving Time.
For assistance with your smoke alarms, contact the Casper Fire-EMS administration office at 235-8222.
FARGO — After a series of meetings on Friday, March 8, the Red River Regional Dispatch Center Board of Authority has selected Amanda Glasoe as the next director of the Red River Regional Dispatch Center.
Glasoe has worked at the Red River Regional Dispatch Center for 20 years and has been assistant director for nine years. She was the only internal applicant in the search.
Daliagery Avila, a candidate for the Red River Regional Dispatch Center director position talks with members of the The Red River Regional Dispatch Center Authority Board on March 8, 2024. Avila comes from the Williams County Dispatch Center in North Dakota.
Chris Flynn / The Forum
The other finalists were Daliagery Avila and Anthony Bueno. Avila works at the Williams County Dispatch Center in North Dakota.
Bueno works at the Salt Lake Valley Emergency Communications Center in Utah.
In total, there were 18 applicants for the job.
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Anthony Bueno, a candidate for the open director position at Red River Regional Dispatch Center, meets with people on The Red River Regional Dispatch Center Authority Board on March 8, 2024. Bueno works at the Salt Lake Valley Emergency Communications Center.
Chris Flynn / The Forum
While the Board of Authority was impressed with all three candidates, they chose Glasoe for her ability to lead the changing organization, said David Ebinger, Clay County commissioner and Board of Authority chair.
The Red River Regional Dispatch Center implemented a new form of governance in recent years and
“I think she’s going to be a great leader through some of these transitions,” Ebinger said.
Glasoe is the provisional selection, Ebinger said, until hiring paperwork is completed. Because Glasoe is an internal candidate, her hiring is not contingent on the results of a background investigation.
Glasoe will replace Mary Phillippi, who held the job since 2015. Phillippi is
GUILFORD, CT — United States Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-03) announced that she has secured $16.4 million for local projects in her district, and included in that is $963,000 for Guilford to upgrade its public safety communications.
“I am proud to have secured needed dollars to fund several projects in our community,” DeLauro said in a news release. “When I was Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, I fought to bring back community project funding. I strongly believe members of Congress know their communities best, and I am pleased that they can once again hear from the people they represent and direct spending to local projects that help their states thrive. These investments grow our economy and make a real difference in the lives of so many. I am proud to have fought for funding that will make our community healthier, safer, and stronger.”
Guilford Police Chief Christopher Massey spoke about the impact the money will have on the town and department.
“This funding is essential for the continued safety of our community,” he said in a news release. “This project will ensure a redundant, resilient communications system that is interoperable with our public safety partners in Guilford as well as surrounding communities. We appreciate Congresswoman DeLauro’s office and their continued commitment to public safety.”
Overall, DeLauro championed funding for 14 projects in CT’s 3rd District.
Learn about current efforts to continue to protect the 4.9 GHz Band for public safety as well as recent filings, key decisions impacting these efforts, and how you can support PSSA’s initiative to protect the 4.9 GHz band for public safety.
