26 February 2013
This past Thursday evening I joined several other Frisco residents at the Frisco Police Department for the first class of this year’s Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA). The stated goal of the program is to “improve the relationship and rapport between the Frisco Police and the citizens of Frisco.”
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Our introductory lecture was illuminating. We were afforded the opportunity to share with the group our motivations for taking the class. We were treated to a thorough overview of the Frisco Police Department’s organization as well as a brief summary of all of its subcategories of responsibility. Our featured speaker for the evening was newly promoted Chief John W. Bruce. For those who are unaware, the Chief’s background is in crime prevention so his promotion of and participation in the CPA Program isn’t that big of a stretch. His sincerity and commitment to his stated mission for the Frisco Police Department and the Citizens of Frisco, “working together in a spirit that achieves results,” was readily apparent. Our Chief repeatedly stated, “This is not MY police department. This is y’all’s police department.” Chief Bruce encouraged us all “to take our knowledge out into the community and share with your friends and associates how your police department functions.”
Following the lecture segment, I was fortunate enough be in Chief Bruce’s tour group. We were treated to a behind the scenes tour of our police department and a description of the function of the numerous offices housed within this impressive building which has been designed for functionality as well as anticipated growth.
What I found most interesting was the fraternal relationship our Frisco Police Department has with our Frisco Fire Department. In the majority of cities in which I have resided, this relationship has been adversarial at best. We are truly fortunate that the leadership of the City of Frisco believes in and fosters a shared and supportive approach between the first responders serving our community.
My introduction to the inner workings of our FPD was a positive one. I believe the department’s stated mission of “making Frisco a safer community to live, work, and raise our families [in],” is the organization’s greatest priority. I anticipate our next session will be as educational and rewarding.
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