Topeka law enforcement agencies adjust procedures to ensure officers' safety

Local law enforcement agencies are taking steps to ensure officer safety following recent incidents in which officers have been killed amid increased racial tensions across the nation.

Though the Topeka Police Department has had no credible threats directed at officers, the agency is implementing two-person patrols to some extent, Police Chief James Brown said in a statement. The department also is taking other measures that aren’t being disclosed.

“The time table for these measures will be evaluated daily and adjusted as needed,” he said. “What is best for our officers right now is to take some measures to provide them with the greatest amount of safety we can so that they are able to give police services to our community.”

Police spokeswoman Amy McCarter said there has been an influx of support. Members of the community have sent food, flowers and messages of support via social media, she said.

“For as rough as this week has been, it’s been nice to see the encouragement and support,” McCarter said.

On Tuesday, Kansas City, Kan., police Capt. Robert Melton was killed in the line of duty. Earlier this month, five officers in Dallas and three officers in Baton Rouge, La., were killed in ambushes targeting police.

In the Topeka Police Department’s lobby, people have placed Post-it notes of support with such messages as “stay safe” and “thanks for everything you do.”

Sue Bisel drove to the Law Enforcement Center, 320 S. Kansas Ave., from Auburn specifically to leave a Post-it message.

“I feel like with all the tragedies going on in this world, I just respect the police officers so much,” she said. “I just wanted to come down and pay my respects.”

McCarter said the department isn’t sure how the Post-it messages got started, but it was community-based.

Officer Derek Parrett said he was thankful and grateful that people still show support and appreciation for officers’ work.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office also is examining its procedures.

“Current matters related to slain officers from across the nation cause great concern as to our established procedures,” said Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.

The department is assessing its procedures on receiving calls, documenting the information needed before the officer is dispatched and responding to the call for service. Some calls may require multiple officers to respond, Stallbaumer said.