A Strength
, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threat Analysis (SWOT) is a valuable tool which objectively evaluates and assesses the every day practices of a police agency. The resulting report becomes a tool with which the command team can target potential problems within the department, allowing a proactive approach to the administration of policing within it community.
In the wake of tragedies within law enforcement over the last few years — especially the killing of George Floyd in Minnesota — Chief Todd Link sought an outside expert in law enforcement to conduct a SWOT analysis in five key areas: operations, training, use of force, community engagement, and recruitment. The Village Board approved Major Derek Wise with the Illinois State Police to conduct the evaluation.
Wise's assessment included a review of policies and procedures, an examination of data, first-hand observances of performance, interviews of internal staff and external stakeholders and ride-alongs with patrol officers.
On March 9th, 2021, Major Derek Wise presented his final report to the Village Board during their regular meeting. During his study, Major Wise determined Glen Carbon Police Department follows the most up-to-date policies and procedures and trains extensively in key use of force areas, including de-escalation and voluntary compliance. He also noted areas for growth, most notably the need for the Glen Carbon Police Department to attract a more diverse sworn officer staff.
Click here to see Major Wise's summary report or here for the full SWOT analysis.
The Glen Carbon Police Department's Use of Force policy can be found here.
