Police Officer of the Month

August 2002

Chief Livesay has selected PFC Joseph Baran as Police Officer of the Month for August 2002. His supervisors clearly recognize the consistent quality of PFC Baran's performance.

During the month, Officer Baran had nine (9) insights, fifty-one (51) calls for service, eight (8) arrests, and forty-six (46) traffic contacts.

Some of his noteworthy accomplishments include:

Assault Investigation: On July 19, 2002 Officer Baran responded to the intersection of Ducketts Lane and Washington Blvd for a call of an assault. His investigation determined that a fight had taken place on a school bus involving six (6) students. Officer Baran was immediately concerned because of the violent nature of the assault and the fact that numerous students were involved. Although Officer Baran took immediate action and filed the appropriate charges against those involved, his investigation continued through August. As a result of his diligence and interest in the case, he were able to help the school system identify and document a case against an individual displaying a high propensity for violence. The school system is currently undertaking measures to remove the student from the Howard County school system.

Secondary Assignments: In early August, the Education and Training Division requested that Officer Baran assist with qualifying all sworn members with a newly mandated shotgun familiarization course. Officer Baran agreed and did an outstanding job. During this period his workday was split into four different segments. He was assigned to the range in the early mornings and late afternoons, and worked his regularly assigned beat between sessions. Officer Baran committed a total of 40 hours to this important task and maintained impressive monthly statistics.

Since July, Officer Baran has been conducting monthly weapons inspections to all members assigned to Platoon B. His inspections are very thorough and help reinforce weapons familiarization and maintenance. Officer Baran's development and implementation of a weapons inspection program and inspection log ensures that each platoon member conforms to departmental standards.

Community Involvement: Officer Baran has become very involved with quality of life issues within his assigned beat. In early August a community meeting was held by citizens living within the Elkridge community. After learning of their concerns, Officer Baran rallied other squad members and with their assistance the area received increased foot patrols, FIR's, and traffic enforcement. The increased police presence proffered welcome relief to many concerned citizens.

Officer Baran is a productive member of the department who is able to effectively draw from all of his police skills and complete any task attempted in a professional, thorough manner. Officer Baran is frequently called on by his supervisor to complete sensitive or important tasks and do so without hesitation.

Congratulations and keep up the good work!