172536_CPCA_2020_Spring Magazine - Final | Page 36

THE WORLD HAS CHANGED
But That Won’t Stop Us from Showing Up
By: Commander Noelle Smiley
Irvine Police Department
The Irvine Police Department (IPD) is defined in many ways by the phrase, “In Partnership with the Community.”
These words are an important part of our Mission Statement and are displayed proudly on the side of our police
vehicles. It is a philosophy that is engrained in every new police officer and professional staff member from the moment
they enter our doors to the day of their retirement. It is part of our culture and is one of the many reasons we enjoy an
enormous amount of support from our residents and business community.
Prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Irvine police
personnel regularly attended a wide range of community
events; from homeowner association meetings to neighborhood
picnics, we made every effort to connect with our community
outside of traditional law enforcement activities. IPD places such a
high value on fostering a positive relationship with our community
because we are keenly aware that trust and legitimacy is how police
agencies remain effective. We recognize that if our community
members lose faith in our department, they may be hesitant to
contact us to investigate criminal acts or address quality of life issues.
Despite the impact of COVID-19 on our community, IPD recognized
there is one thing the virus cannot change: It cannot stop
birthdays and other important dates in the lives of individuals and
families. Armed with this knowledge, IPD started its “birthday
drive-by” program. The program allows members of our community
to contact IPD to request the presence of police officers and other
field personnel to celebrate the birthday of a neighbor or family
member. On the day of the event, our personnel drive to the birthday
location in their police vehicles and greet the family with overhead
lights, a yelp of the siren, and a birthday greeting over the public
address (PA) system. The interaction generally also includes photographs
or video with the police personnel. Officers and professional
staff will also answer questions, while always maintaining proper
social distancing.
36 CALIFORNIA POLICE CHIEF | www.californiapolicechiefs.org