Executive/Council Action Form (ECAF)
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Washington Association of Sheriffs & Police Chiefs (WASPC) - Grant Application for New Radar/Lidar Equipment
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DEPARTMENT: Sheriff's Office
ORIGINATOR: Lynda Thomas
EXECUTIVE RECOMMENDATION: Approved
PURPOSE: Executive approval of grant application: Washington Association of Sheriffs & Police Chiefs (WASPC) - Grant Application for New Radar/Lidar Equipment
BACKGROUND: Speed related serious injury and fatality crashes continue to be an issue in Snohomish County. in 2023, we had 17 speed related fatalities and 68 serious injury crashes. (source, DOT crash data portal). To date in 2024 we are looking to likely exceed the fatalities, as we have 15 so far prior to year end. Our agency participates in Target Zero patrols. This past year, our office has participated in hundreds of hours of speed, distracted and DUI patrol projects on Target Zero overtime. Our Traffic unit also targets speed as a major focus on non-overtime activity. Our motors unit works school zones along with known problem speed areas. Our Field Training Officers are mentoring new deputies to work more speed enforcement when not on dispatched calls in order to reduce speed related crashes. Due to equipment and budget shortages, not all deputies are issued radars or lidars. Not all patrol cars are outfitted with radar equipment. We wish to increase our speed enforcement by installing and using these radars in known high speed areas such as Stanwood, east county and south county. The equipment will allow them to conduct speed patrols which will be a deterrent and encourage better driver behavior. The stationary radars will be installed in the vehicles of deputies who have been identified as working in high-risk areas and have the ability to work traffic enforcement when not dispatched to calls. The handheld units will be issued to highly motivated deputies on shift who will be assigned additional traffic enforcement duties during t...
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