Denise Traves, Crime Prevention Unit Supervisor, City of Mesa Police Department was recently named as number one in law enforcement by the Optimist Club in Mesa. This award was especially significant since her peers nominated her. Traves began as a volunteer with Mesa Police in 1994, was hired as a Crime Prevention Specialist in 1996, then promoted to Supervisor in 2000. She is an Internationally Certified Crime Prevention Specialist, member of the International Society of Crime Prevention, Certified Practitioner of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design, Treasurer of the AZ Crime Prevention Association, AZ Peace Officer Standards in training certified instructor, career advisor for those in the MPD, a MAHC board member, and currently a Mesa Chamber LTD Program, Class of 2007 member. Quite an accomplished person that well deserves this award!The Crime Prevention Unit has provided the much-needed personal safety sessions lately at the various district headquarters. I attended mine last week. Terri Teten, Crime Prevention Specialist, provided important information for personal safety and when to report suspicious activity. The Mesa PD C.A.T. (Community Action Team) shared their role and how we can help. Sgt. Sherwood, Officers Vaughn and Essenburg spoke with us and answered questions. Commander Kirby of the Superstition District spoke to us as well, briefing us on the recent district boundary changes, growth, crime, and the importance of citizens participating by calling in tips of suspicious activity, becoming part of the solution in our own neighborhoods. Commander Kirby has served in law enforcement for 27 years, a valuable employee with the police department and an asset to our district.The Mesa Citizen Police Academy is an excellent program offered, helping citizens understand how the department, staff, and officers are equipped to "Protect and Serve" our community. The next academy starts in September led by Karen McBride Training Specialist. An application is available on-line at the City of Mesa web site. There is a different program in place for teens; Explorers for those interested in law enforcement as a career.Mesa’s successful Narcotics Hotline was started a few years back in order to report drug activity citizens might see in their neighborhoods. A recent change added the option to also hear the message in Spanish, which will reach a wider audience. You can call without identifying yourself, 480-644-6272.Commander Kirby spoke about positive change forthcoming and citizens being encouraged to approach the Police Department with any questions. Terri Teten also advised us that the community rooms at each police district station are available to the public, at no cost, to have meetings. Simply call and schedule the day and time needed.I’ve noticed banners in downtown Mesa recently asking people to seek employment with the police department. A friendly approach encouraging those interested to apply.
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