IMPD has a "Plan to Move Forward"

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - IMPD leadership is embarking on a new culture of integrity, service and accountability, in a document released today called "A Plan to Move Forward."

The 28 page paper comes in the wake of several embarrassing and possibly criminal investigations of the department itself. Leaders point to a crises of confidence and say this paper is an important step forward.

One of the first new priorities will be the establishment of The Professional Standards Division. It will provide oversight and have investigative authority over all public safety divisions including police, fire, homeland security, animal care and control.

An online database starts next year, with the final dispositions of officer complaints open to the public.

To attract and keep the best and brightest officers, The Department of Public Safety, has entered into a contract with IUPUI for 30 members of senior management to undergo an eight week executive leadership program. It kicks off later this month.

Training of officers will change. There will be a new emphasis on officers as peacekeepers who must "keep peace by peaceful means." Persuasion and negotiation will now be a critical component of the training.

IMPD leadership has also begun conversations with IUPUI, Ivy Tech and the University of Indianapolis to explore partnerships for recruits to receive undergraduate credits for the academy.

The biggest change, though, may involve detectives. The Plan to Move Forward calls for the de-centralizing of detectives to the district level.

They will also work more closely with patrol officers.