Jeff Humphrey, Media Manager, 509.625.6308
Friday, May 27, 2022 at 2:34 p.m.
Good customer service is the hallmark of any successful business or organization.
When someone goes the extra mile to make sure your trip, transaction, or night out with the family goes well, their efforts often deserve a favorable review.
During 2021, the Spokane Police Department received 214 commendations from the community. The positive feedback is always welcome news to police chief Craig Meidl.
“The Spokane Police Department is committed to providing excellence in policing, enhancing the safety and security of individuals, and building partnerships to better the lives of our community as a whole,” Meidl said,citing one of the department’s mission statements.
A woman who lives on the South Hill called Neighborhood Resource Officer Jake Willard about a man trespassing on her property so he could pick her Aronia berries.
“Since I had the (car) plate number, he (Willard) was able to get a hold of the individual and explain the consequences of trespassing on property that is not his. Officer Willard is extremely helpful, polite and proactive,” Amy Warren wrote in her e-mail to Meidl.
Another woman authored a similar note thanking police for tracking down her stolen cell phone.
“My cell phone was recovered, and when I noticed my SIM card was missing, Officers Stadley and Nguyen made a second trip into the house to look for my SIM card. Even if my phone had never been recovered, the officers were outstanding in the handling of the incident,” detailed Cynthia Matson.
Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward is also impressed that residents make the effort to recognize good police work.
“The community is very appreciative of the extra efforts officers continue to make. Many take the time to say ‘thank you’ while acknowledging the challenges our men and women in blue face,” Woodward said.
Beth Johnson wrote a commendation thanking Officer Tim Schwering for ridding her South Perry District of a nuisance drug home.
“It’s been almost a year since the neighborhood returned to normalcy. I am so blessed. I love my home and my neighborhood. Thank you so much dear Tim! All of us are so very grateful,” penned Johnson.
Chief Meidl feels when his officers provide good customer service, they are forging an important bond with residents that helps Spokane prevent crimes.
“We serve every member of our community with professionalism, integrity, and compassion so that with every interaction we continue to build trust, preserve safety, and model ethical policing,” pledged Meidl.
