Indian Head Park police enhance resources with new hires and crisis center collaboration

The Village of Indian Head Park Board Meeting held on March 13, 2025, focused on several key topics, including police department updates, community resources, and equipment acquisitions.

The meeting began with an update on police staffing. A conditional offer was extended to a candidate who met all requirements, with onboarding scheduled to start on Sunday. Another candidate, Brian Buckley, is undergoing a background check but will not need to attend the police academy, as he was already on the original list for officers. Corporal Hussain is actively engaging with future candidates to ensure a continued interest in joining the department.

Discussion then shifted to the implementation of flight cameras. Commander Gardner is set to meet with officials to secure necessary permissions for installation, contingent upon budget approval.

The board also addressed community safety resources. A meeting with representatives from the Crisis Center highlighted their initiatives to educate schools on domestic violence prevention and support for victims. The center offers free counseling and transportation services for individuals seeking orders of protection, emphasizing the importance of accessible resources for those in need.

In terms of equipment, the police department received two COVID vehicles, which are now operational. Additionally, new radios are being programmed for officers to enhance communication capabilities, including connections with neighboring agencies. The board discussed the importance of ensuring that all officers have access to these radios and the potential for additional channels to improve coordination during emergencies.

Overall, the meeting underscored the village's commitment to enhancing public safety and community support, with ongoing efforts to improve police resources and community outreach initiatives. The board plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings to ensure progress on all fronts.