Novi P.D… Keeping the Beat

If there is one thing that is certain, it’s that Novi residents and the Novi P.D. share a common interest of safety and freedom. Clearly, our ability to move independently, congregate with friends in public areas, and sleep with the window open at night are just some of the benefits we enjoy, and unfortunately many communities in American cannot say the same.

People don’t think about these simple luxuries often, and I think I know why. Much like the drummer in a band, when they’re keeping the beat, the music flows and the production is smooth. You only notice a drummer when they’ve missed a beat or missed a step, other than that, you take them for granted, even though their role is significant.

Police work is serious business. It’s tedious business and it can present life and death situations. But, like a drummer in a band, for the most part their contributions aren’t as readily apparent. In other words, most people take the freedom and safety we enjoy in Novi for granted.

But, for policemen and women ‘working the beat’ is a never-ending challenge… In fact, even the origin of that phrase is daunting.

Lore has it the term ‘walking the beat’ dates back to Scotland in the 1600’s. Back then a King’s Hunter would be used to flush out game on the King’s preserve along well-beaten game paths. Later, these same hunters faced treacherous duty to protect the preserves against poachers, so they would walk along the same well-beaten path to look for violators. It was considered a high honor with great reward, but also a dangerous assignment, and it took a special person with great skill and courage to undertake the responsibility.

Today, as police officers ‘walk the beat’ metaphorically, it’s no different. In the last decade or so, over 1,600 police officers lost their lives in the line of duty. Remember, these are people just like you. They have families, friends, and they enjoy all the things you do in their spare time.

That is why the term ‘Partners with our Community’ is so appropriate. Partners cooperate, have mutual respect, and work together for a common cause.

This brings me to why I wanted to write this article. I’d been meaning to for a long time, but the ultimate trigger event happened recently. I’m about to offer a strong opinion, but I think I am in good company…

I became very upset when I heard about the Cambridge, Massachusetts incident involving the Harvard Professor at his place of residence, and I am 100% on the side of the officer. Here’s why…

After responding to a call that a breaking-and-entering was in progress at the home of the aforementioned professor, Officer Crowley approached the subject, Mr. Gates, and it’s my understating he asked for his I.D. Allegedly, instead of cooperating with this simple request, the officer was met with a verbal tirade! Why? Was Mr. Gates an intruder? Or, was it his house? How was Officer Crowley supposed to know? The caller who reported the incident said her suspicions were aroused as she observed the subject barreling his shoulder into the door in an attempt to gain entry.

Eventually, after much consternation, Mr. Gates did supply the information requested, but in doing so he caused the situation to escalate into another national debate. A ridiculous one at that… I am convinced had this gentleman simply cooperated up front with no resistance, the whole incident would’ve ground to a halt in about 90 seconds.

‘Partners’ cooperate. ‘Partners’ communicate. It’s that simple. A Police Force is trained to observe and investigate anything that looks out-of-place, out-of-the-ordinary, or potentially suspicious. That doesn’t mean they’ve already made up their mind. They are willing to go to great lengths, patiently, to make sure there isn’t an injustice or a misunderstanding that would lead to an error in procedure.

This is evident, especially in Novi. Under the direction and leadership of Police Chief David Molloy and his staff, officers are highly trained and skilled in the art of communication, anticipation and awareness.

Before they pass judgment or draw conclusions, they will engage in dialogue and respectful, polite conversation. They will observe body language, facial expressions, demeanor, and attitude.

It can be up to the citizen whether or not they want that process to be simple and quick, or elongated based on their willingness to show a little respect and cooperation. In other words, if you’re approached by a police officer, that is putting his life on the line for your safety whether you believe it or not, don’t make up your mind so quickly. Communicate. Cooperate. Show some respect, and you’ll get respect back. More than you think.

On Friday evening, August 7th I had the privilege of going on a Ride-Along with Officer Michael Bender, a 9-year veteran, and an individual absolutely dedicated to his craft.

I learned a lot from Officer Bender, and I enjoyed my time and the lengthy conversation. Not only is he a student of the game, he knew his calling at an early age and received a lot of positive influence from his father, also a veteran police officer.

“When responding to a situation or an incoming call, I treat it as an opportunity to help people that are in need of our service,” Bender remarked. “And I treat every call as if it was my own family, and my actions and investigative efforts will always be conducted as if my own family was involved.”

No matter what the circumstances, Officer Bender’s goal is to make sure all situations are peacefully handled, taking great care to make sure that whatever the outcome, all parties are treated with dignity and respect.

The Novi Police Department, is, and desires to be a service driven agency.

And during the multiple stops we encountered Friday night, that’s exactly what happened. Officer Bender’s approach was always cautious, friendly, and relaxed treating each citizen like an acquaintance, a co-worker, or a family member. As such, all subjects that were approached that evening were cooperative, at ease, and I saw a few smiles along the way.

I’m sure that this is in direct correlation to the high standards candidates must display while being considered for a position with the Novi Police Department. Applicants must have completed a 4-year Bachelor degree, and the hiring process consists of extensive interviews, testing, and a thorough background investigation. Additionally, Chief Molloy interviews all candidates before they are hired.

There is also plenty of opportunity for advancement and specialty detail. Because of his outstanding service, Officer Bender is also a Field Training Officer.

As a highly professional, service driven agency, the Novi Police Department has kept the beat nicely as our community has grown exponentially over the years. And since Novi has become a destination city with the advent of so many entertainment opportunities, our population can easily double from time-to-time, increasing the challenge.

But, if we all embrace the concept of “Partners with our Community,” Novi can maintain its status as a stellar area where people can live, work, and feel safe.

I applaud the hard working men and women of the Novi Police Department. Every day, they quietly ‘keep the beat’ and the net result has been music to our ears.

You couldn’t ask for a better partner…