The Police Department Budget Narrative

Abington Township Police Department is a State and Internationally Accredited Police Agency with an authorized strength of 92 Officers and a total workforce of 160 employees. The Department is supported by an annual budget of over 20 million dollars. In 2023, the Department responded to 46,686 calls for service and handled 1,423 Part I Offenses, which are the offenses that the FBI classifies as most serious. 407 individuals were arrested for committing a Part I Offense. The Department investigated 1,882 Part II Offenses. A total of 605 were charged with a Part II Offense. The Department issued 3,706 traffic citations, 4,769 warnings for traffic violations, and investigated 1,228 traffic accidents.

On behalf of the men and women of Abington Township Police Department, it is our honor to serve and protect this great community. We know that our organization cannot be successful without the support of our citizens, whom we are sworn to protect. In 1829, Sir Robert Peel established the London Metropolitan Police Force and became known as the “Father of Modern Policing.” He established a list of policing principles that remain as critical today as they were two centuries ago. Among them is the principle that “Police, at all times, should maintain a relationship with the public that gives reality to the historic tradition that the police are the public and the public are the police; the police being only members of the public who are paid to give full-time attention to duties which are incumbent on every citizen in the interests of community welfare and existence.” While policing has continued to evolve and unimaginable advances in technology have transformed the way we deter crime, investigate complex cases, and identify offenders, we remain committed to the Six Pillars of 21^st Century Policing, to guide us as we make decisions on operations, personnel, and management of our resources.  

1. Building Trust and Legitimacy
2. Policy and Oversight
3. Technology and Social Media
4. Community Policing and Crime Reduction
5. Training and Education
6. Officer Wellness and Safety

In other words, these Six Pillars represent the best practices for police leaders and has impacted decisions about what we do and how we do it. 

For decades now, we have understood the significance of building trust and legitimacy, and that often starts with developing the best policies and procedures. The Abington Township Police Department was the first of three agencies in the State to receive accreditation by the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (PLEAC) back in 2002. Since then, we have been re-accredited seven times with the most recent evaluation in 2023. The Commission elevated our Department to Premier Agency status, a designation of which we are proud since it is reserved for agencies that have received re-accreditation at least five times without provisions or an extension. In 2004, Abington Police received international accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). In 2010, Abington Police received re-accreditation from CALEA with Flagship Designation which acknowledges achievement and expertise of CALEA/Internationally Accredited Agencies. The Department is one of only nine municipal Police Departments (out of over 1,100 Departments in Pennsylvania) to be accredited by both PLEAC and CALEA. The ongoing re-accreditation process ensures that Abington Police are following the best practices and protocols established throughout the country. Within the network of accredited agencies, there is constant collaboration as we explore new policing strategies that enable us to respond to the needs of communities in a more efficient and effective manner.

In 2023 we welcomed our first full-time Co-Responder to our Community Policing Division. This program allows us to provide enhanced response to victims of crime and people in the throes of emotional crisis. In our model, the officers collaborate with our Co-Responder on many cases to ensure that we immediately assess the needs and connect the individuals and their families to the proper social service agency. We understand that oftentimes the underlying issues for many criminal offenders require intervention from a wide range of social services, counselors, and other professional clinicians. It is our goal to make this connection either on scene or shortly after the officers encounter these individuals. Our Co-Responder has a background in social work, addictions counseling, and mental health, and she has successfully intervened to divert many individuals to the most appropriate resources. We are proud of this program and the great work that our officers and social services partners are doing, and we hope to expand this program in the future. 

Protecting our community, especially our young population from social harms associated with drugs and violence, has always been our number one priority. Three times in a row, Money Magazine has selected Abington Township as one of the “100 Best Places to Live” (among municipalities with a population between 50,000 and 250,000) and stated that “Safety” was the primary criterion. Abington Township Police Department has been at the forefront of instituting programs designed to connect our youth and other at-risk populations with the resources designed to mitigate the risks associated with crime and delinquency. Proactive community policing programs such as PAL, School Resource Officers, DARE, “Citizens and Police Together,” “Youth Aid Panels,” and the Social Services HUB Community Policing are just a few examples of the many innovative, results-oriented programs that help us achieve our mission. None of these programs would be possible without the dedicated staff in our Community Policing Division and the countless volunteers from the community who have been so generous with their time, talent, and treasure.

The tragic death of George Floyd back in 2020 was a seminal event that continues to have a profound impact on our law enforcement profession, the criminal justice system, and ultimately, the public safety of our citizens. This tragedy, along with other high-profile examples of excessive force used by police officers, resulted in widespread civil unrest, calls for criminal justice reform and an unprecedented division between the police and the communities that we serve. In Abington we met with members of our community, attended peaceful protests, and listened to the concerns of our diverse community. We adopted meaningful criminal justice reforms and spoke out against reforms that we did not support. Overall, we have sought to improve our use of force and de-escalation training, improved accountability, expanded our use of body cameras and other advanced investigative technologies, recruited mental health professionals as co-responders, and adopted so many other programs to advance transparency and ensure accountability.

So many factors remain outside of our control, and the image of policing in our country has shifted. Irresponsible elected officials and members of the media supported a narrative that damaged the reputation of this noble profession. Because of this and other factors, the law enforcement profession is suffering from a crisis in recruitment and retention. While our Department has been successful as compared to other agencies in the region, we are still concerned about the future. Back in 2019, for example, Abington Police Department attracted over six hundred candidates vying for fewer than five positions. Since then, we have witnessed a steady decline in applications, with the most recent civil service exam attracting fewer than three hundred applicants. At a time when we need to attract the best and the brightest and when the stakes could not be any higher, very few young people are attracted to this profession. It may take years for many police agencies to recover and, in some cases, they will never recover. In Philadelphia and other major cities, the recruitment crisis is only getting worse, and this has a negative impact on surrounding communities. Too many communities are suffering needlessly, and this needs to change.

While we are very proud of our accomplishments, we know that none of this would be possible without the support that we have received from our fellow citizens, our elected officials, the Township Manager and the rest of the Township’s leadership team. For all of this, we are grateful. While many communities struggled with decisions to “Defund the Police,” our elected official and citizens continued to listen to and support us. We know that this required substantial sacrifices by all our citizens who support our Department’s budget.

In 2025, the Abington Police Department will continue to develop effective programs and improve training opportunities for all our sworn and professional support staff in accordance with the changing needs of our community and the standards of the profession. Our commitment to protecting and serving our community requires that we properly and efficiently equip, train, and deploy our officers. This is a substantial investment in time and other resources, but it is necessary for us to provide the level of policing that our community expects and deserves. It also serves to keep our officers and our citizens safe, while managing civil liabilities and other risks associated with a Department that operates in a high-risk environment 24/7. We also will remain committed to the best practices in policing and will continue to lead the way as a state and internationally accredited agency. As an organization, we have worked very hard to earn the trust of our community, and we did this with a renewed commitment to the principles of community-oriented policing. We will never take this trust for granted, and we will continue to be guided by the United States Constitution, the law enforcement code of ethics, and the rules and regulations of our Department. 

Below you will find an overview of our Department’s operations. We highlighted our goals for 2025, as well as many of the programs, special units, technologies, and equipment required to provide the best possible police service to our community.

Goal #2: Address and reduce the propensity of crime in the Township. (Focus Areas: Excellent Public Services (EPS), Inclusive Community (IC), Economic Growth (EG), and Fiscal Sustainability (FS))

• Strategy #1: Deter crime and disorder and while addressing the fear they create, through a combination of law enforcement activities and innovative crime prevention programs. (EPS 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; IC 1, 2, 4; EG 1, 2; FS 2, 3)
  • Method #1: Develop partnerships with other law enforcement agencies to ensure a team approach to combatting current crime trends.
  • Method #2: Seek and apply best practices for investigatory actions.
  • Method #3: Adhere to best practices when dealing with evidentiary protocols.
  • Method #4: Improve applications of technology and related training to meet the demands of an increasingly sophisticated populace as well as to effectively investigate high-tech crimes.
  • Method #5: Utilize resources available both locally and federally when and where appropriate, adhering to standardized investigatory protocols and the rules of criminal procedure.
  • Method #6: Work with members of the community in a collaborative effort to solve crimes regardless of the severity.
  • Method #7: Ensure accurate and thorough follow-up investigations are completed in a timely manner.

Goal #3: Improve the quality of life for those who reside and travel through the Township. (Focus Areas: Excellent Public Services (EPS), Inclusive Community (IC), and Economic Growth (EG))

• Strategy #1: Respond and address quality of life issues including neighbor disputes, animal complaints, disturbance of the peace, parking, abandoned vehicles, traffic complaints, etc. (EPS 1, 2, 4, 5, 6; IC 1, 2, 4; EG 1, 2, 3)
  • Method #1: Conduct appropriate levels of traffic enforcement, and implement traffic calming measures to ensure the safe and efficient movement of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
  • Method #2: Utilize community observations, input, and data-gathering to address concerns.
  • Method #3: Utilize neighbor mediation to address various issues and concerns within the community to provide an equitable and favorable outcome to all involved parties.

Goal #4: Maintain a diverse work force. (Focus Areas: Excellent Public Services (EPS), Inclusive Community (IC), and Economic Growth (EG))

• Strategy #1: Strive to maintain a diverse work force that that represents the community. (EPS 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; IC 1, 4; EG 3)
  • Method #1: Recruit the most talented and diverse staff of officers and civilians.
  • Method #2: Maintain a rigorous selection and training program designed to prepare officers for stressors of policing including but not limited to the following: use of force, de-escalation, firearms proficiencies, less-lethal weapons systems, first-aid, fair and impartial policing, criminal procedure, ethics, dealing with EDP’s, mental health, and risk management.
  • Method #3: Broaden recruiting and advertising activities to attract the most qualified candidates.
  • Method #4: Seek community input on potential qualified candidates.

Goal #5: Seek to discuss, address, and solve issues that are important to members of the community. (Focus Areas: Excellent Public Services (EPS), Inclusive Community (IC), and Economic Growth (EG))

• Strategy #1: Partner with community stakeholders to address various issues and concerns of the community as a whole. Currently some of those stakeholders are: the NAACP and Chiefs Advisory Council on Fair and Impartial Policing, Abington HRC. (EPS 1, 2, 4, 5, 6; IC 1, 2, 4; EG 1, 3)

  • Method #1: Build continuous trust, transparency, and accountability.
  • Method #2: Collaborate with the NAACP, Chiefs Advisory Council on Fair and Impartial Policing, Abington HRC; Citizens and Police Together (CAPT) and the Police Athletic League (PAL) as it pertains to the youth mentorship, and crime deterrent programs within our schools and community.
  • Method #3: Work with various community groups to ensure that all members of our community feel as though they are being treated fairly, especially those in our minority communities.

Goal #6: Ensure those coming in to contact with the criminal justice system are treated appropriately by applying all available options. (Focus Areas: Excellent Public Services (EPS), Inclusive Community (IC))

• Strategy #1: Seek the best possible solutions for those who may come in to contact with the Criminal Justice System. (EPS 1, 2, 3; IC 1, 2, 4)
  • Method #1: The Department will continue to lead the region in this endeavor by exercising flexibility and innovation while implementing and participating in various diversionary programs.
  • Method #2: The Department will continue to work with all law enforcement entities both juvenile and adult, applying and participating in diversionary programs.

Goal #7: Communicate effectively with the community. (Focus Areas: Excellent Public Services (EPS), Inclusive Community (IC), Fiscal Sustainability (FS), and Economic Growth (EG))

• Strategy #1: Provide the community with accurate and relevant information in a timely manner as it pertains to matters of public safety. (EPS 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; IC 1, 2, 3; FS 1, 3; EG 1, 2, 3)
  • Method #1: Work directly with our professional staff, Township Administration, local, State, and Federal leaders.
  • Method #2: Utilize technology that best facilitates these types of communication when needed.

Goal #8: Lessen the fiscal burden to the residents of the Township while maintaining a professional, accredited work force. (Focus Areas: Excellent Public Services (EPS), Inclusive Community (IC), Fiscal Sustainability (FS), and Economic Growth (EG))

• Strategy #1: Implement best practices through research, acquisition, evaluation, and training, to lessen the fiscal burden on the residents. (EPS 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; IC 2, 4; FS 1, 2, 3, 4; EG 2)
  • Method #1: Seek funding sources outside of the Township budget to accomplish the mission of the Department while supporting the goals and various focus areas of the Township Strategic Plan.
  • Method #2: Continue our collaborative effort between members of the Department, Township staff and other entities seeking supplemental funding that does not directly impact the residents.
  • Method #3: Assist the township with the ability to redirect funds as necessary for economic growth in other areas while maintaining an increased level of fiscal responsibility.

Veterans HUB/ Veterans Response Team (VRT)

Veterans HUB works very similarly to our regular HUB program, in that it is a bi-weekly meeting where we help connect veterans in our community with additional services they may need. The key focus areas for the Veterans HUB meeting are: unstable housing, advanced age in crisis, mentally ill / PTSD, and other issues. The Veterans Response Team is a new concept to Montgomery County. This program is a partnership where officers and emergency responders can facilitate helping Veterans in crisis access the benefits they are entitled to. The two-day VRT training educates law enforcement officers, who are also Veterans and have attended crisis intervention training, on services available to the Veterans they meet. This can range from filing for potential service-connected disabilities to enrollment in Veterans Treatment Court post-arrest.

Co-Responder Program

The Police Department has established a “Co-Responder” position. The Co-Responder program, popular in other counties within our region, pairs social service professionals with police in an effort to divert people away from the criminal justice system. The Co-Responder responds to 911 calls involving individuals who are suffering from mental health and drug concerns in all areas of the population including children, teens, adults, and older adults. The following are typical situations which can benefit from the Co-Responder’s assistance: suicidal thoughts without attempt, strange or bizarre behavior, persons with known mental illness disconnected from services and causing community concern, family and domestic violence, child and adolescent issues without criminality, runaways, possible need for Adult or Child Protective Services, repeat callers who request attention unrelated to legal issues, victims and families of traumatic events, geriatric issues with unknown needs for service, individuals seeking support for substance use disorder. Once law enforcement officers arrive at the scene, and once the scene is deemed safe, the officer calls for the co-responder’s help. At times, the co-responder rides with officer(s) on patrol, and when safe to do so, can immediately respond to the incident. The Co-Responder keeps officers informed of available county resources, mental health system changes, and the disposition of each case as permitted by law. This team effort partners law enforcement officers with a social service professional who is knowledgeable and equipped with time and resources not readily available to officers on patrol. This program helps address the social service needs of individuals contacting 911 Emergency Services to effect the following outcomes: decrease the time law enforcement spends in response to a situation involving social service needs, provide a more effective emergency response through the addition of clinical-informed support and an enhanced community resource knowledge base, ensure those who outreach for an emergency response receive timely and streamlined connection to resources to address their social service needs, and divert individuals with primary social service needs from further penetration into the criminal justice system. This program will have an invaluable impact on the Abington Community as a whole. In almost all of these cases family, friends and sometimes neighbors, are negatively affected by these scenarios. The ability to assist those who are struggling with these problems, by involving a trained and trauma-informed specialist, would have a positive influence on so many other residents' lives.

Abington Police Department Police Athletic League (PAL)

The Abington Police Athletic League (PAL), a non-profit community organization formed in 2001, seeks to prevent juvenile crime and violence while encouraging personal growth among our young people. PAL centers, staffed by civilians, APD and community volunteers, offer structured, personal guidance in a safe, friendly environment. PAL offers a wide range of physical and intellectual activities that address the needs of Abington’s youth. Providing positive adult role models is a critical component of our PAL efforts. In Abington, law enforcement officers, civilians and community volunteers work with young people to encourage positive development as members of the local community. While Abington PAL is sponsored through the Abington Township Police Department, PAL receives no direct funding. As such, PAL is dependent on volunteer support from community-minded individuals, business leaders, corporations and foundations. PAL continues to be APD’s cornerstone program for building trust and relationships between cops and kids.

The Bridge Program

The Police are often the first ones called when someone is suffering a Mental Health crisis. These incidents usually involve the non-criminal behavior of someone in crisis and in need of professional help. Although officers are trained to assist and help de-escalate these situations, those involved are in need of long-term treatment services.

In these situations, Officers will refer those in need to The Bridge. Additionally, Community Policing Officers review cases and monitor for individuals who may benefit from additional resources. Bridge meetings are held once a week with our Community Policing Division and a representative from Montgomery County's Mobile Crisis. Mobile Crisis may also advise APD of referrals that they receive directly that may impact the Abington community or our Officers.

In 2023, there were 293 individuals discussed at Bridge meetings. Outcomes from these referrals include inpatient or outpatient treatment for Behavioral Health and/or Substance Abuse. However, sometimes involved individuals decline any assistance.

Abington Township Police Explorers

The Abington Township Police Department’s Explorer Program provides an opportunity for young men and women to experience first-hand how a police department functions. The program, geared towards kids interested in a future in law enforcement, gives youths self-confidence, discipline, and a feeling of community involvement. They are trained in all aspects of law enforcement, including report writing, traffic stops, crime scene investigation, self-defensive tactics, firearm safety, arrest procedures, criminal laws, etc. Police Explorers perform a variety of community services which is not only personally satisfying but a valuable experience which is frequently asked for when applying for college.

Parking Enforcement

Community Service Officers (CSO’s) are primarily responsible for enforcing metered parking and for collecting funds from parking meters. Patrol Officers also issue parking citations during the regular course of their duties. In 2023 the Department issued 784 parking tickets. Both CSO’s and Police Officers issued numerous warnings regarding various parking violations as well.

Crossing Guards

Abington Township Police Department has 31 crossing guards to cover the 25 school crossings during arrival and dismissal. They work rain or shine and are committed to the safety of the children of Abington. We welcomed three new crossing guards in 2023.

Proactive Patrol

Proactive policing is a strategy focused on preventing crime before it occurs rather than responding to incidents afterward. This approach involves data analysis, community engagement, and targeted enforcement to identify and address potential criminal activities. By increasing police visibility in high-risk areas and during peak crime times, proactive policing aims to deter criminal behavior, enhance public safety, and build stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community. Funding proactive policing overtime patrols strategically enhances community safety, efficiently utilizes resources, and fosters stronger public relations. This investment is essential for maintaining a secure and thriving community. Increased interaction between officers and community members during proactive patrols fosters better relationships and trust, which is crucial for effective community policing. Officers can gather real-time feedback, allowing for adjustments and improvements in policing strategies.

Officers on their assigned shifts are often occupied with responding to radio calls and providing essential services to the citizens of Abington Township. Consequently, they do not always have sufficient time to engage in high-visibility proactive policing.

Commendations

A total of twenty (20) Departmental Commendations were given to officers in 2023. Commendations were given to officers for their performance in various types of calls including: Domestic Violence calls, firearms arrests, armed robbery arrests, crisis de-escalation, and narcotic arrests/investigations.

Promotions

In 2023, the Department promoted four Patrol Officers to the rank of Patrol Sergeants. Sergeants Fulginiti, Burgmann, Fallon and Welsh immediately assumed their duties as Platoon Commanders. Promotions are a critical part of the Department’s succession plan and ensure that we have well trained, competent supervisors to handle situations as they arise with the township any time of day or night.

East Side Burglary Arrest

Between October 13-15, 2023, the Abington Police Department responded to three residential burglaries in the 1300 block of Fairacres Rd. and the 300 block of Holmecrest Rd. The homes were ransacked, and jewelry was stolen. Detectives shared this information with other regional departments and learned that the same suspects burglarized a home in New Castle, Delaware during the same time frame. State of the art technological advances in cellular data analytics and electronic surveillance efforts led to the identification of two suspects, who had fled to California and Florida after the burglaries. Arrest warrants were obtained and detectives worked with law enforcement in those states to locate the two thieves.

South American Theft Groups- Burglary Investigation

Beginning in 2021, a never-before-seen crime trend began to emerge across the United States, and had a severe impact on the Meadowbrook section of Abington. Transient criminals from South America were entering the U.S. illegally and targeting wealthy neighborhoods for residential burglaries. There were over a dozen such crimes in Meadowbrook alone. All of the burglaries shared a similar modus orerandi. Crews of 3-5 males would conduct research to identify locations that contained multiple affluent homes. These military aged, professionally trained burglars, would travel to those neighborhoods, usually operating out-of-state rental cars, and scope out the homes looking for a vacant target. They would utilize cellular/wifi jammers, conduct counter surveillance, make second floor entries, wear clothing that concealed themselves head to toe, and steal entire safes from these mansion style homes. The burglars always struck in the first couple hours of darkness. Ten of the burglaries had occurred in the 1500 and 1600 blocks of Stocton Road, accounting for a total loss of more than $1 million, much of that being priceless, irreplaceable family heirlooms. These cases proved extremely difficult to investigate due to the extreme transient movements of the suspects. As expected, the residents of this neighborhood were on high-alert, and the Police Department spent countless hours trying to adapt to this new crime trend, and calming the fears of the residents. The Abington Police Department took the lead in establishing a regional task force to combat these crimes.

On Friday, December 8, 2023, an Abington Detective was working the evening shift, and was monitoring the Stocton Rd. area for suspicious activity. At around 5:45 PM, the detective observed a Ford Expedition with California tags driving aimlessly through the neighborhood. He observed that the vehicle’s path of travel was not that of someone who would have a legitimate purpose to be in the area. When he ran the tag, he was advised that the vehicle was a Hertz rental car. Based on the time of day, the specific neighborhood, and the driving patterns of the rental car, the vehicle was stopped on Valley Road. It was occupied by four Chilean males. They claimed to have traveled to Abington from Los Angeles and were looking for a seafood restaurant. The males were nervous, and they presented either fraudulent identification or no identification. Reasonably believing that the males were probably casing the neighborhood to commit, a burglary, they were detained and transported to Abington PD for suspect identifications. It was soon discovered that the driver’s cell phone had the ‘Maps App’ running, and they were actively navigating to the wooded area off of Meadowbrook Rd. that runs behind the homes in the 1500 block of Stocton Rd. The phone also contained a screen shot of a Google Earth image of a home in the 1500 block of Stocton Rd. that had previously been burglarized by Chilean burglary suspects. Detectives conducted a search of the Ford Expedition. Inside the SUV, they found masks, gloves, prybars, screwdrivers, a reciprocal saw, glass break tool, and other burglary tools. Given the totality of the circumstances and all of the evidence uncovered, the Montco DA’s Office approved charging all four suspects with attempted burglary.

Serial sex offender arrested for assaulting multiple women

During the first week of March, 2024, two women came to the Abington Police Department to report inappropriate sexual contact which happened to them when they sought medical treatment at Carbon Health Urgent Care at 1587 The Fairway. One of the victims reported that she went to Carbon Health for treatment, and encountered the suspect, Ramon Garcia, as he worked the front desk, and identified himself to the victim as a nurse. Garcia brought the victim to an examination room, where he eventually told her that he needed to conduct a pelvic exam, and he penetrated her vagina with his fingers. Garcia asked the victim if she could keep a secret, asked her if she liked to date Hispanic guys, and gave the victim his cell phone number. Garcia was arrested.

Shortly after his arrest, Garcia gave a full confession to detectives, and admitted that there may have been additional victims. In addition to his own statement, detectives reviewed the contents of Garcia’s cell phone and discovered that he had been taking unwitting photos of female patients in various stages of undress. A press release was issued, which resulted in more victims coming forward to report assaults. The investigation revealed that not only was Garcia not authorized to conduct physical evaluations of patients, but he was not even a nurse. In total, more than a dozen victims were identified and gave statements to detectives reporting varying degrees of sexual assault committed by Garcia. On April 11, 2024, Garcia was charged with additional charges involving fourteen victims. The charges included Aggravated Indecent Assault, Invasion of Privacy, and Impersonating a License Holder (Nurse). His total bail was set at $250,000 cash.

Multi-State offender arrested for targeting Abington resident in distraction style jewelry theft

On February 8, 2024, an Abington resident made an unplanned stop at the TD Bank at 710 Old York Rd. While in the bank, she decided to retrieve some of the items inside of her safety deposit box. As she exited the bank and entered her car, she noticed a suspicious male walking around her vehicle. The victim placed the valuables from the safety deposit box into a red bag on her front seat. After driving away, she soon discovered that she had a flat tire and was forced to pull over. She called her husband, who responded to assist. She gave him the bag and he drove to their residence a short distance away. Upon arriving home, he left his vehicle unattended for approximately two minutes. During that time, the bag containing approximately $50,000-$75,000 worth of cash and jewelry was removed from the front seat of his unlocked vehicle. Detectives reviewed surveillance videos and were able to determine that the suspect vehicle was a black Honda mini-van with an Alabama tag. The vehicle was tracked back to New York City. Abington detectives contacted NYPD and learned that they had recently conducted a traffic stop of the van. Body camera footage was obtained, and the subject who was stopped by NYPD was positively identified as the suspect in the Abington jewelry theft. A warrant was issued for his arrest. The suspect was subsequently arrested in Baltimore, Maryland. Detectives traveled to Baltimore and transported the suspect back to Abington. The suspect provided a statement, identifying himself inside the bank. His bail was ultimately set at $75,000 cash.

COMMUNITY POLICING DIVISION

The Abington Township Police Department’s Community Policing Division is committed to identifying and addressing Quality of Life issues in conjunction with our Police Officers and Community Leaders. The Division strives to develop constructive partnerships with police officers, citizens, businesses, educators, and other agencies and will render efficient and effective services in an atmosphere of fairness, honesty, and compassion. The core value, “Community First” guides our decisions and actions.

Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE)

The Abington Township Police Department teaches DARE in seven elementary schools, two parochial schools, and one private school within Abington Township. The modern DARE program emphasizes making smart choices under varying conditions. This model engages children as they can often relate to a wide variety of situations where proper decision-making is, or has been essential at their age. This provides the children with the tools, helping them properly respond to challenging situations as they grow. Each DARE officer spends approximately 30-40 hours each year in the classroom teaching the DARE program. In addition to their traditional DARE instruction, officers participate in many other school- related events. The DARE program receives funding raised through community events coordinated by Citizens and Police Together (CAPT). The department has committed to maintaining the DARE program which builds and strengthens the relationships between police, children, educators and the community. There were a total of 773 students that participated in the DARE program last year.

Abington/Eastern Montgomery County Regional HUB

Intervention for families and individuals in crisis, often times falls short. This is both challenging and worrisome for police officers when they continue to return to the same address, only to see a family’s risk factors elevating. In 2015, Abington Township Police Department formed a service provider ‘HUB’, a Community Policing model that centralizes services and prevents duplication of effort. The purpose of the HUB is to connect citizens, who are at risk or in crisis, to care and support from the appropriate community agencies. Key members of the community, including police, adult and children’s crisis programs, homeless shelters, the school district, victim’s services, family services, mental health agencies and more, meet bi-monthly to review cases. Although most of these cases are not criminal in nature, the Department facilitates the HUB meetings, introducing scenarios and providing information and assistance for the HUB to resolve issues. In 2023, the HUB supported 123 individuals. Possible outcomes for cases are referral to services for inpatient treatment of behavioral health or substance abuse, resources for housing/shelter, assistance with insurance issues, in-home behavioral health services, assistance for Seniors, or connecting Veterans with resources. However, sometimes involved individuals decline any assistance.

Lock for Life Program

To enhance the ability of first responders to be able to access the home of senior citizens or younger disabled persons living alone with major medical issues in the case of an emergency, Community Policing instituted the Lock for Life Program. This program provides a lockbox for the front door at no cost to the resident. All the resident has to provide is a key for the home. The code to open the box is placed in the Cody file for the address and is only accessible to first responders. Notice of the program has been through social media as well as our website, although the major source for referrals has been officers on the street who have had difficulty getting into a home during an emergency. This past year the department had an additional 7 resident’s sign up for the Lock for Life program.

Kids in Safety Seat Program (KISS)

The KISS program is also funded by CAPT. There are two full-time civilian employees, one part-time civilian employee, and one volunteer in the Division who are certified to install child safety seats. They installed 43 car seats in 2023. Abington’s KISS program is one of the only programs still in existence in our area.

The Bridge Program

The Abington Township Police Department has partnered with Access Services’ Montgomery County Mobile Crisis to form the Bridge Program. The Bridge Program is designed to increase connection to mental health services for Abington area residents through a quick referral mechanism. A Mobile Crisis liaison is partnering with Abington Police to support outreach, referral, and co-response in the community. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness [NAMI], in the United States, one in five adults experience mental illness each year and we lose someone to suicide every 10 minutes. Abington Police hopes that the Bridge Program will add more life-sustaining support to the community and will provide additional education to officers through partnership. As part of the program, APD now has an in-house mental health specialist one day a week, and we are looking to bring someone aboard full time in the near future. 

Youth Aid Panel

As an alternative to official court involvement, juveniles who are referred by an Officer and admit their involvement in an eligible offense are offered the opportunity to participate in the Youth Aid Panel program. They and their families meet with trained community volunteer panels to decide an appropriate resolution, holding the juvenile accountable for his/her criminal actions. A contract is signed between the panel and the juvenile tailored to the specifics of the offense. A contract may involve community service, counseling, restitution, and other outcomes. Successful completion of the program by the juvenile will result in an internal disposition. In 2023 there were 73 Youth Aid Panel cases. This form of alternative adjudication provides an opportunity for juveniles to remain out of the criminal justice system while allowing them to give back to their community while addressing concerns of disparate impact on minorities.

School Resource Officers

School Resource Officers (SRO’s) are assigned to both the Abington Junior and Senior High Schools. Our SRO’s provide a uniformed police presence and serve as visible, positive role models for the school population. The addition of the SRO complements the Abington Police Department’s commitment to ongoing school-based outreach programs. Thanks to the cooperation and commitment of the Abington School District, the Abington Police Department has full-time School SRO’s and officers that participate in other school-related programs such as D.A.R.E., the Community Partnership of Youth and Adults. The SROs also work closely with the District Attorney’s Office in a program (RED Team) that provides students more assistance and alternatives not commonly found in the traditional criminal justice system. In this program, students are afforded access to the assistance they need as well as alternative forms of discipline to prevent them from entering the juvenile justice system.

Citizens Police Academy

Abington Police Department offers a Citizens’ Police Academy (CPA). In the program, Township residents meet on a weekly basis with Police Officer instructors for lessons on various aspects of the law enforcement profession. Subjects include criminal and traffic law, the police role in the judicial process, APD equipment, training, resources and limitations of the police department. In return, the instructors often find a newly-developed law enforcement awareness among participants, as well as an increased sensitivity to the challenges of 21st Century Policing. The increased citizen-police understanding that results from the close interaction of the CPA environment is an excellent vehicle for building bridges between the police and the community. The Department remains committed to continuing the Citizens Police Academy as one way to increase transparency while connecting with members of the community. In doing so, there were 28 participants in the most recent academy class.

Volunteers in Policing

In an effort to enhance the police-community partnership, the Volunteers in Policing Program (VIP) combines the professionalism and experience of APD personnel with the creativity and enthusiasm of community volunteers. It’s fair to say that citizen volunteers are one of the Police Department’s most important assets. Many of our programs would not exist without the participation of dedicated volunteers. In 2023, volunteers donated over 3248 hours of their time to the Police Department efforts within the Abington community.

Citizens and Police Together (C.A.P.T.)

C.A.P.T. is a local, non-profit organization which serves as a supporter and fundraiser for Abington Township Police community projects. The C.A.P.T. Board consists of representatives from non-profit organizations, schools, businesses, hospitals, as well as students, and community volunteers. Since 1992 C.A.P.T. has supported the youth of Abington through a variety of programs. Money raised at C.A.P.T. events supports other originations such as the Police Explorers program and the Community Partnership of Youth and Adults (CPYA), a school club at both the Abington Senior and Junior High Schools. Since state funding is no longer available, C.A.P.T. is the principle supporter of the DARE program taught in all elementary schools in Abington. C.A.P.T. is dedicated to reducing crime and the fear of crime, by strengthening the Abington community through organized community events, educational and awareness programs, and intergenerational activities for youth and adults.

Victim Services

The Victim Service Liaison Unit is here to reach out to all victims of crime in Abington Township and to help connect them to resources in Montgomery County. Crime victims can be affected physically, emotionally or financially. The unit is here to see that victims receive the necessary help they need. Our unit is made up of community volunteers who are trained. Community Policing’s Victim Services Unit contacts every victim of a crime in Abington Township. In 2023, this unit contacted 609 victims to connect them with available services.

Student Internship Program

Each semester Community Policing accepts four college students to intern with the department. These students are introduced to the daily workings of a police department and how each division functions. Students must be enrolled in a criminal justice program, have passing grades and a clean criminal background. Many of these students have gone on to be employed by Abington Police Department as Dispatchers, CSO’s and even Police Officers. In 2023, APD had 10 student interns from various area universities participate in this program.

Neighbor Mediation Program

The Neighbor Mediation Program continues to help resolve difficult issues between residents. Trained mediators in the Community Policing Division sit down with neighbors involved in disputes that they are unable to work out on their own. The goal is to provide peace and stability to both parties and to reduce the need for police response to these locations. The Neighbor Mediation Program continues to be an effective means to bring parties together, increasing communication, removing tension, and solving problems. This past year there were 10 separate neighbor mediation meetings facilitated by the Police Department.

PATROL DIVISION

Deputy Chief Ed Quinn is currently the Patrol Division Commander and is responsible for all Patrol Operations along with that of specialized units that are included in the patrol division. The Patrol Division is the largest division in the police department and a crucial component to the operation of the department. The Patrol Division is responsible for maintaining law and order within the township. The division's primary function is to provide 24/7 patrol services, responding to emergency calls, conducting routine patrols, conducting investigations, enforcing laws, and ensuring public safety. Officers may work various shifts to ensure round-the-clock coverage.

There are four patrol platoons, each consisting of one Lieutenant, two Sergeants, and approximately 12 officers. A few officers on each platoon work overlapping hours, ensuring that there is no lapse in police coverage during shift change. Because each platoon oftentimes functions independently, and patrol officers are expected to function in a variety of roles, it is critical that the Department distributes a diverse group of officers with special skills across all four platoons as much as possible. For example, platoons are typically comprised of a K-9 officer, Field Training Officers, tactically-trained SWAT officers, Motor Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist and Investigator, DARE Instructors, Firearms-Range Instructors, Crisis Negotiators, Evidence Technicians, Certified First Aid and CPR Instructors, Honor Guard Unit officers, drone operators, and members of our Bike Unit. Having these specialty officers assigned to each platoon enhances our capabilities to respond to the rapidly changing nature of our community’s calls for service in a safe and efficient manner. Above all, it increases the likelihood that our citizens and our officers remain safe.

Officers are typically assigned to specific zones or geographic areas of the Township known as “beats”. Officers assigned to beats are expected to assume responsibility or adopt a “beat-ownership,” which fosters a sense of pride and teamwork for the beat officers and improves the overall level of accountability. Guided by the principles of community-oriented policing, our Department developed a Patrol Division management and operations system merging and applying aspects of Community-Oriented Policing, Problem-Solving and Compstat (COPPStat). As part of this program, each patrol lieutenant and his two sergeants are assigned to one of four geographic quadrants in the Township. They, along with the beat officers, are responsible for traffic complaints, crime trends, neighbor disputes, and many other issues that impact the quality of life.

The Abington Police Department utilizes the latest technology and equipment in their Patrol vehicles and they are outfitted with an essential amount of equipment. Some of this equipment includes emergency lights and sirens, allowing for safer operation of each patrol unit in emergency mode and to protect scenes and citizens. Each vehicle has a computer known as a mobile data terminal (MDT). This computer is essential to today’s law enforcement professional because the communications that are transmitted through various software applications. This software includes our Records Management Software (RMS), Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), and access to the Justice Network for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (JNET). The MDT is also where officers complete their reports prior to the end of each shift. Most of our 27 patrol vehicles are outfitted with Axon fleet cameras that record officers’ interactions with citizens. These cameras are essential in providing the professional service that we provide in Abington Township. There has been Mobile Vehicle Recording (MVR) equipment in patrol vehicles for seventeen years.

The Patrol Division has always maintained other first aid equipment that has been used successfully to save many lives over the past decades. This equipment includes tourniquets, Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) and Bag Valve Mask (BVM) respiratory device for use in respiratory and cardiac arrest. These devices have become common place for all first responders to be trained in all available Basic Life Support techniques. With the current increase in heroin overdoses and potentially deadly forms of other stronger opioids, the Department has installed in all patrol vehicles additional personal protective equipment for officers who may come in contact with these deadly substances.

Abington Township Police Department has partnered with Abington Jefferson Health and is a member of the Opioid console. Abington Jefferson Health, in addition to Montgomery County, provide Abington Patrol Officers with nasal Narcan. These doses of Narcan provide our officers responding to opioid overdoses the ability to provide lifesaving first aid to victims. Abington Officers have administered Narcan 57 times since August 2019.

Several years ago, Abington Township determined the need to prevent and limit the extent of how often vehicle pursuits would occur and continue. Training and policies were developed to help control these potentially deadly encounters. The Department purchased Stinger Spike tire deflation devices for all of the patrol vehicles to assist with dealing with pursuit management. These devices have proven effective several times in bringing pursuits to a safe and effective conclusion.

The Department is still one of the only agencies that provides the customer service of unlocking vehicles for citizens who may have unfortunately been locked out of their vehicle. Each patrol vehicle is equipped with a lockout tool kit to help in providing this service while limiting damage to the customer’s vehicle. This also provides time and money savings to the residents and those who travel through our town.

Lastly, the Department maintains other equipment that is unique to Abington because of special situations that have occurred in the past such as flooding. Personal flotation devices and rescue throw ropes are maintained in each patrol vehicle to facilitate rescues of victims who may become trapped from rising floodwaters.

All of the described equipment continues to be monitored and reevaluated each year to determine its necessity. While the inventory and replacement (as needed) of equipment is conducted weekly, the process for evaluating and/or upgrading equipment for the patrol vehicles is conducted on an annual basis.

The Police Department also provides staffing for an officer to work at the Willow Grove Park Mall. This position is fully-funded by the mall’s management company. The officer works a schedule that coincides with the busiest hours of operation and is responsible for all police calls for service on mall property.

Additionally, the Police Department provides staffing for an officer to work at Holy Redeemer Hospital. This position is funded almost completely by Holy Redeemer Hospital. The officer is stationed primarily on the Meadowbrook Campus in Huntingdon Valley, but may conduct patrols to offsite locations within his/her jurisdiction. The police officer is responsible for providing general law enforcement services on the Meadowbrook Campus and at other locations within Abington Township as requested by Holy Redeemer.

Departmental Training

The Abington Police Department strives to be at the forefront of innovation and change. We take seriously our commitment to training and education in order to prepare our officers to provide the best service possible to the citizens of Abington Township.

Officer Training

Throughout 2023, officers participated in a variety of training courses, including de-escalation, leadership, instructor development, interview and interrogation, report writing, and court preparation. Some officers completed the Fundamentals of Supervision and Leadership training, a 36-hour program focused on theories related to supervision and leadership.

Officers also took part in the Officer Resilience Training Program, which offers a customized approach to enhance resilience skills for both officers and agencies. This program includes empirically validated techniques to strengthen resilience, manage stress, maintain peak performance, and thrive both personally and professionally.

In early 2023, one officer attended the Tactical Communications: Realistic De-Escalation training, a two-day program designed to improve skills in influencing behavior during conflicts and crises. The training aims to enhance professionals' ability to peacefully resolve encounters, reducing risks associated with individuals affected by distorted thinking.

Supervisory Training

In early 2023, supervisory members of the APD Patrol division participated in several significant training programs. Some completed the prestigious FBI LEEDA Leadership training, consisting of three separate 36-hour courses. These courses cover leadership challenges and techniques across all supervisory levels: first line, command, and executive.

Throughout the year, multiple supervisors also took part in the Professional Law Enforcement-Community Engagement Training. This initiative aims to enhance the professionalism of the emerging community engagement sector within law enforcement through an annual specialized training, networking opportunities, and a professional development conference.

In late 2023, Lt. Joseph Blei attended and successfully completed the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command. This is an intensive leadership and management education program that helps prepare experienced law enforcement professionals for success in senior command positions. This 10-week course zeroes in on such critical command-level content as planning and policies, media relations, organizational behavior, budgeting and resource allocation, human resources, contemporary policing, and more. Supporting the Departments vision as it relates to succession planning personal development, several first-line supervisors attended a variety of management and leadership training courses throughout the year. 

Canine Unit

The Department currently has four Police Canine teams, 2 traditional teams, a Bloodhound team, and a therapy K9 team. APD’s Bloodhound Canine Team is the first of its kind in Montgomery County. Bloodhounds, known for their outstanding tracking abilities, are an excellent addition to the Canine program. The current patrol K9 teams are Patrol and Scent Training certified. The therapy K9 team works out of our Community Policing Division. This therapy dog is used to help promote interaction with the community, and to provide aid and comfort to individuals or groups impacted by violence, tragedy or traumatic events.

Canine teams play a vital role in providing effective police services. Some of the important tasks they are relied upon for are: tracking suspects or missing persons, assisting with crowd control and performing public service events. In addition, the unit is a career development opportunity for officers and helps attract quality candidates in the recruitment process. The Abington Township Canine Unit trains to the standards set by the United States Police Canine Association.

• Initial Training – Patrol and Scent Training Phase lasts approximately 28 weeks. These certifications are rigorous and comprehensive training program which allows the canine teams to be exposed to every environment including houses, buildings, trains, vehicles, boats, stadiums, water, and helicopters.
• Monthly In-Service Training for canine teams is critical in order to maintain high standards during deployments and to continue to show proficiency. All canine teams receive a monthly evaluation from a certified canine trainer in patrol and in their assigned scent specialty. The Abington Township Canine Unit follows the industry standard for training hours and proficiency.
• Certifications / Awards – In addition to their initial certification and monthly evaluations, canine teams are encouraged to earn additional certifications that demonstrate their proficiency.

Past Abington Township Police Canine Teams have earned certifications from the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) and from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. They have also won numerous awards for obedience, criminal apprehension, agility, and explosive and narcotics scent tracking competitions.

The Abington Township Canine Teams are deployed here in Abington and throughout Montgomery County as part of mutual aid agreements. They are an important asset to our community policing model which helps the Department connect with the community, frequently appearing on our APD Facebook page providing a unique way to utilize social media to connect our canine unit with the community.

The Tactical Team

The Abington Township Police Tactical Team is comprised of 17 members from the Abington Police Department. This includes a Team Commander, Team Leader, Assistant Team Leader, and Training Coordinator. Defined as a “part-time” team, the members of the Tactical Unit are assigned to various Divisions within the Department as part of their daily police duties. The primary purpose of the team is to provide enhanced capabilities for the safety and security of the citizens of Abington Township and surrounding municipalities. Although the team serves many purposes, it is utilized most often in high-risk operations and in formal training of other police officers.

Officers aspiring to become a member of the Tactical Team undergo a rigorous selection and screening process. The selection process is designed to test all merits of an applicant beginning with physical agility testing, then marksmanship proficiency and culminating with an oral interview. Candidates compete against each other during this process. Once selected to be a member of the team, the candidate must attend and pass a “Basic Swat School.”

The Tactical Team trains monthly while the designated precision marksmen receive additional monthly training hours that are specific to their specialty role. The team trains with other tactical units, K9’s, Crisis Negotiators, the Montgomery County Bomb Squad, Second Alarmers Rescue Squad, and federal agencies as well. Training is conducted at various locations throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Abington, and surrounding areas. Guided by the best practices as outlined by the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) and those of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) the team works cooperatively with other agencies to coordinate training and tactics to ensure a cohesive response in mutual aid situations. Training often consists of high-risk operations, negotiations, specialty munitions, team management and tactical firearms. The Tactical Team also uses best practices established through their own training and education to train and develop the rest of the Police Department, enhancing everyone’s ability to remain safe and successfully resolve emergencies that may not demand a Team response.

The Abington Township Tactical Team is most often utilized for high-risk operations which include barricaded gunman, high-risk warrant service, and civilian and officer rescue operations. The team participates in mutual-aid agreements with surrounding jurisdictions providing an immediate, enhanced tactical response if necessary with on-duty tactical officers from various teams in the surrounding area.

To be fiscally responsible the team participates and benefits from the federal government’s 1033 program relating to surplus property. The 1033 program allows the department to obtain some of the most up-to-date and tactically relevant equipment that would be cost prohibitive otherwise to purchase. This program enables the team to procure these assets from the government with little to no cost to the taxpayer. This type of equipment is utilized with the goal in mind to enhance the safety and efficiency of all involved citizens and police personnel.

The team currently maintains two tactical vehicles which are utilized for equipment and personnel transportation. One vehicle is designed with improved armament and can be used if needed in high-risk rescue operation where a dangerous environment exists. The team also maintains lethal and less-lethal weapon platforms as well as chemical and diversion munitions. All members are trained on the use of all equipment and vehicles and the department maintains instructors in the specified areas.

The tactical team participates in community events such as the National Pre-Night Out, Citizens Police Academy, as well as other demonstrations and community events. Team members take these opportunities to educate the public in the philosophy of the Tactical Team and the tenet that it is a “life-saving entity.” It is the goal of the Abington Police Department that every incident ends peacefully and without injury to any civilians or police. The team is an important part of the community providing an additional, layered response to incidents that require resources and tactics beyond the capabilities of those of the regular patrol officer. Should an incident arise that requires these specialties, the trained members of the tactical team are ready to serve at a moment’s notice.

1033 Program

The 1033 Program is a law enforcement support program, which originated from the National Defense Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 1997. This law allows transfer of excess Department of Defense property, which might otherwise be destroyed, to law enforcement agencies across the United States. All items are excess property which had been turned in by military units or had been held as part of reserve stocks until no longer needed. Issued property covers the gamut of items used by America’s military such as clothing and office supplies, tools and rescue equipment, vehicles, rifles and other small arms. Of all the excess equipment provided through the program, only five percent are weapons and less than one percent are tactical vehicles.

The Abington Police Department received an armored vehicle, known as the as part of a similar program in 1995. In 2014, the Department became more active in the 1033 Program, which had expanded since the acquisition of the armored vehicle. Since 2014, APD has been able to acquire property such as backpacks, medical items, tool kits, filing cabinets, sighting devices, generators, cold weather gear, rescue equipment, a SMART Board, and more. We were also able to acquire an armored rescue vehicle to enhancing the Department's ability to rescue personnel in tense situations. This vehicle has served the Tactical Unit in many capacities including transporting personnel as well as officer and citizen rescue scenarios. It is also capable of conducting high-water rescue operations. The total value of the items acquired under this program is in excess of one million dollars.

In order to continue to participate in the program, the Department pays a minimal administrative fee each year. The Department also maintain accountability of all items received from the program, ensuring that they are being used in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Department of Defense, laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the policies of the Abington Police Department. The Chief of Police maintains oversight of this program and reviews all property prior to acquisition.

Patrol Rifle Program

The need for police departments to have a Patrol Rifle Program can be traced to two high profile incidents in the not too distant past. The first was the North Hollywood bank robbery and shootout in 1997 and the second was the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. These two events cast to the forefront, the fact that rapidly unfolding events, specifically those involving active shooters, would be handled by uniformed patrol officers. Unfortunately, since those two watershed incidents, several others across the United States have highlighted the need for an enhanced patrol rifle program. The data across the country from active killer incidents show that these horrific events are almost always resolved by the first (or first few) arriving officers on scene who intervene and stop the killing. No longer is waiting for a heavily armed and equipped SWAT Team to arrive, a reasonable response to such incidents. Therefore, ensuring that those officers who are most likely to arrive first are equipped with the proper tools to resolve a potential crisis is imperative. The Abington Police Department brought together its most knowledgeable officers and supervisors who began the arduous task of building a Patrol Rifle Program from the ground up. The Patrol Rifle Program was established in 2008.

Since 2008, the Patrol Rifle Program has grown and now nearly all patrol personnel are qualified to carry patrol rifles. Officers undergo an initial qualification which consists of classroom and range activities. During the classroom portion of the training, officers learn the history of the program, details and appropriate deployment of the weapon system, as well as APD Policies and Procedures governing the Patrol Rifle Program. The range qualification training gives the officers the opportunity to handle and fire the rifles from various distances, and from various shooting positions. After initial qualification, officers will qualify on a semi-annual basis. Officers are provided with a review of APD Policies, including any changes to the program, and several qualification courses which incorporate the Patrol Rifle and their duty handgun.

The Department also maintains a cadre of Patrol Rifle Instructors and Armorers. Both  instructors and armorers receive their training from an outside agency in order to achieve certification. Patrol Rifle Instructors develop and conduct the semi-annual training and maintain the required training records for each qualified officer. Patrol Rifle Armorers conduct regular cleaning and inspections of the rifles.

It will be the on-duty Patrol Officers that will be called upon to respond to and contain an active shooter or other critical incident. The Patrol Rifle Program ensures that our patrol officers are properly equipped in order to deal with these types of incidents. The task will fall upon their shoulders to either bring the incident to a desirable resolution or contain it until other officers and resources can be mobilized to the scene. The Patrol Rifle Program is and remains an essential tool for increasing the safety of our officers and the residents of Abington Township.

Honor Guard

The Abington Police Honor Guard Unit is a dedicated group, comprising sworn personnel from all divisions of the Department. Their role is pivotal in representing both the Department and the Abington Community at various events and ceremonies throughout the year. Members of the Honor Guard Unit take immense pride in their responsibilities and invest significant time in annual training to uphold their high standards.

In recent years, the Honor Guard Unit has been involved in a wide array of significant ceremonies, including those for prominent figures such as the Governor and the Attorney General. The Unit has also participated in national events such as the annual Police Memorial Week in Washington, DC, and ceremonies across the tristate area, demonstrating their commitment to honoring fallen officers and serving their community.

Moreover, the Unit has contributed to numerous local events and initiatives, showcasing their versatility and dedication. Their presence has been felt at events like the Montgomery County DA’s Annual Awards Ceremony, Northwestern University’s Staff & Command Academy graduation, and the Philadelphia Police’s Memorial Ride, among others.

Despite recent promotions and transitions within the Unit, which have necessitated the recruitment of new personnel and acquisition of additional uniforms and equipment, the Honor Guard Unit remains steadfast in its mission. Monthly practices ensure they maintain the highest standards, reflecting their unwavering dedication, professionalism and commitment.

The continued support of the Department is crucial in enabling the Honor Guard Unit to fulfill its duties effectively and uphold its esteemed reputation in the Law Enforcement Community and the Nation.

Abington Police Crisis Negotiation Unit

The Abington Police Crisis Negotiation Unit is comprised of 16 sworn police officers, two sergeants serving as team leaders, and a lieutenant serving as the unit commander. The unit’s commander reports directly to the Patrol Division Commander. The mission of the Abington Township Police Crisis Negotiation Unit (CNU) is to provide a competent, well-organized team of negotiators that, when requested by operational commanders, can respond effectively to critical incidents, including hostage situations, barricaded/trapped suspects, high-risk suicide threats, and other situations where negotiating might save lives. This unit’s primary objective is to provide a peaceful resolution to highly volatile situations. Advantages of negotiating with suspects, subjects in crisis, or hostage takers are as follows: reducing the risk to life, gaining time to marshal the appropriate resources, making psychological assessments, and establishing rapport with the subject that may facilitate a peaceful resolution.

The APD Crisis Negotiation Team require personnel who are good communicators, calm under pressure, and able to speak to individuals from all walks of life. All members of the crisis negotiation unit apply voluntarily and must have the prior approval of their direct supervisor. Upon selection into the unit, officers must attend crisis negotiation training. This course consists of basic negotiations, active listening skills, the use of technology and advanced communications. In addition, the training gives each officer a thorough knowledge of a crisis team’s structure and deployment, stress assessment and management, practical applications, and the deployment of TPIs (third party intermediaries). The basic training is often conducted by subject matter experts region from various federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The basic course consists of approximately 40 hours of training and includes multiple lengthy scenarios based on real life events.

Each CNU member is currently a member of the Delaware Valley Negotiators Association. This association consists of negotiators from across the region and brings a wealth of experience and monthly training opportunities to the CNU officer. The CNU Team also attends a yearly Hostage Negotiation Seminar that is presented by the Baltimore County, Maryland Negotiators Unit. This training regularly provides speakers who have been the lead negotiator for large incidents that have occurred around the globe. This training provides a great opportunity for the department officers to attend debriefs by these experts and network with fellow subject matter experts. Lastly, the team meets throughout the year to train as a unit, review past incidents, talk about best practices, and continue to hone and practice their developed skills.

A group of CNU team officers, as selected by a CNU team leader, will respond to and work closely with the APD Tac Team on each of their Tac incidents. On warrant services, CNU team members will be briefed on the wanted individual and often contact the subject to influence a peaceful and timely resolution. With the CNU members already briefed and on scene, Tac Team Leaders can utilize the team to gather intelligence, communicate instructions to the subject, and/or work alongside the Tac team to achieve a nonviolent outcome. The CNU team also regularly trains with the Tac team on their training exercise to ensure a smooth communication between the two teams and cohesive workflow.

Training and Career Development

The Abington Township Police Department is committed to developing and maintaining the highest level of professionalism for all of our officers, ensuring that they have the knowledge, skills and equipment necessary to perform their duties in a safe and efficient manner. Above all, we are committed to providing the best quality police service to our community with a clear focus on protecting the constitutional rights of all of our citizens. This is accomplished through a rigorous and ongoing training program. In addition to the annual re-certification training mandated by Pennsylvania’s Municipal Police Officers Education and Training Commission, each officer is required to attend periodic training throughout the year.

Combining theory and classroom studies with practical tests and exercises, our officers rotate through training sessions that include, but are not limited to: active-shooter response, firearms and weapons qualifications, legal updates on criminal case law, criminal procedures, search and seizure, biased based policing, ethics, victim’s rights, use of force, civil liability, domestic violence, de-escalation and managing of aggressive behavior techniques, dealing with the mentally ill, supervision, management, and leadership. Biased-based training is an essential, annual, training module that officers complete. The Department utilizes members from various entities to provide formal comprehensive training on this subject. In addition, the Department provides in-house training relating to social justice concepts to its officers on a regular basis.

Our officers routinely respond to critical incidents and complex calls for service. They frequently handle high-profile critical incidents resolving them without having to use deadly force. It is in such cases that our Department realizes the true value of our training programs.

Recruitment and Field Training Officer Program

The Abington Township Police Department is committed to recruiting, testing and hiring high quality candidates to become Abington Police Officers. There is a strong emphasis on minority recruitment to make our workforce reflective of our community. Although all of our officers are considered “recruiters,” several members are frequently assigned to participate in designated recruiting activities within our region. Often times our officers partner with churches, universities and attend job fairs, to showcase what the Abington Police Department has to offer. The Department is often an example used by others regarding recruitment methods and tactics as well as the hiring process as a whole. It is the dedicated efforts by the men and women of the Abington Township Police Department who realize the importance of the future that makes our recruitment program such a success.

The Field Training Officer Program (FTO) is designed to facilitate a new officer's transition from police academy training to that of a patrol officer. This is accomplished by providing advanced training under the direct supervision of a FTO to develop the knowledge and skills required of a permanent officer.

Field Training Officers (FTOs) are required to attend a basic forty-hour FTO class to prepare them for their new assignment. In addition, FTO’s are expected to attend additional training in areas of teaching techniques, adult learning, officer safety, evaluation techniques, counseling, basic supervision, and leadership. This is accomplished through peer training at monthly meetings as periodic training from outside organizations. The Field Training Officer Program is an integral part of the Department, as this select group of officers are responsible for shaping the future one recruit at a time.

The recruit is assigned to two FTOs. The recruit officer rides with an FTO for a period of 104 days. During this time, the FTOs are the recruit officer’s “first-line supervisors,” and they are responsible for evaluating the recruit’s progress. After several formal evaluations and certification tests over the course of the one-year probationary period, a successful recruit will be promoted to a permanent Abington police officer. Our FTO program has been a critical part of our Department’s success, sustaining the Department’s culture of pride and professionalism while shaping our future one recruit at a time. Many departments in the surrounding area have used a model of Abington’s FTO program to enhance theirs.

Critical Incident Stress Management Team

Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is an adaptive, short-term psychological helping-process that focuses solely on an immediate and identifiable problem. It can include pre-incident preparedness to acute crisis management to post-crisis follow-up. CISM is a comprehensive range of integrated services, procedures, and intervention strategies designed to mitigate the effects of exposure to a critical incident. Debriefing after a critical incident is a specific technique designed to assist others in dealing with the physical or psychological symptoms that are generally associated with trauma exposure. Debriefing allows those involved with the incident to process the event and reflect on its impact. The Abington Police CISM Team consists of both sworn and civilian personnel and are made up of several volunteers from our department. The services of our CISM team have been requested numerous times throughout the year, both day and night. These services have also been provided for other departments and agencies that do not have their own CISM team.

Sobriety Checkpoint Program

Abington Township Police Department participates in Pennsylvania’s Sobriety Checkpoint Program. This program is funded by a grant from PennDOT, and Abington serves as the grant administrator and coordinator for what is known as the Eastern Montgomery County DUI Task Force. The Task Force is comprised of eight municipalities: Abington, Cheltenham, Lower Moreland, Springfield, Upper Moreland, Upper Dublin, Whitemarsh, and Jenkintown. Abington has been involved in the Sobriety Checkpoint Program since its inception nearly 25 years ago. The participating Departments work collaboratively to address and enforce DUI laws within each jurisdiction.

Working as a team, the task force targets specific areas within each municipality on selected dates conducting sobriety checkpoint operations. High visibility coupled with strict enforcement has made this program successful; contacting and educating thousands of drivers while arresting and prosecuting those who are suspected of driving under the influence. Publicity by media notification and targeted press conferences have also helped the program raise the level of awareness regarding impaired driving. In order to participate in this program, every officer from each participating municipality has to attend additional training above and beyond that of their basic DUI training. The Abington Police Department maintains instructors for this training while making the training available to all surrounding jurisdictions. The checkpoint program also utilizes a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) during its operations. Being fortunate to have this capability, the DRE greatly enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the checkpoints.

Aggressive Driving & Buckle-Up Programs

For more than 20 years, the Abington Township Police Department has been participating in the Aggressive Driving and Buckle-Up grant programs administered by PennDOT. These programs have little to no impact to the Township’s budget, and they greatly enhance the Department’s ability to increase the safety and awareness for all motorists driving on our roadways. As grant-funded projects, Abington Township receives varying amounts of funds as determined by PennDOT and authorized by the Board of Commissioners to address the issues as it pertains to the individual grants. Although several departments have lost their funding or have been eliminated from one or both of these programs, Abington remains an active participant, consistently performing according to the guidelines set forth by each respective program. Based upon the excellent performance of the officers who participate in these programs, Abington often receives funding in addition to the original allocations. Abington continues to set the example for other departments to follow in terms of enforcement activity, innovative tactics and cooperative working agreements with other surrounding departments, including the Pennsylvania State Police. And with the Sobriety Checkpoint Program, the Abington Police Department is the grant coordinator for the surrounding municipalities.

The Police Bicycle Unit

The Abington Township Police Department maintains a Bicycle Patrol Unit that is comprised of trained police cyclists. The Bicycle Patrol Unit has been in existence in Abington since 1994. It affords officers an opportunity to connect with the public in ways that the traditional patrol car does not allow. Members of the public, both young and old alike enjoy engaging the officers while they are on bike patrol. Officers report that the overwhelming majority of their contact with the public while on bike patrol is very positive. Police cyclists are utilized for various details including the 4th of July Parade, 4th of July Fireworks, Roslyn Car Show, and other patrol and special functions. In addition to these special details and functions, the police cyclists often utilize their police bicycle during their normal shifts, engaging in day-to-day patrol activities. Due to the bicycle’s versatility, assigned officers not only conduct general patrol operations, but also provide officers the ability to reach areas not easily accessible when operating a traditional patrol vehicle.

The Department has approximately thirty International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA) trained officers. Adding new officers to this popular program enables them to engage directly with the community and serves to build positive relationships early in their career. The Department currently has one IPMBA certified instructor and typically conducts at least one IPMBA Basic Police Cyclist course and/or refresher course each year. This IPMBA course challenges officers with a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on bike maintenance, slow-speed skills, distance rides and obstacle courses. Officers leave this course with a newfound confidence in their riding abilities and are eager to employ these skills on routine patrol. Additionally, this unit spends time presenting bike safety instruction to local Boy Scout & Girl Scout troops, and elementary schools.

In 2022, the Department began replacing its fleet of bicycles with the industry standard Volcanic Police Mountain Bike. The Volcanic bicycle is a robust bike frame, boasting upgraded components, which allows the bike officer to overcome any obstacle they might encounter on patrol. In 2023, the Department was able to complete the update of its bike fleet and currently has eleven new Volcanic bikes.

Drone Unit

The Abington Township Police Department's Drone Unit, established in 2018, consists of 12 FAA-certified members. The unit operates four drones, including two DJI Mavic 3s for outdoor use, equipped with high-zoom and FLIR cameras, and two DJI FPVs for indoor use. The drones are routinely carried on patrol for quick deployment, with monthly equipment checks ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Members undergo continuous training and attend inter-agency sessions to stay updated on drone technology and regulations. The drones are used for various operations such as searching for suspects and missing persons, supporting tactical and fire operations, inspecting buildings, assisting in accident and crime scene photography, aiding the Code Enforcement Department, and conducting community demonstrations.

As an early adopter of drone technology in the region, Abington Township often supports neighboring jurisdictions and continually explores new applications for drones to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in emergency operations.

Patrol Evidence Technician

The Abington Police Department's Patrol Evidence Technician team is comprised of 12 members from the patrol division, distributed across all four patrol platoons. Their primary role is to support the Detective Division by identifying, collecting, preserving, examining, analyzing, and processing physical evidence at crime scenes or incidents.

Detail-oriented and interested in investigations, these officers receive specialized training beyond that of regular patrol officers. Their tasks include photographing crime scenes, processing for latent prints and DNA evidence, fingerprinting suspects, using specialized equipment from the Detective Division's Crime Scene Unit, and packaging evidence for submission to state crime labs.

Each evidence tech is equipped with a portable "evidence kit" for immediate response during patrol duties. They assist detectives by handling evidence, allowing detectives to focus on interviews and follow-up investigations. They also process minor crime scenes, gaining experience and enhancing community engagement by demonstrating the Department's commitment to thorough investigations.

The unit conducts group training sessions multiple times a year, often led by a Detective Division member, focusing on equipment, procedures, and skills related to evidence collection.

DETECTIVE DIVISION

The Detective Division led by Lieutenant Steve Fink, is responsible for follow up investigations involving misdemeanor and felony crimes, as well as any other major incident which would impact the safety and quality of life of our citizens. The Detective Division also provides support services for the Patrol Division. The Division is dedicated to providing complete and thorough investigations while protecting victims' rights. The primary objective of the Detective Division is to reduce the rate of crime by arresting those responsible for committing crimes in our community. The Detective Division is currently managed by Lieutenant Fink. There are two squads, each consisting of a sergeant and four two detectives. In addition, there is one crime scene specialist and one administrative detective, two Special Victims detectives, and a Special Investigations Unit (SIU), consisting of two detectives. In addition to supervising their squads, crime scene, administrative, Special Victims, and SIU Detectives, the Detective Sergeants also supervise the two School Resource Officers, as well as the Abington Detective who is assigned full time to the federal Homeland Security Task Force. Due to a combination of the recent increase in juvenile violence, the department’s commitment to community/youth relations, and dedication to conducting thorough and professional investigations of crimes against persons, in June 2024, a third Special Victims Unit Detective was added to the division.

In 2023, Abington Detectives investigated 315 cases. As of June, 2024, they have investigated 141 cases.

Crime Scene Processing

The Detective Division maintains a mobile crime scene unit that has an extensive array of equipment to assist investigators in collecting evidence at crime scenes. There are two detectives who specialize in these skills and are extremely proficient with a wide range of required equipment and supplies. This provides detectives and prosecutors the ability to present evidence months and years after a crime that paints a picture and presents forensic evidence allowing judges and juries to better understand the complexities of the crimes and those who committed them.

Crime scene technology is constantly evolving and the ability to successfully solve cases is often reliant on having kept pace with these changes and developments. In 2019, the Department contracted with BODE for DNA analysis. BODE can execute DNA analysis with a fast turnaround time and creates a local database of Abington’s DNA samples. Those samples are also compared with samples from other cooperating agencies providing the opportunity for greater success in identifying suspects.

The Department has sent over 300 DNA samples from criminal cases to BODE for testing. The results of these submissions have help solve numerous crimes, including thefts from vehicles, firearms offenses, and even a sexual assault.

Evidence Control

The Detective Division is tasked with maintaining control and storage of the Police Department’s evidence. Evidence Control requires extremely stringent measures to ensure the integrity of the evidence. All evidence is carefully logged into the system and a complete “chain-of-custody” log is maintained detailing who had control of each piece of evidence and where exactly it was from the time the evidence was collected until it was presented in court. The evidence control system is audited on a regular basis, both internally and by the state of Pennsylvania. Random audits are also completed by an APD Commander who is not involved in, or has access to, the evidence system. The evidence custodians are also responsible for proper disposition of all evidence; most of it either being returned to the owner, forfeited, or destroyed. The Detective Division must also store and maintain the integrity of all crime scene photos and the prescription drug “dropbox” which is available 24/7 to Abington residents to safely dispose of unwanted medication.

Intelligence Sharing and Task Forces 

Abington Detectives participate in and are members of numerous task forces and organizations, both on a regional and national level. The saying that “crime has no borders," has never been truer with the modern criminal’s mobility and access to technology. These memberships ensure that detectives have access to the most recent crime intelligence and information sharing mechanism, and are the source of information and intelligence for the whole Department. Some of these organizations include:

• Middle Atlantic Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network (MAGLOCLEN)
• International Crimes Against Children (ICAC)
• National Association of Bunco Investigators (NABI)
• International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI)
• PA Narcotics Officers Association (PNOA)

The Abington Police Department continues to be the primary agency and leader of the Eastern Montgomery County/Philadelphia Crime Sharing Group. Once a month, this group gets together and discusses trends and investigative strategies to combat current local crime trends. These meetings and subsequent communications have resulted in the arrests of a countless number of criminals committing crimes in and around Abington Township. With the exception of light refreshments served at these meetings, they are a low cost necessity.

Special Investigations Unit

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is the primary unit for all narcotics-related investigations. The SIU sergeant is the Abington Police coordinator for the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Officer Drug Task Force. This is a task force of officers from throughout Montgomery County who work together to combat illegal drugs, focusing almost exclusively on the dealers. This is especially important with the current opioid epidemic affecting Abington and all other communities. In order to supplement the Police Department’s prevention and education efforts to combat this epidemic, SIU is committed to aggressively investigate and arrest those persons responsible for delivering heroin and other dangerous drugs to Abington residents. SIU also maintains, reports, and shares intelligence through a statewide heroin intelligence database. In addition to drug investigations, SIU handles most crimes in Abington Township which require the use of surveillance as an investigative tool. The Special Investigations Unit maintains forensic cell phone, computer, and video analysis equipment as well as special surveillance equipment.

Special Victims Unit

The Special Victims Unit (SVU) consists of two detectives that specialize in handling juveniles and victims involved in sensitive cases. Examples of these cases include missing juveniles/runaways, child abuse, sexual assaults, bullying/cyber-bullying, and sexting cases. The SVU detectives work closely with the Montgomery County Child Advocacy Center (Mission Kids), juvenile probation, and the Office of Children and Youth, to ensure that juvenile matters are handled in a thorough, professional manner. The SVU Detectives serve on the Abington Youth Aid Panel and work with the Abington School District to educate our youth on social media safety. The SVU detectives are also involved in many cases that are sensitive in nature and collaborate with Montgomery County services relating to domestic issues and human relations.

Background Investigations

One of the most vital components of the new police officer hiring process is the background investigations. These investigations are assigned to one of the three detectives who are specially trained to these investigations. A thorough and extensive background check of every potential new hire contributes to the professionalism and image of the Abington Police Department, as only candidates with honorable character advance through the process and become sworn officers. Some of the areas covered include: previous employment, education, criminal history and driving history, credit history, social media accounts, and interviews with references and other associates.

ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION

The Abington Township Police Department’s Administrative Division is led by Deputy Chief Porter. This division is responsible for the fiscal management of the Police Department, management of the Traffic Safety Unit, the Records and Operations Center, the Animal Control Officer, implementation of training programs, technology, and Police Department facilities.

Traffic Safety Unit

The Traffic Safety Unit is focused on the safety of all motoring and pedestrian traffic within Abington Township. Among many other qualifications, this unit is trained in advanced crash investigation and reconstruction techniques. They are responsible for any major crash that occurs within the Township. Members of the unit are also part of a network consisting of surrounding Montgomery County townships, where they function as a cohesive team of crash investigators for major crashes. The Traffic Safety Unit addresses numerous traffic and pedestrian related complaints from residents and motorists on a daily basis. These complaints range from speeding vehicles to abandoned automobiles, to parking concerns. They maintain an excellent working relationship with PennDOT officials, addressing concerns regarding PennDOT roadways within the Township, and seeking resources that PennDOT has to offer. The Traffic Safety Division is committed to improving the safety for both pedestrian and motoring traffic in Abington Township on a continuous basis.

The Traffic Safety Unit also conducts numerous traffic surveys (speed, volume, driving habits, etc…) each year. The results of these surveys are posted on the Police Department website. They are also responsible for coordinating all targeted enforcement activities in areas where needed.

Record and Operations Center (ROC)

The Records and Operations Center (ROC) is a 24/7 operation which is the first point of contact for citizens who either come into the Police Department or call the station. It is staffed by 8 full time personnel, and a pool of 12 part-time employees. The ROC is responsible for the management of records for the Police Department along with support for the patrol officers covering the street. Duties include auditing reports, data entry into multiple database systems, archiving our records management system, report distribution to both the public and other agencies, security monitoring of our holding cells, and the township building, and dispatching during times of extremely high call volume in the county due to major events. The ROC is considered the information hub of the Department and Township, providing 24-hour service to the residents of the township in person, or via direct phone contact.

Animal Control

The Abington Township Police Department provides various animal control services to its residents. Services provided vary greatly. Often times sick or injured animals posing a risk to the public are removed from resident’s homes or properties, as well as various township properties. The Animal Control Officer (ACO) works with the citizens of the township assisting them with their animal complaints or issues, striving to reach the best possible solution for everyone involved. The ACO continues to be a valuable asset not only to those within Abington Township, but the surrounding municipalities as well. Due to an extended absence of the ACO in 2023, the Township Highway Department assisted the Police Department with the removal of deceased animals throughout the year.

Progressive Training

The Department is committed to providing the most effective and useful training to its officers so that they may better serve the community safety and effectively. The Department frequently sends officers to the most relevant, and vetted train-the-trainer courses available. Upon return, these officers provide training to others while objectively evaluating both the officers and the course content for performance and applicability.  

Miscellaneous Training

Members of the Department attend a wide variety of training throughout the year. This includes officer safety training, active shooter training de-escalation training, and training designed to help officers deal with people in crisis, such as the Advanced Critical Intervention Specialist training program. Several of our officers also attend Instructor Development courses which enables them to become part of our core group of instructors who teach many of our in-house trainings in a wide array of important topics. Maintaining an instructor cadre that is proficient with recent and relevant training methods affords the department greater flexibility with its training programs, while providing a cost savings.

Chief’s Advisory Council on Fair and Impartial Policing

In 1998, the Abington Township Police Department and the Willow Grove NAACP laid the foundation for this Commission when they entered into an Agreement in which communication, collaboration, and transparency were key components of building and sustaining trust and accountability. Today, we face unprecedented challenges.

Having leaders in the community and the Department meet regularly to have difficult conversations will benefit the entire community. The Council on Fair and Impartial Policing will work with the Department on our shared commitment to advancing professionalism and The Six Pillars of 21st Century Policing. Meetings are held quarterly with the Chief of Police and other members of the Department to review the following matters: Training, Recruitment, Citizen Complaints, Officer Misconduct, Policy and Procedures, Statistical Data on Arrest and Traffic Stops, Youth Diversionary Programs, Community Policing Initiatives, Crime Prevention Programs, and Procedural Justice Reforms. 

Table of Contents

Budget Message

General Fund (01)

General Government Overview

Police Department Overview