Capt. Paul Chignell: New Captain Coming, Thanks

As we have discussed in the past, there needs to be a strong collaboration between the police and the community we serve. That collaboration takes many shapes, from 911 phone calls to 311 non-emergency phone calls, community meetings, neighborhood watches, community policing projects and much more.

There is another important aspect to collaboration, which relates to other security forces that operate within the geographic area of the Taraval Police District. We work closely with private security and other police departments. This aspect of cooperation is extremely helpful as we all need support, especially when all security agencies, private or public, have declining resources during these tough economic times.

In the southern portion of the district we cooperate daily with the San Francisco State University Police Department. The officers of that department are highly trained and professional. We work jointly on various crime issues in and around the university.

Accordingly, we also have a fine working relationship with the United States Park Police, particularly on issues involving Ocean Beach.

Private security workers call the officers from Taraval often, mostly due to shoplifting thefts at Stonestown, Lucky's Market and the Andronico's on Irving Street.

On to a last topic - this will be my last column as I have been transferred to a night captain's position effective Nov. 14. It has been a pleasure writing these monthly columns. I will always remember my two years at the Taraval Police Station.

Capt. Denise Schmitt, currently in charge of the Training Division, will be the new Captain at Taraval Station. She is a consummate professional with administrative, investigative and patrol experience.

I wish you all well.

Capt. Paul Chignell is the commanding officer at the Taraval Police Station.