Lawrence Central’s own Officer Daniel Palen presented an overview of the City of Lawrence Police Department and his role as a Commissioned Officer. Daniel studied environmental science and history in college. A year of study in England encouraged an interest in travel and he has visited over thirty countries. Daniel was enthusiastic about his topic, starting with departmental history, beginning with two officers in 1866. Today the department employs 138 commissioned officers and 41 civilians. The department has two main divisions. Operations involves patrolling and investigating and training. Support includes professional accountability, public affairs and training. He spoke highly of the the department’s In House Academy and the training he received. The department works closely with numerous community partners. Daniel has many responsibilities, including accident investigation, commercial vehicle safety, field training instructor, radio programmer and drone pilot. In addition, he serves on the Employee Relations Council and the Public Engagement Team. Daniel works a night shift which makes it possible to be an active club member.
