Pilot programs for middle school students approved

Friday, October 14, 2016

An incident brought to light by an Overland Park attorney is prompting a change in the county's policy allowing citizens to ride with on-duty deputies.

The discussion began Tuesday when Michael Kuckelman, with Kuckelman, Torline, Kirkland, Lewis, related the experience he had when he spoke to Sheriff Bill Martin in March. Kuckelman said he wanted to meet with Martin to discuss a deputy who is currently a subject in a pending lawsuit due to an incident that occurred when the deputy was employed in another county.

Kuckelman also had learned that deputy allowed a registered and convicted sex offender to ride with him. Kuckelman has a photo the individual had taken during that ride. The individual had posted the photo on social media.

Kuckelman told commissioners he called Martin on March 25 to discuss the information. Martin "yelled, screamed and hung up."

Policy change

Martin said the county is using the same policy Third District Commissioner Harold Coleman used when he was sheriff (1984 to 2008).

With the current policy: the rider must remain in the vehicle at all times unless otherwise instructed by the deputy; must not communicate with anyone arrested or being investigated; not carry a weapon; and must follow instructions of the deputy.

Martin said on the revised form, the individual will be asked whether they are a convicted felon. The form will be a legal document, which places a person at risk of falsifying a legal document if they do not answer honestly.

Albright located a policy from "a larger city" that prohibits the rider from carrying a cell phone, recording devise or camera. There has to be a letter of request from the rider's sponsor and the application must be submitted 15 to 30 days prior to the ride and all applicants are subject to approval and background check.

Kuckelman said he is glad the discussion has led to a change in the county's policy.

County Counselor Justin Meeks said the revised policy will be submitted to the county's insurance carrier.