02-15-88 Parks & Recreation - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Charles VanParis of the Rum Village Neighborhood Group stated that he believed that the police have been doing a good job and that hopefully by working together we could curb the problems brought to the attention of the Common Council. Chief Hurley of the South Bend Police Department then introduced Captain Bob Riddle, Commander of the South Sector and Larry Bennett of the South Bend Police Department. He noted that the area in question is difficult to police. All calls that are relayed to the Police Department are responded to. Chief Hurley noted that if there is suspicious activity going on, that the department should be called immediately and that the park officials should attempt to get a description of the vehicle and plate number to assist the Police Department. He also noted that indecent or lude conduct must be seen the officer for action to be taken. Captain Bob Riddle stated that much of the problem is because the activity often times is between consenting adults. Marked cars are used throughout the park but does not stop such action. Councilman Coleman then asked the Council Attorney to briefly review some of the law in this area. She distributed copies of Indiana Code Section 35-45-1-3 which addressed disorderly conduct and also copies of I.C. 36-2- 13-5 and I.C. 36-8-10-9 that set forth the powers and duties with regard to arrest procedures and suppression of breaches of the peace. She indicated that many of the items addressed in the February 10, 1988 letter to the Council are regulated by local ordinance and that others are addressed by State law. There are several issues raised which involve the constitutional issues and that follow up discussions between the Legal Department, the Prosecutor's Office and the Council would be in order. Chief Radecki of the Park Police then gave an overview. He noted that he is the only full time park policeman. That in light of the Garcia ruling, the City is required to pay time and a half for police officers who would then do extra duties in the Park Department. Currently there are seven (7) part-time park police with three assigned to Potawatomi Zoo. Currently they are working sixteen hour shifts since several animals were killed at the zoo costing the City $11, 000. 00. He noted that there are 67 parks throughout the City, three golf courses, three recreational centers, and 7 miles of river in addition to the race way. He noted that there are only two units available to enforce laws throughout the 67 parks. He also noted that there is an 2