Published on April 01, 2025
LKPD measures the number of investigations resulting in an arrest, notice to appear in court, or referral for prosecution as a progress indicator in equity and inclusion. The numbers include cases with no possible law enforcement action such as death investigations, cases where victims choose not to participate in the judicial process, or missing persons investigations where the person returns home, etc. They are not clearance rates.
To move closer to the goal the department will identify demographically disproportionate numbers and provide community- based education and solutions.
This progress indicator helps determine how well LKPD is working to support victims. The department’s advocacy team partners with communitybased support and service organizations with the goal of reducing instances of sexual and domestic violence and assisting victims through their recovery. Assessing a victim’s future risk and providing education and support is critical in the effort to eliminate the cycle of domestic violence.
The Lawrence Kansas Police Department, along with county partners, continue to increase the number of alternative responses to calls for service. The data is a key performance indicator of LKPD’s commitment to community members to appropriately use resources efficiently and effectively.
In 2023, the Lawrence Kansas Police Department and Douglas County emergency response agencies were selected to participate in the Harvard Kennedy School’s Government Performance Lab. It’s a consortium designed to support city and county leaders in developing, improving, and expanding alternative responses to 911 calls. Community Service Technicians and Mental Health experts respond to appropriate calls unarmed, but with the expertise needed to achieve a more successful outcome.