Talk about an impressive start.
That’s our reaction to all that Timberlake Police Chief Nick Dolbin has achieved since he was appointed as the village’s top law enforcement officer in November.
He was promoted from the rank of sergeant following the resignation of then-Chief Susan Scofield.
Dolbin says great strides have been made and expectations exceeded in the months since, The News-Herald’s Bill Tilton reported.
“There was a vision and I am very proud we have gotten this far and we still have a lot of things we are working on to be a better village,” Dolbin said. “At our recent Family Fun Days for the village, I was approached by 20 or 30 residents who said they can feel a difference and they feel more protected.”
Among a long list of achievements since Dolbin took over, the department has increased manpower from three part-time officers to 21.
In the restructured department, Dolbin said he has promoted two sergeants and a corporal, created a detective bureau and finalized paperwork for its first K-9 unit.
They have hosted a Taser instructor course, purchased virtual reality training goggles and scheduled several officers for advanced training.
The department has been awarded a Body Worn Camera Grant, submitted a COPS Hiring Grant and submitted an Edward J. Byrne Justice Assistance Grant.
Dolbin said they have begun rewriting a field training program and policies and procedures.
They have had an independent agency complete an evidence room audit, purchased departmental duty weapons, secured Tasers for officers, created a training department and coordinated its first departmental OVI checkpoint.
In addition, they have negotiated the purchase of a new police vehicle and received a grant for spike strips and portable breath equipment.
During the past eight months, the department has more OVI arrests and more felony arrests than the previous five-plus years combined, according to the chief.
In addition, more guns and narcotics were seized than the previous five-plus years combined.
“My goal was to rebuild this department and make a positive impact not only for our community, but for all of Lake County,” Dolbin said. “My officers have stepped up each and every day, and together we have exceeded expectations.
“It is widely spoken that the residents feel safe with patrolmen out and visible all hours, and we are increasing our relationship with the community,” he added.
Mayor John Marra issued a proclamation in June praising Dolbin’s efforts since taking over as chief.
The News-Herald also salutes Dolbin for all of these impressive accomplishments and improvements.
It seems that he has taken the Timberlake Police Department to a new level of excellence in a short amount of time. We can understand why the mayor and many residents are pleased with his performance.