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Dewey adopts training, policy management system for police

Koenig: Software will reduce lawsuits, insurance costs
November 26, 2018

To reduce claims and lower insurance costs, Dewey Beach commissioners voted Nov. 10 to adopt a policy management and training software system for the police department.

Commissioner David Moskowitz said the software, Lexipol, will modernize police training and reduce litigation risks by continually updating policies to meet Delaware and federal statutes and current case law.

“It’s like defensive driving on steroids,” Moskowitz said. “It’s the first step toward reduced liability for the town. Saving the cost of one lawsuit would pay for 15 years of the system.”

Town Manager Scott Koenig said Dewey police department’s 400-page policy manual will be uploaded to a web application for access through a computer, tablet or smartphone. Lexipol will review and update policies on a rolling basis, and officers will complete daily and monthly scenario-based policy training.

“This will keep us current with respect to our peers across the nation,” Koenig said. “It offers an avenue for our officers to log in, track their training, and see changes made to policy and procedures.”

Koenig said the investment, a one-time implementation fee of $6,300 and about $6,000 annual subscription cost, will lead to a reduced insurance premium.

“Investing in officers and their training will result in fewer claims against officers, fewer lawsuits and less severity of claims,” he said. “It puts us in a much better position with insurance and claims.”

Koenig said the town’s law enforcement liability insurance was $63,972 from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018, with a $100,000 deductible and is $47,833 for July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019, also with a $100,000 deductible.

Moskowitz said the system is used by nearby police stations, including Lewes, Rehoboth and Ocean View.

“If we have to borrow an officer, they’ll all know the same system,” he said.

Founded in 2003 by former law enforcement officers Graham and Bruce Praet, Lexipol is a nationally recognized company providing public safety policies and training to over 3,300 clients in 35 states.

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