During the month of January, Fourth Precinct Sgt. William Phibbs
• Actively participated in walking patrols with officers,
• Met regularly with citizens and business owners Downtown to assist with and follow up on issues
• Attained his master’s in human resources to assist with supervisory duties.
Chief Bryan Norwood introduced his Model of Community Policing in January and Fourth Precinct Sgt. William Phibbs was listening. In fact, Phibbs has introduced some community policing initiatives of his own to his officers on the day shift.
Phibbs distributes surveys to officers on how they, their supervisors, or the Department can assist citizens in Fourth Precinct. The results are compiled and Phibbs makes sure the officers follow through to develop plans to attack the issues and share the information with residents.
Walking patrols are part of the daily routine of beat officers, but Phibbs gets out in the community, too. He regularly walks the area around Second and Broad streets to talk with residents and business owners.
When he’s walking and talking, Phibbs is also listening. Phibbs responded to a recent complaint of speeding near the Greater Richmond Convention Center by having a speed meter placed near the location. Needless to say, the speeding by motorists has declined.
Phibbs is always working to better himself as a supervisor. He recently earned a master’s in human resources. In January, he passed the national exam for human resources professionals on the first try. This exam has a 65 percent passing rate. Phibbs also is the only sworn officer with this achievement. In addition, look for his article on employee branding, soon to be published in IMPA Magazine.
