Christina Barnum
Hewitt
Summary
Open Records Specialist with proven expertise at Waco Police Department in optimizing records management and compliance monitoring. Achieved significant improvements in document retrieval efficiency and accuracy, while fostering teamwork and professionalism. Skilled in electronic filing systems and confidentiality protocols, ensuring sensitive information is securely managed and accessible. Ensured confidentiality maintained in released records. All while operating under the law under the Texas Freedom of Information Act. Retired after almost 30 years of dedicated service to the department.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Open Records Specialist
Waco Police Department
11.2009 - 02.2025
- Scanned paper records to transfer to digital filing systems.
- Safeguarded sensitive information from unauthorized access using encryption technologies and strict adherence to confidentiality policies.
- Ensured accurate recordkeeping by regularly auditing and updating database information.
- Improved customer service response times by efficiently locating and providing requested documentation when needed.
- Created and implemented standard operating procedures for records handling.
- Supported legal teams during litigation cases by ensuring timely access to relevant documents and evidence materials.
- Served as a subject matter expert within the organization, providing guidance and support to colleagues across departments on all aspects of records management best practices.
- Provided ongoing training to staff on proper document handling, storage, and disposal procedures, fostering a culture of records management excellence.
- Established strong working relationships with vendors and suppliers of records management products, negotiating favorable pricing and service terms on behalf of the organization.
- Maintained and updated records through dedicated digital database.
- Developed an efficient archival system, allowing for easy location and retrieval of historical records as needed.
- Received records approval from individuals mentioned in filing system for transfer or release.
- Assisted in maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements by conducting regular audits of records management systems.
- Streamlined the retrieval process for documents by creating a comprehensive indexing system.
- Proactively identified opportunities for process improvement within the organization''s record-keeping practices, sharing recommendations with leadership teams for consideration.
- Reduced document processing time by automating routine tasks with customized software tools.
- Enhanced the efficiency of records management by implementing a digital filing system.
- Redacted information as requested when faced with potential privacy violations.
- Consistently met or exceeded departmental performance metrics related to speed, accuracy, consistency, and completeness in all aspects of the records management function.
- Communicated efficiently with individuals concerning record information submitted or missing from files.
- Managed both physical and electronic files effectively, ensuring seamless integration between formats for ease of access across departments.
- Maintained accuracy of records by verifying accuracy of data in records.
- Updated records with new information.
- Assisted with record management system implementation and maintenance to streamline operations.
- Followed confidentially regulations to maintain privacy.
- Followed established policies and procedures to maintain compliance with regulations.
- Destroyed records in line with retention schedules to protect confidential information and comply with regulations.
- Sorted all paperwork and documents alphabetically and according to dates and significance.
- Assisted with typing, data entry, and answering incoming calls as required.
- Developed efficient filing system to retrieve records quickly.
- Generated reports from database systems to track records.
- Provided training to new records clerks to improve knowledge and skills.
- Provided excellent customer care by responding to inquiries and requests for information.
- Transferred inactive records to storage to free up space and preserve history.
- Input data into computer programs and filing systems.
911 Dispatch Supervisor
Waco Police Department
10.1995 - 11.2006
- Streamlined workflow processes to optimize resource allocation during high-pressure situations.
- Improved response times by streamlining call prioritization and dispatch processes.
- Ensured accurate information dissemination by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of jurisdictional maps, policies, and procedures.
- Coordinated timely responses to critical incidents by effectively managing staff resources under pressure-filled circumstances.
- Adapted quickly to unexpected challenges or changes in workload demands while maintaining a calm demeanor under stress.
- Implemented regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to team members for continuous improvement.
- Oversaw scheduling for the 911 Dispatch Center, ensuring optimal staffing levels during peak hours and special events.
- Served as a mentor and resource to junior dispatchers, fostering professional growth and development within the team.
- Enhanced dispatcher training program, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced errors.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with local emergency service providers to ensure seamless cooperation during crisis situations.
- Assisted callers in emergency situations with appropriate information and support.
- Applied interpersonal skills in neutralizing hostile and emotionally charged situations.
- Communicated pre-arrival instructions to emergency medical personnel, helping first responders deliver appropriate care and support to individuals.
- Routed calls to police, fire, and ambulance service to meet individual call needs.
- Received public emergency and non-emergency calls and supervised response prioritization in order to effectively dispatch official units such as police, fire, and EMS while tracking data in real-time environments.
- Operated emergency response systems to update and retrieve up-to-date information for first responders.
- Completed appropriate forms and radio announcements for police department needs such as BOLO requests.
- Reduced risks and emergency response issues by observing public safety field units.
Skills
- Legal requirements
- Audit preparation
- Document scanning
- Compliance monitoring
- Records management
- Electronic filing systems
- Research
- Archiving techniques
- Report generation
- Confidentiality protocols
- Records destruction
- Physical records storage
- Information retrieval
- Teamwork
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking
- Professionalism
- Records accuracy
- Document management
Timeline
Open Records Specialist
Waco Police Department
11.2009 - 02.2025
911 Dispatch Supervisor
Waco Police Department
10.1995 - 11.2006
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