Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Michael Neal

Calumet City,IL

Summary

Dynamic law enforcement professional with extensive experience at Harvey Police Department, excelling in incident command and community relations. Proven track record in enhancing departmental efficiency through innovative policies and strategic planning. Recognized for exceptional leadership and adaptability, fostering teamwork and achieving significant improvements in officer performance and community trust. Strong abilities to recruit and retain employees through morale building and creating an environment whereas the employees are vested in public service.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Watch Commander

Harvey Police Department
04.2019 - Current
  • Implemented innovative training programs tailored to the specific needs of the watch team, resulting in improved skill sets across various disciplines.
  • Mentored junior staff members by sharing knowledge learned from years of experience, promoting career development opportunities within the department.
  • Maintained open lines of communication with neighboring jurisdictions to enhance situational awareness and facilitate mutual aid when necessary.
  • Improved interdepartmental coordination through regular meetings, collaborative training sessions, and joint exercises.
  • Demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in high-pressure situations, maintaining composure and motivating team members to perform at their best.
  • Supervised daily shift operations, providing guidance and support to officers in the field as needed.
  • Evaluated officer performance through regular reviews, identifying areas for improvement and providing constructive feedback for professional growth.
  • Established clear expectations for officer conduct, fostering a culture of professionalism within the watch team.
  • Spearheaded community outreach initiatives to build trust between the department and local residents while addressing specific concerns or issues in a timely manner.
  • Maintained accurate records of all watch activities, ensuring compliance with departmental policies and legal requirements.
  • Contributed to policy revisions and updates to ensure alignment with best practices.
  • Enhanced team efficiency by implementing streamlined communication protocols and procedures.
  • Managed personnel scheduling effectively to ensure adequate coverage during peak times without sacrificing work-life balance.
  • Provided essential support during natural disasters or other catastrophic events by coordinating resources.
  • Coordinated with external agencies in emergency situations, facilitating effective collaboration and resource sharing.
  • Increased officer safety by conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing appropriate safety measures.
  • Developed comprehensive operational plans for large-scale events, ensuring public safety and smooth proceedings.
  • Adapted quickly to changing situations by making informed decisions based on available information and resources.
  • Handled administrative requirements, maintained records and submitted operational reports.
  • Trained and mentored personnel in combat operations and tactics.
  • Led team in developing strategic plans to meet operational objectives.
  • Coordinated activities of subordinate personnel to support mission success.
  • Monitored and assessed mission progress and provided updates to command.
  • Created contingency plans to address unexpected tactical scenarios.
  • Conducted and oversaw interrogations, briefings and debriefings.
  • Prepared and delivered investigative reports and briefings.
  • Devised and implemented battle plans to achieve tactical objectives.
  • Communicated with command centers to develop and execute tactical plans.

Deputy Chief

Harvey Police Department
01.2008 - 03.2019
  • Improved department efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing new technology solutions.
  • Conceptualized social media page for [Location] department to allow citizens to contact PD directly, achieving higher responses.
  • Championed diversity initiatives within the organization by promoting inclusive hiring practices.
  • Played a critical role in crisis management, developing contingency plans and coordinating communication efforts during emergency situations.
  • Promoted a safe work environment by establishing comprehensive safety procedures and conducting routine inspections.
  • Fostered a culture of continuous improvement through employee training, development, and performance management.
  • Facilitated cross-departmental cooperation to achieve shared objectives more efficiently than previously possible.
  • Implemented innovative policies that improved staff retention rates while maintaining high levels of productivity.
  • Streamlined workflows for increased efficiency, reducing administrative burdens on staff members.
  • Organized, reviewed and evaluated work of 40 sworn and non-sworn staff members.
  • Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication and cross-functional initiatives.
  • Cultivated a positive work atmosphere by encouraging open communication channels among team members at all levels of the organization.
  • Arranged conferences and meetings with other law enforcement officers to discuss high-profile criminal cases and unsolved crimes.
  • Developed strategic plans to address current challenges and future growth opportunities for the organization.
  • Served as a mentor to junior staff members, providing guidance on best practices for professional growth and development.
  • Rewrote and updated comprehensive department policies and procedures.
  • Recorded, analyzed and gathered intelligence to achieve community safety.
  • Built strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to enhance collaboration and drive positive outcomes.
  • Analyzed crime data maps, graphs and statistics to develop patrol and crime prevention strategies.
  • Evaluated existing programs for effectiveness in meeting organizational goals before recommending changes or adaptations as necessary.
  • Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations through regular audits, reviews, and policy updates.
  • Resolved issues through active listening and open-ended questioning, escalating major problems to manager.
  • Hired, managed, developed and trained staff, established and monitored goals, conducted performance reviews and administered salaries for staff.
  • Delegated tasks to administrative support staff to organize and improve office efficiency.
  • Organized meetings for executives and coordinated availability of conference rooms for participants.
  • Built highly-efficient administrative team through ongoing coaching and professional development opportunities.
  • Interceded between employees during arguments and diffused tense situations.
  • Developed internal requirements and standards to minimize regulatory risks and liability across programs.

Internal Affairs Commander

Harvey Police Department
02.2007 - 01.2008

Overseen the operations of the internal Affairs division

Investigated policy and unlawful complaints of employees.

Recommended policies to keep up with modern times.

Investigation Commander

Harvey Police Department
01.2007 - 08.2007
  • Identified potential hazards quickly, addressing them proactively to prevent accidents or damage to the vessel.
  • Navigated challenging waters skillfully, ensuring safe and efficient transit of passengers and cargo.
  • Improved crew morale with effective leadership techniques that fostered teamwork while addressing individual needs or concerns promptly.
  • Conducted informative tours for passengers, sharing knowledge about local history, wildlife, and points of interest.

General Investigator

Harvey Police Department
10.2006 - 01.2007
  • Documented findings and prepared detailed reports.
  • Conducted thorough face-to-face interviews with employers, families, neighbors, friends, and suspects, and documented investigative findings.
  • Collected, analyzed and interpreted information, documentation, and physical evidence associated with investigations.
  • Collected information pertaining to criminal proceedings and performed investigations to resolve cases.
  • Collaborated with federal agencies on investigations.
  • Interviewed and interrogated suspects.
  • Ensured compliance with legal regulations during investigations, minimizing risk for litigation or procedural errors.
  • Improved case resolution rates by conducting thorough investigations and utilizing effective interviewing techniques.
  • Maintain a professional tone.
  • Conducted interviews with witnesses and clients.
  • Assisted in the development of investigative strategies, resulting in more efficient case resolutions.
  • Identified trends in criminal activities, allowing for proactive measures to be taken against future threats.
  • Prepared case reports from allegations, transcripts of interviews and physical evidence.
  • Testified in court during [Type] proceedings and trials.
  • Conducted impartial investigations into complaints by employees.
  • Carefully documented statements, observations, and evidentiary materials.
  • Increased conviction rates by collaborating closely with prosecutors to build strong cases.
  • Negotiated with informants to obtain key information, significantly advancing ongoing investigations.

Community Team Police Officer

Harvey Police Department
09.2005 - 09.2006
  • Facilitated conflict resolution between disputing parties through effective mediation techniques, promoting harmony within the community.
  • Identified potential sources of criminal activity through diligent investigation and intelligence gathering, leading to successful interventions.
  • Enhanced community safety by conducting regular foot patrols and engaging with residents.
  • Increased public awareness on crime prevention strategies by organizing informative workshops and seminars for residents.
  • Contributed to problem-oriented policing efforts by identifying problem areas, recommending and implementing solutions and monitoring results.
  • Strengthened relationships between the police department and minority communities by participating in cultural events and outreach programs.
  • Prepared reports to accurately document information.
  • Supported at-risk individuals by connecting them with relevant social services, aiding in their personal growth and rehabilitation process.
  • Reduced neighborhood crime rates through proactive problem-solving and collaboration with local stakeholders.
  • Streamlined internal processes within the department to improve efficiency in responding to community concerns, leading to quicker resolutions for complaints received.
  • Established partnerships with local businesses to create safe spaces for residents during emergencies or natural disasters.
  • Played an active role in disaster preparedness and response efforts, ensuring the well-being of residents during critical incidents.
  • Developed innovative approaches towards addressing persistent issues within neighborhoods such as drug abuse or gang violence through tailored intervention plans.
  • Improved public perception of the police force by fostering open communication channels with local leaders and organizations.
  • Participated in specialized training sessions to enhance professional skills pertinent to community-oriented policing roles, ensuring constant improvement as an officer.
  • Contributed to city-wide crime reduction efforts by implementing targeted policing strategies based on data-driven analysis.
  • Built trust with community members by attending public meetings, listening to concerns, and taking decisive action.
  • Utilized social media platforms to maintain open lines of communication with the community, providing timely updates on public safety matters.
  • Responded to general public service called for civil or societal problems.
  • Promoted a positive environment for youth development through coordination of after-school programs and mentorship initiatives.
  • Served as a positive role model for both youth and adults within the community by exemplifying strong moral character and upholding ethical principles.
  • Assisted in the development of department policies that better aligned with community needs, resulting in increased satisfaction levels among residents.
  • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
  • Patrolled assigned areas to check homes, businesses, and public roads for signs of disturbance.
  • Secured crime scenes, gathered evidence, and questioned witnesses.
  • Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses, and damage to property.
  • Responded immediately to reports of automobile accidents and criminal activity, calling for additional support as necessary.
  • Conducted preliminary investigations at scenes of major crimes.
  • Apprehended suspects, read Miranda Rights, and transported offenders to jail.
  • Enforced traffic laws and ordinances through visual observation and radar speed detection.
  • Built excellent rapport and working relationship with community to build trust and improve upon communication.
  • Monitored crowded public areas and events to mitigate risk and promote safety.

Bike Patrol Supervisor

Harvey Police Department
05.2004 - 09.2005
  • Assigned appropriate personnel to patrol watch to comply with [Type] rules and regulations.
  • Monitored police radio nets and alarm indicators.
  • Developed strong relationships with community stakeholders through regular outreach efforts and proactive engagement initiatives.
  • Enforced motor vehicle laws and regulated traffic.
  • Responded to radio calls and engaged in law enforcement activities.
  • Fostered positive public perception of the department through consistent professionalism, transparency, and respectful interactions with community members.
  • Conducted thorough investigations of reported incidents, leading to higher case resolution rates.
  • Patrolled designated areas in patrol vehicle and on foot to identify security and safety issues.

Patrol Officer

Harvey Police Department
01.1997 - 05.2004
  • Prepared detailed reports documenting daily patrols, incidents encountered, and actions taken during shifts.
  • Arrested suspects with appropriate use of force, following departmental guidelines and legal procedures.
  • Investigated incidents and crimes, collected evidence, and recorded witness statements.
  • Enhanced public safety by patrolling assigned areas and responding to emergency situations promptly.
  • Conducted traffic stops, issuing citations or warnings when necessary to maintain order on the roads.
  • Collaborated with fellow officers for efficient crime prevention and response efforts.
  • Testified in court cases as needed, providing clear and concise accounts of events witnessed or investigated.
  • Assisted in accident investigations, providing support to those involved and ensuring accurate documentation of events.
  • Conducted thorough searches of individuals or vehicles when required by departmental policies or legal procedures, preserving evidence for potential prosecution purposes.
  • Identified and addressed potential hazards within the community – conducting regular checks and making necessary recommendations to mitigate risks.
  • Served as a field training officer for new recruits – sharing knowledge gained from experience on patrol-helping them excel in their roles.
  • Attended community meetings or events as a representative of the police department, promoting transparency and fostering trust between law enforcement personnel and local residents.
  • Responded to emergency calls, providing timely assistance and reducing incident escalation.
  • Enhanced community safety by conducting regular patrols in high-risk areas.
  • Trained new officers, sharing best practices and improving departmental efficiency.

Education

No Degree - Staff And Command

Northwestern
Homewood, IL
01-2012

High School Diploma -

Lincoln Park High School
Chicago, IL
07-1988

Skills

  • Incident command
  • Firearms handling
  • Physical fitness
  • Law enforcement
  • Public safety
  • Emergency management
  • Interagency coordination
  • Policy enforcement
  • Community relations
  • Operational oversight
  • Intelligence analysis
  • Discipline and focus
  • Teamwork and loyalty
  • Teamwork
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Reliability
  • Excellent communication
  • Team collaboration
  • Organizational skills
  • Active listening
  • Effective communication
  • Crew leadership
  • Decision-making
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Situational awareness
  • Relationship building
  • Combat training
  • Field training
  • Weapons handling
  • Vehicle inspection
  • Team building
  • Leadership development
  • Task prioritization
  • Tactical operations
  • Self motivation
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Analytical thinking
  • Operational planning
  • Conflict resolution
  • Operations management
  • Goal setting
  • First aid and buddy care
  • Professionalism
  • Interpersonal communication
  • Risk assessment
  • Strategic planning
  • Security protocols
  • Time management abilities
  • Verbal reports
  • Continuous improvement
  • Adaptability
  • Written communication
  • Personnel management
  • Project management
  • Mission planning
  • Problem-solving aptitude
  • Stress management
  • Intelligence gathering
  • Conduct standards
  • Maintenance supervision
  • Troop training
  • Troop field deployment

Accomplishments

    Over the years, I have created and fostered relations locally and nationally to assist in organization building. My strongest skillset is relationship building in the community that fosters great bridges between law enforcement, citizens, businesses and the faith based community

Certification

Crisis Intervention

Domestic Violence

40 Hour homicide course

First line Supervisory course

Supervising an investigation unit

Internal Affairs Course

Staff and Command

Timeline

Watch Commander

Harvey Police Department
04.2019 - Current

Deputy Chief

Harvey Police Department
01.2008 - 03.2019

Internal Affairs Commander

Harvey Police Department
02.2007 - 01.2008

Investigation Commander

Harvey Police Department
01.2007 - 08.2007

General Investigator

Harvey Police Department
10.2006 - 01.2007

Community Team Police Officer

Harvey Police Department
09.2005 - 09.2006

Bike Patrol Supervisor

Harvey Police Department
05.2004 - 09.2005

Patrol Officer

Harvey Police Department
01.1997 - 05.2004

No Degree - Staff And Command

Northwestern

High School Diploma -

Lincoln Park High School