Team officially began on January 1, 2018 with 2 officers dedicated to the homeless. The goal of the team is to reduce homeless-related complaints by acting as a bridge between the homeless and available appropriate services. The creation of this team was one of the recommendations of the Mayor's Task Force on Homelessness in 2017. The Police Outreach Service Team is modeled after successful programs in other communities such as Lubbock and Houston.
POST duties include:
- Officers respond to homeless related calls for service.
- Assist homeless in making appointments and connecting with community resources.
- Perform checks at homeless shelters.
- Create community partnerships with non-profits and local businesses.
- Educate the community on the Police Outreach Service Team.
- Conduct outreach and refer homeless to services.
The Police Outreach Service Team is currently located at the Historic Train Depot, near several other homeless services. Officers are Ronald Duncan and Allan Whitlock.