KCKPS Police Department

The KCKPS-PD were invited to participated in the J.F.K. Elementary School Career Day. During the event, the students learned what officers do, saw some of their equipment, and asked questions about the job. It’s a great way to learn about helping others and making a difference!
Thank you to Chief Chad Whiteman and Sergeant Dustin Bennion for their dedication in the community!

We knew one of our special guests at the CIT training deserved his own post. Meet Rye, a Critical Incident Response K9 from the KCK Police Department. Rye is specially trained to detect elevated cortisol levels in individuals. Cortisol indicates higher stress levels which individuals may experience in crisis or traumatic situations.

In these moments, Rye offers much needed comfort encouraging individuals in crisis to open up, as well as providing support to family members and law enforcement following traumatic events. Officer Mathis and Rye frequently work with Co-responders from Wyandot Behavioral Health Network to help community members who are in crisis.

A special thank you to Rye’s handler, Officer Mathis, for allowing us to share some quality time with Rye during training week. Because we engaged in important discussions about challenging topics, Rye was there during breaks to offer support and bring a bit of joy and comfort to the atmosphere.

We appreciate the valuable role that both Rye and Officer Mathis play in our community.

For those in need of support, resources such as texting and online chatting are available at the following link, including services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Please reach out if you are having a difficult time.

Call: 988
Or visit:
https://988lifeline.org/

Thank you, Officer Rye and Officer Mathis!

Kansas City Kansas Police Department - KCKPD

Last week was an incredible opportunity for five of our officers as they participated in a comprehensive training on Crisis Intervention. Led by KCK Officer Mathis and an amazing team from Wyandot Center Center at the Junior Achievement building, the week was filled with insightful discussions from guest speakers covering important topics such as mental health, overdose response, court processes, RSI services, tour of the jail and the 988 system. They also touched on the crucial issues of PTSD within law enforcement and provided valuable resources for first responder peer support.

The week wrapped up with hands-on scenario-based training, allowing our officers to practice real-life situations under the guidance of LMSWs, psychologists and counselors, who provided constructive feedback.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in organizing and facilitating this training. We also want to extend our gratitude to the wonderful businesses and individuals who generously contributed snacks and lunch throughout the week.

Special thanks to Major Terrazas, Sheriff Soptic, Chief Oakman, Judge Lynch and Judge Martinez for taking time out of their busy days!

It was a fantastic learning experience and we are excited about future training opportunities with this group. Together, we are making our community safer!

Pictured from KCKPS PD (R to L): Officer Simmons, Officer Lyle and Officer Corethers
Not pictured: Officer E. Greene and Officer M. Green

Wyandot Behavioral Health Network
Kansas City Kansas Police Department - KCKPD
Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office
Wyandotte County District Attorney
Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City KS
Governor Laura Kelly

The KCKPS-PD were invited to participated in the West Park Elementary School Career Day. During the event, the students learned what officers do, saw some of their equipment, and asked questions about the job. It’s a great way to learn about helping others and making a difference!
Thank you to Chief Chad Whiteman and Sergeant Dustin Bennion for their dedication in the community!

We thank the Earl Watson, Jr. Early Childhood Center for the invite! We had so much fun with the "Littles" as we call them.
Thank you Chief Whiteman, Sergeant Wepler and Office Admin. Veronica Cano for supporting our school event.

We appreciate Dr. Jon Enriquez for taking the time to speak with our Officers and SSA's about wellness. As a cardiologist at St. Luke’s Medical Center and an active part-time police officer, he brings a unique and valuable perspective.

His presentation delivered a powerful message—one that every one of us needs to hear. The information shared could truly be life-saving.

Happy Administrative Professional Day To Veronica Cano and Mia Williams!

Today we celebrate the dedication, organization, and professionalism that keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and your impact is truly appreciated every single day.

Thank you for all that you do!

Update:
Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools is canceling all afterschool activities, including KidZone, due to the possibility of severe storms.

If parents or caregivers choose to pick up their student early, the absence will be excused.

If severe weather is moving through at the time of dismissal, we will evaluate conditions and may delay dismissal until it is safe.

The safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.
Thank you for your understanding.

Happy National Telecommunicators Week!

This week, we’re shining a light on the incredible work of our dispatchers, Ksee Gray and Christiana Jackson. While their work often happens behind the scenes, their impact is felt in every call answered and every response coordinated.

From being the first voice someone hears in a moment of crisis to helping keep our officers informed and safe, they play a critical role in keeping our community connected and protected. Their ability to stay calm, think quickly, and manage high-pressure situations makes all the difference when it matters most.

Ksee and Christiana, thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and the care you bring to your work each day.