Hamden SPCP: Strengthening Police & Community Partnerships

06/21/2026

06/21/2026

Gorgeous Day!

06/20/2026

Reminder! Tomorrow is our 6th Annual Father's Day BBQ! Come out for some good eats and fun!

06/18/2026

Good people of Hamden: This letter went out this AM:

Dear Mayor Sendroff, Chief Reynolds, Superintendent Highsmith, Public Safety Chair Webber, Elected Leaders, SPCP Council Members, and the Citizens of Hamden:

After five and a half years of serving as Chairwoman of the Hamden Strengthening Police and Community Partnerships Council, I will not be continuing my role for the next fiscal year, ending my tenure as of June 30th, 2026. I believe it is the right time for both the Council and myself as I focus on my family and continuing my passion of special needs & juvenile advocacy professionally.

I am deeply grateful for the relationships built over these years—friendships forged with dedicated officers, passionate advocates, and committed community members. Together, we’ve addressed pressing issues—bridging gaps in trust, improving transparency, and creating a platform for dialogue that I hope will continue to grow.

While there have been challenges—tough conversations and moments of frustration—I am proud of how we addressed them with courage, honesty, respect, & care. The progress we made is a testament to this Council’s resilience and dedication, across multiple political, social & religious factions. My proudest accomplishments for the Council over the past few years:

An annual Father's Day BBQ for community engagement, giving citizens and officers a wonderful opportunity to come together in celebration

An SRO MOU so thorough the State referenced it when passing their SRO legislation; helping to keep officers in schools while being specific about necessary training, procedures & protocols.

A new Public Safety Community Center in the Plaza; giving the public a feeling of Police presence and safety while also creating space for use/partnership with other community groups

Assisting with Public Safety recruiting efforts for our Police & Fire

Various Public Safety events: Gun Buybacks, Autism Awareness & Acceptance, All Abilities Dance Party, K9 exhibitions, HamdenFest Dunk-A-Cop fundraisers

Multiple community forums, listening sessions, & surveys regarding public safety issues, staffing, school safety, and Chief selection

Collaboration & Partnership with multiple community organizations to bridge gaps in services for our community members

I will remain available to assist with the transition and support the SPCP Council, Mayor's office, & Hamden PD in any way I can as the new Administration evolves.

Thank you all for the trust you put in me to lead such an amazing group of dedicated citizens for making positive change in policing. Thank you for the accolades and recognition over the years, as well. 💙 May you all be safe & blessed.

Warmest regards,

Jacqueline Beirne, VPP, ChSNC®
Hamden Strengthening Police & Community Partnership Council, Chairwoman

06/03/2026

We are so proud to announce our 6th Annual Father's Day BBQ at Villano Park! Bring the lawn chairs, kids, and fam down for burgers, hot dogs, lawn games and good vibes! THANK YOU to our partners for making it happen again!
Keefe Community Center
Town of Hamden, Connecticut
Hamden Police Department
Hamden Public Works & Parks Department

03/03/2026

*Edited as previous post had not included the full text and attached photos*

In light of recent questions and online conversations regarding the Hamden Police purchase of new Tahoe for Chief Reynolds, the Hamden SPCP requested the following:

1: From which funding source or line item were the funds allocated for the Chief’s truck?

2: Have any other vehicles been purchased from that same line item?

3: What factors led to the selection of that particular truck?

4: Were any incentives, discounts, or special pricing arrangements utilized in the purchase?

Here is the thorough response from our Chief:

To The Distinguished Members of the Town of Hamden’s SPCP:



In the spirit of transparency and trust this correspondence is written to provide clarity regarding your inquiry of the most recent purchase into police vehicles for the HPD fleet.



The HPD truck (currently used by the Chief of Police) was ordered and purchased last year through the State-approved MHQ vendor (Line Item used to purchase the Chevy Tahoe = S4241 – 0507- Federal Asset Forfeiture Account). HPD used "Asset Forfeiture" funds for the purchase. NO town monies nor tax-payer dollars were used for the purchase. The vehicle was purchased under the State of Connecticut Contract Pricing as with all vehicles purchased without requiring the bid process. The Chief simply drove the assigned Deputy Chief’s vehicle until the Chief vehicle came in.



The vehicle is (of industry standard and..) identical to what is being driven by the majority of Police Chiefs state-wide (even nation-wide). No more-No less.



The former/retired Hamden Fire Chief also purchased two (2) of the exact same make & model vehicles (Chevy Tahoe) just one year prior.



Also, it must be noted that HPD's five (5) most recent vehicle purchases were made with Asset Forfeiture funds (Which includes: [1]-2026 Ford Escape, [2]–2025 Ford Explorers, and [1]- Ford F-150 Fully Electric Truck).



It should be emphasized that the Chief of Police has been very innovative in saving money for the town of Hamden. For instance, when it came to sensitive internal matters that necessitated the assistance of an outside agency to assist with the investigation, the Chief negotiated the use of State investigators at no cost (Saving the Town tens of thousands of dollars for an, otherwise, costly and financially demanding endeavor). Also, through the use of Asset Forfeiture funds, Grant Acquisitions, and several Fundraising efforts (i.e.: Annual Carnival, Local Business Donations, etc.) the Chief of Police has saved the Town of Hamden (and taxpayers) millions of dollars.



The following provides an overview, defining and describing the use of Asset Forfeiture Funds:



Asset Forfeiture Funds

There are many municipal and state police departments that assign their officers to participate and serve on federal law enforcement task forces. These task force operations seize millions of dollars from criminal enterprises and donate a portion of these seized assets to those state and municipal police departments that have participated and served in these task forces. The police chiefs are given primary oversight and control over how “asset forfeiture” money is used within their respective departments. Federal protocols establish spending parameters for police chiefs, as well as, the forbidding of, local elected officials and/or elected bodies from dictating how police chiefs spend asset forfeiture money.



The following is a further elaboration on these facts.



The collaboration between municipal and state police departments and federal law enforcement agencies through task forces is a significant aspect of modern law enforcement in the United States. Here’s an elaboration on the key points regarding asset forfeiture and its implications:



Overview of Task Forces

**Joint Operations**:

State and municipal police departments often assign officers to federal task forces (e.g., DEA, FBI) to combat organized crime, drug trafficking, and other serious offenses. This collaboration enhances resource sharing and expertise in tackling complex criminal activities.



Asset Seizure and Forfeiture

**Seizure of Assets**:

During these operations, law enforcement agencies may seize assets believed to be connected to criminal enterprises. This includes cash, property, vehicles, and other valuables.



**Financial Impact**:

The seized assets can amount to millions of dollars, providing significant financial resources that can be redirected towards law enforcement efforts.



Distribution of Forfeiture Funds

**Return to Departments**:

A portion of the money gained from asset forfeiture is returned to the state and municipal departments that contributed personnel and resources to the task forces. This serves as an incentive for local agencies to network with (and participate in) federal agencies’ operations.



**Funding Use**:

The returned funds can be utilized for various purposes, including equipment purchases, training, community programs, and other operational needs.



Oversight and Control

**Police Chiefs' Authority**:

Police chiefs are granted primary oversight over how asset forfeiture funds are spent within their departments. This authority allows them to make decisions that align with the specific needs and priorities of their local jurisdictions.



**Protocols and Spending Parameters**:

Established protocols set clear guidelines on how these funds can be used. These often include restrictions on spending, ensuring that funds are allocated for legitimate law enforcement-related purposes and not for non-police or unrelated expenses.



Restrictions on Elected Officials

**Independence from Political Influence**:

Local elected officials and governing bodies are typically prohibited from dictating how police chiefs allocate asset forfeiture money.



This is designed to:



• Acknowledge and reward the unique sacrifice and the hard (and extremely dangerous) work of law enforcement officers which serve on these task forces

-And-

• Maintain the independence of law enforcement decision-making and to prevent “political interference” in police operational matters.



SUMMATION

The collaboration between local police departments and federal task forces, coupled with the management of asset forfeiture funds, plays a significant role in modern law enforcement strategies.



These seized funds and assets often provide key financial resources for local police departments.



If you have any specific questions or need further information on this topic, feel free to contact the Office of the Chief of Police.



E. P. Reynolds - Chief of Police

12/28/2025

The Hamden SPCP: Strengthening Police & Community Partnerships in conjunction with Hamden Police Department and Keefe Community Center are requesting donations of GENTLY USED & NEW blankets, new socks, gloves, and hats for our Hamden warming centers. Please DM us or email at [email protected] if you need someone to come collect items, otherwise you can drop off at Hamden PD or Keefe Community Center. ❤️🙏🏼❄️