Community Corner
California Community Inspires Local Police To 'Push For Excellence'
"Our community goes above and beyond in their willingness to support their police officers," says Officer Tracy Meredith.
First responders are a vital part of our communities, keeping us safe and playing an integral role in daily life. Patch and T-Mobile have partnered on a Ride-Along series to showcase the important work these departments and individuals do every day.
We had the opportunity to speak with Community Outreach Officer Tracy Meredith of the Livermore Police Department to learn more about the department, life as a police officer and the impact of their work.
Can you tell us about the Livermore Police Department?
Officer Meredith: We serve a geographical boundary of approximately 27 square miles with a total population close to 88,000. Our department consists of 108 sworn and 45 non-sworn personnel. We are committed to serving our community in the capacity of Patrol, Detectives, School Resource Officers, K-9 Handlers, RTAC (Real Time Awareness Center), Mounted Police Unit, Animal Services, Crime Prevention Unit, Homeless Liaison, Community Outreach Unit, SWAT, Motor Traffic Officers, Reserve Officers, Cadets, Support Dogs and Volunteers.
What does a typical day look like for a police officer in Livermore?
Officer Meredith: We begin our shift by conducting a pre-flight of our patrol vehicle, verifying the vehicle and equipment are in acceptable working order, and log onto our vehicle computers. We participate in the briefing, which includes all officers on the current shift, [the] shift sergeant and lieutenant. We conduct briefing trainings, policy reviews, watch report findings and current crime trends. We are then available for service and handle dispatched calls, traffic enforcement, proactivity and community engagement.
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Can you tell us a bit about your career in law enforcement and what inspired you to pursue this line of work?
Officer Meredith: Since I was a young girl, I wanted to be a police officer like my grandfather and uncles. I would listen to the stories about their careers and was captivated. I did not pursue this career until later in life because I chose to be a stay-at-home mother to my children. I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Management and became a Police Officer for Modesto Police at 39 years old. I lateraled to Livermore Police two years ago and am thankful for the community which I serve.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Livermore community?
Officer Meredith: Our community goes above and beyond in their willingness to support their police officers. Our community is extremely active in serving Livermore as faithful Livermore Police volunteers, Neighborhood Watch Captains, Community Police Academy members and the list goes on. Together, we have created a trustworthy and transparent relationship which we value and celebrate.
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Can you share a memorable experience from your time with the department?
Officer Meredith: In October 2023, there was an attempted armed robbery at a gun store in Livermore. Officers were dispatched and arrived on scene. Officers displayed highly trained tactics, competent life-saving measures, bravery and intelligence. Detectives arrived on scene and conducted a thorough investigation. One of Livermore Police’s support dogs was successful at calming an 8-year-old witness. This incident was an extremely intense and possibly volatile situation, but was handled in all aspects with professionalism, competence and empathy.
What advice would you offer to someone considering becoming a first responder?
Officer Meredith: The POST police academy is both physically and mentally demanding, so preparing your mindset and physical fitness is crucial for success. I would suggest pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, although not necessary. You must complete a POST Pellet-B Exam, achieving a passing score of 50, and a WSTB Physical Agility Test, achieving a passing score of 320. Police officers are held to a higher standard, which requires honesty and accountability.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with the community about the department?
Officer Meredith: We are dedicated to our mission: Service with Honor, Protection with Purpose. Our community is what inspires us to push for excellence in all aspects of our careers. We are constantly learning, training, evaluating and improving for each member of our community and to provide an exemplary role model for all.
More About the Livermore Police Department
The Livermore Police Department offers several ways for individuals to get involved in public safety, including:
- Career Opportunities — As of the time of publication, open positions include police officers, community service specialists and dispatchers; job requirements can be found at the link.
- Reserve Police Officers — Volunteer reserve officers serve as “backup” and other support functions, from traffic control to event security; additional details on reserve police officer positions can be found here.
- Community Police Academy — Open to adults living and/or working in Livermore, this free 14-week program provides insight into the Livermore Police Department and the law enforcement profession. Graduates of the program are invited to join the Community Police Academy Alumni, the primary source of the Livermore Police Department’s volunteer base.
- Police Explorer Program — The Explorer Program offers educational training opportunities for youth ages 14-21 who are interested in exploring a career in law enforcement.
For more information, visit the Livermore Police Department and explore opportunities to serve your community!
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