NCJ Number
102510
Date Published
1986
Length
43 pages
Annotation
This 1986 study examined the feasibility of consolidating the investigative units and records systems of the Billings Police Department and the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Department (Montana).
Abstract
An analysis of the organization, functional components, investigative unit operations, and the records section of each agency indicates the feasibility of consolidating the investigative units and records systems of the two agencies. Such a merger would reduce costs for both agencies while ensuring the quality of services required. Inclusion of the Laurel Police Department in the consolidation would not provide any added benefit for this agency. Two consolidation options discussed in this report are the merger of the detective division of the Billings department into the detective division of the sheriff's department under the sheriff's authority or the merger of the two detective divisions into a new unit under the county attorney. The third option discussed is to merge the detective and records divisions of the two agencies under the supervision of the police chief. The advantages and disadvantages of each of these options is discussed without recommending one. General steps for merging are recommended, and financial considerations are reviewed. Appended tabular data, 6-item bibliography, and 18 references.