Minden Police Chief Jared McIver and Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker have unveiled plans to enhance safety, crime prevention, and community engagement for 2025. Their initiatives aim to improve preparedness, expand officer training, and leverage technology to better serve residents.
Collaborative Preparedness
Chief McIver emphasized the importance of developing multiple-agency comprehensive response plans for critical incidents in churches, schools, and businesses. “We need a plan for who will be in charge, what radio frequencies will be used, and who will contact EMS and fire departments,” McIver said. The police department has started working with other agencies to finalize these plans, with practical drills planned once the framework is complete.
Sheriff Parker echoed a commitment to collaboration, noting, “Once a year we put on a big event where we test our response, whether that be to an active shooter situation or whatever. One year we had a mock school bus crash that we responded to with Springhill PD.”
Community Engagement
McIver highlighted the department’s role in existing community programs, including events like National Night Out and school initiatives. Additionally, the department plans to host its first Minden Police Association banquet in August and continue popular outreach efforts such as the annual “Grinch” video series.
Sheriff Parker plans to expand training and programs for schools, churches, and civic groups with the addition of a dedicated training deputy. “We currently attend community events and provide training or programs when requested,” Parker said.
Training Enhancements
Both departments are prioritizing officer training. The Minden Police Department will increase firearms training frequency and introduce sessions on defensive tactics, legal updates, and traffic stops. “We will react to a situation with how we train,” McIver stated.
The Sheriff’s Office has completed a training facility at its firing range and plans to expand in-house and external training courses. “We not only train and certify our deputies but also other parish law enforcement officers,” Parker said.
Technology and Data
Technology upgrades are central to both departments’ strategies. McIver is pursuing grants to help fund citywide surveillance cameras, license plate readers, and an additional drone. “Surveillance is key, not to invade privacy, but to identify persons or vehicles and establish timelines,” McIver explained.
Parker highlighted the adoption of software to connect suspects across jurisdictions and plans to expand the functions of the department’s computer-aided dispatch system, including patrol vehicle tracking.
Traffic and Event Safety
Traffic safety remains a priority for both departments, especially during community events. McIver noted heightened security measures, including additional officers at barricades and major gatherings, in response to national trends.
Sheriff Parker reiterated the department’s support for municipal police at parades and festivals, ensuring that events remain secure for attendees. “We have a great working relationship with our fellow parish law enforcement agencies, and we will continue to provide support during parades, festivals, and special events.”
Both leaders underscored their commitment to creating a safer environment for Minden and Webster Parish residents in 2025 through strategic planning, collaboration, and innovation.