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Ingram proposes transfer of some DPS function to mayors
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Posted on May 07 1999
Public Safety Commissioner Charles Ingram has proposed the transfer of some police functions to mayors in order to unburden the Department of Public Safety with responsibilities which could be handled by localities.
While DPS is a state function provided by law, and its responsibilities have grown over the years. “The DPS is so huge now, it’s hard for one man to run it,” he said.
As stated in the law, DPS will run the police force, fire service and correction service, but in recent years, it was tasked with additional functions like the Boating Safety Unit and the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
“The Division of Corrections is a full time job in itself,” he said.
In a span of one year, three jailbreaks took place on Saipan. The recent of which happened in February, when eight convicts of serious crime bolted out from jail. In less than a month following their capture, the seven participated in the first prison standoff on Saipan.
According to Ingram, the islands of Saipan, Rota and Tinian have their own unique problems, which is better dealt with by their respective localities.
In most cities, mayors handle their own police force. According to sources, the Office of the Saipan Mayor is reportedly supporting this proposal. A bill which was earlier introduced in the Senate is also pursuing a similar police function extended to mayors.
“In my own opinion, it would mean less cumbersome for DPS and will smoothen its operation,” he said.
Meanwhile, preparations for the construction of the Minimum Security facility in Susupe is underway and DPS officers have been discussing with the Federal agents transfer procedures for the inmates.
