A Chat with Chief Ernie Cuthbertson - Elizabeth City State University

The Importance of Succession Planning and Leadership Development in Law Enforcement – A Chat with Chief Ernie Cuthbertson

Stephen A. Morreale, Worcester State University, Host: The CopDoc Podcast

Note: This article is created from an interview between Steve Morreale and Ernie Cuthbertson on The CopDoc Podcast.? It has been distilled and synthesized for reading by the author with the assistance of AI, using ChatGPT, a text generator.

Introduction:

In a conversation between Chief Ernie Cuthbertson, then, a captain responsible for ?training at the Greensboro, North Carolina Police Department, and Steve Morreale, the importance of sustainable leadership and effective law enforcement training was emphasized.

Chief Cuthbertson is Chief of the Elizabeth City State University Police Department in North Carolina.

Cuthbertson shares insights on the need for open dialogue, comprehensive training, and organizational development within law enforcement agencies. By examining current challenges and implementing mid-course corrections, Cuthbertson aims to improve service delivery and enhance relationships between officers and citizens.

Their discussion sheds light on the significance of succession planning and leadership development in law enforcement agencies. Dr. Cuthbertson shares his personal journey, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships within the community. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, the dynamics of Greensboro, and the need for effective succession planning strategies.

Building Bridges through Relationships:

Dr. Cuthbertson recalls his formative years in Chester, Pennsylvania, where he developed a strong bond with a local police officer. This connection fostered his interest in law enforcement and shaped his lifelong commitment to service. Throughout his life, he has embraced various roles, from his time in the Marine Corps to his current position in the police force, allowing him to witness the highs and lows of individuals in the community. He believes that law enforcement offers a unique opportunity to be a bridge builder, fostering relationships and providing care to the community.

A Journey from Pennsylvania to North Carolina:

Dr. Cuthbertson explains how his family's relocation from Pennsylvania to North Carolina led him to pursue a career in law enforcement in the latter state. He served in the military, stationed at Camp Pendleton and Camp Lejeune, and also had overseas deployments. After leaving the military, he faced difficulty finding employment, which ultimately led him to join the police force. Driven by a desire to serve and make a difference, he embarked on a 29-year journey in law enforcement.

The Vibrant Community of Greensboro:

As a captain in the Greensboro Police Department, Dr. Cuthbertson provided insights into the city he serves. Greensboro, the third-largest city in North Carolina, boasts a diverse population with a wide range of languages spoken. The city is home to five universities, and it has transitioned from a furniture and textile-based economy to a service-driven one. Dr. Cuthbertson acknowledges the challenges faced by communities like Greensboro, where traditional industries have declined, prompting young people to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Succession Planning and Leadership Development:

The conversation then shifts to the crucial topic of succession planning and leadership development within law enforcement agencies. Dr. Cuthbertson's interest in succession planning originated during his military service, where he learned the importance of continuity and preparedness. Drawing from his academic pursuits and administrative experience, he emphasizes the need to groom future leaders within the department.

He shares a noteworthy example of a nearby police department that has taken a proactive approach to succession planning. By projecting retirements up until 2026, the department has initiated training and development programs to prepare potential successors for leadership roles at all levels. Dr. Cuthbertson believes that law enforcement agencies, regardless of size, can benefit from implementing similar strategies to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.

Engaging the Next Generation of Law Enforcement:

Dr. Cuthbertson highlights the need for law enforcement agencies to involve younger officers in decision-making processes and seek their input on problem-solving. He applauds chiefs like Robert White and Harry Dolan, who empowered patrol officers to make informed decisions, thereby responding more efficiently to community concerns. Dr. Cuthbertson encourages a shift in mindset within law enforcement, placing trust in the capabilities of young officers and embracing their fresh perspectives.

Fostering Dialogue and Training:

Cuthbertson stresses the importance of open and frank conversations with officers involved in day-to-day operations. Recognizing the impact of critical incidents and the influence of media narrowcasting, he highlights the need to consider the entirety of a situation before forming opinions. Additionally, Cuthbertson emphasizes the significance of showcasing success stories in law enforcement to counterbalance negative narratives. By engaging in meaningful dialogue and considering the totality of situations, law enforcement agencies can address issues and foster better relationships with their communities.

Adapting to Changing Needs:

Law enforcement agencies nationwide are facing challenges in recruitment and retention. Cuthbertson acknowledges the impact of retirement rates and the need to reprioritize service delivery. He suggests that agencies should consider revising their approaches to meet evolving community needs. Cuthbertson emphasizes the importance of tailored approaches rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, highlighting the need for interconnectedness within law enforcement agencies and involving the community in discussions. These efforts can lead to meaningful recommendations that benefit both officers and citizens.

Embracing Change and Enhancing Service Delivery:

Cuthbertson points out the advancements in law enforcement tools and techniques, such as the presence of clinicians alongside officers to address mental health issues. This collaborative model, where clinicians step in to assist citizens during crisis situations, holds promise for improving relationships between law enforcement and the community. Cuthbertson believes that sustainable leadership and organizational development are essential in making mid-course corrections and implementing these changes effectively.

Investing in Training and Development:

Cuthbertson discusses the importance of training in law enforcement agencies and the need to increase investment in personnel development. He draws inspiration from various sources, including the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE). Cuthbertson advocates for succession planning, mentorship, and cross-training to cultivate future leaders within law enforcement agencies. By embracing a continuous learning culture and leveraging external resources, agencies can enhance their training regimens and improve readiness in delivering services.

Conclusion:

Ernie Cuthbertson's insights highlight the importance of sustainable leadership and effective training in law enforcement agencies. By fostering open dialogue, adapting to changing needs, embracing change, and investing in training and development, agencies can improve service delivery, strengthen relationships with their communities, and build a more effective and accountable law enforcement system. It is through these concerted efforts that law enforcement can navigate the challenges of the present and shape a better future for both officers and citizens alike.

The conversation between Steve Morreale and Dr. Cuthbertson sheds light on the importance of succession planning and leadership development in law enforcement. The need to groom future leaders, engage young officers, and adapt to changing community dynamics is crucial.

Update: Chief Ernest L. Cuthbertson comes to Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) from the UNC System Office, where he was the Training Director of the UNC System's Public Safety Training Program at the North Carolina DPS Samarcand Training Academy. Prior to that, he worked for the Greensboro, NC, Police Department, reaching the rank of District Command Officer before retiring after 32 years with the agency. He served in many roles within the Greensboro Police Department, including training officer, watch commander, criminal investigation division, gang enforcement unit, and criminal intelligence unit. He concurrently worked as a Criminal Justice adjunct faculty member at North Carolina A&T for 10 years. Cuthbertson is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, where he served on the Marine Corps security detail for the President of the United States and worked on the security team providing internal security for the White House and Camp David.

Reference

Transcript from interview between Steve Morreale and Ernie Cuthbertson, episode #47, November 15, 2021, www.copdoc.podcast.com

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