Preview
ROB BONTA
Attorney General of California
- 2 KRISTIN M . DAILY
Supervising Deputy Attorney General
•3 JAMES F. CURRAN
Deputy Attomey General
4 State Bar No. 142041
1300 I Street, Suite 125
,5 P.O. Box 944255 FEB 1 6 2023
Sacramento, CA 94244-2550
6 Telephone: (916)210-6113 By:. F iV|i3caonald..
Fax: (916) 324-5567 Ueputy Clerk
7 E-mail: James.Curran@doj.ca.gov
Attorneys for Defendant
8 California Highway Patrol
9 SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
10 COUNTY OF SACRAMENTO
12
13
DAVID RIDGE, Case No. 34-2019-00265393
14
Plaintiff, DECLARATION OF DAVID MUNIS IN
15 SUPPORT OF CHP'S MOTION FOR
SUMMARY JUDGMENT OR
16 SUMMARY ADJUDICATION
17 THE CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL; Date: March 2, 2023
and DOES 1-100, inclusive. Time: 1:30 PM
18 Dept: 53 '
Defendants. Judge: Hon. Richard K. Sueyoshi
19 Reservation: 2632731
Trial Date: April 3, 2023
20 Action Filed-: September 23, 2019
21
22 1, David Munis, declare as follows:
23 1. I am a sergeant with the California Highway Patrol. Between May 2019 and January
24 2022,1 was a member of the CHP Academy Administrative Services Unit, which is the Office of
25 Primary Interest for CHP's Uniform Policy, contained in Highway Patrol Manual (HPM) 73.5.'
26 As part of my work with the CHP Academy Administrative Services Unit (ASU), I was tasked
27
' Since January 13, 2022, I have been assigned as the sergeant in charge of the CHP
28 Academy Staff Office.
Declaration of Sgt. Munis in Supporl of MSJ (34-2019-00265393)
1 with becoming a subject matter expert on CHP's Uniform Policy, which includes policies on what
2 uniform and equipment items are allowed to be used or worn by CHP patrol officers and other
3 CHP personnel while on duty. The ASU is responsible for managing proposed revisions and
4 additions to HPM 73.5 that it receives from the Uniform Committee. The ASU submits those to
5 the proper recipients, including the Commissioner of CHP. If the Commissioner approves a
6' revision or addition to HPM 73.5, the ASU word-processes the revision or addition and oversees
7 the updating and distribution of the affected section of HPM 73.5. I personally participated in the
8 above activities and tasks while assigned to the ASU. When I became the supervising sergeant of
9 ASU, I supervised the personnel carrying out these activities and tasks. I therefore have personal
10 knowledge of the following facts and could competently testify to their veracity if called upon to
11 do so. Chapter 1 of HPM 73.5, page 1-3, provides: "The wearing of uniform items,
12 accouterments, or equipment not authorized by this manual is prohibited." Attached as Exhibit 4
13 is a true and correct excerpt from Chapter 1 of HPM 73.5 containing the quoted provision at p. 1-
14 3. Chapter 6 of HPM 73.5 provides that duty belt support suspenders may be utilized on duty as
15 long as the suspenders are worn under the uniform shirt and are not visible. Attached as Exhibit
16 5 is a true and correct excerpt from Chapter 6 of HPM 73.5 containing the quoted provision at p.
17 6-15.
18 2. CHP patrol officers are required, while performing normal enforcement duties by
19 patrolling the highways in a vehicle or on a motorcycle, to fix certain equipment, e.g., pistols,
20 ammunition pouches, handcuffs, and pepper spray, to a leather belt, known as the "duty belt" or
21 "gun belt." The "duty" or "gun" belt is worn over the officer's trouser belt. CHP has never
22 approved external (meaning worn over the uniform shirt), load-bearing vests (ELBVs) for use by
23 its patrol officers.
24 3. CHP does allow certain of its personnel to wear external vests. Pilots and copilots in
25 CHP's Air Operations Units, due to the cramped dimensions of aircraft cockpits, are allowed the
26 option of wearing a vest with pouches in which ammunition magazines, first aid kits and other
27 equipment are carried. In order to minimize interference with flight operations, these aviation
28 vests include a holster in which pilots' and copilots' sidearms (pistols) are secured, but not on the
2
Declaration of Sgt. Munis in Suppon of MSJ (34-2019-00265393)
1 hip, where patrol officers' sidearms are secured in holsters attached to the duty belt. This allows
2 these aviation personnel to have a weapon on them, if needed in the event of a landing or a crash,
3 without the sidearm taking up as much space in the hip or waist area in the cockpit seat. These
4 aviation personnel are only allowed to wear the external vest while in flight or immediately
5 before and after a flight. Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) officers are allowed to wear
6 external vests to which additional weapons and other equipment, not carried or worn by patrol
7 officers, are attached. Certain Investigative Services Unit (ISU) personnel wear external, ballistic
8- plate-carrier vests, with "CHP" inscribed on them to identify themselves as law enforcement,
9 while serving warrants or conducting raids. ISU personnel normally wear plain clothes, and are
10 allowed to wear these vests only while wearing plain clothes and while conducting those
11 activities. The vests that ISU personnel wear are designed to provide ballistic protection rather
12 than to bear the weight of equipment. The vests utilized by these aviation, SWAT and ISU
13 personnel thus are different in design, appearance and function from the ELBV that Plaintiff
14 David Ridge requested to wear as an accommodation of his physical problems.
15 4. CHP's Uniform Committee is required by policy to conduct at least one meeting
16 annually. However, the Uniform Committee has the discretion to meet more frequently, and
17 often holds bi-annual or quarterly meetings. Attached as Exhibit 1 is a true and correct copy of
18 the minutes, in memorandum format, of the Second Quarter 2014 Uniform Committee Meeting,
19 held on June 25, 2014 (see opening paragraph of Exh. 1 on p. 1) at the CHP Academy in West
20 Sacramento. Officer E.K. Knudsen, then Chief of the Administrative Services Division, prepared
21 Exhibit 1 in the ordinary course of Officer Knudsen's duties and finalized Exhibit 1 on or about
22 June 25, 2014. Pages 2-3 of Exhibit 1 cover a proposal submitted to the Uniform Committee by
23 Officer Todd Kovaletz for an ELBV, referred to at page 2 of Exhibit 1 as a "separate vest
24 carrier." The minutes reflect (see p. 3 of Exh. 1) that the Committee "was impressed with the
25 concept but felt the exterior vest carrier posed an officer safety issue due to areas around the
26 shoulder and base of the vest carrier that.could be easily grabbed," and that the Committee "also
27 felt that the overall look of the system was a bit sloppy since the base of the vest carrier did not
28 tuck into the uniform pants, yet hovered around the top of the duty belt." The proposal was not
3
Declaration of Sgt. Munis in Support of MSJ (34-2019-00265393)
1 approved by the Committee as no member moved for its approval (see p. 3 of Exh. 1: "The item
2 died for lack of a motion").
3 5. Attached as Exhibit 2 is a true and correct copy of the minutes, in memorandum format,
4 of the First Quarter 2017 Uniform Committee Meeting, held on March 21, 2017 (see p. 2 of
5 Exhibit 2 - "Opening Items") at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento. Officer M.J. Brunet,
6 then Chief of the Administrative Services Division and Chair of the Uniform Committee,
7 prepared Exhibit 2 in the ordinary course of Officer Brunet's duties and finalized Exhibit 2 on or
8 about April 7, 2017. The minutes reilecl (sec "New Business," p. 2 of Exh. 2) that Officer Erik
9 Mallory presented a sample ELBV at the First Quarter 2017 meeting. The minutes further reflect
10 that the Committee "responded favorably to the vest's capabilities, and the ease with which it can
11 be donned and removed." (Exh. 2, p. 2.) However, the minutes further reflect that the Committee
12 agreed that "the vest's appearance must be refined and the color matched to the current tan
13 uniform before moving forward," and that Officer Mallory would "work with the vendor on the
14 vest's appearance, and in the meantime he [Officer Mallory] will present the vest to die
15 Departmental Occupational Safety Board." (Exh. 2, p. 2.)
16 6. Attached as Exhibit 3 is a true and coirect copy of the minutes, in memorandum format,
17 of the Second Quarter 2017 Uniform Committee Meeting, held on July 1 8, 2017 (see p. 2 of
18 Exhibit 3 - "Opening Items") at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento. Officer M.J. Brunet,
19 then Chief of the Administrative Services Division and Chair of the Uniform Committee,
20 prepared Exhibit 3 in the ordinary course of Officer Brunet's duties and finalized Exhibit 3 on or
21 about July 18, 2017. The minutes reflect (see "Old Business," p. 2.of Exh. 3) that Officer Erik
22 Mallory had presented a sample ELBV at the First Quarter 2017 meeting. The minutes further
23 reflect that the Committee had encouraged Officer Mallory to continue "trying to make the vest
24 closer to the look of our uniform." (Exh. 3, p. 2.) The minutes further reflect that the Committee
25 was "eager to see his next sample vest." (Exh. 3, p. 2.) I was deposed in this lawsuit on October
26 13, 2021. As part of my work preparing to give that deposition, 1 reviewed all of the Uniform
27 Committee Meeting Minutes available up to that time. My review of Uniform Committee
28 meeting minutes revealed that no other minutes recorded further consideration of a new sample
4
Declaration of Sgt. Munis in Support of MSJ (34-2019-00265393)
vest from Officer Mallory. 1 therefore am informed and believe, based on my review of the
2 committee's minutes, that the Uniform Committee never approved an IILBV sample or pi'opo.sal
3 submitted by Officer Mallory.
^ 7. The Commissioner of CHP reviews recommendations by the Uniform Committee
^ concerning uniform and equipment change proposals and makes final decisions on these
6
proposals. No CHP Commissioner has approved the use-by CHP patrol officers of external, load-
7
bearing vests (i.e., load-bearing vests worn over the uniform shirt). Therefore,.CHP has never
8
g - approved external load-bearing vests for use by its patrol officers. CHP denied Plaintiffs request
10 that he be allowed to wear an ELBV because CHP has never approved external load-beai'ing vests
for use by its patrol officers and because of the same safety and a:ppearance concerns reflected in
12
the meeting minutes described above. However, CHP offered Plaintiff an alternative
13
14 accommodation, the Back Defender, that CHP has allowed its Patrol Officers to use because the
15 Back Defender is a suspenders system that is worn under the uniform shirt and therefore does not
16 pose the appearance and sal^ty-related disadvantages posed by ELBVs. Because the'Back
Defender is worn under the uniform shirt and is not visible, the Back Defender complies with
18 Chapter 1 of HPM 73.5 (see Exh. 5 at p. 6-15)
19
20 I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the
21 foregoing is true and correct. Signed on December/5; 2022 at West Sacramento, California
22 / k
Set. D?lvid Munis
23
SA2019106238
24 36694725.docx
25
26
27
28 „
5
Declaration of Sgt, Munis in Support of MSJ (34-2019-00265393)
EXHIBIT 1
State of Califomia Transportation Agency
Memorandum
Date: June 25, 2014
To: Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff
From DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNlA HIGHWAY PATROL
Administrative Services Division
File No.; 09L19684
Subject: SECOND QUARTER 2014 UNfl^ORM COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
The 2014 second quarter meeting of the Department's Unifonn Committee (UC) was held on
June 25, 2014, at the Academy, in the administrative conference room. .A copy of the agenda is
attached.
The following items were discussed with recommendations noted for Executive Management's
consideration and actions to be taken as appropriate:
OPENING ITEMS
1. Chief Knudsen opened the meeting at 1304 hours by welcoming the UC members and
thanking them for making it a point to be in attendance.
NEW PROPOSALS
1. Cap Piece
Peggy Kropp, Academy PX manager, submitted a proposal to allow officers to purchase
a new "winged-wheel" cap piece in order to replace a cap piece that has been lost or
damaged. This proposal was presented after an officer in an Area office called the
Academy PX and attempted to order ten (10) cap pieces. After a little research Ms.
Kropp concluded that current policy did not dictate whether we could sell cap pieces to
officers. Ms. Kropp contacted the Commissioner's Office to gain further insight
regarding this matter. After a conversation with the Commissioner's Office it was
recommended policy be amended to allow officers to purchase a new cap piece as a
replacement.
On behalf of the Commissioner's Office, Ms. Kropp recommended to the UC that policy
be amended to allow the Academy PX to sell one (1) cap piece to officers as a
Safety, Service, and Security .s^^. An Internationally Accredited Agency
CHP 51 (Rev, 06/2013) OPI 076
Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff
Page 2
June 25, 2014
replacement for cap pieces that have been lost or damaged. The Academy PX will track
each purchase to ensure that not more than one cap piece is sold to each officer.
Subsequent purchases by an officer would have to be justified.
Committee Action: The committee unanimously recommended approval of the cap
piece to be purchased by officers as a replacement,
• Approve Q Disapprove
Assistant Commissioner, Staff Date
I I Approve Q Disapprove
Commissioner . Date
2, Alternate Tan Unifonn with Suspension Svstem
Officer Todd Kovaletz of the Santa Ana Area submitted this proposal for an alternate tan
work uniform with a suspension system designed to alleviate hip and lower back pain,,
This uniform is a Blauer ArmorSkin system, Blauer Uniforms is the cuiTcnt vendor for
the Department's rain gear. Officer Kovaletz wore the unifonn during the presentation.
He also brought a sample suspension system for the UC members to examine and even
try on.
Officer Kovaletz started by explaining the benefits of this system. Benefits such as: it
balanceis the weight of the duty belt between the shoulders and hips and allows for a
looser duty belt fit, improving circulation and decreasing the risk of lower back and hip
pain. The separate vest carrier allows air to circulate beneath the ballistic vest and
dissipate heat. He also noted that the cost for the system is better priced than other
systems on the market with a cost of approximately $200. He stated that each suspension
system is custom fit to each wearer. Additional benefits include a vest carrier that covers
Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff
Page 3
June 25,2014
our current vest and carrier so as to not void the warranty on our Second Chance ballistic
vests.
Officer Kovaletz continued by explaining each piece of the suspension system. He stated
the suspenders are made of a durable nylon webbing material with adjustable padding for
shoulder comfort. It also has quick release hardware that attaches to an officer's current
keepers, regardless of placement, and allows for easy removal of trousers and duty belt.
The system also keeps the duty belt stable in tactical situations. The system also consists
of the ArmorSkin® vest, which covers your existing carrier, and an AmiorSkin® base
shirt, worn as a base-layer.
Committee Recommendation: The committee was impressed with the concept but felt
the exterior vest carrier posed an officer safety issue due to areas around the shoulder and
base of the vest carrier that could be easily grabbed. The committee also felt that the
overall look of the system was a bit sloppy since the base of the vest carrier did not tuck
into the uniform pants, yet hovered around the top of the duty belt:
The item died for lack of a motion.
3, New Uniform for Bicvcle Patrol Unit
Officer Nick Matulonis and Sergeant Matt Stover, Capitol Protection Section, submitted
this proposal for a new unifonn for the bicycle patrol unit. Per the Capitol Protection
Section, who is the Office of Primary Interest (OPI) for the Departments bicycle patrol
unit, related that there is very little regarding an approved uniform for this unit. The
current policy mentions a few general specifications (i,e, dark blue in color, basic
material for each article of clothing, etc), but because the policy is so vague officers are
able to purchase whatever uniform they so choose as long as these limited specifications
are met. Additionally, the manufacture that made our previous bicycle pants has gone out
of business and the Flying Cross shirt that bicycle officers used to wear is no longer
made. As a result, neither the previous shirt nor pants can be purchased. The issue this
creates is a lack of uniformity within the Department, Now that the Departments bicycle
patrol unit is expanding, Officer Matulonis and Sergeant Stover feel uniformity should be
established.
Officer Matulonis introduced each article of clothing, which included a polo shirt, pants,
and waterproof, light-weight jacket. The polo shirt and pants are manufactured by
Bratwear, while thejacket is manufactured by 5.1 1 Tactical,
Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff
Page 4
June 25, 2014
The polo shirt was dark blue in color with a cloth CHP patch affixed to the front. The
back of the polo shirt,had thin reflectorized piping and "CHP" wording. The shirt would
also have the officer's last name embroidered on the front of the shirt, opposite the cloth
badge. The polo shirt is breathable and made of a non-snag polyester material. The cost
for the short sleeve polo shirt would be between $70-$90, The pants were dark blue in
color with zippered pockets, tapered cuffs, and of a nylon-type material, Thejacket was
made of a light-weight, waterproof design that could be easily stored when not in use.
Committee Recommendations: The committee felt that unifonnity and a more defined
policy would be good for the bicycle patrol unit. The committee recommends that the
uniform manufacturers (Bratwear and 5.11 Tactical) provide specifications for each
article they represent. Once such information, along with price, is received the unifonn
committee is willing to revisit this proposal at a future meeting.
The item died for lack of a motion.
4. Alternate Neck Tie
Sergeant Christensen introduced an alternate neck de to be considered for wear. The
neck tie is manufactured by G,I,T,inc, 7"he neck de is a breakaway style tie with a velcro
fastener and permanent knot. The neck tie is royal blue in color and the material is 100%
polyester. The small (back) portion of the neck tie is zippered allowing for quick and
easy wear. The front portion of the neck tie is 3 inches wide at the widest part and is
available in a variety of lengths.
The velcro fastener increases officer safety because the tie will break away from the neck
when force is applied. The permanent knot construction allows the shirt collar to lay flat
when the tie is worn.
Committee Recommendation: The committee was interested in this proposal and
agreed to revisit this item in a future meeting once additional specifications can be
obtained from the manufacturer. The committee would also like to know the purchase
price vs, retail price to visit cost effectiveness for the Department and the employees, as
this is a smaller company.
The item died for lack of a motion.
Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff
Page 5
June 25, 2014
UPDATES
The following items.from previous minutes were discussed:
1. High-visibility Reflective Safety Vest
Assistant Chief Falat reintroduced this item to the UC by providing a sample of the
modified High-visibility Reflective Safety Vest (HRSV). This HRSV conformed to our
current specifications but had the letters "CHP" in black print on the front of the vest in a
vertical pattern on the reflectorized striping. It also had "CHP" in black print on the
back of the vest centered between the horizontal reflectorized striping located toward the
top of the vest. The vest also had the departmental cloth badge affixed to the front of the
vest.
The "CHP" lettering on the front and back of the HRSV would allow officers to be
easily identifiable when the vest is worn. The addition of the cloth badge would assist
officers in that they would not have to remove and replace their badge every time the
HRSV is put on or taken off. Additionally, the material the HRSV is made of is not
strong enough to adequately support the weight of the departmental badge.
Committee Recommendation: The committee was in favor of the "CHP" lettering on
the front and back of the vest. The committee also thought the cloth badge was a
positive addition to the vest. The committee recommends we contact Business Supply
Services to see about having the lettering "CHP", in black print, and departmental cloth
badge added to our current HRSV.
Committee Action: The committee did not act on the proposal for an updated HRSV at
this time. This item will be revisited at the next meeting.
2, Baseball Cap for Motors
Assistant Chief Falat further inquired about motorcycle officers wearing a CHP baseball
cap while in the field but not during active enforcement. The committee briefly
discussed appropriate times motor officers would wear a CHP approved baseball cap.
The appropriate dmes included, but were not limited to, while directing traffic, at a
traffic collision, on a traffic stop, or any other time the motor officer was not in the act of
riding. The committee also discussed the approval of a tan-colored baseball cap that was
previously proposed.
Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff
Page 6
June 25,2014
Committee Recommendation: The committee was in favor of motors wearing a
baseball cap if it was worn during times as mentioned above, and if it was the already
approved departmental blue baseball cap with Califomia Highway Patrol patch.
Committee Action: The committee did not act on the proposal for a baseball cap for
motors and chose to revisit the proposal once reviewed by the Occupational Safety
Committee.
3, Ma.gnetic Name Plate
The committee followed up on the magnetic name plate for uniforms, A sample of a
magnetic name plate was brought in for the committee members to see. Specifications
and cost still need to be provided before the committee can move forward with any
approvals. Officer LaBeske to follow up on information needed on magnetic name plate.
Committee Recommendation: The committee is still interested in this proposed item
but will revisit it once additional information can be presented.
Committee Action: The committee did not act on the proposal for a magnetic name
plate and agreed to move this item to the next meeting.
ADDITIONAL TOPICS
I, Captain Vacancy
The committee reviewed and discussed the two applicadons received for the vacant
Captain position. The applicants included Captain Phil Gonzales, Protective Services
Division, and Captain Amy Mangan, Oceanside Area, The committee felt both
applicants were very qualified and would be an asset to the UC,
Committee Recommendation; After further discussion, Chief Knudsen's
recommendation for Captain, on behalf of the UC, was for Captain Amy Mangan,
Assistant Chief Falat agreed with Chief Knudsen's recommendation and motioned for a
vote.
Committee Action: The committee unanimously agreed on Captain Amy Mangan to
serve as Captain on the UC, Notifications to be sent to both applicants.
Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff
Page 7
June 25, 2014
ROIJNDTABLE DISCUSSION
1. Captain Insignia
Lieutenant Irigoyen inquired about a possible change allowing Lieutenant-Commanders
to be distinguished from Captains by wearing an oak leaf insignia instead of captain's
bars. Chief Knudsen related this was informally discussed at different times but is not
being formally entertained,
2. Alternate Tan Work Pants
Sergeant Bartholomew inquired about the progress on the alternate tan work pants.
Sergeant Christensen related the pants were approved by the Commissioners and will be
presented to Top Management next month forfinalapproval,
3. Motorcycle Rider Uniform
Assistant Chief Falat related the kevlar motorcycle uniform that was presented at the
previous UC meeting went before the Occupational Safety Committee for review and
was well received. The uniform is now being presented to Top Management for review
and approval.
NEXT MEETING
The next UC meedng has been scheduled as follows:
Tuesday, October 28, 2014 from 1300-1530 hours at the Academy.
Should you have questions or require additional infomiadon, please contact me at
(916) 843-3500,
E, K, KNUDSEN
Chief
EXHIBIT 2
state of CoHfornia TrniisportJitioii Agcucy
Memorandum
Date: April 7,2017
To: Assistant Commissioner, Staff
From: DEPARTMEN T OF CAHFORNTA HIGHWAY PA1ROL
Personnel and Training Division
File No.; 090.12324.12573.091.1st Qtr 2017 Mtg Minutes
Subject: FIRST QUARTER 2017 UNIFORM COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
ATTENDEES
Members:
Chief Mark Brunet, Personnel and Training Division
Assistant Chief Elizabeth Barkley, Northern Division
Captain Amy Mangan, Ocoansidc Ai'ea
Lieutenant Tony Coronado, Inland Division
Sergeant Rick Goulding, Bakersfield Area
Officer Kirk Bailor, Office of the Assistant Cominissiotiei", Staff
Ex-Officio Members:
Ms. Lidia Narvacz, Academy, Academy Services Program
Sergeant Scott Christensea, Academy, Administrative Services Unit
Officer Brandon Smifli, Academy, Admiiiistrativo Sei-vices Unit
Lieutenant Fratik Newman, Office of Employee Safety and Assistance
Officer Jon Peregoy, Office of Employee Safety and Assistance
Ms. Peggy Kropp, Academy Post Exchange
Ms. Jana Crump, Business Services Section
Guest:
Ms, lOu'en Cagle, Academy, Administrative Services Unit
Safety, Service, and Security .^te^. An Internationally A ccredlted Agency
C.4P 51 (Rev. Oflr'2013) OPI 078
Assistant Commissionei", Staff
Page 2
April?, 2017.
OPENING ITEMS
The first quarter 2017 meeting of tlie Department's Unifurra Committee (UC) was held on
March 21,2017, at 1000 hours in the Academy's Administrative Conference Room. The
meeting began with the introduction of everyone in attendance.
OLD BUSINESS
1. I ime Piece Definition - The Commissioner approved the definition of *'time piece" as a
pocket watch, wrist watch, or cellular telephone. ,
2. Special Response Team Vest Pia^tches - Tlie following patches have boon approved by
the Commi.ssioner for the Special Response Team vest: United Statesflagto be affixed
to the front of the vest; California Highway Patrol (CHP) shoulder patches; and chevron
patches for sergeants, to be placed under the CHP shoulder patches.
3. Rapid Deployment Tticttcal Vest Cai rlci- - The Rapid Deployment Tactical Vest
Carrier has been approved by the Commissioner, Chief Biunet has directed the Academy
to write a Cororaunications Network message in order to nodfy all unifornied personnel
of this newly approved uniform item. Lidia Nai-vaez stated she will work with
Information Management Division to have the vest specifications uploaded onto
STARPOINT.
4. run Vmtv (Baseball) Cap - I'he tan eap has been disapproved by the Commissioner.
No further action will be taken at thi.g time.
NEW BUSINESS
1. External Load Bearing Vest - Officer Erilc Mallory from the Yreka Area presented an
external load bearing vest for consideration. Ho brought a sample and explained the
healtb benefits and comfort of carrying items in thefi-ontpockets of the vest, rather than
on tlie duty bolt. The UC responded favorably to the vest's capabilities, and the ease with
which it can be donned and removed. However, the UC agreed the vest's appearance
must be refined and the color matched to the current tan uniform before moving forward.
Olficer Mallory wiU work with tlie vendor on the vest's appearance, and in the raeanthne
he will present the vest to the Departmental Occupational Safety Board.
2. Mourning Ribbon for the Clotli Badge - Ms. ICropp provided a sample mourning
ribbon to be worn on iihc depivrtmental cloth badge. The UC unanimously approved the
mourning ribbon provide
Preview
ROB BONTA Attorney General of California - 2 KRISTIN M . DAILY Supervising Deputy Attorney General •3 JAMES F. CURRAN Deputy Attomey General 4 State Bar No. 142041 1300 I Street, Suite 125 ,5 P.O. Box 944255 FEB 1 6 2023 Sacramento, CA 94244-2550 6 Telephone: (916)210-6113 By:. F iV|i3caonald.. Fax: (916) 324-5567 Ueputy Clerk 7 E-mail: James.Curran@doj.ca.gov Attorneys for Defendant 8 California Highway Patrol 9 SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA 10 COUNTY OF SACRAMENTO 12 13 DAVID RIDGE, Case No. 34-2019-00265393 14 Plaintiff, DECLARATION OF DAVID MUNIS IN 15 SUPPORT OF CHP'S MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT OR 16 SUMMARY ADJUDICATION 17 THE CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL; Date: March 2, 2023 and DOES 1-100, inclusive. Time: 1:30 PM 18 Dept: 53 ' Defendants. Judge: Hon. Richard K. Sueyoshi 19 Reservation: 2632731 Trial Date: April 3, 2023 20 Action Filed-: September 23, 2019 21 22 1, David Munis, declare as follows: 23 1. I am a sergeant with the California Highway Patrol. Between May 2019 and January 24 2022,1 was a member of the CHP Academy Administrative Services Unit, which is the Office of 25 Primary Interest for CHP's Uniform Policy, contained in Highway Patrol Manual (HPM) 73.5.' 26 As part of my work with the CHP Academy Administrative Services Unit (ASU), I was tasked 27 ' Since January 13, 2022, I have been assigned as the sergeant in charge of the CHP 28 Academy Staff Office. Declaration of Sgt. Munis in Supporl of MSJ (34-2019-00265393) 1 with becoming a subject matter expert on CHP's Uniform Policy, which includes policies on what 2 uniform and equipment items are allowed to be used or worn by CHP patrol officers and other 3 CHP personnel while on duty. The ASU is responsible for managing proposed revisions and 4 additions to HPM 73.5 that it receives from the Uniform Committee. The ASU submits those to 5 the proper recipients, including the Commissioner of CHP. If the Commissioner approves a 6' revision or addition to HPM 73.5, the ASU word-processes the revision or addition and oversees 7 the updating and distribution of the affected section of HPM 73.5. I personally participated in the 8 above activities and tasks while assigned to the ASU. When I became the supervising sergeant of 9 ASU, I supervised the personnel carrying out these activities and tasks. I therefore have personal 10 knowledge of the following facts and could competently testify to their veracity if called upon to 11 do so. Chapter 1 of HPM 73.5, page 1-3, provides: "The wearing of uniform items, 12 accouterments, or equipment not authorized by this manual is prohibited." Attached as Exhibit 4 13 is a true and correct excerpt from Chapter 1 of HPM 73.5 containing the quoted provision at p. 1- 14 3. Chapter 6 of HPM 73.5 provides that duty belt support suspenders may be utilized on duty as 15 long as the suspenders are worn under the uniform shirt and are not visible. Attached as Exhibit 16 5 is a true and correct excerpt from Chapter 6 of HPM 73.5 containing the quoted provision at p. 17 6-15. 18 2. CHP patrol officers are required, while performing normal enforcement duties by 19 patrolling the highways in a vehicle or on a motorcycle, to fix certain equipment, e.g., pistols, 20 ammunition pouches, handcuffs, and pepper spray, to a leather belt, known as the "duty belt" or 21 "gun belt." The "duty" or "gun" belt is worn over the officer's trouser belt. CHP has never 22 approved external (meaning worn over the uniform shirt), load-bearing vests (ELBVs) for use by 23 its patrol officers. 24 3. CHP does allow certain of its personnel to wear external vests. Pilots and copilots in 25 CHP's Air Operations Units, due to the cramped dimensions of aircraft cockpits, are allowed the 26 option of wearing a vest with pouches in which ammunition magazines, first aid kits and other 27 equipment are carried. In order to minimize interference with flight operations, these aviation 28 vests include a holster in which pilots' and copilots' sidearms (pistols) are secured, but not on the 2 Declaration of Sgt. Munis in Suppon of MSJ (34-2019-00265393) 1 hip, where patrol officers' sidearms are secured in holsters attached to the duty belt. This allows 2 these aviation personnel to have a weapon on them, if needed in the event of a landing or a crash, 3 without the sidearm taking up as much space in the hip or waist area in the cockpit seat. These 4 aviation personnel are only allowed to wear the external vest while in flight or immediately 5 before and after a flight. Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) officers are allowed to wear 6 external vests to which additional weapons and other equipment, not carried or worn by patrol 7 officers, are attached. Certain Investigative Services Unit (ISU) personnel wear external, ballistic 8- plate-carrier vests, with "CHP" inscribed on them to identify themselves as law enforcement, 9 while serving warrants or conducting raids. ISU personnel normally wear plain clothes, and are 10 allowed to wear these vests only while wearing plain clothes and while conducting those 11 activities. The vests that ISU personnel wear are designed to provide ballistic protection rather 12 than to bear the weight of equipment. The vests utilized by these aviation, SWAT and ISU 13 personnel thus are different in design, appearance and function from the ELBV that Plaintiff 14 David Ridge requested to wear as an accommodation of his physical problems. 15 4. CHP's Uniform Committee is required by policy to conduct at least one meeting 16 annually. However, the Uniform Committee has the discretion to meet more frequently, and 17 often holds bi-annual or quarterly meetings. Attached as Exhibit 1 is a true and correct copy of 18 the minutes, in memorandum format, of the Second Quarter 2014 Uniform Committee Meeting, 19 held on June 25, 2014 (see opening paragraph of Exh. 1 on p. 1) at the CHP Academy in West 20 Sacramento. Officer E.K. Knudsen, then Chief of the Administrative Services Division, prepared 21 Exhibit 1 in the ordinary course of Officer Knudsen's duties and finalized Exhibit 1 on or about 22 June 25, 2014. Pages 2-3 of Exhibit 1 cover a proposal submitted to the Uniform Committee by 23 Officer Todd Kovaletz for an ELBV, referred to at page 2 of Exhibit 1 as a "separate vest 24 carrier." The minutes reflect (see p. 3 of Exh. 1) that the Committee "was impressed with the 25 concept but felt the exterior vest carrier posed an officer safety issue due to areas around the 26 shoulder and base of the vest carrier that.could be easily grabbed," and that the Committee "also 27 felt that the overall look of the system was a bit sloppy since the base of the vest carrier did not 28 tuck into the uniform pants, yet hovered around the top of the duty belt." The proposal was not 3 Declaration of Sgt. Munis in Support of MSJ (34-2019-00265393) 1 approved by the Committee as no member moved for its approval (see p. 3 of Exh. 1: "The item 2 died for lack of a motion"). 3 5. Attached as Exhibit 2 is a true and correct copy of the minutes, in memorandum format, 4 of the First Quarter 2017 Uniform Committee Meeting, held on March 21, 2017 (see p. 2 of 5 Exhibit 2 - "Opening Items") at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento. Officer M.J. Brunet, 6 then Chief of the Administrative Services Division and Chair of the Uniform Committee, 7 prepared Exhibit 2 in the ordinary course of Officer Brunet's duties and finalized Exhibit 2 on or 8 about April 7, 2017. The minutes reilecl (sec "New Business," p. 2 of Exh. 2) that Officer Erik 9 Mallory presented a sample ELBV at the First Quarter 2017 meeting. The minutes further reflect 10 that the Committee "responded favorably to the vest's capabilities, and the ease with which it can 11 be donned and removed." (Exh. 2, p. 2.) However, the minutes further reflect that the Committee 12 agreed that "the vest's appearance must be refined and the color matched to the current tan 13 uniform before moving forward," and that Officer Mallory would "work with the vendor on the 14 vest's appearance, and in the meantime he [Officer Mallory] will present the vest to die 15 Departmental Occupational Safety Board." (Exh. 2, p. 2.) 16 6. Attached as Exhibit 3 is a true and coirect copy of the minutes, in memorandum format, 17 of the Second Quarter 2017 Uniform Committee Meeting, held on July 1 8, 2017 (see p. 2 of 18 Exhibit 3 - "Opening Items") at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento. Officer M.J. Brunet, 19 then Chief of the Administrative Services Division and Chair of the Uniform Committee, 20 prepared Exhibit 3 in the ordinary course of Officer Brunet's duties and finalized Exhibit 3 on or 21 about July 18, 2017. The minutes reflect (see "Old Business," p. 2.of Exh. 3) that Officer Erik 22 Mallory had presented a sample ELBV at the First Quarter 2017 meeting. The minutes further 23 reflect that the Committee had encouraged Officer Mallory to continue "trying to make the vest 24 closer to the look of our uniform." (Exh. 3, p. 2.) The minutes further reflect that the Committee 25 was "eager to see his next sample vest." (Exh. 3, p. 2.) I was deposed in this lawsuit on October 26 13, 2021. As part of my work preparing to give that deposition, 1 reviewed all of the Uniform 27 Committee Meeting Minutes available up to that time. My review of Uniform Committee 28 meeting minutes revealed that no other minutes recorded further consideration of a new sample 4 Declaration of Sgt. Munis in Support of MSJ (34-2019-00265393) vest from Officer Mallory. 1 therefore am informed and believe, based on my review of the 2 committee's minutes, that the Uniform Committee never approved an IILBV sample or pi'opo.sal 3 submitted by Officer Mallory. ^ 7. The Commissioner of CHP reviews recommendations by the Uniform Committee ^ concerning uniform and equipment change proposals and makes final decisions on these 6 proposals. No CHP Commissioner has approved the use-by CHP patrol officers of external, load- 7 bearing vests (i.e., load-bearing vests worn over the uniform shirt). Therefore,.CHP has never 8 g - approved external load-bearing vests for use by its patrol officers. CHP denied Plaintiffs request 10 that he be allowed to wear an ELBV because CHP has never approved external load-beai'ing vests for use by its patrol officers and because of the same safety and a:ppearance concerns reflected in 12 the meeting minutes described above. However, CHP offered Plaintiff an alternative 13 14 accommodation, the Back Defender, that CHP has allowed its Patrol Officers to use because the 15 Back Defender is a suspenders system that is worn under the uniform shirt and therefore does not 16 pose the appearance and sal^ty-related disadvantages posed by ELBVs. Because the'Back Defender is worn under the uniform shirt and is not visible, the Back Defender complies with 18 Chapter 1 of HPM 73.5 (see Exh. 5 at p. 6-15) 19 20 I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the 21 foregoing is true and correct. Signed on December/5; 2022 at West Sacramento, California 22 / k Set. D?lvid Munis 23 SA2019106238 24 36694725.docx 25 26 27 28 „ 5 Declaration of Sgt, Munis in Support of MSJ (34-2019-00265393) EXHIBIT 1 State of Califomia Transportation Agency Memorandum Date: June 25, 2014 To: Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff From DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNlA HIGHWAY PATROL Administrative Services Division File No.; 09L19684 Subject: SECOND QUARTER 2014 UNfl^ORM COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES The 2014 second quarter meeting of the Department's Unifonn Committee (UC) was held on June 25, 2014, at the Academy, in the administrative conference room. .A copy of the agenda is attached. The following items were discussed with recommendations noted for Executive Management's consideration and actions to be taken as appropriate: OPENING ITEMS 1. Chief Knudsen opened the meeting at 1304 hours by welcoming the UC members and thanking them for making it a point to be in attendance. NEW PROPOSALS 1. Cap Piece Peggy Kropp, Academy PX manager, submitted a proposal to allow officers to purchase a new "winged-wheel" cap piece in order to replace a cap piece that has been lost or damaged. This proposal was presented after an officer in an Area office called the Academy PX and attempted to order ten (10) cap pieces. After a little research Ms. Kropp concluded that current policy did not dictate whether we could sell cap pieces to officers. Ms. Kropp contacted the Commissioner's Office to gain further insight regarding this matter. After a conversation with the Commissioner's Office it was recommended policy be amended to allow officers to purchase a new cap piece as a replacement. On behalf of the Commissioner's Office, Ms. Kropp recommended to the UC that policy be amended to allow the Academy PX to sell one (1) cap piece to officers as a Safety, Service, and Security .s^^. An Internationally Accredited Agency CHP 51 (Rev, 06/2013) OPI 076 Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff Page 2 June 25, 2014 replacement for cap pieces that have been lost or damaged. The Academy PX will track each purchase to ensure that not more than one cap piece is sold to each officer. Subsequent purchases by an officer would have to be justified. Committee Action: The committee unanimously recommended approval of the cap piece to be purchased by officers as a replacement, • Approve Q Disapprove Assistant Commissioner, Staff Date I I Approve Q Disapprove Commissioner . Date 2, Alternate Tan Unifonn with Suspension Svstem Officer Todd Kovaletz of the Santa Ana Area submitted this proposal for an alternate tan work uniform with a suspension system designed to alleviate hip and lower back pain,, This uniform is a Blauer ArmorSkin system, Blauer Uniforms is the cuiTcnt vendor for the Department's rain gear. Officer Kovaletz wore the unifonn during the presentation. He also brought a sample suspension system for the UC members to examine and even try on. Officer Kovaletz started by explaining the benefits of this system. Benefits such as: it balanceis the weight of the duty belt between the shoulders and hips and allows for a looser duty belt fit, improving circulation and decreasing the risk of lower back and hip pain. The separate vest carrier allows air to circulate beneath the ballistic vest and dissipate heat. He also noted that the cost for the system is better priced than other systems on the market with a cost of approximately $200. He stated that each suspension system is custom fit to each wearer. Additional benefits include a vest carrier that covers Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff Page 3 June 25,2014 our current vest and carrier so as to not void the warranty on our Second Chance ballistic vests. Officer Kovaletz continued by explaining each piece of the suspension system. He stated the suspenders are made of a durable nylon webbing material with adjustable padding for shoulder comfort. It also has quick release hardware that attaches to an officer's current keepers, regardless of placement, and allows for easy removal of trousers and duty belt. The system also keeps the duty belt stable in tactical situations. The system also consists of the ArmorSkin® vest, which covers your existing carrier, and an AmiorSkin® base shirt, worn as a base-layer. Committee Recommendation: The committee was impressed with the concept but felt the exterior vest carrier posed an officer safety issue due to areas around the shoulder and base of the vest carrier that could be easily grabbed. The committee also felt that the overall look of the system was a bit sloppy since the base of the vest carrier did not tuck into the uniform pants, yet hovered around the top of the duty belt: The item died for lack of a motion. 3, New Uniform for Bicvcle Patrol Unit Officer Nick Matulonis and Sergeant Matt Stover, Capitol Protection Section, submitted this proposal for a new unifonn for the bicycle patrol unit. Per the Capitol Protection Section, who is the Office of Primary Interest (OPI) for the Departments bicycle patrol unit, related that there is very little regarding an approved uniform for this unit. The current policy mentions a few general specifications (i,e, dark blue in color, basic material for each article of clothing, etc), but because the policy is so vague officers are able to purchase whatever uniform they so choose as long as these limited specifications are met. Additionally, the manufacture that made our previous bicycle pants has gone out of business and the Flying Cross shirt that bicycle officers used to wear is no longer made. As a result, neither the previous shirt nor pants can be purchased. The issue this creates is a lack of uniformity within the Department, Now that the Departments bicycle patrol unit is expanding, Officer Matulonis and Sergeant Stover feel uniformity should be established. Officer Matulonis introduced each article of clothing, which included a polo shirt, pants, and waterproof, light-weight jacket. The polo shirt and pants are manufactured by Bratwear, while thejacket is manufactured by 5.1 1 Tactical, Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff Page 4 June 25, 2014 The polo shirt was dark blue in color with a cloth CHP patch affixed to the front. The back of the polo shirt,had thin reflectorized piping and "CHP" wording. The shirt would also have the officer's last name embroidered on the front of the shirt, opposite the cloth badge. The polo shirt is breathable and made of a non-snag polyester material. The cost for the short sleeve polo shirt would be between $70-$90, The pants were dark blue in color with zippered pockets, tapered cuffs, and of a nylon-type material, Thejacket was made of a light-weight, waterproof design that could be easily stored when not in use. Committee Recommendations: The committee felt that unifonnity and a more defined policy would be good for the bicycle patrol unit. The committee recommends that the uniform manufacturers (Bratwear and 5.11 Tactical) provide specifications for each article they represent. Once such information, along with price, is received the unifonn committee is willing to revisit this proposal at a future meeting. The item died for lack of a motion. 4. Alternate Neck Tie Sergeant Christensen introduced an alternate neck de to be considered for wear. The neck tie is manufactured by G,I,T,inc, 7"he neck de is a breakaway style tie with a velcro fastener and permanent knot. The neck tie is royal blue in color and the material is 100% polyester. The small (back) portion of the neck tie is zippered allowing for quick and easy wear. The front portion of the neck tie is 3 inches wide at the widest part and is available in a variety of lengths. The velcro fastener increases officer safety because the tie will break away from the neck when force is applied. The permanent knot construction allows the shirt collar to lay flat when the tie is worn. Committee Recommendation: The committee was interested in this proposal and agreed to revisit this item in a future meeting once additional specifications can be obtained from the manufacturer. The committee would also like to know the purchase price vs, retail price to visit cost effectiveness for the Department and the employees, as this is a smaller company. The item died for lack of a motion. Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff Page 5 June 25, 2014 UPDATES The following items.from previous minutes were discussed: 1. High-visibility Reflective Safety Vest Assistant Chief Falat reintroduced this item to the UC by providing a sample of the modified High-visibility Reflective Safety Vest (HRSV). This HRSV conformed to our current specifications but had the letters "CHP" in black print on the front of the vest in a vertical pattern on the reflectorized striping. It also had "CHP" in black print on the back of the vest centered between the horizontal reflectorized striping located toward the top of the vest. The vest also had the departmental cloth badge affixed to the front of the vest. The "CHP" lettering on the front and back of the HRSV would allow officers to be easily identifiable when the vest is worn. The addition of the cloth badge would assist officers in that they would not have to remove and replace their badge every time the HRSV is put on or taken off. Additionally, the material the HRSV is made of is not strong enough to adequately support the weight of the departmental badge. Committee Recommendation: The committee was in favor of the "CHP" lettering on the front and back of the vest. The committee also thought the cloth badge was a positive addition to the vest. The committee recommends we contact Business Supply Services to see about having the lettering "CHP", in black print, and departmental cloth badge added to our current HRSV. Committee Action: The committee did not act on the proposal for an updated HRSV at this time. This item will be revisited at the next meeting. 2, Baseball Cap for Motors Assistant Chief Falat further inquired about motorcycle officers wearing a CHP baseball cap while in the field but not during active enforcement. The committee briefly discussed appropriate times motor officers would wear a CHP approved baseball cap. The appropriate dmes included, but were not limited to, while directing traffic, at a traffic collision, on a traffic stop, or any other time the motor officer was not in the act of riding. The committee also discussed the approval of a tan-colored baseball cap that was previously proposed. Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff Page 6 June 25,2014 Committee Recommendation: The committee was in favor of motors wearing a baseball cap if it was worn during times as mentioned above, and if it was the already approved departmental blue baseball cap with Califomia Highway Patrol patch. Committee Action: The committee did not act on the proposal for a baseball cap for motors and chose to revisit the proposal once reviewed by the Occupational Safety Committee. 3, Ma.gnetic Name Plate The committee followed up on the magnetic name plate for uniforms, A sample of a magnetic name plate was brought in for the committee members to see. Specifications and cost still need to be provided before the committee can move forward with any approvals. Officer LaBeske to follow up on information needed on magnetic name plate. Committee Recommendation: The committee is still interested in this proposed item but will revisit it once additional information can be presented. Committee Action: The committee did not act on the proposal for a magnetic name plate and agreed to move this item to the next meeting. ADDITIONAL TOPICS I, Captain Vacancy The committee reviewed and discussed the two applicadons received for the vacant Captain position. The applicants included Captain Phil Gonzales, Protective Services Division, and Captain Amy Mangan, Oceanside Area, The committee felt both applicants were very qualified and would be an asset to the UC, Committee Recommendation; After further discussion, Chief Knudsen's recommendation for Captain, on behalf of the UC, was for Captain Amy Mangan, Assistant Chief Falat agreed with Chief Knudsen's recommendation and motioned for a vote. Committee Action: The committee unanimously agreed on Captain Amy Mangan to serve as Captain on the UC, Notifications to be sent to both applicants. Office of Assistant Commissioner, Staff Page 7 June 25, 2014 ROIJNDTABLE DISCUSSION 1. Captain Insignia Lieutenant Irigoyen inquired about a possible change allowing Lieutenant-Commanders to be distinguished from Captains by wearing an oak leaf insignia instead of captain's bars. Chief Knudsen related this was informally discussed at different times but is not being formally entertained, 2. Alternate Tan Work Pants Sergeant Bartholomew inquired about the progress on the alternate tan work pants. Sergeant Christensen related the pants were approved by the Commissioners and will be presented to Top Management next month forfinalapproval, 3. Motorcycle Rider Uniform Assistant Chief Falat related the kevlar motorcycle uniform that was presented at the previous UC meeting went before the Occupational Safety Committee for review and was well received. The uniform is now being presented to Top Management for review and approval. NEXT MEETING The next UC meedng has been scheduled as follows: Tuesday, October 28, 2014 from 1300-1530 hours at the Academy. Should you have questions or require additional infomiadon, please contact me at (916) 843-3500, E, K, KNUDSEN Chief EXHIBIT 2 state of CoHfornia TrniisportJitioii Agcucy Memorandum Date: April 7,2017 To: Assistant Commissioner, Staff From: DEPARTMEN T OF CAHFORNTA HIGHWAY PA1ROL Personnel and Training Division File No.; 090.12324.12573.091.1st Qtr 2017 Mtg Minutes Subject: FIRST QUARTER 2017 UNIFORM COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES ATTENDEES Members: Chief Mark Brunet, Personnel and Training Division Assistant Chief Elizabeth Barkley, Northern Division Captain Amy Mangan, Ocoansidc Ai'ea Lieutenant Tony Coronado, Inland Division Sergeant Rick Goulding, Bakersfield Area Officer Kirk Bailor, Office of the Assistant Cominissiotiei", Staff Ex-Officio Members: Ms. Lidia Narvacz, Academy, Academy Services Program Sergeant Scott Christensea, Academy, Administrative Services Unit Officer Brandon Smifli, Academy, Admiiiistrativo Sei-vices Unit Lieutenant Fratik Newman, Office of Employee Safety and Assistance Officer Jon Peregoy, Office of Employee Safety and Assistance Ms. Peggy Kropp, Academy Post Exchange Ms. Jana Crump, Business Services Section Guest: Ms, lOu'en Cagle, Academy, Administrative Services Unit Safety, Service, and Security .^te^. An Internationally A ccredlted Agency C.4P 51 (Rev. Oflr'2013) OPI 078 Assistant Commissionei", Staff Page 2 April?, 2017. OPENING ITEMS The first quarter 2017 meeting of tlie Department's Unifurra Committee (UC) was held on March 21,2017, at 1000 hours in the Academy's Administrative Conference Room. The meeting began with the introduction of everyone in attendance. OLD BUSINESS 1. I ime Piece Definition - The Commissioner approved the definition of *'time piece" as a pocket watch, wrist watch, or cellular telephone. , 2. Special Response Team Vest Pia^tches - Tlie following patches have boon approved by the Commi.ssioner for the Special Response Team vest: United Statesflagto be affixed to the front of the vest; California Highway Patrol (CHP) shoulder patches; and chevron patches for sergeants, to be placed under the CHP shoulder patches. 3. Rapid Deployment Tticttcal Vest Cai rlci- - The Rapid Deployment Tactical Vest Carrier has been approved by the Commissioner, Chief Biunet has directed the Academy to write a Cororaunications Network message in order to nodfy all unifornied personnel of this newly approved uniform item. Lidia Nai-vaez stated she will work with Information Management Division to have the vest specifications uploaded onto STARPOINT. 4. run Vmtv (Baseball) Cap - I'he tan eap has been disapproved by the Commissioner. No further action will be taken at thi.g time. NEW BUSINESS 1. External Load Bearing Vest - Officer Erilc Mallory from the Yreka Area presented an external load bearing vest for consideration. Ho brought a sample and explained the healtb benefits and comfort of carrying items in thefi-ontpockets of the vest, rather than on tlie duty bolt. The UC responded favorably to the vest's capabilities, and the ease with which it can be donned and removed. However, the UC agreed the vest's appearance must be refined and the color matched to the current tan uniform before moving forward. Olficer Mallory wiU work with tlie vendor on the vest's appearance, and in the raeanthne he will present the vest to the Departmental Occupational Safety Board. 2. Mourning Ribbon for the Clotli Badge - Ms. ICropp provided a sample mourning ribbon to be worn on iihc depivrtmental cloth badge. The UC unanimously approved the mourning ribbon provide