Termination phase-out study : public safety project, Guatemala

Evaluation was based on review of pertinent background documents, interviews with ministerial and police officers,and onsite visits to police installations. A separate telecommunications report is included. Project emphasis was on increasing the operational and managerial capabilities of the government of Guatemala law enforcement agencies. The project made a significant contribution to betterment of law and order conditions at a crucial time. Improvements included organizational improvement and training of the national police, development of improved methods for controlling illegal entries and contraband, establishment of a records bureau, training in crime analysis, improvement in crime detection methods by upgrading the crime lab and training personnel and improvement in traffic control through safety education, control devices, and training. Recommends continued budgetary support by the government of Guatemala for the new police school, for pay increases. Equipment procurement, and for implementing civil service coverage or an alternative promotion system. Recommends that human resource developments include improved administrative proficiency of national and treasury police, 1-year personal service contracts for police recruits, and assignment stability. Other recommendations include reorganization of operations and control of civil disturbances. Review of the public safety communications program indicates that the original objectives of upgrading the national and treasury police telecommunications in organization, logistics, and training have been met. Future refinements are recommended to further upgrade the effectiveness of civil security communications, mostly in the organizational, administration, and budget support areas.