Sidney police chief outlines progress, priorities in department update

SIDNEY - Sidney Police Chief Sam Lovato says the department made significant progress over the past year, focusing on rebuilding, technology upgrades, officer training and community engagement while continuing to address staffing shortages.

In a statement released Wednesday, Lovato said the department has undergone a “year of growth and foundational rebuilding” since he assumed leadership as interim chief last year. The department has reviewed and improved nearly every aspect of its operations, from evidence handling to officer readiness.

Technology and training upgrades
Lovato said each officer is now equipped with new body cameras that provide higher video quality and allow faster information sharing with surrounding law enforcement agencies. Officers also have patrol laptops, enabling them to complete reports and access case files directly from the field.

The department has also invested in more realistic training tools, including airsoft “Glock” pistols that replicate service weapons and expanded defensive tactics equipment. The Sidney Public Schools have partnered with the department to provide facilities for training sessions.

“A confident officer is typically a calmer, clearer-thinking officer, resulting in a higher probability for successful de-escalation of high-stress situations,” Lovato said.

Staffing and recruitment
Lovato identified staffing as the department’s biggest challenge. The Sidney Police Department currently has six certified officers out of 14 allotted positions. One candidate is currently attending the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island, and several others are in various stages of the testing and background process.

Lovato said if all pending candidates complete the process, the department could have 13 certified officers by August 2026. The department is also seeking to fill a lieutenant position, which Lovato described as “critical to the overall success of the department.”

Community and crime prevention efforts
The department has revised its mission to combine proactive crime enforcement with stronger community partnerships.

“We are aggressively pursuing criminals while simultaneously trying to be more present and connected to our community,” Lovato said. “If you are engaging in criminal activity, you should feel nervous, while the community should feel safe and reassured by our constant patrol presence.”

Lovato said the department plans to host its first Citizens Academy in the spring of 2026 to educate residents about law enforcement operations and strengthen public trust.

Fiscal responsibility and innovation
Lovato said all department upgrades have been implemented with fiscal responsibility in mind.

“Every decision made—from equipment purchases to staffing strategy—is guided by a commitment to fiscal responsibility,” he said. “We are actively thinking outside the box to ensure we stay within our budgeted means while achieving the highest possible standards for public safety.”

Lovato said the department’s focus for the coming year will include advanced training, full utilization of new technology and refining operational procedures to “polish and utilize the framework” already established.