During a recent city council meeting, Stafford Police Chief Richard Ramirez addressed significant challenges facing the police department, emphasizing a shift from proactive to reactive policing due to staffing shortages and aging equipment. Chief Ramirez reassured residents that police protection would remain a priority, but acknowledged that the department can no longer sustain the same level of service as in previous years. He highlighted the department's current operational struggles, including a fleet of vehicles with excessive mileage and outdated technology, which hampers their effectiveness.

Ramirez invited citizens and council members to visit the police department to review the budget and operations firsthand, countering claims of wasteful spending. He expressed a commitment to transparency and accountability, urging anyone who identifies inefficiencies to bring them to his attention.

In a more uplifting segment of the meeting, Officer Shane Rose was awarded the Stafford Police Department's Life Saving Award for his heroic actions on July 6, 2024. Officer Rose responded to a medical emergency involving a man who had stopped breathing and successfully performed CPR, reviving the individual before EMS arrived. Chief Ramirez praised Officer Rose's quick thinking and dedication, stating that his actions reflect positively on both the police department and the city of Stafford. The commendation will be formally added to Officer Rose's personnel file, recognizing his contributions to community safety.