West Goshen Township police report decline in crime while adding second narcotics canine

The Borough of West Chester held a government meeting on February 12, 2025, focusing on public safety updates and initiatives. Key discussions included the introduction of heat detectors in kitchens to reduce false alarms, updates from the police department, and recent crime statistics.

Police Chief Josh Lee reported on the successful deployment of a dual-trained patrol and narcotics canine named Odin, who has completed over a dozen missions in narcotics detection. The department is preparing to acquire a second canine, which will be trained for patrol and explosives detection, expected to be in service by June 1, 2025.

In terms of crime statistics, Chief Lee noted a decline in reported crimes, including burglaries and alcohol-related offenses. Noise complaints were also down, with the Northwest quadrant experiencing the highest number of complaints, primarily due to construction noise and typical disturbances. The police resolved most noise complaints without issuing citations.

A significant highlight was the resolution of a series of burglaries linked to a suspect, Lawrence Doss, who has been charged with over 30 counts related to these incidents. The investigation required over 700 hours of police work, underscoring the department's commitment to addressing crime in the community.

Additionally, the police provided updates on vandalism cases, including graffiti incidents that have been investigated thoroughly, leading to the identification and charging of a suspect.

Overall, the meeting emphasized the police department's proactive measures in maintaining public safety and addressing community concerns, with ongoing efforts to enhance response strategies and reduce crime rates in West Chester.