Stevensville Police Department reports December stats showing low crime rates and equipment upgrades

In the heart of Stevensville, the town council meeting on April 15, 2025, unfolded with a focus on community safety and police activity, as the local police chief presented a detailed report on the department's performance for December 2024. The atmosphere was one of collaboration, with council members and residents eager to understand the state of law enforcement in their town.

The police chief began by expressing gratitude to the fire chief for providing space to replace essential equipment in patrol vehicles, a gesture that highlighted the spirit of cooperation among local agencies. He then shared the December statistics, revealing a total of 12 citations issued, primarily for traffic violations, alongside a single city ordinance violation involving a juvenile, which was referred to the juvenile justice center.

Throughout December, the police department responded to 51 calls for service, assisting three outside agencies in various investigations. The chief noted that the year-end totals for 2024 showed a total of 23 arrests, with a significant portion of citations issued in lieu of arrest, reflecting a focus on community-oriented policing.

Notably, major crimes such as robberies and homicides remained at zero for both December and the entire year, a statistic that brought a sense of relief to the council and community members. The chief also reported five unintended deaths and ten assaults throughout the year, with no assaults recorded in December. The department's proactive approach led to the resolution of two theft cases out of three reported in December, contributing to a total of 18 thefts for the year.

The report also highlighted the challenges posed by winter weather, with five traffic accidents reported in December, part of a total of 27 for the year. The chief emphasized the importance of community awareness and cooperation in maintaining safety, noting that the department had issued 90 warnings throughout the year, demonstrating a commitment to education alongside enforcement.

As the meeting progressed, the chief announced plans to reorganize the monthly statistics for better clarity in future reports, ensuring that council members and residents could easily navigate the information. This commitment to transparency and communication underscored the department's dedication to fostering a safe and informed community.

In conclusion, the meeting encapsulated a proactive approach to law enforcement in Stevensville, with a focus on collaboration, community engagement, and a commitment to safety that resonated with all in attendance. As the council looks ahead, the statistics and discussions from this meeting will undoubtedly shape the town's strategies for maintaining peace and security in the coming months.