Lake Oswego Police Department reports crime reduction and new initiatives to the council

The Lake Oswego City Council meeting on April 15 highlighted significant advancements in the local police department, as Chief George Burke and Captain Clayton Simon presented their annual report. The duo emphasized a year of progress, particularly in community engagement and innovative policing strategies.

Chief Burke expressed pride in the department's efforts to foster community trust, noting the absence of public concern at the meeting as a testament to their work. He introduced new initiatives, including an online reporting system aimed at enhancing convenience for residents. This system, which went live recently, allows citizens to file reports without waiting for an officer to arrive, reflecting a commitment to modernizing police services.

Another key development is the introduction of a drone program, which has already been utilized in search and rescue operations. Burke also mentioned a new behavioral health unit, supported by a grant, which is expected to expand the department's capabilities in addressing mental health issues within the community.

Captain Simon followed with a detailed analysis of crime statistics, revealing a 5% overall decrease in incidents from 2023 to 2024. Notably, part 1 crimes dropped by 12%, and part 2 crimes decreased by 29%. However, burglaries saw a slight increase of 6%. Traffic violations also saw a significant decline, with speeding citations down by 43%, suggesting improved driving behavior or a shift in enforcement focus.

The report also addressed the use of force, which remains low relative to the total number of incidents. While there was a 30% increase in reported use of force incidents, this was attributed to more officers responding to calls, rather than an escalation in aggressive policing.

The meeting underscored the police department's ongoing commitment to transparency and community safety, with plans for further recruitment and retention strategies to address staffing challenges. As the department adapts to evolving community needs, the focus remains on building trust and enhancing public safety through innovative practices.