Dayton Police Department proposes new crime reduction strategies using $400,000 grant

The Dayton City Commission has taken significant steps towards enhancing public safety and community engagement following a meeting on July 9, 2025. A key decision made during the session was the approval of a two-year amendment contract worth $116,000, aimed at implementing department-specific goals and fostering a supportive workplace culture within the city’s departments. This initiative will include workshops for supervisors, ensuring they are equipped to engage effectively with their teams.

In another major development, the commission authorized the acceptance of a nearly $400,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, designated for violent crime reduction strategies. Major Jason Hall of the Dayton Police Department presented the proposal, highlighting the grant as the second-largest awarded in the state. The funding will be utilized to enhance the department's technological capabilities, including the expansion of automated license plate readers, the introduction of drone technology for first response, and the reinstatement of a gunshot detection program.

The proposed use of drones is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to improve response times and efficiency in emergency situations. Major Hall explained that drones could assess situations before ground units arrive, potentially reducing unnecessary emergency responses. The layered approach to technology, combining various tools, is expected to yield better results in crime prevention and investigation.

The grant will cover the first year of the pilot project, with ongoing costs anticipated for the second year. The police department is committed to ensuring compliance with community engagement protocols and surveillance ordinances as they implement these technologies.

These initiatives reflect the city’s proactive approach to public safety and community well-being, with a focus on leveraging technology to enhance service delivery and foster a safer environment for Dayton residents. The commission's decisions signal a commitment to addressing crime effectively while engaging with the community to ensure transparency and support for these advancements.