Chatham County Police report year-to-date declines in Part I crime; department highlights outreach and recruitment progress

Chatham County Police Chief reported to the board on July 18 that year-to-date Part I crimes are down compared with the same timeframe last year, including decreases in robberies, non-domestic gun assaults, auto thefts and total property crimes.

Chief Headley said total violent crime is down roughly 28% year-to-date and total Part I crime is down about 20% relative to the same period last year. He also noted a small number of arson incidents had been recorded; he said the department classifies some incidents as potential arson pending fire-department and state fire marshal follow-up.

The chief highlighted neighborhood outreach efforts, reporting 1,771 non-call-driven citizen contacts in the past 14 weeks and describing a weekly "1 at Wednesday" feature that spotlights investigations and generates community leads. The department has a neighborhood liaison officer, Antoinette Rodriguez Harrison, who has been active in community meetings and events, the chief said.

Headley said the department currently has 12 new recruits in the police academy and emphasized work by the Professional Standards unit to recruit and retain staff. He noted Georgia law requires new officers to remain with the hiring agency for two years or reimburse training costs if they depart earlier. Field training for graduates typically lasts about 12 to 16 weeks before officers are released to solo patrol, the chief said.

The chief also recognized Corporal Giovante (spelled in the transcript as Gervantes) Fyobi and his canine Neo for winning a top apprehension award at a national canine training and competition in Maryland.