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Upper Merion Police report rising calls, holiday mall overtime and plans to hire 1–3 officers
Summary
Sergeant Christopher Dolga told the PSCAB the department handled more than 29,000 calls for service in 2024, logged about 1,700 overtime hours at the mall over the holidays amid increased thefts, and will hold a written hiring test March 1, 2025 with plans to add 1–3 officers.
Sergeant Christopher Dolga reported to the Public Safety Citizen Advisory Board on Jan. 14 that the Upper Merion Township Police Department logged over 29,000 calls for service during 2024 and saw a spike in thefts during the holiday season that contributed to roughly 1,700 overtime hours at the local mall.
Dolga said two officers who began the police academy on July 1 graduated Dec. 11 and are currently in field training; they are expected to complete FTO and operate independently by mid‑ to late February. He reviewed recent and planned training for department personnel, including undercover tactics, drone operations, accident reconstruction, de‑escalation, NIMS courses and autism awareness.
The department will hold a written test for police applicants on March 1, 2025; Dolga said the department expects to hire between one and three officers this year to address retirements, resignations and promotions. He also noted personnel reassignments, including two officers moved to detective roles.
Board member Shorty Shultz raised community concerns about an increase in auto thefts in surrounding areas, citing social‑media‑driven "TikTok challenges" and reports that thieves have targeted GM and Chrysler vehicles. The board did not take formal action on the report.
