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Police chief reports steady crime totals, rising drug cases and staffing gaps
Summary
Chief Kelly told the Public Safety Committee that overall crime numbers were roughly stable but drug cases rose (76 in 2024 vs. 48 in 2023); the department faces two vacancies and an upcoming captain retirement, and the K‑9 unit was recently retired.
Police Chief Kelly presented the department's 2024 report to the Public Safety Committee and said the department had roughly 13,000 calls for service annually. He reported small year‑to‑year changes in crimes against persons (156 in 2024 vs. 157 in 2023) and described a notable increase in drug cases (76 in 2024, up from 48 in 2023).
Kelly said there was one overdose investigation in 2024 and no reported overdose deaths for the year. He described efforts to reduce incarceration by participating in a regional hybrid drug and alcohol court and said the department placed an officer on a regional drug task force that serves cross‑border jurisdictions.
On enforcement and evidence, Kelly explained that blood draws for suspected drug impairment require consent or a warrant and that sampled evidence is sent to the state Department of Hygiene; in mixed alcohol‑and‑drug cases the lab analyzes alcohol first.
Kelly said use‑of‑force incidents were low (seven reported incidents, down from eight the prior year) and that the department routinely reviews body‑camera and in‑car video when complaints arise. He noted one complaint that was withdrawn after reviewing 22 seconds of footage.
On staffing, Kelly said personnel cost about 80% of the police budget; the department was short officers for much of the year, is currently short two officers, and the captain plans to retire at the end of the month, creating near‑term turnover concerns. Kelly also said the department's K‑9 had been retired recently and that the city will rely on county and neighboring agencies as it evaluates future canine options.
Committee members asked questions about testing turnaround times and canine coverage; Kelly answered and described the department's use of mutual aid and training to handle special events. No formal actions or votes followed the report.
