As the result of community partnerships combined with the hard work of some of the most dedicated and enthusiastic

personnel in the law enforcement profession, serious crime has continued to decline since 2002 when Part I Offenses totaled

4,048 crimes. In fact Part I Crimes have declined 29% when compared to 2002. Only two crime categories increased in

2008. They were Assaults which increased from 60 to 71, in part due to a troubled liquor permit locations which reported 11

assaults during one 6 month period last year. This location was closed late in 2008. Robberies also increased to 86, from a

seven year low of 63 in 2007 from 107 in 2006. Both categories will be the focus of our 2009 Objectives.
 

While our primary Mission is to improve community safety by reducing and preventing crime, we are especially pleased to

report this achievement while continuing to reduce costs, ending the year significantly under budget. This of course is a team

effort and I am most proud of the relationship we enjoy with our personnel and especially labor leadership who work with us

to free funds for a greater good; improving technology, increasing manning levels and seeking innovative approaches to

efficient and effective management resulting in a safer community. Also during 2008 we continued an unprecedented

implementation of technology leveraging nearly one million dollars to improve our DNA capability in our Forensic Science

Section, in-car mobile data terminals, computer technology and communications for our police officers and tools to enhance

our Crime Analysis function to more efficiently use existing resources. This also includes a new website which will help to

better inform or residents.
 

The continued support of our residents remains our greatest asset. During 2008 151 residents joined officers for Citizen Ride

A longs, and more than 2,885 members participated in 63 Neighborhood Watch Associations, an 18% increase over 2007.

Officers initiated or participated in nearly 350 public events from NW Association Meetings and DARE Graduations to

educational and problem solving sessions held in neighborhoods. These sessions, some repeated during the year were

attended by more than 10,000 residents and guests representing a 46% increase over the previous year.
 

Youth programs, which help to control juvenile crime were again a focus during 2008 and included Safety Town, now in its

72nd year which held 3 sessions for 203 kids; 27 Police Explorers and 3 volunteers attended National Competition; DARE was

taught in all city and 2 private schools while DARE graduates from the entire county attended the Annual DARE Olympics at

the PAL Gym. The Police Athletic League held a variety of events from leadership classes and Shutterbug Camera Club

Meetings to sports such as boxing, basketball and baseball which were attended by nearly 2,500 kids. The Division also

continued the assignment of officers for specific duties such as the School Resource Officer Program at Mansfield Senior

High and Malabar; DARE at all city schools and a Detective at Children Services. Our Reserve and Auxiliary volunteers

contributed nearly 1,000 free man hours in assisting the Division in a variety of special projects aimed at reducing and

preventing crime.
 

We are hopeful this brief view of your police department will provide some insight on the responsibilities and challenges of

the Division of Police, and the critical role you, as a resident play in community safety. More detailed information is available

in our Annual Report.
 

Although we are proud of our progress, there is much work to be done in 2009, and it will surely be with many challenges. I

am very grateful for your guidance, support and encouragement and look forward to the challenges of a new year.
 

Respectfully submitted,
 

Chief Phil Messer