The Redmond Police Department's 2023 year-end review highlighted significant developments and community engagement efforts aimed at enhancing public safety. Captain Jesse, the patrols captain, emphasized the department's commitment to becoming the safest community in Oregon through core values of excellence, teamwork, and professionalism.
The department consists of 69 personnel, including 54 sworn officers and 15 unsworn staff, who have all met or exceeded training standards set by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST). Officers undergo extensive training, including active threat response and mental health crisis intervention, to ensure they are well-prepared for various situations.
A notable achievement this year was the establishment of the Community Crisis Response Team (CCRT), which collaborates with Deschutes County Behavioral Health and 911 dispatch to address crisis calls. From May to December, the CCRT handled over 1,800 calls, allowing police officers to focus on more critical situations.
The department also reported a 29% increase in traffic enforcement, responding to community concerns about road safety. In 2023, there were over 29,000 calls for service, with a notable rise in traffic stops and citations. Captain Jesse explained that the increase in force responses from 31 in 2022 to 56 in 2023 is attributed to a change in tracking methods rather than an actual rise in incidents, with Redmond's force response rate remaining significantly lower than the national average.
Community engagement initiatives included the sixth annual National Night Out, which attracted over 2,000 attendees, and the \"Coffee with the Cops\" program, fostering relationships between officers and residents. The department also introduced a kindness citation program to recognize positive community actions.
Looking ahead, the department plans to continue its community outreach and safety initiatives, including the upcoming National Night Out event scheduled for August 6, 2024, featuring free activities and a barbecue for residents. The Redmond Police Department remains dedicated to enhancing public safety and building strong community ties through proactive engagement and effective law enforcement strategies.