Durango, CO: Overall crime was down in Durango for 2022 compared to prior years, a trend that follows the monthly December report recently released by the Durango Police Department.
"Even though our workload increased in 2022, overall crime was down while arrests and citations were up," said Police Chief Bob Brammer. "Knowing growth will continue and staffing is always a challenge, we will continue to focus our efforts to ensure the police department is a force of readiness."
Highlights from the report:
- The number of calls for service and officer-initiated calls increased in 2022 compared to 2021 and compared to the 5-year average. Dispatched calls for service went up 12% from last year and 8% over 5 years.
- Total property and other crime rates decreased in 2022 compared to 2021 and compared to the 5-year average. Violent crime increased 10% in 2022 (7 incidents) compared to 2021 but decreased 4% compared to the 5-year average.
- Overall arrests in 2022 increased compared to 2021 and compared to the 5-year average. Non-custodial arrests increased 25% while in-custody and warrant arrests decreased by 20%. Brammer said the trends reflect current preferences by the public and which are implemented by the legislature and courts.
- Overall traffic accidents decreased in 2022 compared to 2021, and only increased 1% (4 incidents) compared to the 5-year average.
- Overall traffic citations increased significantly in 2022 compared to 2021 and to the 5-year average.
The report also showed several increases that were driven by proactive strategies and activities of officers, such as DUI arrests, liquor violations and underage consumption. The department specifically implemented an initiative to lower the number of alcohol-related incidents after multiple reports including two that resulted in death.
"Through compliance operations with the Department of Revenue and partnerships with liquor stores, bars, and other businesses we continue to focus on the initiative and hope to influence the culture of Durango to a more responsible mindset," Brammer said. "This initiative will also expand through partnerships with Fort Lewis College as we approach the fall semester."
To address the growth and demand from the community, the police department has six cadets working their way through the police academy and three officers in training. "Each officer is a long-term commitment, nine months from the time of hire to a solo status," said Brammer. The department also has two applicants that are in the final stages of being hired.
For more information the Durango Police Department visit the city's website.
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Media Contact
Tom Sluis
Public Information Officer - Spokesman
Phone: (970) 375-5090
Email: Tom.Sluis@durangogov.org
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