PISMO BEACH CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item #12.A
Meeting Date: April 2, 2024
TITLE:
Police Department Semi-Annual Update
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the Police Department Semi-Annual Update.
DISCUSSION:
The Police Department is set to present an overview of its activities from January 2023 to December 2023. This report to the City Council encompasses crime trends and statistics, staffing updates, dispatch operations, parking matters, the Community Service Technician position, and community engagement initiatives. The City Council will receive insights into both the achievements and the difficulties encountered by the department throughout the 2023 calendar year.
Semi-Annual Department Update:
Among the key updates to be presented to the City Council is the revision of reporting requirements for the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), which came into effect in the current year. Previously, crime statistics were classified into Part 1 and Part 2 Crimes. However, the FBI has implemented a new reporting framework, categorizing offenses into Group A and Group B. Group A offenses encompass all incidents occurring within the jurisdiction of a law enforcement agency, irrespective of whether an arrest is made. Examples of Group A offenses include arson, burglary, drug/narcotic offenses, and vandalism. On the other hand, Group B offenses are solely utilized for reporting arrest data related to specified crimes within the group. Group A reporting category further divides into Crimes Against Persons, Crimes Against Property, and Crimes Against Society, while Group B reporting is predominantly made up of Crimes Against Society. Examples of Group B offenses include writing a bad check, driving under the influence, and trespassing.
During the period from January 2023 to December 2023, the Police Department observed a noteworthy 13% decrease in overall workload compared to the previous year.
Specifically, there was a 21% decrease in Group A crimes and a 13% decrease in Group B. This decline in reportable incidents may be attributed to various factors, including staffing vacancies, a reduction in visitor numbers to the city, and changes in booking protocols at the county jail.
Despite these positive trends, the Police Department experienced some challenges throughout 2023, particularly concerning officer vacancies stemming from long-term injuries and unfilled positions. This issue mirrors a broader trend evident in law enforcement agencies across California and the nation, characterized by high turnover rates, an uptick in officers on medical leave, and difficulties in recruiting qualified candidates.
12.A-1Council Agenda 4-2-2024
However, amidst these challenges, there have been signs of progress. In December 2023, the department welcomed a new Police Officer who successfully graduated from the police academy. This officer has exhibited commendable progress during field training and is anticipated to operate independently before the onset of summer. Furthermore, there are several promising candidates currently undergoing the background verification process, which is a favorable indicator that the Police Department will achieve full staffing levels soon.
This report encapsulates both the achievements and the ongoing efforts of the Police Department in navigating the complexities of law enforcement and serving the community of Pismo Beach.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no direct fiscal impact from this report.
ATTACHMENTS:
None
Submitted by: Jeff Smith, Police Chief
City Manager Approval:
12.A-2Council Agenda 4-2-2024