On Tuesday, Police Chief Paul Williams gave a presentation to members of Springfield’s City Council who had requested an update on crime trends and policing efforts within the City.

He also released the Springfield Police Department’s 2019 Annual Report.

The newly published electronic report has a different look than years past and gives an exciting and colorful look behind the scenes at SPD.

New this year is a vibrant timeline that looks back on SPD’s events and accomplishments in 2019.

Another new aspect is a breakdown of the SPD budget, staffing, and equipment.

The report also gives an overview of each unit and shows interesting statistics specific to those units.

A statement from the City of Springfield went on to say:

“This detailed report is part of our commitment to be open and transparent with the citizens of Springfield,” said Chief Williams. “My hope is you will gain some insight into the actions and effort the officers and employees put forth on a daily basis.”

Some highlights from the year include SPD’s reaccredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement (CALEA) for the eighth consecutive time. The accreditation followed a multi-year self-assessment phase and a meticulous site-based assessment of community engagement, policy, procedures, equipment, and facilities by CALEA assessors.

Another highlight is the launch of SPD in PE, a partnership between the Springfield Police Department and Springfield Public Schools, where SPD Officers and seventh-graders sweat it out together during physical education class. The goal of SPD in PE is to create consistent and positive one-on-one interactions with kids to humanize officers and help students feel more comfortable with law enforcement.

SPD encourages citizens to review the 2019 Annual report and welcomes feedback.