Police Chief Provides Public Safety Update to Council

At the October 24 City Council Meeting, Addison Police Chief Paul Spencer shared a year-end statistical summary and activity report, as well as updates on crime prevention, community policing, and efforts to address homelessness.

Over the last year, Addison Police Department (APD) responded to 20,938 calls for service but recorded more than twice as many self-initiated activities. Chief Spencer discussed crime trends, with a particular focus on thefts of high-value sports cars by organized groups near 5000 and 5100 Belt Line Road. The response from the police included heightened enforcement measures, increased marked unit patrols, intelligence-led strategies, and collaboration with federal and regional partners.

Community policing remains a cornerstone of the department's strategy. Chief Spencer advised residents to secure their vehicles, homes, and belongings by following recommended safety measures including proper lighting and the installation of exterior cameras. While officers actively patrolled parks, trails, and residential areas, conducted vacation watches, and addressed suspicious activities, APD needs assistance from the community to report unusual activity.

Addressing the ongoing challenge of homelessness, Chief Spencer shared that APD partners with organizations like Metrocrest Services to provide assistance to those in need. He also announced a Homelessness Educational Seminar that Metrocest Services is hosting for Addison residents on November 6 at 6:30pm at the Addison Conference Centre.

He shared that the new Addison Police Reporting Online initiative that allows people to "Be A PRO" by reporting various incidents online has already been used numerous times, saving officers hours of time. While the "A PRO" platform provides an online alternative for reporting things like graffiti, ID theft, or car burglaries, Chief Spencer emphasized that the Addison Police Department remains deeply committed to serving the community in person.  They are always available, and ready to respond whenever needed. You can reach APD at the non-emergency number at 972-450-7156 or by calling *247 from a mobile phone.

Chief Spencer's presentation demonstrated the Addison Police Department's commitment to public safety through proactive policing, community collaboration, and addressing evolving challenges such as property crimes and homelessness.

You can watch the Council's public safety discussion here and read the presentation here.