FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Springfield, Mo. – Throughout 2022, the men and women of the Springfield Police Department reconnected with the citizens of Springfield. SPD emphasized a departmental-wide philosophy of community policing by engaging daily with members in every area of our community. The Springfield Police Department’s 2022 Annual Report highlights activity throughout the year and is now available to the public.
The duties, responsibilities, and expectations of the police in today’s ever-changing environment are widespread. In 2022, SPD focused on two main areas: crime prevention and reduction, and recruitment and retention.
Highlighted in the report are new equipment and programs including a mental health co-responder program with Burrell Behavioral Health, DDACTS – Data-Driven Approaches to Crime and Traffic Safety, and additional public information and educational materials to help prevent and combat crime.
Community response to crime prevention efforts helped lead to a reduction in reported crime across the board. Less violent crime and fewer property crimes increased the community’s overall sense of safety and security.
Gun violence, however, continues to affect Springfield and has remained the number one priority for the SPD. In 2022, Springfield surpassed 2021 in the total number of shots fired calls, the number of individuals injured because of individuals injured because of shots fired and the number of illegal guns seized by SPD.
A supportive and grateful community helped SPD return to pre-pandemic numbers of police applicants. Two basic academies had more than 20 recruits each and the number of lateral hires doubled in 2022 over 2021.
“Through it all, the men and women who have accepted the call to serve and protect the citizens of Springfield did just that – every day, without fail,” said Police Chief Paul Williams. “As you open the 2022 Annual Report, I’d ask that you take a few moments to reflect on the year that was, through the eyes of SPD.”
Springfield Police Department 2022 Annual Report: PDF
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Media Contact: Cora Scott, Director of Public Information & Civic Engagement
417-864-2009
[email protected]