NBPD release – Hello, North Bend Community! As we embark on 2024, let’s reflect on the remarkable achievements of our Police Department under Chief Cal Mitts in 2023. Our officers have worked tirelessly to enhance safety, training, and community engagement. Here’s a glimpse of their hard work and dedication! Personnel Developments: Welcomed a new Chief of Police, Police Captain, and Patrol Sergeant. – Achieved full staffing for the first time since 2020 by filling four vacant positions. – Added two experienced lateral entry officers. – Hired a new Community Service Officer and Community Resource Officer. – Ensured a minimum of two patrol officers on duty at all times. Grant Success: Received a $15,000 ODOT traffic enforcement grant for officer overtime. Training Enhancements: Extensively trained five recruit officers. – Increased training in firearms, defensive tactics, taser use, and mental health response. – Added an ALICE active shooter instructor and provided related training. – Sent officers to specialized active shooter and firearms instructor training. Equipment Upgrades: – Acquired two new special assignment pick-up trucks and six Dodge Durango police vehicles, funded by grants. – Reduced vehicle maintenance costs by over $10K. – Obtained four WRAP restraint systems to ensure safety. – Updated tasers and duty firearms. Community Policing Initiatives: – Implemented a homelessness ordinance, reducing patrol officers’ burden. – Distributed child identification kits in the community. – Ensured a safe Halloween with extra staffing and materials. Key Statistics: – Nearly tripled traffic stops, enhancing patrol visibility and crime deterrence. – Achieved a 16% drop in criminal trespass calls, thanks to the Community Resource Officer and Property Watch program. Grant Funding Secured: $148,006; – FY 2022: $1,390; – FY 2023: $140,250; – FY 2024: $6,366. Thank you to our dedicated officers for making North Bend safer and stronger. Here’s to continued success in 2024!
