Crime continues its decline in Lakewood - City of Lakewood

In a recent report, the Lakewood Police Department highlighted a remarkable 19% decline in the city's overall crime rate for 2024, marking the largest reduction in two years. Chief Patrick D. Smith presented this positive news to the Lakewood City Council, emphasizing that crime had already decreased by nearly 4% in 2023. Noteworthy reductions included a 26% drop in property crimes, with vehicle thefts plummeting by 67%. The success can be attributed to several factors, including the implementation of new public policy ordinances that criminalize the open use of controlled substances and sleeping in public when shelter is available.

Additionally, the department's leadership has focused on adapting strategies to combat crime effectively, such as addressing retail theft and increasing patrols. The introduction of the FLOCK video system has also played a crucial role in identifying stolen vehicles, contributing to the significant drop in thefts. With a fully staffed police force comprised of well-trained professionals, Lakewood has positioned itself as a desirable employer in law enforcement. Overall, the city’s commitment to public safety is evident in these encouraging crime statistics.