News

Focused on reducing crime

May 2, 2025

Thanks to the levy, we are growing our team and actively building a public safety agency equipped for the future. It takes 10-12 months to train new police officers. While we prepare them to serve the community, we are leaning on technology, data analysis, and partnerships to reduce crime. 

Four officers taking the Oath of Office.   Officer on the phone in a patrol car during a retail theft mission.   One way we work more effectively is by analyzing crime data and statistics to plan missions focused on high-crime areas and high-impact issues.

Analyzing crime data and revealing patterns

Each mission begins with real-time data, revealing patterns of when and where crimes are most likely to happen. With this insight, teams coordinate and plan, and send officers where they can have the most impact. 

During regular retail-theft missions, Gresham police officers and a community safety specialist team up with local businesses to target thefts in progress. One such mission led to seven arrests.

Two officers entering a store during a retail theft mission.   Officer with flashlight at night looking at stolen items on the hood of car during a retail theft mission.   These missions often lead to the recovery of illegally possessed firearms, outstanding warrants, and other illegal items.

Officers volunteer for additional shifts to participate in these proactive missions. Their dedication not only helps reduce crime but also strengthens public safety in high-priority areas. Their visibility is a deterrent — and a reassurance.

Officer piloting a drone from the command center..  Three officers stopping a suspect during a retail theft mission.