Irving Police Step Up Efforts to Increase Public Safety

The Police Department has implemented several programs and initiatives to help Irving become a safer and more secure city. Public safety has been a priority this past year, and will remain a key focus as the City of Irving begins its second year operating under the Strategic Plan.

Staff has been trained to use problem-solving methods, which allow police officers to better resolve issues by identifying and addressing the root causes of problems in their areas. “Officers can be more effective when they partner with the community to eliminate problems rather than repeatedly address symptoms of the problem,” said Chief Larry Boyd. To enhance this effort, officers continue to improve their beat management plans to help them focus on reoccurring issues that exist within their areas of assignment.

Police commanders hold regular meetings to review crime statistics, which allow them to quickly identify emerging crime trends, implement responses and evaluate results. The department is working closely with crime watch groups and local school districts in a joint effort to strengthen crime prevention strategies.

Illegal activities at apartment complexes also are being addressed by Irving police. Responsible apartment owners who wish to keep their communities crime free are encouraged to join the Police Department’s Crime Free Multi-Housing Program. Police are working closely with Code Enforcement staff to zero in on complexes that are not being managed well, with focused efforts to significantly reduce crime and disorder.

“The Police Department stands ready to partner with well-managed apartment communities that seek to provide a safe and high-quality environment for their residents,” Boyd said. “However, apartment communities that have demonstrated a track record of irresponsible management will be held strictly accountable, as well as the residents who live there who violate the law.”

The Police Department also participates in regular meetings with Public Works/Traffic to discuss high accident and traffic problem locations. Decisions about where to deploy traffic enforcement officers, as well as engineering changes, have resulted in a reduction of accidents at several intersections.

In an effort to reduce DWIs and other alcohol-related disturbances, the Police Department is aggressively enforcing the sale of alcohol at restaurants. Businesses that receive multiple complaints will be thoroughly investigated.

Residents can do their part to help by joining the Police Department’s e-mail list and the CrimeWeb to heighten awareness. Those who want to take the next step to help ensure a safer community can participate in the next Citizens Police Academy. For details on how to participate in these programs, call the Irving Police Department at (972) 721-2518, or visit www.cityofirving.org/police.