The local impact
Police Chief Jeffrey Yarbrough presented a quarterly update to City Council on Dec. 18, outlining staffing levels, crime trends and enforcement strategies aimed at addressing community concerns.
Yarbrough said targeted patrols and officer visibility have contributed to declines in certain crimes and traffic accidents, while rising call volume has limited proactive enforcement.
“When you have officers visible, you’re going to find that people will more likely comply with the laws and the traffic rules,” Yarbrough said.
Breaking it down
Burglary of motor vehicles dropped from 90 incidents in 2024 to 35 in 2025, a 61% decrease, while burglary of buildings fell 55%, from 71 to 32 cases.
DWI arrests rose 80%, from 45 to 81, which Yarbrough said reflects increased enforcement rather than more impaired drivers.
During the same period, traffic stops fell 6.6%—from 11,760 to 10,978—while citations dropped 11.36% and warnings declined 2.3%, as officers spent more time responding to calls.
Reported traffic accidents also dipped slightly, down 1.5% from 448 to 441.
The police department has 54 authorized positions and two current vacancies, with no officers in field training or background checks.
Yarbrough said applicant interest remains strong, allowing them to be selective as the city grows.
“We’re very fortunate to be able to make sure that when we fill these last two positions, we’re getting someone we truly believe will fit the need of our growing community,” Yarbrough said.
