Selma Police Chief Alcaraz highlights successful annual report and crime reduction

The Selma City Council meeting held on April 1, 2025, featured a comprehensive annual update from the Selma Police Department, presented by Chief Alcaraz. The meeting began with Chief Alcaraz expressing gratitude to the police staff for their dedication and hard work, which he emphasized was reflected in the impressive data shared during the presentation.

Chief Alcaraz highlighted the department's annual report, which included a new initiative to publish a photo of the entire police staff each year, aimed at fostering community pride. The report detailed the department's coverage area of 5.77 square miles, serving approximately 24,000 residents, and discussed the unique policing challenges posed by the nearby Highway 99.

Key statistics from the report included a significant increase in proactive policing, with officers handling over 33,000 calls in the past year, 58% of which were self-initiated. Notably, traffic collisions decreased by 19%, despite a 24% reduction in traffic citations, suggesting improved compliance among community members. The department also reported a 16% reduction in Part 1 crimes from February 2023 to February 2024, with 81 illegal firearms seized during the same period.

The update also covered various divisions within the police department, including support services, school resource officers, and code enforcement. Chief Alcaraz praised the school resource officers for their engagement with students, which contributed to a 33% decrease in calls for service from schools. The code enforcement team was recognized for their efforts in beautifying the community and addressing issues beyond city limits through collaboration with county agencies.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on community outreach initiatives, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with residents. Chief Alcaraz reiterated the department's commitment to enhancing public safety and quality of life in Selma, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges that come with community growth.

Council members expressed their support for the police department's efforts and discussed potential improvements, including the need for additional resources and personnel. The meeting underscored the collaborative spirit between the police department and the city council, aiming to foster a safer and more engaged community.