During the DeSoto City Council Special Meeting on April 14, 2025, a significant focus was placed on enhancing public access to police data and improving community transparency. Council members discussed the importance of making crime statistics readily available on the city’s website, with suggestions for a more prominent display of this information.

One council member emphasized the need for a "ticker" feature on the website that would showcase real-time statistics, making it easier for residents to access vital information without navigating through multiple pages. The police department confirmed that they would work on making these updates more visible, ensuring that residents can easily find the data they need.

Additionally, the conversation highlighted the distinction between calls received by the police and actual crimes reported. Council members expressed a desire for a monthly report detailing the types of calls received, which could provide valuable context for understanding community safety. This approach aims to clarify the nature of police activity and address public concerns about crime rates.

Another key topic was the handling of police officer-involved shootings. While acknowledging the legal complexities surrounding these incidents, council members suggested broadening the focus to include all use-of-force incidents. This would provide a more comprehensive view of police interactions and enhance accountability.

The meeting underscored the council's commitment to transparency and community engagement, with plans to implement these changes in the coming months. As the city moves forward, residents can expect improved access to information that will foster a better understanding of local law enforcement activities.