During the recent Murphy City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, public safety and community concerns took center stage as local law enforcement officials presented a detailed report on crime statistics and traffic enforcement efforts. The meeting highlighted a significant increase in calls for service, with 1,619 reported over the past three months—approximately 700 more than the same period last year. This uptick reflects a proactive approach by the police department, which has intensified targeted traffic enforcement based on data analysis.

The report indicated that officers conducted around 2,000 traffic stops, resulting in 527 citations and 47 arrests, marking a notable rise from previous years. A specific initiative aimed at resolving outstanding warrants contributed to this increase, with 20 arrests made in a single day as part of a focused campaign. Additionally, the department is addressing the issue of false alarm calls, which often strain resources, by engaging with local businesses to ensure their alarm systems are properly maintained.

Traffic accidents showed a mixed trend, with a decrease in overall crashes year-over-year, totaling 122 incidents, including 30 major accidents. However, there has been a recent uptick in serious accidents, prompting discussions about traffic safety measures. Officers expressed concerns about dangerous left turns at specific intersections, advocating for the installation of no left turn signs to prevent potential accidents.

The meeting also touched on drug-related offenses, which have risen sharply from 16 to 28 incidents, largely attributed to the prevalence of THC vape pens. In contrast, burglary of motor vehicles remained low, with only two reported incidents, primarily linked to a single offender.

As the police department continues to respond to community feedback, the council plans to present these statistics quarterly, reinforcing their commitment to transparency and public safety. The discussions underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration between law enforcement and the community to address safety concerns and enhance the quality of life in Murphy.