The Fort Pierce City Commission meeting on May 12, 2025, focused on the restructuring and operational updates of the police department, particularly the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) and its various units. Major Shannon provided an overview of the changes implemented since his arrival in late 2023, highlighting the addition of personnel and the importance of the victims advocate unit, crime scene investigations, and the evidence unit.

The victims advocate unit plays a crucial role in assisting victims of violent crimes, helping them navigate the complexities of the police system. Major Shannon emphasized their outreach efforts, including programs aimed at youth engagement. The crime scene investigations team, consisting of three investigators, is responsible for documenting and collecting evidence, which is vital for successful prosecutions.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the handling of evidence. Major Shannon acknowledged past issues with evidence management that had led to a loss of trust in the department. To address this, the evidence unit has been restructured to include a sworn officer overseeing evidence handling, ensuring proper chain of custody and documentation. This change was prompted by a previous mishandling incident, which highlighted the need for improved oversight and training.

Commissioner Taylor questioned the necessity of having a sworn officer in the evidence unit, suggesting that the role could be filled by a trained civilian. Major Shannon responded that while the current staffing situation is temporary, the department is working towards transitioning to a civilian position once adequate training and staffing levels are achieved.

The meeting also addressed the staffing challenges faced by the CID, which currently operates with a lieutenant, a sergeant, seven detectives, and one juvenile specialist. Major Shannon noted that the department is understaffed compared to historical levels, which impacts their ability to effectively manage active cases. As of the meeting, there were 128 active cases being handled by the detectives.

The crime suppression unit, tasked with addressing gun violence and narcotics, has seen improvements in staffing and effectiveness. Major Shannon reported that the unit made 300 arrests and seized significant amounts of narcotics and firearms in the past year, contributing to a decrease in verified shootings and homicides in Fort Pierce.

Overall, the meeting underscored the police department's commitment to improving its operations and community relations, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges of staffing and training. The discussions highlighted the importance of continuous policy review and the need for a proactive approach to crime prevention and community safety.