DeSoto officials discuss new crime trend tracking and community engagement initiatives

The DeSoto City Council held a special meeting on July 14, 2025, focusing on community safety and crime reduction strategies. A significant portion of the discussion centered around the effectiveness of recent neighborhood watch initiatives and the introduction of a new situational awareness program aimed at enhancing community engagement.

Captain Kirkland addressed the council, emphasizing the importance of addressing manpower issues within the police department to improve crime statistics. Council member Parker raised concerns about the impact of neighborhood watch meetings on crime trends, particularly regarding theft and vandalism. She questioned how the city tracks the effectiveness of these initiatives and whether they contribute to a decrease in crime rates.

The conversation highlighted the need for measurable outcomes from community programs. Captain Kirkland acknowledged the importance of tracking crime statistics month-to-month to assess the impact of neighborhood watch efforts. He suggested that follow-up surveys with participants could provide valuable feedback on the effectiveness of these programs.

In response to the discussions, Captain Kirkland proposed a shift in the role of community services officers to community engagement coordinators. This change aims to enhance communication between the police and residents, allowing for better dissemination of information regarding safety and city services. The proposal will be presented in detail at the upcoming budget meeting on July 25.

The meeting underscored the city’s commitment to improving community safety through proactive engagement and data-driven strategies. The council's focus on tracking the effectiveness of neighborhood initiatives reflects a broader effort to foster a safer environment for DeSoto residents.