DeSoto Police Report 4% drop in overall crime in second quarter 2025

The DeSoto City Council held a special meeting on July 14, 2025, focusing on public safety and crime statistics. The meeting began with discussions led by Councilman Waters regarding the city's emergency services, particularly the impact of local mental health facilities and senior living centers on call volumes. Waters emphasized that the aging population in DeSoto contributes significantly to the demand for medical services, which in turn affects emergency response times.

The council also revisited the idea of reinstating fire service town hall meetings, similar to those held for the police department. These meetings aim to provide the public with valuable information about emergency services and response times, fostering better community engagement and understanding.

The meeting concluded with a presentation by Police Captain Grady Kirkland, who shared the quarterly crime statistics for the second quarter of 2025. Kirkland reported a slight overall decrease in crime, with 447 reported incidents compared to 465 in the same period in 2024, marking a reduction of approximately 3.87%. However, District 2 experienced an increase in reported crimes, rising from 130 to 173. This uptick was attributed primarily to a rise in larceny offenses, including thefts of bicycles and phones, as well as a significant increase in motor vehicle thefts, which jumped from 13 to 40 incidents.

Kirkland noted that the rise in vehicle thefts was linked to a group operating out of Dallas that targeted DeSoto. He assured the council that the police department would enhance its visibility and communication regarding crime trends, including updates on social media.

In summary, the meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges and strategies related to public safety in DeSoto, with a focus on community engagement and crime prevention efforts. The council plans to continue monitoring these issues and will consider further actions to address the needs of the community.