The streets of Arlington are significantly safer, according to the latest report released by the Arlington Police Department. The 2023 Annual Report, now accessible on the Arlington Police Department website, details the department's ongoing efforts and accomplishments in crime reduction and community engagement over the past year. In a triumph for the Texas city, the report documented a six percent dip in overall crime and a significant 17 percent drop in violent crime compared to the year prior, according to the City of Arlington, Texas.
Furthering its commitment to tackle serious crimes, the department has strategically established a new Human Trafficking And Exploitation (HEAT) Unit. The unit's mission to intensively investigate human trafficking rings led to the filing of 132 cases with the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office in 2023. "I’m incredibly proud of the department’s efforts to reduce crime, engage with our community, and to improve the quality of life in our city," said Chief of Police Al Jones in the report, expressing his steadfast belief that the department can consistently continue to move in a positive direction in 2024, as per the City of Arlington, Texas.
Beyond their law enforcement achievements, Arlington PD also played a pivotal role in managing major city events. The Event Management Unit executed a pivotal role in ensuring the security of the 2023 MLB Postseason, which featured six sold-out Texas Rangers games and implemented plans for the World Series Championship Parade. This historical parade drew an estimated record-breaking attendance of half a million to seven hundred thousand attendees.
Community initiatives have not fallen by the wayside as the Arlington PD continues to build bridges with its residents. With new programs such as 'Coasters with Cops' and the expansion of 'Cooking with Cops' and the Police Activities League (PAL) camps, the department reaffirmed its dedication to community policing. Additionally, to further connect with the youth, the department looks forward to introducing a new gaming truck in 2024. These efforts were instrumental in Arlington regaining the top national rank for participation in the National Night Out.
