
The Phoenix Police Department is now a nationally recognized force when it comes to community engagement and victim support. Recently honored with the Versaterm Innovation Award for 2025, they've shown just how seriously they take the concept of "protect and serve". As per an announcement on the City of Phoenix's official website, the Department snagged the first-place national award for their use of technology in enhancing public safety and community relations.
CommunityConnect, a service the Department launched in August 2024, has been pivotal in allowing the Phoenix PD to meticulously keep the public informed. According to Acting Phoenix Police Chief Dennis Orender, "The Phoenix Police Department always strives to improve, and I believe this recognition is a testament to that ideal. This achievement reflects the dedication and very hard work of the entire team who made this a success." This piece of tech sends out automated text messages and emails to 9-1-1 callers and crime victims, providing timely updates on their reports and collecting feedback through mobile-friendly surveys.
Phoenix PD's commitment doesn't end at mere communication. With the latest update to CommunityConnect, survivors of sexual assault can now check the status of their Sexual Assault Evidence Kit around the clock, any day of the week. This move is part of a broader, trauma-informed strategy that the city is adopting to support victims.
"It is an honor to receive this Innovation Award from Versaterm. This recognition highlights our commitment to becoming more victim focused and strengthening trust within our community," said Assistant Phoenix Police Chief Ed DeCastro, who led this initiative. Significant too is how the software has provided the Department with critical data to shape its operations and, ultimately, to serve the public more effectively. The award ceremony will be hosted at the Re:Invent 2025 Users conference slated for November in Salt Lake City, where members of the Department will be present to accept their accolade.