Violent Crime Down, Police Successes Up

Violent crime in Clayton is on the decrease, and the level of sophistication in fighting it is on the increase, according to the Police Department's 2008 Annual Report.

Even traffic accidents and citations are declining.

"All in all, 2008 was a good year for law enforcement in Clayton," said Chief Glen Allen. "We made several moves during the year that we feel improve our effectiveness, and we're proud of the officers who distinguished themselves in 2008."

While overall crime levels remained about the same from 2007, violent crime in Clayton plunged 37 percent. Only eight robberies were reported all of last year, and only 21 aggravated assaults. There were no homicides for the second consecutive year.

Police handled 725 traffic accidents last year, down significantly from the 819 the previous year. Allen attributed the reduction to the positive effects of the US 70 Bypass, which opened early last year. Less traffic and congestion mean fewer accidents, he said.

Two of the biggest additions last year were the hiring of a forensics expert and the formation of a number of "Neighborhood Watch" programs across town.

The department added Forensics Specialist Nancy Harvey last July to process evidence from crime scenes and provide an increased level of analysis. She's had advanced training in crime scene analysis, arson investigation, criminal intelligence analysis, child death investigations, sexual assault and death investigations. She's also an expert in the proper storage of evidence.

New Neighborhood Watch groups have been organized in the Austin Acres area, the Durham Street area, Garrison subdivision, Sumerlynn Subdivision, Cobblers' Station subdivision, Glen Haven Subdivision, Clayton East Apartments and Clayton Manor Apartments. Allen credits the new Watch groups with helping police cover more ground.

In addition, the Department put together a "Community Action Team" of three officers who concentrate their efforts on community problems using non-traditional means. Using what they call "a community oriented philosophy," the team attends community functions, developing relationships with residents and includes them in identifying problems and finding solutions.

"The principles and practices of community policing remain our best approach to policing our diverse community," the Chief says in the report to residents. "We thank you for your continued support of the Department's law enforcement and community service efforts."

Three officers earned their "Advanced Law Enforcement" certificates last year---Special Operations Sgt. John Lequire and Detectives Bill Kilpatrick and Jason Linder---winning high praise from Chief Allen for their "drive and professionalism."

A page in the Annual Report was devoted to Detective Bill Kilpatrick, the Department's "Officer of the Year."

Highlights for 2008:

• More than a million visitors to Department web site
• Added four new officers
• New Department Policy Manual
• Largest drug bust in town history
• Three officers earn Advanced Certificates
• Successful Blue Santa program
• Creation of Community Action Team (CAT)
• Added Forensics Specialist
• Added several new Neighborhood Watch programs
• Remodeled Department headquarters to add interview room and new office
• Added Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) laser radar and scene mapping device