Commentary

Th e following is an excerpt from the Chief's Message of the 2007 Annual Report.

Smithfield City has experienced an unprecedented rate of change during 2007. This change has impacted every community member in one way or another. The Smithfield City Police Department has concentrated on meeting the increasing demands placed upon public safety as a result of the many changes. Much has been accomplished and lasting partnerships have been reinforced. What a marvelous time in which to live in Smithfield. Each day, we get to make this city on the hill a haven of goodwill and a place of real community. Together, I think we have been pleasantly successful.

One of the more significant changes impacting our community was the Main Street reconstruction. Businesses and residents were affected in major ways. Traffic congestion was nothing like Smithfield has ever experienced. We hope we
will not have to undergo that again for a long time. Health Days Parade and the Sky View High School Homecoming Parade presented interesting logistic problems. For the most part, the road work was taken in stride. Though inconvenienced and disrupted, community members were mostly patient and understanding.

 Smithfield City has expanded and improved its parks and recreational areas. They are well groomed and maintained. Preserving the quality of usage and access is a high priority. The Smithfield City Council established parking restrictions at Forrester Acres to provide for safe vehicular and pedestrian flow between the fields of play, emergency access to the southern area, and protection of grass and sprinkling systems. Signs were posted along the lanes of travel marking the restricted zones. Unfortunately, many attending the games created a difficult situation by ignoring the no parking, standing,
or stopping signs. Consequently, a great deal of contention arose each time an officer sought compliance or enforced the restrictions. Because the parking restrictions are a public safety matter, they are taken seriously and will be strictly enforced. We hope this upcoming season motorists will comply with the restrictions so everyone can fully enjoy the walking paths
and fields.

SCPD officers were extremely busy this past year addressing the various needs, emergencies, concerns, crimes, and non-criminal issues presented to them. There is a correlation between increasing population and more calls for service. To answer those calls for service SCPD officers collectively traveled 115,832 miles and worked a total of 20,802 hours. For most of the year, the Smithfield City Police Department consisted of 8 full time police officers, an animal control officer, an office manager/Executive Assistant, and a couple of reserve officers. 2 officers underwent surgeries during the summer requiring lengthy recovery times. A reserve officer was brought on full-time midway through the year to help with the
workload and overtime.

Gang activity absorbed considerable time and effort during the fall months. SCPD personnel did all they were asked to do, and which they could do to identify gang members and file criminal charges against those who behaved unlawfully. Community members also rose to the occasion and reported gang activity. This combined effort made a difference. Several gang members were held accountable and presently are paying restitution while the leader was re-introduced to the corrections side of the criminal justice system.

Please know that I feel it a great privilege to serve you as your Chief of Police. Thank you for your support especially for the officers and office staff. Know that I welcome your comments, suggestions, and insights as I find better ways for the Smithfield City Police Department to serve you and enhance the quality of life so much enjoyed in our community.

 Chief McCoy at a the first Gang  Awareness Meeting.