The Oro Valley Police Department’s 2024 Annual Report reflects a year of steady progress in community safety, training, and public engagement. The report highlights how the department continues to prioritize public trust through transparency and strong relationships with residents. From response times to crime trends, the report offers valuable insight into how OVPD operates and serves the community.
Serious crime down... Property crime up
While there has been a decrease in certain violent crimes, such as aggravated assaults (from 22 in 2023 to 13 in 2024), property crimes have seen an uptick. For instance, larceny-theft incidents increased from 489 in 2023 to 515 in 2024, and motor vehicle thefts rose from 11 to 19 during the same period. The data underscores the importance of community vigilance and proactive measures to address property crimes. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engage with local law enforcement initiatives aimed at crime prevention.
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The 2024 report shows a mixed picture for Part II crimes, which include a broad range of offenses such as fraud, drug violations, and vandalism. While some categories remained stable or declined, others saw noticeable increases. Drug violations rose from 137 in 2023 to 162 in 2024, and DUI arrests increased from 137 to 153. Vandalism and disorderly conduct also saw modest increases. These trends suggest areas where enforcement and community awareness efforts may need to be focussed in 2025.
Investing in officers and technology
The report outlines the department’s ongoing investments in officer training and new technology. In 2024, officers participated in over 17,000 hours of training covering topics such as mental health, de-escalation, and leadership development. OVPD also expanded its use of license plate readers, drone technology, and updated its body-worn camera system, reinforcing a commitment to both safety and accountability.
Community outreach is a core function
Public engagement remains a pillar of OVPD’s strategy. In 2024, the department continued its popular programs like Coffee with a Cop, Safety Saturdays, and Citizens Police Academy. Officers also visited local schools and held events with neighborhood groups. These efforts build relationships and help residents better understand policing practices and resources available to them.
Why this report matters
Residents who want to better understand how their police department operates—and how it measures performance—will find the report worth reading. It covers everything from staffing and budget to call volume and arrest data. The 2024 report also lays out the department’s goals for the coming year, including improving mental health response, recruiting top talent, and using data to drive decisions.
A department committed to improvement
Overall, the 2024 Annual Report shows that OVPD is not standing still. The department is actively responding to community needs, adapting to challenges, and setting measurable goals. The report is available online and offers a clear view into how public safety is managed in Oro Valley.
