As the year comes to a close, the Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) extends heartfelt thanks to the community for its unwavering support. This appreciation spans kind words, meals delivered to the station, artwork from children, and the significant volunteer hours contributed by members of the Citizen Volunteer Assistants Program (CVAP). OVPD acknowledges the essential role of community involvement in making Oro Valley one of the safest places to live.
Recognition as a leading safe city in Arizona
In 2024, Oro Valley was recognized as the second safest city in Arizona by SafeWise.com, based on FBI crime statistics. The town notably held the lowest violent crime rate in the state. This achievement underscores OVPD’s dedication to public safety and reflects its commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for all residents.
OVPD’s Emergency Communications Center reached a milestone by achieving accreditation through the Arizona Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ALEAP), becoming only the second agency in Arizona to do so. The rigorous process, accomplished in under a year, demonstrates the department’s focus on excellence. Additionally, the Dark House Program continues to provide peace of mind to residents traveling during the holiday season by offering regular checks on vacant homes.
Securing grants for enhanced service
The department successfully secured federal and state grants totaling approximately $380,000. These funds supported various initiatives, such as overtime pay, safety equipment, and recruitment efforts. Notably, the grants facilitated traffic safety enforcement and the procurement of ballistic vests, ensuring that budget constraints do not hinder critical services.
Successful community events and outreach
The annual National Night Out at Oro Valley Marketplace, featuring over 50 displays and record attendance of more than 6,000 participants, highlighted OVPD's strong community ties. The department's Community Resources Unit also conducted multiple programs, including Citizens Academies, crime prevention talks, and Dispose-A-Med events that collected significant amounts of unused drugs, showcasing their proactive approach to engagement.
Promoting holiday safety and responsible celebrations
As the holiday season approaches, OVPD reminds residents to stay vigilant against crimes like burglary and purse-snatching, especially in busy shopping environments. The department also urges responsible celebrations, noting that impaired driving poses risks to everyone. OVPD emphasizes that enjoying the festivities safely ensures a happier holiday for all.
But if you are involved in a traffic accident
In the event of a minor traffic accident, OVPD advises drivers to exchange essential information, including names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, and driver’s license details, as required by Arizona law (A.R.S. 28-663A). It is also important to offer reasonable aid to anyone injured by calling 911. Even for minor accidents, contacting OVPD to document the incident is recommended, as insurance companies often request a police report number during claim processing. In Oro Valley, it is acceptable to call 911 for any police assistance, ensuring that details are accurately recorded and protecting against potential disputes.
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In the event of a minor traffic accident, OVPD advises drivers to exchange essential information, including names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, and driver’s license details, as required by Arizona law (A.R.S. 28-663A). It is also important to offer reasonable aid to anyone injured by calling 911. Even for minor accidents, contacting OVPD to document the incident is recommended, as insurance companies often request a police report number during claim processing. In Oro Valley, it is acceptable to call 911 for any police assistance, ensuring that details are accurately recorded and protecting against potential disputes.
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Source: Oro Valley Police Department crime fighter newsletter, November 2024
