Dalton Police See Crime Reduction Since Start of Operation A.B.L.E.

The Dalton Police Department has seen a 21% decrease in the total number of Part I crimes since the beginning of operation A.B.L.E. Part I crimes, which include aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, robbery, rape, larceny, and arson, are considered the most serious offenses under the FBI's Uniform Crime Reports. There has also been a 43% decrease in vandalism, a major area of concern being targeted by operation A.B.L.E., which has been in place almost two months.

Operation A.B.L.E. brings all of the police department's resources, including the Safe Streets Task Force, to bear against lowering crime and aggressively pursuing those involved in gang activity and dangerous behavior. Targeting certain areas and crimes, the operation involves as many as 27 officers on the street during the peak hours.

A recent arrest on July 4th, where a concerned citizen observed suspicious behavior and contacted police leading to the arrest of two individuals for spray painting a building, is an example of the type of involvement we like to see from residents in the effort to reduce crime in our city.  We have also seen an increase in the amount of calls and tips from the citizens concerning suspicious behavior.

"While it is difficult to show a causal connection between our efforts and the amount of crime prevented, it appears that an increase in officers on the streets, along with an increase in involvement from citizens, has had a positive impact on the community", says Assistant Chief Jason Parker.