During a press conference held on August 6, 2008 EL Police Chief Tom Wibert announced that the City is enjoying a 28-year low in serious crimes which includes murder, criminal sexual conduct, rape and aggravated assault among others. The department released a report that shows an overall decrease in serious crimes from 1,833 in 1998, to 1085 in 2007. The report also highlights other key trends such as increased drunk driving arrests due to stepped-up enforcement, which has been a personal priority for Chief Wibert since he took over in May of 2005. Additionally, noise complaints are at an all-time low and car accidents are down by 500 incidents from four years ago. This is due in large part to speed limit enforcement and strategic traffic engineering.

I would first like to congratulate Chief Wibert, along with the women and men of the ELPD, for their efforts and diligence in achieving this outstanding accomplishment. However, as Chief Wibert noted during the press conference this accomplishment reflects much more than increased enforcement. In fact, it is the result of concerted efforts by groups such as the Community Relations Coalition, which is a City/Student/University collaborative that brings together students and long-time residents who live in neighborhoods close to campus. On the “other side of the street” MSU Admissions has raised the bar on scholastic achievement to ensure that students are focused on academics. The Olin Health Center reports that 81% of students now designate a responsible driver when drinking – this is a tremendous increase. The Responsible Hospitality Council (RHC), which is composed of local bars and restaurants, has be key to the effort to combat underage drinking – the Chief has noted that it is now very rare to find a minor in a bar.

The bottom line is that East Lansing continues to be a safe community – safe for students, safe for families. Law enforcement is a key piece of the pie but would not be as successful without the many community partners doing their part to keep our city safe.

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View Crime Statistics Report
View Press Release