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Message Hanford Police Department2024 Annual Report 425 N Irwin St, Hanford CA 93230https://www.hanfordca.gov/Police
Page 2 Table of Contents Chief’s MessageCommand StaffOperations DivisionTrafficK-9 UnitHARTSWATSupport DivisionProperty & EvidenceSRO ProgramRecordsCommunications 3 4 5-77-8 9-10111213-161718-192021
3 Message from Chief Huddleston As I reflect on my first year as your Police Chief, it is my profound honor topresent the Hanford Police Department's 2024 Annual Report. This year hasbeen exceptional, marked by significant departmental achievements. Weare blessed to serve such a remarkable community, and I ex- tend myheartfelt thanks to each team member for their dedication and unwaveringcommitment to public safety. Serving in this role is a distinct privilege, and Iam immensely proud of what we have accomplished together during thistransformative year.
Part I Crimes Statistics Crime Type Homicide Rape 2023 5 21 2024 4 29 % Change -20% 38.1% Aggrivated Assault 192 221 15.1% Burglary 96 104 8.33% Theft 355 468 31.8% Arson 8 20 150% • Homicide rates have decreased by 20%.• Rape and Aggravated Assault increased by 38.1% and 15.1%. • Robbery and Burglary rates saw marginal increases. • Theft and Arson increased by 31.8% and 150%. These statistics guide our strategic planning and resource allocation for the coming year, as we aim to address areas of rising crime and reinforce theeffectiveness of our ongoing initiatives. Robbery 34 35 2.94%
5 Operations Division The Hanford Police Operations Division is the principal and most visible unit of our department,providing continuous, around-the-clock coverage across all 17.4 square miles of the city. As thecore of our policing services, the division ensures safety and responsiveness, handling an average of 130 calls for service daily in 2024, totaling 46,975 for the year. Officer deployment is strategically based on an analysis of crime rates, call patterns, and times, as well as community-specific quality-of-life issues. A key focus of the division isfostering community collaboration to develop sustainable solutions to ongoing neighborhoodconflicts.
Patrol Operations Overview Composition and Leadership: In 2024, Patrol Operations was staffed by 37 dedicated policeofficers, including four K-9 units, four Sergeants, and four Corporals. The Sergeants and Corporalsserved as Watch Commanders across various shifts, ensuring effective supervision both in the fieldand at the station. This leadership structure was crucial in maintaining operational efficiency andrapid response capabilities. Operational Highlights: Throughout the year, Patrol Operations played a pivotal role in law enforcement activities within the city. Officers conducted proactive enforcement efforts, focusing on:Traffic violations: 7,395 traffic stops, issuing 1,748 traffic citations. Drug-related offenses, weapons violations, and other crimes: Resulting in 1,943 misdemeanor arrests and 701 felony arrests. Officers were also engaged in follow-up investigations, actively searching for and apprehendingwanted individuals, and fulfilling numerous other critical duties to ensure community safety.Performance Metrics:Total calls for service: 46,975 Average daily calls for service: 130 Proactive enforcement actions: 7,395 traffic stops, 1,943 misdemeanor arrests, 701 felonyarrests, 1,748 traffic citationsResponse times: 19.5 minutes for priority 2 and 3 calls, a 1.5-minute increase from 2023; 8minutes for priority 1 calls, unchanged from the previous yearCoverage area: 17.4 square miles
7 Traffic Unit The Traffic Unit is led by a supervisor and includes two dedicated motor officers. This team plays acrucial role in our ongoing efforts to ensure road safety and compliance within the city. Mission: Our mission is to significantly reduce the number of traffic-related incidents, including fatalities,injuries, and property damage. We focus on creating safer roadways for all city residents and visitors.
Traffic Unit Key Activities: Public Education: We engage with the community to increase awareness about traffic lawsand safe driving practices. 1.Vehicle Checkpoints: These are strategically deployed to intercept and mitigate potentialtraffic violations before they result in accidents. 2.Directed Enforcement: Targeted enforcement actions are conducted based on insightsderived from our data analysis. 3.MetricCalls Collisions Fatal Injury Property Damage Citations 150 814 20231033 232 6 64 131 963 2024645 326 4 72 -12.7% 18.3% % Change-37.6% 40.5% -33.3% 12.5%
9 K-9 UNIT In 2024, the K-9 Unit was allocated four teams, with three teams activated to enhance ouroperational capabilities throughout the year. Each team played an integral part in our lawenforcement and community engagement efforts. Training and Preparedness: The activated K-9 teams completed a rigorous training regimentotaling 245 hours, ensuring that both handlers and their canine partners were well-prepared for their duties.
K-9 UNIT Narcotics locatedTotal DeploymentsSuspects ApprehendedCommunity Demonstrations 68.5 grams110119 Despite having only three of the four allocated teams activated, the K-9 Unit's impact onoperational success and community safety has been significant. The dedication of our handlersand their canine partners to their training, operational tasks, and community involvementunderscores the unit's invaluable role in our law enforcement strategy. Operational Performance and Community Engagement: The K-9 teams demonstrated their crucialrole in tactical responses and community relations through various metrics, as detailed in thetable below: K-9 Unit Operational Metrics Teams Allocated Active Teams Training Hours Searches Conducted 4 3 245 58
11 Homeless Assistance Resource Team (HART)Parks Resource Officer (PRO) CallsReports Arrests Reunifications Clean-ups ContactsHomeless Population 1093417 1,398118 122 70 50 HART exemplifies the department’s dedication to solving complex social issues with empathyand cooperation, ensuring a balanced and respectful approach towards community andhomeless population needs. Established in 2019, the Homeless Assistance Resource Team (HART) is an integral part of theHanford Police Department, tasked with addressing homelessness in the community throughcompassionate and balanced approaches. The team includes a Parks Resource Officer whospecializes in issues related to homelessness and activities in city parks. Strategic Approach: HART stays informed about the latest trends in homeless support andconsiders the perspectives of all community stakeholders to adapt and refine its strategieseffectively. Impact: Since its inception, HART has significantly improved the living conditions of the homeless and enhanced community safety and cleanliness, demonstrating the Hanford Police Department's commitment to community-oriented policing.
The SWAT team, officially known as the Central Valley Regional SWAT, consists of 20 dedicatedmembers from various departments to enhance regional response capabilities. Hanford PD: 14 members, Lemoore PD: 3 members, Corcoran PD: 2 members In 2024, the SWAT team dedicated 132 total training hours, surpassing the minimum standardof 100 hours required to maintain operational readiness. Training topics covered a broad rangeof tactical scenarios including entry tactics, high-risk warrant service, and open areamovements. Operational Deployment: The team responded to 16 critical incidents across the region,including: Hanford: 8 callouts Corcoran: 2 callouts Lemoore: 2 callouts Other Cities: 4 callouts (Cutler, Fresno, Merced, Exeter)
13 Support Division Overview Street Crimes Detectives General Detectives Unit
Support Division Overview The Detective Bureau serves as the Hanford Police Department's principal investigative sec-tion. It plays a critical role in the thorough investigation of criminal cases, the identification andapprehension of offenders, and the preparation of cases for successful prosecution. Leadership: The bureau is led by a Lieutenant and a Sergeant who oversee the unit'soperations. Criminal Investigators: The team includes four criminal investigators who handle a broad range of criminal investigations, ensuring thorough case analysis and follow-through. Street Crimes Investigators: Four street crimes investigators specialize in addressing gangs andnarcotics violations, targeting areas of significant concern within the community. Evidence Technicians: Two evidence technicians support the unit by managing and processingphysical evidence critical for the prosecution of criminal cases. Responsibilities and Impact: The Detective Bureau is integral to the Hanford PoliceDepartment's mission of delivering proactive, professional, and courteous law enforcementservices. By investigating serious crimes and working closely with prosecution services, thebureau directly contributes to the safety and security of the community. Their efforts are pivotalin maintaining public trust and ensuring that justice is served efficiently and effectively.
15 Support Division Overview Detective Bureau: The Detective Bureau has effectively managed a variety of critical tasksthroughout the year, demonstrating significant progress in key areas of criminal investigation. Search WarrantsReportsCallouts 12847456 11560950 -10.2%28.5%-10.7% Metric Homicides Attempted Homicides ICAC Tips 2023 5 14 103 35 2024 4 15 110 50 Change -20% 7.1% 6.8% 42.9% The Detective Bureau’s dedication and expert handling of complex criminal cases highlight thespecialized capabilities within the Support Division. Their strategic approach to crime fighting andcommunity safety underscores the department’s commitment to upholding the law and protectingthe citizens of Hanford. ICAC Inv
Support Division Overview MetricCases 20239565 20247650 Change-20%-23.1 Search / Arrest War-rants Arrests Firearms Seized Reports 65 21 395 50 25 341 -14.1 19.5% -13.7% Highlighted Operations: 1. Illegal Fireworks and Guns: Tip about illegal fireworks sales led to a warrant and the discovery of a firearm andextensive fireworks stock. Seizure of enough fireworks to fill a 15-foot U-Haul trailer and a manufactured firearm. 2. Gun Manufacturing: Lead on in-home firearm manufacturing by a minor led to seizure of seven 3D-printed firearm lower receivers and associated ammunition. 3. Fully Automatic Handguns: Served a warrant regarding an illegal discharge arrest. Led to the Discovery and seizure of two automatic-capable firearms with drum magazines; three arrests made. Street Crimes Unit: This year, the Street Crimes Unit has focused on impactful operationsagainst illegal firearms and narcotics activities, achieving significant enforcement outcomes.
17 Support Division Overview Property ReleaseNotary AppointmentsCallouts for Scene ProcessingEvidence Purging Hours Scanning & Filing Hours NIBIN MetricPhysical Evidence ItemsDiscovery Requests Items in Property RoomTotal Items on Evidence.comDigital EvidenceLab Trips 2023 Data9,6872,760 75,76172,49430,08345 960528240 hrs 120 hrs Not reported 1,040446620 hrs 135 hrs 15 trips 2024 Data10,3813,640 77,001236,46063,71348 % Change7.16%31.88% 1.64%226.31%111.76%6.67% 8.33% -15.38%-25%158.33% 12.5% New Metric Throughout 2024, the Property & Evidence Unit was stretched to its limits, responding to anunprecedented increase in evidence intake and management tasks. The team's resilienceand adaptability under pressure ensured the continued high standard of service necessaryfor supporting law enforcement activities and the judicial process. Property & Evidence Unit: The Property & Evidence Unit has seen significant activity andchanges in 2024, reflecting increased efficiency and adjustments to operational protocols.Below is a detailed overview of the statistics and the notable increases in various aspects oftheir operations:
Hanford HighHanford West HighSierra Pacific HighWoodrow Wilson ElementaryJohn F. Kennedy MiddlePioneer MiddleCommunity Day SchoolShelly Baird Earl F. Johnson Home VisitsStudent Counseling Calls Reports Arrests After School Events 2023-2024 School Year 266503 381 142 97 344 Team Composition and School Assignments: The School Resource Officers (SRO) program plays a pivotal role in fostering a safe and secure educational environment across multiple school campuses in our community. In 2024, theprogram was staffed by a dedicated team consisting of a Sergeant, a Corporal, and six officers. These trained professionals were specifically assigned to the following schools: Presentations 232 •••••••• • School Resource Officers
19 Role and Responsibilities: SROs are more than just law enforcement officers; they are integral community partners who contribute to the educational and social development of students. Their responsibilitiesinclude: Safety and Security: Providing a secure atmosphere conducive to learning and ensuring thesafety of students and staff. Mentorship and Guidance: Acting as mentors and role models for students, offeringguidance on various life challenges. Crisis Management: Equipped to handle emergencies, SROs are trained in crisismanagement and rapid response. Educational Contributions: SROs often participate in teaching students about lawenforcement topics, promoting understanding and respect for the rules. Conflict Resolution: They play a critical role in resolving conflicts and fostering a peacefulsocial environment. Impact and Community Engagement: The presence of SROs on school campuses hasproven to be invaluable. They not only handle issues related to safety and law enforcementbut also actively participate in school events and functions, enhancing the bond betweenstudents and law enforcement agencies. Through their daily interactions, SROs build trust andrapport with students, which is fundamental in creating a supportive school community.School Resource Officers
The Records Division is a crucial component of the Hanford Police Department, tasked with theprecise management and dissemination of law enforcement records. This bureau is vital formaintaining the integrity, security, and accessibility of critical departmental records. Team Structure and Leadership: The division is efficiently managed by a Senior Records Clerk, who oversees all record-keepingactivities and ensures compliance with legal and departmental standards. The team includesthree dedicated Records Clerks, who handle the day-to-day operations and play a key role in thedepartment’s ability to efficiently serve the community.Key Functions and Responsibilities: Record Management: The bureau is responsible for a wide range of documents, including inci-dent reports, arrest records, and public information requests. Data Processing and Accessibility: Clerks ensure timely data entry, update, and retrieval, facil-itating quick access to records for law enforcement and eligible public members. CommunityInteraction: The team manages requests for information from the public, ensuring transparencyand fostering trust within the community.Volume of Work: In 2024, the bureau processed a total of 5,493 reports, showcasing theircapability to manage a significant workload efficiently.Records Division
21 The Communication Center offers essential 24/7 dispatch services for Hanford Police, LemoorePolice, and Lemoore Fire Department. It plays a pivotal role in public safety by efficientlymanaging emergency and non-emergency communications across multiple jurisdictions. Operations and Staffing: Volume of Calls: In 2024, the center proficiently handled a total of 130,206 calls,showcasing their capability to manage high call volumes effectively. Team Composition: The center is budgeted for 16 Dispatchers to include four LeadDispatchers. Lead Dispatchers serve as the first-line supervisors during shifts, ensuringsmooth operation and quick response times. Training and Technology: Dispatchers and Lead Dispatchers regularly attend training sessions to stay up to date on the best practices and advancements in dispatch technology. The team uses various sophisticated programs and applications daily to assist the public and coordinate with in-house personnel effectively. The Dispatch Communications team is a criticalcomponent of the public safety infrastructure for Hanford and Lemoore, demonstratingexceptional dedication and professionalism in their operations. Their ongoing commitment to training and technology adaptation ensures they remain at the forefront of emergencycommunication services. Dispatch Communications