FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 17, 2024

MEDIA CONTACTS

Shelbie Boyd, Public Information Officer, sboyd@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 405-7134

Tacoma Police Department's Community Service Officer Program Advances Alternative Response Strategy

-- Six-month mark for CSO program shows positive results in TPD's ability to address community needs --

TACOMA, Wash. – The Tacoma Police Department reported today on the measurable progress the Community Service Officer (CSO) program is achieving measurable progress in its first six months of operation. The progress update was presented as part of the quarterly report on the City’s Alternative Response strategy. Along with positive results thus far from the HEAL Team and the HOPE Team, the CSO program has improved TPD’s service delivery and support community safety and well-being and contributed to the Alternative Response strategy by connecting more community members with right community safety services at the right time.

CSOs are unarmed civilian staff trained to respond to specific non-priority calls for service, providing vital support to the Tacoma Police Department. This approach allows sworn officers to focus on higher-priority incidents, effectively enhancing public safety.

Since the program's rollout, the CSO program has made significant strides:

• Improved Efficiency: CSOs have logged over 1,300 hours of service, responding to more than 770 calls, including routine incidents, non-urgent reports, and community assists.

• Faster Response Times: The addition of CSOs has reduced response times for lower[1]priority calls, ensuring faster resolutions for community concerns.

• Increased Community Visibility: CSOs began operating in the field in June 2024, providing high visibility through marked vehicles and professional uniforms.

The CSO program’s robust training emphasizes de-escalation, self-defense, and integration with the City’s Alternative Response programs. A comprehensive midyear continuing education program further equips CSOs to address evolving community needs.

Key Achievements Since Launch:

• Expanded Service Capacity: CSOs now operate independently in the field, handling tasks ranging from writing reports and providing transportation assistance to supporting perimeter security and traffic control at incidents.

• Effective Deployment: Peak service demand occurs from 8 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Wednesday, ensuring optimal resource allocation during critical hours.

• Collaboration: CSOs provide essential support to Tacoma’s sworn officers, contributing to an integrated approach to public safety.

Looking Ahead:

While hiring for additional CSO positions is currently paused for operational review, the program remains a cornerstone of the department's mission to build trust and ensure public safety through innovative strategies.

A video featuring the CSO program and staff members was shown as part of today’s briefing to the City Council, and can be viewed at Tacoma in Action.

To learn more about the City’s Alternative Response Programs and other City Council initiatives

on Community Safety, go to cityoftacoma.org/communitysafety.

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