In a significant shift from previous years, crime in Myrtle Beach has seen a notable decrease of nearly 50% since 2015, a fact that has garnered attention from local authorities and residents alike. The Myrtle Beach Police Department recently shared its 2024 year-in-review report at a city workshop, detailing the progress and challenges the department has faced over the past year.
In 2017, Myrtle Beach was ranked as the third most dangerous city in the United States by SafeWise, a report that highlighted the city’s struggle with crime at the time. However, the latest data from the Myrtle Beach Police Department tells a different story, showcasing an impressive turnaround. The department has made strides in reducing crime annually, despite staffing shortages in recent years.
A Look at the Numbers: Crime Reduction Over the Years
The 2024 year-in-review report revealed some compelling figures regarding crime in the city. In 2015, the police department reported over 4,900 criminal incidents. Last year, this number was cut down to less than 2,600, marking a dramatic reduction of nearly 50%. This sharp decline in crime is a major point of pride for the Myrtle Beach Police Department and local government, as it signals a significant improvement in public safety over the past several years.
Mayor Brenda Bethune of Myrtle Beach was quick to emphasize the importance of sharing these positive statistics with the community. “If we aren’t out there telling this community and everybody we come across that our crime is down by 50%, then shame on us,” said Mayor Bethune. “That’s a big story we need to be telling.” The city leaders are eager to highlight the improvements in safety as a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the police force.
Key Accomplishments in 2023: Innovation and Progress
The Myrtle Beach Police Department has been proactive in its approach to crime reduction. Police Chief Amy Prock, in discussing the department’s accomplishments, pointed to several initiatives that contributed to the decline in criminal activity. Among these was the distribution of city-issued cell phones to all officers. This move aimed to streamline communication and enhance officers’ ability to respond to incidents swiftly and efficiently.
In addition to improving internal communication, the department expanded its surveillance capabilities by adding 246 new city camera views. This increased coverage has not only helped deter criminal activity but has also assisted in solving cases more effectively. Chief Prock also highlighted the department’s focus on de-escalation training for officers, a crucial element in ensuring that interactions between law enforcement and the community remain peaceful and respectful.
Ongoing Challenges: Staffing and Increased Call Volume
While the crime statistics are promising, the department continues to face challenges, particularly related to staffing. Myrtle Beach has seen substantial growth over the years, and with that, the demand for police services has increased. In fact, the Myrtle Beach Police Department recorded its highest call volume in nearly a decade, responding to more than 133,000 calls for service in the past year. Despite this heavy workload, Chief Prock emphasized the department’s commitment to working together as a community, even when challenges arise.
The police chief acknowledged that there have been difficulties with staffing, but efforts are underway to address this. Currently, the department is in the process of bringing in 12 new officers, with background checks for additional recruits underway. As the busy summer season approaches, the department is also coordinating with state and federal partners to ensure that the city remains well-equipped to handle increased demands for public safety.
Focus on Mental Health and Hiring
Looking ahead, the Myrtle Beach Police Department is placing a significant emphasis on two areas: hiring more officers and addressing mental health resources. The city is aware that, with continued growth, the need for more personnel is critical. Additionally, mental health resources are becoming an increasingly important part of the department’s strategy to provide comprehensive public safety services.
Chief Prock spoke about the need for a collaborative approach, noting that, while the police department is responsible for maintaining law and order, it is also crucial to provide the necessary resources for those in need of mental health support. This recognition marks an important shift in how law enforcement approaches public safety, focusing not just on crime prevention but also on community well-being.
An Increase in Shoplifting: A Slight Setback
Despite the overall reduction in crime, there was a noticeable increase in certain categories of criminal activity, particularly shoplifting. In 2023, there were 761 reported shoplifting cases, a rise from the approximately 860 cases in the past year. While this uptick may seem concerning, it’s important to consider it within the broader context of the overall crime reduction in the city. The police department is aware of this challenge and is actively working to address it through increased surveillance and community outreach.
Conclusion: A Positive Trend for Myrtle Beach
The progress made by the Myrtle Beach Police Department in reducing crime is a testament to the dedication and hard work of local law enforcement. With crime down by nearly 50% since 2015, the city has made significant strides toward becoming a safer place for residents and visitors. However, the department recognizes that challenges remain, and there is still much work to be done. As Myrtle Beach continues to grow, the police department is committed to adapting to new needs, enhancing their resources, and ensuring that safety remains a top priority for the community.