The City of Morgantown is announcing the continuation of the Morgantown Police Department’s Safe Streets Initiative that officially launched on Aug. 9 at the request of Chief of Police Eric Powell.
Based on recent data provided by officials, City Manager Kim Haws has approved an eight-week extension of the program.
As reported by Deputy Chief Chris Ruehmer, the Safe Streets Initiative concluded its initial 12-week period on Nov. 1. Over the three-month period, MPD officers made 42 arrests and issued 58 criminal citations. Additional reports verified that arrests were made for DUI, disorderly conduct and possession.
What originally started out as an effort to connect citizens to help has also evolved into what officials consider a welcomed focus on public safety that increases law enforcement visibility and reduces petty crime in the downtown area, according to Ruehmer.