Joplin Police Department releases its 2022 Annual Report

The Joplin Police Department's Annual Report for 2022 was officially released today.

Joplin Police Chief Sloan Rowland notes in his introduction that 2022 was a tragic year for the Department.

On March 8th of last year,  Officer Jake Reed and Corporal Ben Cooper were killed in the line of duty and Officer Rick Hirshey was seriously injured by gunfire.

Additionally, Airport Officer Mike Gayman was also lost suddenly in 2022.

Chief Rowland says the outpouring of support from the citizens of Joplin, surrounding communities, across the state, and the region was unbelievable.

The Joplin Police Department when at full staff employs 110 sworn officers and 53 civilian members who serve in all areas of the Police Department, Communications Center, and City Jail. Whether it is responding to emergencies, investigating crime, traffic safety enforcement or general assistance to the public, Rowland says the JPD's  goal is to provide a safe environment for our citizens, businesses, and visitors.

The report is a summary of important statistics from the year 2022. The total number of calls for the year were 73,755. The year saw a continued reduction in the number of traffic crashes by 4.4% within the city and a 6% reduction in crime overall.

You can access the entire document at JPD 2022 Annual Report