KENNEWICK, Wash. – The Kennewick Police Department (KPD) reported a 16% decrease in violent crime and a 2% drop in property crime in 2024, despite a 1% increase in overall crime.
The findings are expected to be outlined in Police Chief Chris Guerrero’s report scheduled for presentation during the city council’s upcoming June 10 workshop meeting.
In 2024, the department made strides toward being fully staffed, hiring individuals who embody integrity, courage and commitment, the report said.
The Major Crimes unit, which includes a sergeant and seven detectives, investigated three homicide cases during the year. There were 9 cases in 2023 and 12 in 2022.
KPD also reported fewer forcible sex offenses with 117 in 2024 compared to 147 in 2023 and aggravated assaults with 207 in 2024 compared to 247 in 2023.
Crimes figures with notable increases include possession of illegal drugs (28%) and simple assault (14%) from 2023, the report said.
The Criminal Apprehension Team (CAT) played a crucial role in addressing gang activity and serious crimes.
Throughout the year, CAT made 191 warrant arrests and recovered 25 firearms. Their efforts also led to the seizure of narcotics, including 1,285 fentanyl pills and 100.45 grams of methamphetamine, the report said.
Chief Guerrero also plans to address the department’s Strategic Plan along with the current state of the city’s School Resource Officer (SRO) program.
Currently, all three high schools and five middle schools in Kennewick have SRO’s who perform a number of duties to enhance school safety along with fostering relationships with students and staff, the report added.
