Reports of major crime in this City, which last year was ranked the “safest city in the nation among cities with a population greater than 75,000, are down by 7 percent this year through August from the same period last year. The City experienced a reduction in “Part 1” crimes – the most serious of offenses, which include homicide, rape, robbery, assault, burglary, larceny, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
The statistics basically follow a steady downward drift in town – with a 17 percent reduction in Part 1 crimes from 2003 to 2007, according the Orange County Sheriff’s officials.
The City, which reports one of the best crime rates in the county, has been contracting with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department since it incorporated 20 years ago and has made great strides in its law-enforcement efforts. With a population of roughly 98,000, Mission Viejo is the largest city served by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Officials say the reduction in crime is due to the hard work of Sheriff’s deputies; the exceptional partnership between the department and citizens of Mission Viejo; and the outstanding support the City gives Mission Viejo Police Services. City leaders have always placed a high priority on public safety by providing the necessary law-enforcement services.
The City is committed to preserving its high quality of life by maintaining the City’s infrastructure and amenities. Mission Viejo is a family-oriented community that enjoys many recreational opportunities and community programs that contribute to keeping the City safe. The City also employs a dedicated, hard-working staff that is committed to providing the best services possible and works closely with the Sheriff’s Department.
The importance of crime prevention and community education go hand in hand with active patrol, traffic and investigative forces. Mission Viejo Police Services offers a wide array of public services including a Senior Citizens Volunteer Group; Neighborhood Watch Program; Educational programs for parents of teens; Crime Prevention programs including Home and Business Security Inspections, Emergency Preparedness Academy; and Childhood Watch Programs.
Residents interested in any of the services should contact Crime Prevention Officers Tammy Descoteaux at 949-470-3094 or Paula Monical at 949-470-8401.
