The City of Dayton continues to prioritize safety in Downtown Dayton through a proactive, visible policing strategy focused on prevention, early intervention, and accountability.

Over the past year, the Dayton Police Department (DPD) has expanded full-time bike patrols, increased foot patrols, and added staffing dedicated specifically to the downtown area. These efforts are supported by the department’s Real Time Crime Center, which provides officers with timely information to help them respond quickly and proactively.

This coordinated approach has led to a significant increase in self-initiated enforcement actions by officers downtown—meaning officers are identifying and addressing violations through proactive patrols and visibility, rather than responding only to calls for service. Compared to previous periods:

• Narcotics violations are up 100%
• Drug equipment violations are up 300%
• Weapon law violations are up 1,700%

These increases reflect a shift toward proactive policing and targeted enforcement—not an increase in reported violent crime downtown. With increased visibility and staffing, officers are identifying violations that previously went undetected.

Several cases have involved convicted violent felons who have historically contributed to ongoing issues in the downtown area. Through focused enforcement and collaboration with partner agencies, officers are working to hold these individuals accountable and prevent future harm.

As part of the City’s continued investment in downtown safety and accessibility, Dayton Police will soon be opening a Central Patrol substation near the Greater Dayton RTA Hub. The substation will provide officers with a centralized downtown location to support patrol operations, increase visibility, and enhance responsiveness in the surrounding area.

City officials emphasize that Downtown Dayton remains a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. The enhanced policing strategy is designed to maintain that vitality by ensuring officers are visible, engaged with the community, and addressing concerns early.

The City of Dayton and Dayton Police Department remain committed to continuing these proactive safety efforts and working closely with residents, businesses, and visitors to keep downtown welcoming and safe.

Understanding the Numbers

Do the increases in enforcement mean crime is rising downtown? No. The increases reflect more proactive enforcement, not an increase in violent crime. With increased visibility and staffing, officers are identifying violations that previously went undetected.

Many of these actions involve individuals already prohibited from certain activities under the law, including convicted felons unlawfully possessing weapons. The goal is prevention, accountability, and long-term community safety.