FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 6, 2024
LPD Releases 2023 Annual Report
Lynchburg, VA – The Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) is pleased to announce the release of its 2023 Annual Report, highlighting the department’s commitment to serving and protecting the Lynchburg community.
LPD’s mission centers on fostering partnerships within the community and protecting its safety. To effectively fulfill this mission, LPD conducts a comprehensive review of its performance annually, culminating in the publication of its annual report. Guided by the Stratified Policing model and supported by insights from the community, LPD achieved a notable reduction in violent crime rates in 2023.
Implementing the Stratified Policing model enabled LPD to adopt an organizational approach grounded in problem-solving, analysis, and accountability, bolstered by evidence-based practices. By strategically targeting problem areas and offenders, conducting thorough foot patrols, and engaging in meaningful community activities, LPD successfully reduced instances of violent crime throughout Lynchburg.
The department’s proactive enforcement initiatives yielded significant results in 2023. These efforts were a combination of exceptional work by our patrol officers and Violent Crime Response Team that yielded the confiscation of more than 380 firearms, made 5318 arrests on 8944 charges, and the issued 6838 traffic summonses. This work was supplemented by the investigative efforts of our Criminal Investigations Division and Special Investigations Division. Chief Ryan Zuidema affirmed LPD’s dedication to professionalism, technological innovation, and community engagement as integral components of its service to Lynchburg.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to serving the Lynchburg community with integrity and excellence,” stated Chief Zuidema. “Through continuous improvement, technological advancements, and the cultivation of enduring relationships, we strive to make Lynchburg a safer and more vibrant city for all.”
LPD expresses its profound gratitude to the Lynchburg community, the City’s Leadership Team, and City Council for their unwavering support and collaboration in promoting public safety initiatives. City Manager Wynter C. Benda underscored City Council’s steadfast investment in enhancing public safety, citing initiatives such as improved pay progression for frontline officers, the take-home car program, and the forthcoming opening of a state-of-the-art police headquarters in 2025.
The LPD 2023 Annual Report is now available for viewing and download on the department’s official website at lynchburgvapolice.gov.