The number of property crimes reported in Newton last year were half of what was reported four years ago. Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess says that’s an impressive number that was initiated by the hiring of additional officers in 2019.

“2019 was the year we added three police officers and got the department up to 27 sworn officers. That had a huge impact on our ability to enforce and be proactive in the community.”

In 2019, over just over 500 total violent and property crimes were reported to Newton Police. In 2024, Chief Burdess says there were less than 300. He says the community and other city departments play a role in keeping crime rates down and he’s super proud of the community stepping up to reduce crime.