Four Years In, Lubbock Police Credit Substations for Faster Response, Stronger Community Ties

Four years after implementing its community policing model, the Lubbock Police Department reports significant improvements in response times and enhanced trust within neighborhoods, thanks to the establishment of three division substations.

In 2017, the City of Lubbock and police officials initiated their exploration of a community-focused model. 

In 2021, the city inaugurated new patrol stations in the east, south, and north, backed by an $18 million investment. Officials report that the transformation is yielding positive results.

“The response times are remarkable, and the improvement is outstanding.” We have significantly improved our response times and our capacity to manage the call volume. East Division Deputy Chief Commander Joshua Crouch stated, "It's not a comparison; they're simply not comparable."

However, Crouch emphasized that the influence reaches far beyond mere statistics. Officers are currently facilitating neighborhood gatherings in community rooms at the stations, providing residents with a direct connection to law enforcement. “After each of those meetings, I always walk away confident in my current path, never questioning if I should consider a different career.” “I always feel valued when I am around them,” he remarked.

The substations have also altered daily operations. Officers are now assigned to their respective divisions rather than reporting to headquarters, which LPD describes as fostering a more “personalized” approach. Officer Jeffrey Sommer, who moved from Midland, stated that the model facilitates enhanced cooperation with community leaders. “We have the ability to customize our division due to our strong connection with the community,” he stated.

Patrol officers utilize the stations as a central point for meals, workouts, or brief breaks, thereby enhancing their presence in the neighborhoods. Officer Marcus Rodriguez, now in his fourth year with the East Division, noted that residents are aware of the situation. “They express their appreciation and enjoy the visibility of officers; they value the presence of law enforcement,” he stated.

Investigators report that being close to the scene has expedited the resolution of cases. Detective Darren Lindly observed that community members are increasingly coming forward to provide tips, while officers who know the suspects well are assisting investigators in making swift identifications.

Support personnel also contribute significantly. Administrative worker Priscella Vasquez and her daughter Abigail Walker participate in community meetings to provide residents with an additional point of contact. “Certain individuals find it easier to engage in conversation with those who share similar appearances rather than with someone in a uniform,” Vasquez stated.

Crouch emphasized that the transition to substations could not have occurred without the support of taxpayers. “This was an excellent choice made by all parties, and there’s simply no alternative approach,” he stated.