The Town of LaSalle experienced a 17% increase in calls for service in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the LaSalle Police Service's annual report. Mayor Mark Carvin pointed to proactive policing as a key driver of the rise, emphasizing that the department's community engagement efforts encourage residents to report even minor incidents.
Proactive Policing Strategy
“We have a very proactive police service that is out in the community, building relationships, and that leads to more people feeling comfortable calling in,” Carvin said. The mayor noted that the increase is not necessarily a sign of rising crime but rather reflects a community more willing to engage with law enforcement.
The report shows that total calls for service reached 12,847 in 2025, up from 10,978 in 2024. The majority of calls were for non-criminal matters, including traffic complaints, noise disturbances, and wellness checks.
Traffic Enforcement and Speeding
Traffic-related calls saw a notable increase, with speeding complaints rising by 22% to 1,456 calls. Police Chief John Smith highlighted that officers issued 2,300 traffic tickets in 2025, a 15% increase from the previous year. “We are targeting high-traffic areas and responding to resident concerns about speeding,” Smith said.
Community Impact
Residents have expressed mixed reactions to the increased police presence. Some appreciate the responsiveness, while others worry about over-policing. LaSalle resident Sarah Thompson said, “I feel safer knowing the police are active, but I hope they focus on serious issues.”
Carvin defended the approach, stating, “Proactive policing builds trust and helps prevent crime before it happens. The numbers show our strategy is working.”
