Sterling Heights Police Department serves over 132,000 residents across 36.8 square miles in Macomb County, Michigan. With 150 sworn officers and 45 civilian staff, the department operates on a $35 million annual budget focused on rapid response, crime prevention, and community engagement. Recent data shows a 12% drop in property crime over three years, while traffic collisions fell 8% since 2023. The department’s Neighborhood Watch now covers 28 blocks, and its Transparency Dashboard publishes weekly crime stats, traffic stops, and use-of-force reports. Chief Dale Dwojakowski leads strategic planning, officer training, and budget decisions, supported by 22 detectives in the Investigative Services Division. Seven new patrol officers will join the North-Side Unit in June 2024, adding 2,400 monthly patrol hours in Oakwood and Riverbend.
Leadership and Organizational Structure
Chief Dale Dwojakowski oversees the Sterling Heights Police Department with 20 years of law enforcement experience, including homicide investigations and tactical operations. His office manages policy development, resource allocation, and community outreach. Residents can schedule meetings by calling (586) 446-2810 during business hours. The department includes sworn officers, civilian staff, and specialized units like the Investigative Services Division and Community Engagement Team. Each unit focuses on specific duties, from patrol response to victim assistance partnerships. The organizational structure ensures clear lines of command, efficient operations, and accountability. Regular training programs keep officers updated on best practices, legal standards, and de-escalation techniques. This structure supports the department’s mission to protect residents with fairness, transparency, and professionalism.
Core Services and Community Programs
The department offers essential services including emergency response, traffic enforcement, crime prevention, and public safety education. Officers conduct regular patrols, investigate crimes, and assist during natural disasters or large events. The Neighborhood Watch program connects residents with local officers to reduce burglary and vandalism. Traffic safety initiatives include speed monitoring, DUI checkpoints, and school zone enforcement. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) trains volunteers for disaster preparedness. Social media updates on Facebook provide real-time alerts, road closures, and safety tips. The department also partners with Turning Point and Macomb County Victims Assistance to support vulnerable populations. These programs reflect a commitment to proactive policing and strong community relationships.
Records, Permits, and Public Requests
Residents can request pistol sales records, purchase permits, or other official documents through the Records Unit. Call (586) 446-2900 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or email using the masked address on the department’s contact page. Mail completed forms to 40333 Dodge Park Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313. Requests are processed within ten business days. For general city services, use the online Request portal or call (586) 446-2489. The portal guides users through each step and ensures all required documents are included. This system improves efficiency and reduces errors in public record handling.
Investigative Services and Victim Support
The Investigative Services Division includes 22 detectives who handle serious crimes like homicide, robbery, and sexual assault. Captain Colleen Hopper leads case reviews, forensic analysis, and courtroom testimony. The division works with Turning Point, a homeless services nonprofit, and the Macomb County Victims Assistance Unit. A 24-hour hotline at (586) 446-2825 provides urgent support for victims. Detectives use advanced technology and collaboration with state agencies to solve cases quickly. Regular training ensures officers follow legal standards and protect victim rights. This division plays a key role in maintaining public trust and delivering justice.
Transparency and Public Accountability
In 2023, the department launched a Transparency Dashboard showing real-time data on traffic stops, crime trends, and use-of-force incidents. Metrics update weekly and can be filtered by date, precinct, or offense type. This tool helps residents track public safety progress and holds the department accountable. The dashboard contributed to an 8% decline in motor-vehicle collisions and greater community trust. Chief Dwojakowski emphasizes open communication through town meetings, social media, and annual reports. These efforts align with Michigan’s push for police transparency and ethical law enforcement.
Community Engagement and Social Media
The department’s Facebook page has 19,714 followers and shares daily updates on safety, events, and officer achievements. Posts include real-time photos of road closures, crime prevention tips, and emergency alerts. A permanent 911 banner reminds residents to call for urgent help. The CERT information is pinned for quick access. Officers host town halls, school visits, and neighborhood walks to build trust. These interactions help residents feel safer and more connected to local law enforcement. Social media also allows two-way communication, letting citizens report concerns or ask questions.
Recent Developments and Officer Training
In 2024, seven new patrol officers completed academy training in Rochester and will join the North-Side Unit. They will focus on foot patrols in Oakwood and Riverbend, areas with rising burglary rates. The unit adds 2,400 patrol hours per month, improving response times and visibility. All officers receive ongoing training in de-escalation, cultural sensitivity, and emergency response. The department updated its Employee Assistance Program after a 2017 incident involving prescription medication use. Now, all sworn personnel undergo quarterly mental health screenings. These changes show a commitment to officer wellness and public safety.
Crime Statistics and Safety Trends
Annual reports show a 12% decrease in property crime over the past three years. The Transparency Dashboard confirms an 8% drop in traffic collisions since 2023. Burglary rates in Oakwood and Riverbend prompted the new North-Side Unit. Overall, violent crime remains low compared to state averages. The department uses data to allocate resources, target high-risk areas, and measure program success. Residents can view trends by neighborhood, crime type, or time period. This data-driven approach helps prevent crime and improve quality of life.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Sterling Heights Police Department is located at 40333 Dodge Park Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313. The main phone number is (586) 446-2489. The Records Unit can be reached at (586) 446-2900, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Investigative Services Division operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, with a 24-hour hotline at (586) 446-2825. Chief Dwojakowski’s office takes appointments at (586) 446-2810. For emergencies, always call 911. Non-emergency reports can be submitted online or by phone. Visiting hours are standard business times unless otherwise noted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Residents often ask about services, safety, and how to contact the department. Below are answers to common questions based on official sources and recent data.
How do I request a copy of a police report or pistol permit?
To request a police report, pistol sales record, or purchase permit, contact the Records Unit at (586) 446-2900 during business hours. You can also email using the protected address on the department’s website or mail forms to 40333 Dodge Park Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313. Processing takes up to ten business days. Include your name, contact information, and case number if available. Some records may require a fee or ID verification. For urgent needs, call ahead to confirm availability. The department follows Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) guidelines to protect privacy while providing access to public records.
What should I do in an emergency or if I witness a crime?
In any emergency, call 911 immediately. Provide your location, the nature of the incident, and any suspect descriptions. For non-emergencies, call (586) 446-2489 or use the online Request portal. If you witness a crime, do not intervene—stay safe and report what you saw. The department’s Facebook page posts real-time alerts and safety tips. You can also contact the Investigative Services Division at (586) 446-2825 for follow-up. Always share accurate information to help officers respond quickly and effectively.
How can I join the Neighborhood Watch or CERT program?
To join Neighborhood Watch, contact your local precinct or call the department at (586) 446-2489. The program covers 28 blocks and focuses on preventing burglary and vandalism. CERT training teaches disaster preparedness, first aid, and emergency response. Sessions are free and open to residents 18 and older. Check the department’s Facebook page or website for upcoming dates. Both programs strengthen community ties and improve safety through cooperation.
Are crime statistics and use-of-force data publicly available?
Yes. The Transparency Dashboard, launched in 2023, shows weekly updates on traffic stops, crime trends, and use-of-force incidents. Data can be filtered by date, area, or type. The dashboard helped reduce traffic collisions by 8% and increased public trust. Annual reports are also published online. These tools support accountability and informed community discussions about public safety.
How does the department support victims of crime?
The Investigative Services Division partners with Turning Point and Macomb County Victims Assistance to offer counseling, legal help, and shelter. A 24-hour hotline at (586) 446-2825 provides immediate support. Detectives work closely with victims throughout investigations and court proceedings. The department also connects survivors with housing, medical care, and financial aid. These services ensure victims are treated with dignity and receive the help they need.
What training do officers receive?
All officers complete state-approved academy training and ongoing education in de-escalation, cultural sensitivity, and emergency response. New hires train in Rochester before joining patrol units. Quarterly mental health screenings are required under the updated Employee Assistance Program. Training ensures officers act professionally, legally, and ethically in all situations.
How can I contact Chief Dwojakowski or schedule a meeting?
Call the Chief’s Office at (586) 446-2810 during business hours to request a meeting. Appointments may require a brief background check for security. Chief Dwojakowski leads strategic planning, budget decisions, and policy development. He also speaks at community events and town halls. Contact his office for official inquiries or public safety concerns.
For more information, visit the official website: https://www.sterling-heights.net/466/Police-Department or call (586) 446-2489.