City of Redlands Police Chief Rachel Tolber recently joined the Rotary Club of Redlands to share an update on the latest developments within the Redlands Police Department.
Chief Tolber discussed ongoing recruitment efforts, department restructuring, data-driven policing strategies, and exciting plans for a new Redlands Police Station.
Recruitment and Training
With background checks and extensive training, it can take about a year for a new recruit to become fully operational. Recruitment remains a continuous effort due to natural turnover, but overall vacancies are lower than last year, reflecting positive progress in staffing.
Restructuring for Community Engagement
The department recently underwent a restructuring to better align with its mission and community needs. One key example is the creation of the Community Engagement Team, which brings to life the department’s commitment to building stronger relationships with residents and local organizations.
Data-Driven Policing Improves Safety
Chief Tolber emphasized the importance of using data to guide decisions and improve public safety. For example, by analyzing traffic collision data, the department identified intersections with the highest number of accidents. After increasing enforcement in those areas, traffic collisions were significantly reduced.
Crime Trends in Redlands
The new national crime reporting system, implemented three years ago, now provides meaningful trend data. Overall, crime in Redlands is down — with property crime showing significant decreases and crimes against people also declining.
“Crime against society” has increased, which Chief Tolber attributed to proactive policing efforts targeting offenses such as narcotics and illegal weapons possession — crimes that can lead to more serious offenses if left unchecked.
Community Awareness and Engagement
Chief Tolber encourages residents to report non-emergency incidents by contacting the department at (909) 798-7681 x1. She noted that E-bike traffic violations have become a growing concern; the department typically takes an educational approach first, speaking with both violators and parents (if minors are involved).
A New Police Station for Redlands
In closing, Chief Tolber shared draft plans and renderings for the new Redlands Police Station. The new facility will consolidate services into one location, enhance operational efficiency, and better serve the Redlands community. The proposed design complements the city’s historic architecture, blending seamlessly with Redlands’ unique character and charm.