Tempe to increase security presence in parks to help residents feel safer

PHOENIX – Soon there will be an increased security presence in Tempe parks.

Tempe Police Detective Lily Duran said specially trained security officers will work closely with Tempe police to get people the help they need, educate people about park ordinances and generally helping people feel safe.

“There was an annual survey … given to the citizens of Tempe,” she said. “The survey told us that we needed to enhance the feeling of safety for everyone in our parks.

“Overall, reported crime in Tempe parks is very low right now. With that said, we do have some problems … [that] include criminal damage, drugs, dogs not being on a leash and disorderly conduct.”

The specially trained officers — former law enforcement — will be in Hudson and Clark parks to start.

Duran said additional security will be assigned based on service calls and resident and officer feedback.

Tempe parks are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

Most of the city’s parks are within a half-mile of residential neighborhoods.

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