The first quarter of 2026 is showing a continued drop in crime in Taylorville.  That’s according to data from the city’s police department.  The trend comes amid an increase in traffic enforcement along with new certifications and qualifications which department members have achieved.

Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler watches the data closely.  He credits citizen feedback along with the work of his team for the reduction in crime. 

In terms of the connection the department has with community members, Chief Wheeler points to community policing and outreach efforts to connect with those they serve.

Chief Wheeler adds that social media has been an effective tool for helping fight crime, through the ability of community members to communicate directly with the department that way.

Officers have increased their level of traffic enforcement following calls to do so from community members in a recent survey the Taylorville Police Department commissioned. 

More information on the Taylorville Police Department is available at www.taylorville.net/police-dept. 

Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.