While many police agencies across the country struggle to maintain staffing and keep up with call volumes, the Scottsdale Police Department is setting the standard for proactive, community-centered policing, thanks to the strong support of the Scottsdale City Council and City Manager Greg Caton.

Strategic investment in public safety has enabled Scottsdale Police to maintain staffing levels, fully support specialized units and give patrol officers the time and tools they need not only to respond to crime, but to prevent it.

“Because of the support we receive from city leadership, we are not just keeping up with public safety needs. We are staying ahead of them,” said Scottsdale Police Chief Joe LeDuc. “We have the resources to operate in a way that protects the quality of life in Scottsdale and reduces crime by preventing it at its source.”

Specialized units strengthen prevention and response

Unlike many departments that are forced to run call to call, Scottsdale officers have the capacity to proactively engage with the community, address emerging threats and intervene early. Fully staffed specialty units allow the department to focus on targeted enforcement and long-term safety strategies. Highlights include:

• Burglary and Property Crimes Unit – Recently dismantled a national burglary ring targeting luxury homes.
• Public Order Unit – Ensures safety and preparedness during large-scale events and demonstrations.
• School Resource Officers – Provide safety and mentorship in Scottsdale’s schools.
• Crisis K9 Unit – Uses support dogs to de-escalate high-stress incidents and support mental health response.
• Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit – Targets and apprehends individuals exploiting vulnerable populations.
• Repeat Offenders Unit – Focuses on chronic offenders with ongoing criminal activity.
• Street Crimes Unit – Addresses emerging crime trends through plainclothes patrols.
• Short-Term Rental Unit – Responds to complaints and ensures compliance through education and enforcement.
• Park Ranger Unit – Keeps Scottsdale parks and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve safe and welcoming.
• Crime Analysis Unit – Uses data to identify crime patterns and deploy resources effectively.

“These units allow us to be agile and deliberate in our approach,” said LeDuc. “We’re not just showing up after a crime happens — we’re working every day to prevent it.”

Sustained support and strategic growth

This operational strength is built on a foundation of city leadership that prioritizes safe neighborhoods and high-quality policing. In June, the Scottsdale City Council adopted a $2.204 billion budget for fiscal year 2025/26, which includes substantial investments in officer compensation, staffing, equipment and technology.

Scottsdale Police are now among the top three highest-paid law enforcement agencies in the Valley. The budget includes pay increases, retention bonuses, and step plan adjustments that support both recruitment and long-term career growth. An additional 22 positions were also added to meet increasing service demands.

“Our community expects a high standard of public safety, and we are proud to support a department that is meeting that expectation with innovation and professionalism,” said City Manager Greg Caton. “Investing in police staffing ensures Scottsdale remains not only a safe city but also a forward-thinking one. It allows our officers to prevent crime and build meaningful relationships with the people they serve.”

A model for regional collaboration

In addition to its internal strengths, Scottsdale Police maintain strong partnerships with regional, state and federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF. These collaborations support complex investigations and ensure that Scottsdale is part of a coordinated effort to combat organized crime and emerging threats.

“We are able to engage in meaningful investigations and leverage every available tool because we are staffed to do so,” LeDuc added. “This is what creates a safe, vibrant community for our residents and visitors.”