COURT HOUSE — Calls for service were up and arrests were up in 2011, an increase from the previous year. But homicides, rapes, robberies, burglaries, car thefts and arson were down. That’s according to an annual report made public by Township Police.

An increase in theft, however, has concerned Police Chief Christopher Leusner. The number of thefts rose in the township from 473 in 2010 to 593 in 2011.

“The increase in theft is concerning,” he told the Herald. “Especially the increase in scrap metal.”

Leusner explained how scrappers are having a field day with stealing everything from wheelchair lifts, copper wire, and air conditioners from the sides of summer homes. Even a NJ Department of Transportation traffic directional sign was taken, cut up and sold for scrap.

Township police had a strong presence in the Rio Grande area with its Quality of Life pro-gram. According to the report, “We conducted 10 plain clothes details that resulted in a total of 55 arrests. In addition, the Special Services Unit in conjunction with the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office conducted Operation Clean Sweep, which resulted in the execution of four search warrants simultaneously at four different rooms of the Off Shore Motel.”

“Rio Grande will continue to be our primary focus,” said the chief.

The police department was also able to save taxpayers $20,000 in 2011 by reducing police overtime by 10 percent.

“It was about evaluating and establishing priorities,” said Leusner. The use of scheduling software was instrumental in helping see when the highest number of personnel would be needed.

By using a centralized software program, scheduling is now done to maximize the police presence when needed.

“We can now plan properly,” said Leusner. “We can do that in an efficient manner via software.”

Leusner also gave accolades to the department’s use of social media, such as Facebook and YouTube, as well as their commitment to community policing.

“YouTube and Facebook have been fabulous,” he said. “It’s been amazing.”

Township police started using social media to help fight crime in August 2011, when a video of a car getting hit in the police parking lot was posted on YouTube.

“I’m proud of our officers,” said Leusner. “I’m proud of their work. These have been a tough couple of years in New Jersey and I’m proud of how they continue to be professional and work for the residents of Middle Township.”

A copy of the Middle Township Police Department 2011 Annual Report can be found at: http://www.middlepd.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2011-Annual-Report1.p...