There is good news and bad news regarding crime in Dunwoody. Dunwoody Police Chief Billy Grogan recently unveiled official 2011 crime statistics.

“The 2011 stats show crime was flat compared with 2010,” Grogan said. “In addition, our department implemented several successful programs throughout the year.”

Violent crimes were down 14.4 percent from the previous year, according to Dunwoody Police’s annual report.

Overall arrest numbers also dipped — the most high profile collar being Hemy Neuman in connection with the murder of Rusty Sneiderman outside Dunwoody Prep daycare.

Dunwoody police continue to face challenges with property crimes — down 0.1 percent — specifically theft connected to the unlawful entry of automobiles.

“Unfortunately, a lot of people leave items of value in plain sight,” Grogan said. “All criminals have to do is walk by the car and look in to identify a target … because of this, we promote our Lock, Take, Hide educational program throughout the city.”

That program is designed to educate residents and businesses about the importance of locking their cars, not leaving keys behind and ensuring that all personal belongings are hidden to deter opportunistic would-be thieves.

Dunwoody Police did see crime spike in some areas in 2011. Shoplifting arrests were up 5.3 percent at 460. Drug arrests numbered 205, a 25 percent increase. Meanwhile, wanted person arrests went up by nearly 27 percent.

The city’s top cop points to strategic efforts his department undertook to curb criminal activity in certain trouble spots.

“Periodically, we conduct stake-outs of areas where we are having issues,” Grogan said. “We also try and educate the community … thereby reducing the likelihood that they will become a victim.

“This educational process happens at various community events, during our Citizen Police Academy and through our social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.”

The Dunwoody Police Department also released its “MYPD [My Police Department]” smartphone application.

“With this app, citizens can stay in touch with our department no matter where they are and can send us comments, commendations and anonymous tips,” Grogan said. “We have received quite a number of commendations and a few tips of interest.”

Dunwoody Police have also turned to ChatComm for its 911 service.

“Through ChatComm, citizens in Dunwoody have access to www.Smart911.com, which gives citizens the ability to create a profile and provide important information to 911 operators and first responders should it ever be necessary to call 911,” Grogan said.