By Drew Adams
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkms/local-wkms-999157.mp3
Murray, KY – Madisonville residents enjoyed a significant drop in crime rates in their city during 2011. Recent findings show an eight percent drop in crime throughout Madisonville, which far exceeds even local officials' expectations. The city witnessed a 74% drop in felony assaults, a 64% decrease in rape and a 44% decline in robberies. Madisonville Police Chief Wade Williams says much of the change can be attributed to an evolution of policing philosophy from a reactionary mindset to a more community focused, engaged outlook. Williams says the number of calls for help from the community has tripled since 1994 when the city had 47 officers. However the city was able to accomplish this year's drop in crime with only 44 officers on duty. Williams says the push to make local police more approachable and present allowed the department to make a change in the midst of less funding and fewer officers.