Heightened Patrols for Independence Day, Pharr Police Department and TxDOT Collaboration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department announces the start of heightened patrols for the 4th of July. This annual effort, in collaboration with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), aims to inform the public about the dangers of drinking and driving, and enforce traffic safety-related laws, especially during holidays such as Independence Day.
From June 21 to July 7, the Pharr Police Department will increase patrols to effectively reduce fatal and serious injury crashes.
DWI Consequences:
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. The consequences of a DWI are costly and can be deadly. We urge everyone to take responsibility and make safe choices:
Designate a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol.
Call for a ride or use a ride-sharing service.
Stay where you are if you have been drinking and are in a safe place.
Safety Tips:
Plan ahead before you start drinking.
Use public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Keep an eye out for friends and family to ensure they don’t drive under the influence.
The Pharr Police Department and TxDOT are committed to keeping our roads safe. We thank the community for their cooperation and wish everyone a safe and happy Independence Day.
For more information, please contact the Pharr Police Department at (956) 402-4700.
PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact:
Michael L. Martinez
(956) 272-9803 [email protected]
Pharr Police Department Announces Decrease in Pharr Crime Rates
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2024
Pharr, Texas – Chief Juan Gonzalez of the Pharr Police Department announced a reduction in the city’s crime rates based on the Uniform Crime Reporting system. Chief Gonzalez presented statistics outlining the positive trend in crime reduction.
Key Statistics: 2020 Crime Rate: 19.6%
2021 Crime Rate: 18.9%
2022 Crime Rate: 17.9%
Chief Gonzalez emphasized the department’s consistent success in steadily decreasing the crime rate by approximately 1% annually over the last three years. “We are proud to report this positive trend and remain committed to further lowering the crime rate to enhance the safety of our citizens,” stated Chief Gonzalez.
Looking ahead, Chief Gonzalez shared the department’s expectations for 2023, anticipating a continued decrease in crime by 1-2%. Detailed figures for 2023 will be released later this year.
The Pharr Police Department acknowledges the collaborative efforts of law enforcement personnel, community members, and partners in achieving this notable decrease in crime rates.
“Our Pharr PD is dedicated to keeping our citizens and community safe,” Chief Gonzalez affirmed.
Anyone in the City of Pharr can report crime or suspicious activity by calling the Pharr Crime Stopper hotline at (956) 787- 8477, or by using the City of Pharr 311 App.
City of Pharr Continues Annual ‘Tips for Toys’ Initiative, Spreading Holiday Cheer to Children
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2023
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department continues its Tips for Toys initiative, a heartfelt community-driven effort to bring joy to the children of Pharr during the holiday season.
The initiative involves Pharr police officers, EMS staff, Pharr firefighters, and emergency communications staff visiting various local restaurants, where they will serve as guest waitstaff, collecting tips to purchase holiday gifts for children.
This year’s initiative kicked off on November 30 and will run through December 11. Please see the schedule of participating locations, below.
The City of Pharr aims to provide gifts to children who might not otherwise receive them during the holidays. We invite the community to attend one of the remaining dates, meet our dedicated Pharr staff, and contribute to this worthy cause.
“During this season of giving, the Pharr Police Department is honored to continue the tradition of Tips for Toys,” Police Chief Juan Gonzalez said. “Our officers and staff are not only committed to keeping our community safe but also to ensuring every child experiences the joy of the holidays,” he added.
As we embark on this season of giving, the City of Pharr wishes everyone a safe and joyous holiday season. Let’s come together to make a positive impact on the lives of our community’s children.
Pharr Police Department Invites the Community to Annual Trunk or Treat Event
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2023
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department is thrilled to invite the community to join us for our annual Trunk or Treat event, a safe and fun-filled Halloween experience for families in Pharr and surrounding communities.
Trunk or Treat takes place Tuesday, October 31, 2023, from 6 PM to 9 PM at the Pharr Police Department (1900 S. Cage Blvd.) Admission is FREE.
At this drive-thru event, officers will be handing out treats to kids in their cars. This means parents and kids won’t need to exit their vehicles, ensuring a secure and enjoyable Halloween celebration.
“Our annual ‘Trunk or Treat’ event is a great opportunity for families to come together, have fun, and create bonds with our police officers,” Police Chief Juan Gonzalez said. “We’ve worked hard to ensure this event is not only fun but also safe, with our officers on hand to help everyone have a fun time,” Chief Gonzalez added.
In the spirit of Halloween, the Pharr Police Department would also like to remind parents to keep a watchful eye on their children as they go out and trick-or-treat. Please take a moment to review our attached Halloween Safety Public Service Announcement (PSA) for important tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween.
We look forward to celebrating Halloween with you at the Pharr Police Department’s Trunk or Treat event. Let’s make it a night of spooky fun and lasting memories for the entire family!
For additional details about this event or to make candy donations, please contact Officer Chris Hernandez at (956) 402-4700.
The public and all media are invited to attend this FREE event.
DETAILS:
WHAT: Pharr Police Department Trunk or Treat
WHEN: Tuesday, October 31, 2023, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
WHERE: Pharr Police Department (1900 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX)
3rd Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department’s Mental Health Unit announces the 3rd Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair.
This event will take place on Friday, September 8, 2023, from 7 – 9 PM at the Pharr Vanguard Academy Nature & Birding Center (1025 S. Richmond Drive, Pharr, TX 78577).
Stick by Me will provide a range of activities and resources designed to spread awareness and support individuals facing mental health challenges. Some highlights of the evening include mental health resources, guest speakers, glowstick vigil, rock painting station and trail walk.
“Our community’s well-being is of top importance, and events like Stick by Me demonstrate our commitment to addressing mental health challenges,” Chief of Police Juan Gonzalez said. “By coming together, we can create a supportive and understanding environment where individuals facing these issues know they are not alone, and help is readily available,” Gonzalez added.
Admission to the 3rd Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair is FREE.
The public and media are invited to attend.
For additional information about Stick by Me, please contact Officer Nick Zepeda Perez at [email protected] or Officer Jacklyn Rodriguez at [email protected].
DETAILS:
WHAT: 3rd Annual Stick by Me Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair
WHERE: Pharr Vanguard Academy Nature & Birding Center (1025 S. Richmond Drive, Pharr, TX 78577)
Pharr Police Department Joins 8th Annual Labor Day DWI “No Refusal Weekend” Campaign
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department is proud to announce its participation in the 8th Annual Labor Day DWI “No Refusal Weekend” campaign, taking place from Thursday, August 31, through Monday, September 4, 2023. This initiative, aimed at curbing drunk driving and ensuring the safety of our community, will enforce stricter measures for those suspected of driving under the influence.
As part of the “No Refusal Weekend,” anyone who refuses to provide a breath sample during a traffic stop will be subject to immediate blood testing. This effort is a collaborative initiative involving various law enforcement agencies within Hidalgo County, united in their commitment to creating safer roadways and preventing alcohol-related accidents.
“We are dedicated to creating a safer environment for our residents and visitors during the Labor Day holiday,” said Chief of Police Juan Gonzalez, “Our participation in the ‘No Refusal Weekend’ reflects our commitment to reducing the occurrence of drunk driving and preventing potential tragedies on our roads.”
The Pharr Police Department encourages all community members to make responsible choices and to never drink and drive. Together, we can make a difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on our roadways.
