7 Shocking Ways The Longview Police Department TX Is Revolutionizing East Texas Law Enforcement In 2025

As of December 17, 2025, the Longview Police Department (LPD) stands at a pivotal moment, actively redefining its role in the City of Longview and the broader East Texas region. The department, led by Chief Anthony Boone, is not just reacting to crime; it is proactively integrating cutting-edge technology, enhancing community partnerships, and tackling complex issues like mental health and substance abuse with specialized outreach services, creating a model for modern municipal policing.

This deep dive explores the most current and impactful developments within the LPD, from major recent incidents and new gear to the vital community programs that are building bridges of trust between officers and Longview citizens. Understanding the LPD’s structure, leadership, and operational philosophy is key to grasping the future of law enforcement in Gregg County and the surrounding area.

Meet the Leadership: Chief Anthony Boone's Biography and Vision

The strategic direction of the Longview Police Department is firmly guided by Chief Anthony Boone, a veteran officer whose career trajectory is deeply rooted in the Longview community. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to professional service, community engagement, and technological advancement.

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• Full Name: Anthony Boone
• Current Role: Chief of the Longview Police Department (LPD)
• Start of LPD Career: January 2001
• Early Career: Began as a Patrol Officer, serving on all three patrol shifts, gaining comprehensive operational experience across the city.
• Confirmation as Chief: Unanimously confirmed by the Longview City Council on Thursday, April 28, 2022.
• Leadership Focus: Boone has emphasized a commitment to showcasing the department's history while simultaneously focusing on the future through new technology and stronger public trust.
• Key Initiatives: Under his tenure, the LPD has adopted innovative tools like the new Lit Safety Vest, which Chief Boone personally discovered at a national police chief's convention, underscoring his push for officer safety and modern equipment.

Chief Boone’s philosophy centers on the idea that effective policing is a partnership. He frequently encourages citizens to be proactive in reporting criminal activity, asserting that close cooperation between the community and the police department sends a strong message to criminals.

The Longview Police Department's 2025 Operational Highlights and Recent Incidents

The LPD remains highly active in protecting the residents of Longview, Texas, with a constant response to both routine and critical incidents. The department’s media releases and public statements provide a clear picture of its recent operational focus and challenges.

Critical Incident Response and Inter-Agency Cooperation

In the latter half of 2025, LPD officers have been involved in several significant events. For example, on August 11, 2025, officers responded to a serious Fatality Crash, highlighting the constant need for traffic enforcement and accident investigation expertise. Furthermore, the department's collaboration with state agencies remains crucial. In 2024 and 2025, the LPD worked directly with the Texas Rangers and the Texas Highway Patrol to serve justice, notably in the arrest of a serial child rapist in Gregg County, demonstrating a commitment to tackling serious, high-profile crimes.

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New Technology and Officer Safety

A key investment in the future of the Longview PD is the adoption of new safety technology. The introduction of the Lit Safety Vest is a prime example of Chief Boone's dedication to officer well-being. This evolution in police gear provides enhanced visibility and protection for officers on patrol, particularly during nighttime operations or traffic stops, a crucial element for the safety of the men and women serving the community.

Policy Changes and Community Events

Not all recent news has been universally welcomed. In December 2025, a controversy arose when the city cited safety concerns in its decision not to allow the police department to escort an annual "toy run" organized by a local bar owner to a pediatric care facility. This policy change, while frustrating for event organizers, reflects the city's focus on managing risk and ensuring public safety during non-traditional police functions, though it does not affect events such as the Balloon Fest, where officers continue to serve.

The LPD's Proactive Approach: 5 Essential Community Outreach Programs

The Longview Police Department understands that true public safety extends beyond arrests and patrols. A significant portion of its resources is dedicated to building rapport and offering specialized assistance through a variety of community outreach and volunteer programs. These initiatives are the bedrock of the department's strategy to enhance public trust.

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1. Specialized Outreach for Vulnerable Populations

Recognizing the complex challenges facing the city, the LPD has implemented critical Homeless Outreach Services, Mental Health Services, and Substance Abuse Services. These programs are designed to connect vulnerable residents with necessary resources rather than relying solely on punitive measures, aligning with the department's mission to partner with the community to enhance public trust.

2. The Citizen Police Academy (CPA)

The Citizen Police Academy is an essential educational program, offering Longview citizens an in-depth, hands-on look at the daily operations of the police department. This program demystifies law enforcement procedures, fostering transparency and creating a core group of informed community ambassadors.

3. National Night Out and Project 365

The LPD actively participates in National Night Out, an annual event that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Complementary to this is Project 365, which suggests an ongoing, year-round commitment to community engagement, ensuring that interaction is not limited to a single evening. These efforts are part of a broader push to encourage citizens to interact more closely with the police department.

4. Youth Engagement: The "Play Nice Guys" Initiative

The department actively seeks positive interactions with Longview's youth. The "Play Nice Guys" initiative, which saw police officers interact with children during Buckner's Summer Food Service Program, is a perfect example. These interactions build positive early relationships, showing children that officers are approachable and committed to their well-being.

5. Volunteer Programs

The LPD offers a variety of Volunteer Programs, allowing citizens to contribute their time and skills to support the department’s mission. These roles can range from administrative assistance to specialized support, further strengthening the bond between the LPD and the Longview citizenry.

Longview, TX Crime Statistics and Data: What Citizens Need to Know

Understanding the local crime landscape is crucial for both the police department and the public. The LPD is transparent about its statistics, encouraging a proactive stance among residents.

Data indicates that Longview, TX, faces ongoing challenges, particularly with violent crime. The city’s violent crime rate, at approximately 440 per 100,000 individuals, is reported to be higher than the national average by 19%. This statistic underscores the department's ongoing efforts to reduce serious offenses and keep the community safe.

Focus on DWI Enforcement

The LPD’s dedication to road safety is evident in its enforcement data. According to 2024 DWI reports by the Crime Records Division, the Longview PD was a major contributor to DWI arrests in the region, highlighting a significant focus on combating impaired driving to protect the public roadways in East Texas.

The Call for Proactive Reporting

Chief Boone consistently stresses that crime reduction is a shared responsibility. By encouraging citizens to be vigilant and report criminal activity promptly, the department leverages the eyes and ears of the community. This partnership is vital for the success of all law enforcement efforts in the City of Longview.

Conclusion: The Future of Policing in Longview, TX

The Longview Police Department is clearly charting a course toward modern, community-focused law enforcement. Through the steady leadership of Chief Anthony Boone, the LPD is balancing traditional policing duties—such as responding to fatality crashes and major arrests—with innovative community engagement models like the Citizen Police Academy and specialized outreach services for mental health and homelessness.

From adopting new safety technology like the Lit Safety Vest to navigating complex policy decisions regarding event escorts, the department demonstrates a dynamic operational environment. For residents of Longview and Gregg County, the LPD is more than just a law enforcement agency; it is a vital community partner committed to enhancing public safety, fostering trust, and ensuring that Longview remains a secure and thriving place to live, work, and raise a family.

Longview Police Department Key Contact Information

• Main Address: 310 S Fredonia St, Longview, TX 75606
• Public Information Officer (PIO): Officer LaDarian Brown (serves as the liaison between the media and the police).
• Non-Emergency Phone: (903) 237-1170 (Standard police number for non-emergency services).