While Pella was recently ranked among the safest cities in Iowa, the Pella Police Department is working to ensure that trend continues even further.

In terms of crime prevention and public safety, Pella Police Chief Robert Bokinsky echos the call of many leaders after recent mass shootings in having everyone report to police if they see something out-of-line–essentially, see something, say something.

“That’s a national motto or saying…that is an absolute truism and that has happen,” he says. “I can tell you right now there’s concerns right here in the police department and there’s concerns in the community–what’s going on in our schools in regards to drugs?”

Bokinsky says by reporting suspicious behavior, the community can help them prevent crime and keep others safe. He says the most important goal for the police department is to stop criminals before they start instead of always having to respond.