Local & Community
Desert Hot Springs Has Lowest Crime Rate In The Coachella Valley
Desert Hot Springs is no longer the city it once was—at least when it comes to public safety. Once battling a tough reputation, this city in the Coachella Valley has now emerged as the safest in the region, according to local officials. New crime statistics show a 28% decline in reported incidents compared to the same time last year.
“This is a huge step forward,” said 17-year Desert Hot Springs resident Kent Anderson. “It’s amazing to see how much safer it feels here now. But the bigger challenge is convincing people that the old stereotypes no longer apply.”
For many years, Desert Hot Springs faced negative perceptions tied to crime. But today, both residents and police are working together to rewrite that narrative. According to Police Chief Stephen Shaw, a large part of the success comes from building strong ties between law enforcement and the community.
“Every district in the city will soon have dedicated officers,” Shaw said. “This means more direct relationships between officers and residents—and more accountability. Our goal is visibility, engagement, and trust.”
That connection is already paying off. Many locals say they now see patrol cars regularly and feel more comfortable interacting with officers.
“I think people feel safe saying hello to police officers here,” one resident noted. “There’s a presence. You see them around. That’s not the case everywhere.”
Two years ago, the city also launched its own dispatch center, giving Desert Hot Springs faster emergency response and more autonomy in handling local issues. The improvements in public safety are not just making residents feel more at ease—they're also laying the foundation for broader transformation. City leaders believe that sustained safety could lead to increased population growth, economic development, and renewed investment.
For longtime residents like Anderson, the change is tangible—and personal. “It’s nice to know that where you live is actually safe,” he said. “It helps you sleep a little easier at night.” As Desert Hot Springs continues to lower crime and build trust, city officials hope the shift will finally replace stigma with pride. For more information tune into NBC Palm Springs
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 28, 2025
Latest Instagram Posts
Who makes the NBC Top 3, winner will be announced Sunday night on NBC Palm Springs, with the player who makes the number one spot winning a $250 prize from @hondaofthedesert! Comment below if it will be 1 Silias Bloodworth with the scoop and score, 2) Eusebio Gallo with the kickoff touchdown, 3) Keymorie Rogers with the throw on the run, 4) Damian Durinzi with the rushing TD, or 5) Mario Gallo with the dot towards the endzone #fypage #fridaynightlights #football #hondaofthedesert #highschoolfootball
Hundreds gathered outside the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., for the “Hands Around the Kennedy Center” rally, protesting President Donald Trump’s handling of the performing arts center. The demonstration came after the Kennedy Center board voted to close the facility for repairs and amid an ongoing dispute over the center’s future. Actress and singer Lynda Carter was among those who addressed the crowd. apnews.com Watch the latest video on NBC Palm Springs.
Alice B. has announced it’s closing its doors. It’s cozy atmosphere and unique seasonal menu made it a must try and even landed it in the Michelin guide. @susanfeniger and @marysuemilliken left their mark on the desert over at Living Out and it will be missed. Here’s a clip from one of our last interviews with Susan.
Cathedral City City Council votes to rename “LGBT+ Days” to “Cathedral City Pride”. The council approved the change in a 5-0 vote during its latest meeting, updating the official name of the city’s annual celebration. Stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs to see what this means to the Coachella Valley Community #CathedralCity #pride #CityCouncil #CoachellaValley #LocalNews
Discover the Coachella Valley with the Everything Palm Springs app. From iconic attractions and hidden gems to local restaurants, shops, entertainment and even filming locations, the map-based app is designed to help both visitors and locals find more of what the desert has to offer. Creator Lindsay Kinkle is also expanding the app with video tours and narrated guides, giving users another way to explore Palm Springs and the surrounding communities. Local businesses like Buena Matcha are also getting a chance to connect with new customers through the platform. As Lindsay says, there’s so much to do and enjoy here — you just have to know where to look. #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #EverythingPalmSprings #PalmSpringsApp #VisitPalmSprings DesertLife LocalBusiness CoachellaValleyBusiness NBCPalmSprings
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What’s next for Palm Desert? Join community leaders, local businesses and regional stakeholders for the 2026 State of the City Address. Topics: • Economic Development • Infrastructure • Public Safety • Community Programs • Palm Desert’s Future CTA: Friday, September 18 | 11:30 AM JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort
Former Silvercrest CEO, William Rodriguez is expected back in court today in connection with the deadly 2024 Cathedral City hit and run that killed a woman. The murder charge was dismissed, but Rodriguez still faces felony hit and run and suspended license charges.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
Murder suspect Vicky Kim has once again not been cleared to appear in court. Kim is accused of killing her husband at their Palm Desert condominium complex. Her arraignment has now been delayed three times. Stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs as we track the latest developments in this case. #VickyKim #PalmDesert #CoachellaValley #BreakingNews #CourtUpdate NBCPalmSprings