If you were asked which city in the Coachella Valley had the lowest crime rate, you might guess Indian Wells, Palm Desert, or Palm Springs. But the real answer may surprise you — it’s Desert Hot Springs.
The city, once plagued by a high crime rate and a difficult reputation, has transformed itself over the past several years. Today, Desert Hot Springs is recognized as the city with the lowest crime rate in the valley. It's a major success story, one that took years of persistence, planning, and partnership to achieve.
Desert Hot Springs Police Chief Stephen Shaw says he is proud of the city's progress, and he attributes the success to several key factors. "It’s a combination of the work our officers are doing, the partnerships we’ve built with the community, and the commitment from city leaders to provide the resources we need," Shaw explained.
One new initiative helping to maintain these gains involves assigning officers permanently to the city’s existing voting districts. Officers build long-term relationships with residents and businesses within their assigned areas, fostering trust and improving public safety. "The key to effective policing is those partnerships with the community," said Shaw. "It’s not about changing every few months — it's about consistency and trust."
While Desert Hot Springs once struggled with a high crime rate, Shaw emphasized that the city today is not the Desert Hot Springs of 10 or 20 years ago. "This is a vibrant, growing community with great people, dedicated city staff, and a fantastic police department. We've worked hard to change the narrative."
As the city's crime rate continues to fall, Shaw hopes the success will not only benefit Desert Hot Springs but also serve as a model for other cities looking to reduce crime. "We learn from each other. What works in one place might need a tweak for another, but the ideas and commitment to community policing are universal."
Chief Shaw and the Desert Hot Springs Police Department plan to keep building on this momentum, proving that with determination and cooperation, real change is possible.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 29, 2025
