Arguments over the future of law enforcement were heard at the last Deer Park City Council meeting. Mayor Verzal neglected maintaining order, with multiple individuals interrupting the law enforcement report.

A report was presented by Councilman Jason Upchurch about the results of a recent law enforcement survey sent out to the public earlier this year. In the past surveys have been sent with the water & sewer bills, however this time the Mayor used a third party to mail the surveys directly. The survey was designed to better understand how residents feel about law enforcement in Deer Park. Councilman Upchurch distinctly pointed out that official crime stats are very low. Part of the issue is identifying if there is a disconnect between public perception and official statistics. 

As Upchurch was concluding his report, four people in the audience interrupted. Councilman Caleb Stapp asked the Mayor to maintain order, however, the Mayor allowed continuous interruption while Upchurch was speaking. By Washington State law, it is the Mayor’s responsibility to preside over City Council meetings.