Manteca Sees 36% Drop in Crime, Calls for Sustained Support

Manteca Police Officer Plascencia, a committed motor officer, conducted a traffic stop.Photo byCity of Manteca

While overall crime has decreased despite a growing population, there has been an increase in homicides and aggravated assaults. To maintain the optimal police officer-to-population ratio and ensure peak performance, additional resources are needed. 

MANTECA, CALIF. — Recent crime statistics reveal a 36.54% reduction in overall crime in the City of Manteca from 2013 to 2023, a testament to the effectiveness and dedication of the Manteca Police Department. Despite a population increase of 23.45% during this period, notable decreases were seen in several key areas: robbery dropped by 12.6%, burglary by 50.4%, and larceny by 45.5%. Arrests also declined from 2,779 in 2013 to 1,858 in 2023.

"Manteca has seen substantial improvements in public safety, even as our community has grown," stated Police Chief Stephen Schluer. "These achievements reflect our commitment to keeping Manteca safe."

However, alongside these positive trends, there has been an increase in certain serious crimes. The city experienced an uptick in homicides, rising from zero to five, and aggravated assaults increased by 93.3%, from 90 to 174 cases from 2013 to 2023. Chief Schluer noted that the surge in aggravated assaults may be correlated to a nationwide rise in domestic violence cases post-COVID-19.

Currently, the department is stretched thin, with more officers allocated to patrol and fewer to investigations.Photo byCity of Manteca

“In 2013, zero homicides were an anomaly; it’s rare to have no homicides at all. Recent incidents include two domestic violence cases, a road rage incident, one gang-related case, and a fatal carjacking,” explained Chief Schluer.

The demand for police services has also risen, with calls for service increasing by 23.4%, from 34,357 to 42,417. Despite the population growth, the rate of stolen vehicles per capita has decreased, showcasing the effectiveness of current police operations.

While these statistics highlight Manteca's success in reducing crime, maintaining and improving public safety requires ongoing investment. The Manteca Police Department currently has 78 budgeted officers, with 76 actively serving and two in the hiring process. This staffing is crucial for addressing not only traditional crimes but also emerging issues like human trafficking, mental illness, and homelessness.

“Today’s police officers face more complex challenges that demand greater coordination, information sharing, and partnerships,” Chief Schluer emphasized. "To continue our progress, we need additional funding resources to ensure we can respond effectively to these demands."

The demand for police services has also risen, with calls for service increasing by 23.4%, from 34,357 to 42,417.Photo byCity of Manteca

A recent COPS Grant has enabled hiring five new community policing officers, with two being hired this year and the remaining three by 2026. However, this grant covers only part of the cost, and the city must supplement it with funds from Measure M and the General Fund.

City Manager Toni Lundgren added, “The COPS grant is a valuable asset, but it requires a 72.5% local match. To meet these requirements and continue improving our police services and response times, securing further funding is essential.”

Currently, the department is stretched thin, with more officers allocated to patrol and fewer to investigations. The investigations team has been reduced from nine to five, necessitating the dissolution of the gang unit and the reassignment of some street crime investigators to gang-related cases.

“We continue to seek additional funding to grow our Police department to meet the needs of our growing City,” declared Chief Schluer.Photo byCity of Manteca

Chief Schluer concluded, “To sustain our achievements and ensure the safety and quality of life for Manteca’s residents, we must invest in maintaining and enhancing our police force, facilities, and equipment. This investment is crucial for keeping crime rates low and continuing to make Manteca a safe place to live.”

For more information, contact the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or visit Manteca.gov.

About the City of Manteca

Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. In the heart of California, Manteca is alive with opportunities. This family-friendly city, San Joaquin County’s third largest, is quickly approaching 90,000 residents and is the state’s 6th fastest growing city. Manteca is thriving on multiple fronts with key infrastructure and commercial, residential, and recreational developments. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $118,814.