A new community-oriented policing program is being credited for a drop in crime in the Kern River Valley.

Deputies say tips they got from town halls and Facebook posts have led to 102 arrests on theft, drugs and other charges. Sergeant Joshua Nicholson thinks the policy has benefits for everyone because deputies are able to maximize their time while long term problems are solved for the public.

The program was launched two months ago to help the department deal with a staffing shortage. Deputies were also able to take a dozen guns off the streets.

Kelli Forsch