When Brent Gering took over as Concordia Chief of Police in January, 2022, the city had been experiencing an increase in overall crime.
According to a Crime Index Summary compiled by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), Concordia had a total of 149 Crime Index offenses in 2022, which translates into a crime rate of 29.8 offenses per 1,000 residents.
There were 27 violent crimes, three rapes, and 24 aggravated assaults/batteries in 2022. A total of 122 property crimes were reported, for a rate of 24.4 per 1,000 residents. This included 20 burglaries, 92 thefts, and 10 motor vehicle thefts.
For the year 2025, Concordia had a total of 54 Crime Index offenses that were reported, resulting in a crime rate of 11 offenses per 1,000 residents - a reduction of 60% from 2022.
There were eight violent crimes in 2025, a rate of 1.6 per 1,000 residents - a reduction of over 60% compared to 2022. There was one robbery and seven aggravated assaults/batteries reported, a reduction of over 60% since 2022.
There were a total of 46 property crimes reported, for a rate of 9.4 per 1,000 residents - a reduction of almost 60% from 2022.
"The decrease in crime can be attributed to a combination of stepped-up enforcement efforts, maintaining full staffing levels, targeted crime-reduction strategies, strong partnerships with the community, and increased public cooperation in reporting suspicious activity," Gering said. "Together, these efforts have helped improve public safety and reduce criminal activity."
Gering stated from the first day he was hired that his administration would have complete openness with the public regarding law enforcement in the city. He has held true to that commitment. "This department works closely with community members and local organizations to address safety concerns and strengthen public trust," Gering said. "We will always provide timely updates to the public, but we also have to protect the integrity of an ongoing investigation."
Gering stated that his officers are dedicated to attacking crime and apprehending those responsible, especially those involved in illicit drug activity in the community. The domino effect of drug abuse leads to an increase in thefts, burglaries, and assaults in any community. Public assistance in reporting suspicious activity is vital to law enforcement.
"We encourage residents to report suspicious activity and share any information or tips that may assist our investigators," Gering said. "That will always be a vital part of keeping our community safe."
