5 Critical Updates You Need To Know About The Meridian Township Police Department In 2025
The Meridian Township Police Department (MTPD) continues its focus on community-oriented policing and technological advancement as of December 19, 2025, with several major initiatives recently implemented or announced. The department, which serves the Charter Township of Meridian in Ingham County, Michigan, is committed to maintaining transparency and building strong partnerships to ensure public safety in its jurisdiction.
The MTPD’s strategy is heavily centered on leveraging modern notification systems and specialized units, a clear indication of its dedication to evolving with the needs of the community. From a new mass alert system to a specialized K9 unit and crucial public fraud warnings, here is a deep dive into the most critical and current information regarding the department.
MTPD Leadership and Department Profile
The Meridian Township Police Department is a professional organization that prides itself on delivering the best possible services to its residents. The department operates under a clear administrative structure, with key personnel overseeing various divisions, including Uniform, Investigative, and Services.
Key Personnel and Command Staff
- Police Chief: Rick Grillo. Chief Grillo is the Department Director and leads the MTPD, emphasizing compassion, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.
- Assistant Chief of Police: Bart Crane. Assistant Chief Crane works alongside Chief Grillo to manage the department's operations and strategic goals.
- Lieutenant/Uniform Division Commander: Curt Squires. The Uniform Division is the largest and most visible asset of the department.
Departmental Milestones and Accreditation
The MTPD is an accredited agency, having initially received its accreditation from the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police on February 6, 2020. This accreditation signifies the department’s adherence to best practices and professional standards in law enforcement.
The department has also taken steps to address historical issues, notably issuing an apology to a victim of disgraced former sports doctor Larry Nassar, admitting it missed an opportunity to pursue charges in 2004. This act reflects an ongoing commitment to accountability and transparency within the MTPD.
The Latest Public Safety Initiatives and Technology Upgrades (2024-2025)
The past two years have seen significant upgrades in how the Meridian Township Police Department communicates with and protects its residents, focusing on immediate alerts and specialized response capabilities.
1. Launch of the RAVE Smart911 Mass Notification System
A major upgrade in public communication occurred on June 1, 2024, when Ingham County 9-1-1 Central Dispatch officially transitioned from the Everbridge system to the RAVE Smart911 mass notification system. Meridian Township partnered with Ingham County to bring this free, more advanced system to residents.
RAVE Smart911 is a critical tool for emergency management, allowing the MTPD to send targeted alerts regarding severe weather, road closures, missing persons, and other immediate public safety threats. Residents are encouraged to sign up for RAVE Smart911 to receive these essential emergency notifications directly.
2. The Addition of K9 Reno to the Uniform Division
In a move to enhance its operational capacity, the Meridian Township Police Department welcomed a new K9 team member, Reno, in late 2023. Reno, a one-year-old German Shepherd, began his service with the department the week of October 9, 2023. The K9 unit is a vital part of the Uniform Division, assisting with tracking, apprehension, and narcotics detection, thereby increasing the department's ability to respond to complex situations.
3. Urgent Wire Transfer Scam Notice
In a very recent public safety alert, dated December 8, 2025, the MTPD issued a "Wire Transfer Scam Notice." This notice encourages the public to call the Police Department immediately to report fraudulent emails and wire transfer requests. This proactive measure highlights the MTPD's focus on combating sophisticated financial cybercrime that targets residents and businesses.
Crime Statistics and Community Engagement Focus
The MTPD's commitment to community safety is reflected in its ongoing engagement programs and its transparency regarding crime data. The department maintains a healthy relationship with the community, which is built on a strong foundation of trust and open communication.
Understanding Meridian Township Crime Trends
While Meridian Township is generally considered a safe area, the MTPD continually monitors crime trends. Data over the last two decades indicates a general downward trend in overall crime. However, recent analysis shows that violent crime has been increasing, with an average violent crime rate of 41.0 per 100,000 residents recorded over the five-year period from 2019 to 2024. The department provides access to its annual crime reports dating back to 2015 for public review.
Key Community Outreach Programs
The department actively seeks to establish and maintain community partnerships. These initiatives are central to the MTPD’s mission:
- Mental Health Partnership: The MTPD has partnered with Community Mental Health on a new pilot telehealth program. This initiative aims to provide immediate mental health support in crisis situations, bridging the gap between law enforcement and necessary health services.
- Meridian Cares Donation: The Police Department has demonstrated its commitment to local welfare by making a donation to the Meridian Cares program.
- "No Shave November": The MTPD participates in the annual "No Shave November" fundraiser, which raises money for various charitable causes.
- Citizen Feedback and Volunteering: The department maintains an open channel for public input through a Police Department Citizen Feedback Form and encourages involvement via a Volunteer Interest Form.
Accessing Police Services and Records
For residents needing to interact with the Meridian Township Police Department for non-emergency services or records, several avenues are available.
Obtaining Police Reports (FOIA Requests)
Official government records, including police reports, can be accessed by citizens through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The MTPD provides a formal process for citizens to submit FOIA requests to access government records and information. While some minor reports might be available through other means, the FOIA process is the standard for accessing official records.
Non-Emergency Contact and Crime Reporting
For non-emergency situations or to submit information regarding a crime or suspicious activity, the public is encouraged to contact the Services Division. While active incidents should be reported via 911, non-emergency reports can often be filed over the phone or in person. The MTPD's commitment to community policing means that information provided by the public is extremely valuable in their investigative and crime prevention efforts.
The Meridian Township Police Department remains a forward-thinking agency, consistently updating its technology and deepening its community ties. The recent adoption of the RAVE alert system, the integration of K9 Reno, and the proactive warnings against financial scams all underscore the MTPD’s dedication to a safe and informed Meridian Township community in 2025 and beyond.
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