Wyomissing Police Report Busy November with Hundreds of Calls

The Wyomissing Police Department experienced a notably active November 2025, handling a total of 648 calls for service. The month saw numerous arrests and citations, reflecting a blend of routine patrols and targeted investigations into various alleged crimes. Chief of Police John G. Phillips presented the findings to the Borough Council on December 9, 2025, highlighting the department’s ongoing efforts in community safety and crime reduction.

A significant portion of police calls originated from the borough’s commercial areas. The Berkshire Mall alone accounted for 22 calls, while surrounding locations such as Berkshire Drive West and Berkshire Drive East generated 61 and 28 calls, respectively. In total, commercial and retail areas contributed to 164 calls, representing approximately one-quarter of all police activity. In contrast, residential communities were responsible for just 32 calls, or about 4.9 percent of the total, underlining the concentration of incidents in business districts.

The month also involved collaboration with neighboring agencies, including the Pennsylvania State Police, Shillington Police, West Reading Police, and Berks County emergency services. This cooperation was part of routine inter-agency support and mutual aid responses, demonstrating the region’s commitment to comprehensive public safety.

Traffic Enforcement and Criminal Investigations

In an effort to combat dangerous driving, Wyomissing police conducted 37 vehicle stops as part of an aggressive driver enforcement campaign funded by the Pennsylvania Highway Safety Network. Officers issued 27 traffic citations and 26 warnings during this initiative, which targeted speeding and reckless driving on borough roads. Speed-monitoring devices placed on Wyomissing Boulevard and Warwick Avenue revealed that the 85th percentile speed reached 27.27 miles per hour and 28.62 miles per hour, respectively, indicating that many drivers were exceeding the posted limit of 25 miles per hour.

Criminal activity in November included investigations into narcotics violations, theft-related crimes, and domestic incidents. The department recorded 35 Part I offenses and 211 Part II offenses, achieving an overall clearance rate of 74 percent. This statistic suggests that most cases were resolved, either through arrest or other legal means. Year-to-date data indicates a decline in Part I offenses compared to previous years, continuing a trend of reduced serious crime in the borough.

Community Engagement and Staffing Updates

Chief Phillips also reported on various community outreach efforts. The police department participated in events such as the Avon Grove High School graduation and hosted initiatives like an active shooter presentation and a human trafficking awareness program. The department also engaged in charitable activities, including Toys for Tots collections during the holiday season.

On the staffing front, the department noted the retirement of dispatcher Officer Peter Purcell effective November 30. A replacement candidate successfully completed all necessary testing, with final certification anticipated in December and an academy start date scheduled for January 12, 2026.

While the report details significant police activity and arrests, it is important to note that all charges are allegations. Individuals identified as suspects or arrestees are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This emphasis on due process underscores the department’s commitment to fair policing practices amidst ongoing law enforcement challenges.