By James Williams, Editor-in-Chief

On Monday, April 14, 2025, Sheriff Rochelle Bilal and the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office hosted a public press conference to officially unveil the 2020–2023 Term Report—a comprehensive summary of achievements, reforms, and initiatives that shaped her first term in office.

The press conference, held at Laborers’ Local 57 in North Philadelphia, drew a diverse crowd of city officials, law enforcement partners, media professionals, and community stakeholders. Sheriff Bilal used the occasion to spotlight her administration’s progress across several priority areas, including operational transparency, procedural accountability, equitable enforcement, and meaningful community engagement.

Key Highlights from the Term Report

Sheriff Bilal’s administration embarked on a multi-year mission to modernize the Sheriff’s Office—long viewed as opaque and under-scrutinized. Under her leadership, the office implemented several digital upgrades, including a redesigned and more user-friendly website featuring real-time updates on property sales, warrant listings, and departmental policies. In addition, the office launched a public-facing dashboard to track eviction filings and service trends, giving both residents and advocates access to key enforcement data.

Internally, the Sheriff’s Office overhauled its training protocols, instituting mandatory professional development focused on de-escalation tactics, cultural competency, and trauma-informed practices. These reforms were complemented by the creation of a new Internal Affairs unit to independently review complaints and investigate officer conduct—part of Bilal’s pledge to restore integrity and build public trust.

The report also detailed enhanced partnerships with community-based organizations aimed at reducing violent crime and supporting reentry efforts. In neighborhoods disproportionately impacted by gun violence and poverty, the Sheriff’s Office worked in collaboration with local anti-violence coalitions to provide resources, support programming, and host listening sessions. A notable initiative included the “Sheriff in the Community” program, which brought deputies into schools, recreation centers, and block meetings to humanize the badge and foster mutual understanding with residents.

A Renewed Vision for Public Service

“This report reflects our tireless work to modernize the Sheriff’s Office and put the community first,” said Sheriff Bilal. “Over the last four years, we have made significant strides in ensuring this office operates with integrity, transparency, and a true commitment to public service.”

Bilal also highlighted new eviction diversion strategies and the office’s cooperation with housing agencies and tenant advocacy groups during the pandemic recovery period. These efforts helped hundreds of residents stay in their homes while landlords received mediation and financial support.

The event concluded with acknowledgments of the Sheriff’s Office staff, civic leaders, and community members who contributed to the department’s evolution. Sheriff Bilal made it clear that while challenges remain, the foundational changes over the past term have laid the groundwork for a more responsive and transparent Sheriff’s Office.

Looking Ahead

As the city approaches another election cycle, the 2020–2023 Term Report stands not only as an account of progress but as a blueprint for the future. It reflects a broader shift in the role of law enforcement—a shift toward accountability, community-first leadership, and collaborative problem-solving.

For residents of Philadelphia, the report is more than just a retrospective; it is a declaration of values and a renewed promise to serve with fairness, dignity, and purpose. Sheriff Bilal emphasized that the work is far from over, pledging to build on this momentum and continue fostering a department that all Philadelphians can be proud of.

The Town Crier,  is a Rapid Response news blog that is written by James Williams and created in collaboration with ChatGPT. For research assistance and content editing. The image of the Town Crier was created by ChatGPT.