EPHRATA — The Ephrata Police Department made significant strides in officer training and technology this last year, according to Chief Erik Koch.  

In reflecting on the past year, Koch noted the successful graduation of a new officer from the Basic Law Enforcement Academy and the enhancement of the Field Training Officer program.  

"We identified some gaps in training between the academy and starting FTO, so we started a post-academy two-week block to teach new officers our paperwork and agency-specific protocols," Koch said.  

The department also hired a new office manager in 2024, after the previous one retired. 

“That was huge for our department,” Koch said. 

In terms of technology, the department achieved several milestones. The implementation of multi-factor authentication for added security, successful deployment of body cameras, and a transition to a cloud-based records management system were all highlighted.  

In collaboration with the city’s IT department, Koch’s team also upgraded aging internet infrastructure, which was made possible by a donation from Inland Propane, he said. 

As for crime trends in 2024, Koch said they included an uptick in internet scams, alongside persistent issues like shoplifting and theft. He advised community members to validate their sources of information and to be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true to avoid falling victim to scams. 

Koch also wanted to highlight the relationships between EPD and surrounding departments such as Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Soap Lake Police Department, Quincy Police Department and Moses Lake Police Department.  

“We work tremendously with our neighbors,” Koch said. “I know we've done things to help each other out over the past year, and I appreciate it.”  

Looking ahead, EPD plans to enhance its community engagement and work to meet city council goals, according to Koch. 

“We’re excited about increasing community programs and eventually replacing some aging patrol vehicles,” Koch said. 

Currently, the department aims to recruit two additional officers. 

Koch also said there has been a positive attitude among officers during the current transitional period of a new law enforcement software. All departments across Grant County switched to a new system at the beginning of 2025.  

“Well, I think that all the officers did tremendous. We had obviously a significant change,” Koch said. “There was some anxiety when we were talking about moving over to the new RMS system. Everything we do is associated with the RMS system and with (the officers’) positive attitude and stuff, going to training and adapting to the new system — because change is hard, so I really appreciate all the positive attitude and the preparation for us to move forward.” 

Overall, Koch described the past year as successful.  

“I think we came out of the year a better department," he said. 

    Ephrata Police Department Chief Erik Koch and Chase from Paw Patrol rode horses during the Autism Awareness Walk in September.