HOLYOKE, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Authorities say new numbers show that a new approach to policing in Holyoke is working. In Chief Brian Keenan’s first year, the department said the city has seen safer parks and a dramatic drop in overdoses.

A year ago, Holyoke police admitted open-air drug dealing was a problem, but Chief Keenan took a different approach, and reflecting on his first year on the job, he says it’s paying off.

Keenan made quality-of-life issues his top priority. He partnered with the community center, recovery coaches, and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office, reaching out to residents struggling with addiction. And all in all, the chief says he’s happy with his first year as top cop.

“There’s growing pains with everything, but no regrets. There were some learning moments, some teaching moments, and we’re doing well,” said Chief Keenan.

The results: overdoses dropped 18% in the past year — they’re down 42% since 2023.

Chief Keenan said he’s happy with the momentum from 2025 and is excited.

Copyright 2026 Western Mass News (WGGB/WSHM). All rights reserved.