Fewer people are being pulled over by Metro Police. The number of traffic stops over the last year dropped by nearly 30%, compared to the year before, but the explanation varies depending on who you ask.

2018 was a tumultuous year for Metro Police, says the nation’s largest police union.

The issues included a homicide charge for one of their own, and the forming of a Community Oversight Board bent on more police accountability.

“You’re going to see officers not reacting and taking extra proactive measures,” noted James Smallwood, Fraternal Order of Police President, reacting to the previous year.

According to Metro records, vehicle stops dropped by nearly 30 percent over the past year.

It’s an indication of officer hesitation, according to the FOP.

“You’re just going to see that officers aren’t going out there and being proactive,” said Smallwood. “Pro-activity does lead to finding violent criminals, and removing them from the streets, so that’s certainly a concern moving forward.”

News 2 reached out to Metro Police, who say that traffic stops have been declining for years.

They say this is partially due to a change in focus, that deals more in community policing.