Police Announce Temporary Change in Service Protocols Due to Covid-19

I would like to inform our residents of a slight modification in police response protocols for the Spring Arbor Township Police Department until further notice to limit face to face contact because of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Effective immediately for the health of the police officers and our citizenry we will be limiting our physical response to calls to those of a serious nature that require an immediate need for investigation, including “two party” traffic collisions. Any call that presents a physical hazard or dangerous threat of injury to any person will be responded to as a priority call for service as usual. However, miscellaneous non-threatening calls for service will be handled by telephone. You will still call the 911 Center and they will notify the officer of the request for police service, the officer will then call you to get the necessary information for your complaint/report, this information does not include a request for your social security number or Michigan operator’s license number.

The Spring Arbor Police Department is committed to your service and will respond to your request without comprise under the current situation. We will still be conducting proactive patrols through the neighborhoods and businesses and make ourselves visible and available to our residents at any time you need us.

COVI-19 Scams:

As with any disaster there are scammers at work, be suspicious of unsolicited calls/text messages/e-mails/Facebook queries etc. from people identifying themselves as representatives for the:

• Center for Disease Control (CDC)
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
• County Health Department
• Hospital
• Emergency Equipment Vendors

There are starting to be attempts to obtain unsuspecting citizens personal information i.e. social security number, drivers license number, home address etc. none of these agencies will ask for that information. If you experience a communication from a vendor wanting to sell you emergency sterilization supplies, it is usually at an excessive price or a fraud all together by getting your credit card information. They are relying on the fear and panic throughout the country of the temporary shortage of these supplies from hoarding i.e. hand sanitizer, disinfectant spray, disinfecting wipes and toilet tissue If you are unsure of the authenticity of the communications, get their return number, e-mail etc. and contact my office 750-2913. I or my staff can assist you in validating the communication if you would prefer, by leaving me your name and contact number along with any information you have if I’m out of the office.

PLEASE, everyone stay calm and adhere to the “normal” sterilization protocols outlined by the CDC web site and executive orders for the State of Michigan. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Chief Howard Keith Noppe

Spring Arbor Township Police Department  (517) 750-2913