Policy 108 - Telephone Reporting Unit

For a printable copy, click here.

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of the Telephone Reporting Unit is to
provide citizens with an alternative way of filing
reports.

II. POLICY

A. Crimes, complaints or incidents which will be
taken telephonically if the citizen consents
include:

1. THEFT

• a. Auto parts and accessories
• b. Theft from a vehicle (not subsequent to
  auto theft).
• c. Theft of a bicycle.
• d. All misdemeanor thefts except shoplifting,
  purse-snatching.
• e. Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

2. TELEPHONE VIOLATIONS: Incidents of harassing or
annoying phone calls directed at the complainant
- this does not include bomb threats or threats
to do bodily harm. (If the subject has the means
to actually do bodily harm, an officer needs to
be dispatched.)

3. MISDEMEANOR CRIMINAL MISCHIEF: Property damage to
agency owned property will require dispatch.

4. TRAFFIC COLLISIONS: State reportable motor
vehicle accidents would require a dispatch
unless the caller did not comply with reporting
mandates, i.e., to remain at the scene and
notify a law enforcement agency immediately
within 24 hours.

5. TAMPERING WITH A VEHICLE: All cases unless the
incident is in progress.

6. LOST PROPERTY: All cases unless some unusual
circumstances dictates the need to dispatch an
officer.

7. TRAFFIC COMPLAINTS: Speeding, drag racing, etc.,
unless the incident requires immediate attention
by a field unit.

8. FOLLOW-UP REPORTS

9. REPORTS FOR INSURANCE PURPOSES: When a caller
indicates that the only purpose for reporting is
to be able to make an insurance claim.

B. Every attempt will be made to persuade the
complainant to report the above by telephone. If
the complainant continues to request an officer be
dispatched, one will be sent to complainant's
location.