Statement from Chief Contento in regards to COVID-19⚠️
From Chief Daniel W. Contento
It is abundantly clear that to reduce the spread of COVID-19, we must practice social distancing. Still, as members of the first responder community, we are committed to ensuring the welfare of the public while also being mindful of the health and well-being of our members. Like many other governmental, private and public entities in our area, the Coeymans Police Department is forced to take the unfortunate and extraordinary measure of making temporary changes to some of our protocols that you should be aware of. Our level of dedicated service will not be compromised but our approach needs to be changed in order to safeguard the health and safety of our members as well as the public we interact with each day.
Persons who wish to file reports for non-emergency matters are asked to do so by phone. Our station will be limited to essential personnel only with limited access to our lobby. We encourage citizens to call first before showing up. Our non-emergency number is 518-756-2059. When dispatch answers tell them it’s a non-emergency issue and ask for a Coeymans Officer to call you back. For emergencies, you should always call 911.
We will still respond to calls for service, but you may see officers wearing personal protection gear such as gloves, masks, and face shields when necessary. You may also be asked a series of questions concerning your health and those of your household. You also may be asked to step outside of your home or office to speak to the officer(s).
Effective immediately, we will be suspending the following non-emergency services:
Vehicle lockouts will be limited to emergency
situations.
Fingerprinting services
Ride alongs and station tours
Our involvement in EMS calls will be limited but we will always be available if we are needed. Property checks and vacation watches will also continue as usual.
For anyone seeking access to public records and/or reports, we ask that you call first. We expect to fill all requests electronically.
We would like to eliminate drop in visitors to the station, and, although we
always appreciate the delicious food items and treats that are often dropped
off to us, please refrain from doing so until further notice. For now, the best
gifts we could ask for is that everyone remain healthy, safe and calm while
this pandemic runs its course.
As this situation unfolds we will continue to refine our approach according to CDC and DOH recommendations.
Lastly, please check in on your neighbors (by a phone call if possible) — especially those who may live alone or who are sick or elderly. If you find they need assistance that you can’t provide, you may contact us. And please feel free to contact us should you have any other questions or concerns.
Be Safe, Stay Calm and Look Out for One Another.
Chief Daniel W. Contento
Town of Coeymans Police Department