Berkeley Police Adjust Protocols During NJ Coronavirus Spread

BERKELEY, NJ — The Berkeley Township Police Department has adjusted some protocols during the outbreak of the novel coronavirus.

Police will, of course, continue to serve. But Chief Karin T. DiMichele announced some adjustments Friday.

Officials have announced three confirmed cases in Ocean County, including one in Berkeley, as of Monday morning. Read more: Berkeley Resident Tests Presumptive Positive For Coronavirus

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Here are some of the changes Berkeley police made, and how the public can help:

• An officer will take police reports over the telephone instead of in person if the situation can be reported over the phone.
• When officers respond to an incident in person — for example, at your home — he or she will speak to you from outside to ensure a safe distance.
• If you something to report that doesn't require an immediate response, use Berkeley PD's new online reporting site.

The agency made these adjustments to reduce call volume and keep the public and officers healthy.

"I have the responsibility to minimize any exposure to residents, my staff, and my police officers," DiMichele said. "The need to keep police officers and staff healthy is paramount to preserve continuity in our services."

DiMichele also encouraged all people to take precautions. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, face and mouth; minimize exposure to others, even if you feel healthy; and continue washing your hands. Berkeley PD has been posting daily local updates about the coronavirus on its Facebook page.

Read more: 'Social Distancing Means Social Distancing:' Ocean Health Officer

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