New Coronavirus Spurs Changes To Vienna Police Operations

VIENNA, VA — The Vienna Police Department announced changes to operations aimed at reducing the chance of spreading the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.

In a letter, Police Chief Jim Morris says the department will handle "relatively minor and non-violent crimes" through reports by phone. This would apply to cases where evidence collection isn't required, but documentation of the incident is required.

Here's the guidance from the police department:

If you are calling to file a police report, Communications personnel will ask you questions to help determine if your call meets the criteria for a telephone follow-up and if so, you may be advised that an officer will call you back to assess the need to respond in person or complete the report via telephone. If you feel that an officer is required, you may make that request, and an officer will respond. The incident report over the telephone will go into the same records management system and will be tracked the same as if an officer responded.

The person reporting an incident should meet the responding officer for purposes of limiting exposure to COVID-19.

The non-emergency police number is 703-255-6366. Emergencies should be directed to 911.

"The Vienna Police Department continues to remain staffed, operational, and ready to respond to all emergencies, in-progress incidents, and priority calls," wrote Morris. "Day and night patrols remain at full strength, so you should not hesitate to call for assistance."

The police department is also restricting access to the police station lobby, except for immediate police assistance. Residents are encouraged to call the non-emergency number instead of visiting the police station lobby. In addition, low-priority services are suspended. These include ride alongs, PIO public engagements, VIN verifications and child safety seat installations.

The department will reevaluate the changes in the coming weeks.

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