Police Chatter: A visit with Marshfield Police Chief Rick Gramza
Hub City Times staff visited Marshfield Police Chief Rick Gramza to catch up on what’s happening in the department.
How operations have changed during the COVID-19 threat
We made minor changes to our patrol operations to include handling some calls for service over the phone versus going to meet each complainant. We also have begun taking fewer people into custody when arrested for minor infractions which would normally include a custodial arrest. Lastly we have shown some grace and lenience regarding minor traffic infractions.
During a time of pandemic and state of emergency, infractions which are due to the closure of certain offices or delays in services are overlooked. This includes when someone is driving on an expired license or with expired plates which occurred during this time of emergency.
Suspended services and physical contact
We have stopped taking Rx meds and sharps in our disposal box; we have also stopped our fingerprinting service for those who are seeking employment and must get fingerprinted.
We are encouraging citizens to call us rather than stopping in if at all possible. We are also taking additional precautions when coming into contact with people, avoiding physical contact when possible, wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, goggles, etc when necessary, and staying home when sick. We hope these efforts and those of the community will slow the spread of this virus.