Some Police Services To Be Cut By Village In Dutchess County

The change is taking place in Dutchess County. As of Friday, Nov. 15, at 11:59 p.m., the Village of Wappingers Falls Police Department's operational hours will shift from 8 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week. 

Village officials said in a press release that this means the village police will no longer provide overnight coverage, but alternative support will be in place. 

"This decision was made after exhaustive consideration, dialogue, and review of the options available to us," they wrote. "The challenges we face in staffing our police department are shared by municipalities across the nation, as communities everywhere contend with a well-known shortage of police personnel."

They added that civil service regulations limiting the hours many officers could work further constrained the Village. 

"Despite ongoing efforts to secure waivers, adjust shift schedules, and hire new officers for over six months, we are still grappling with these challenges," village officials said.

Village officials said the decision to reallocate available staff to serve during peak times of the day and evening is a carefully considered approach to ensuring that the community is supported when it needs it most.

During the hours of non-service by village police, services will be provided by the New York State Police, located less than a quarter of a mile outside the Village. 

They regularly patrol our region, and the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office also holds jurisdiction across the county, ensuring that support is available as needed.

For any emergencies during overnight hours, residents may dial 911. 

Calls to the Village Police Department during these hours will be forwarded directly to the New York State Police for an immediate response.

The Village Board will continue to monitor and evaluate the situation closely and may adjust the police department's operating hours as circumstances warrant.

Village officials said, "Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we navigate these challenging times. " 

This is a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.  

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