For those that need to call in an incident, but do not want their information broadcast over the Police radio net, please follow the following procedure:
The caller contacts the Dispatch Center at 238-9676 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). When the Dispatcher answers, the caller must advise that they are a "Reluctant Complaintant." The Dispatcher will take the caller's information, including name and contact information. However, that information will not be broadcast. The Police would call on the telephone later to get the contact information. If supplemental contact with the complainant is necessary, the Police then have the information to contact the original caller. The caller's name is not publicly known and the complaint will be checked as soon as possible.
The Mechanicsburg Police Department is open to serve the needs of Borough Residents from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, except for Holidays. A 24 hour depository is available for parking tickets and correspondence.
The Mechanicsburg Police Department is a proactive, full-service, 24 hour a day police operation. While providing essential patrol functions remains the primary duty, we offer a wide range of additional services. The Department has a Criminal Investigation Unit that investigates major crimes and works with the Patrol force to resolve other offenses.
The Bicycle Unit complements normal patrol and provides added visibility throughout the Borough. The Department is active in community programs including D.A.R.E. and Crime Watch. To increase effectiveness and responsiveness to the community, most Officers have individualized special training in specific areas of law enforcement such as Motor Carrier Safety inspections, Evidence Collection and Analysis, Accident Reconstruction, Crimes Against Children, Sex Crimes, Crime Prevention, Computer Crime, Speed Enforcement and Community Relations. We participate in various regional, state and national task forces and associations to share information and enhance efficiency.
Like any Community, the Borough has ongoing criminal activity to investigate. Anyone with information about any crimes in the Borough is respectfully requested to contact the Mechanicsburg Police Department and provide whatever information you have. Likewise, our residents are urged to immediately call 238-9676 (non-emergency) or 911 (emergency) whenever they see or know of active criminal activity.
A series of incidents occurred the week of April 5, 2010 on the west side of town. A total of 10 vehicles were damaged by someone throwing rocks and cinderblocks through the windows. While these crimes occurred on several different nights, it is believed the same person or persons are responsible for all the damage. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Police Department.
When on vacation or away from home, even for a few minutes, lock your doors and windows. Leave your lights on, perhaps even a radio and consider the use of “timers.” Have a trusted friend, family member or neighbor gather mail and newspapers and check on your property when you are away. Be sure your lawns are maintained, snow is removed and garbage containers are properly placed to make your home appear that you are “home.” Keep an inventory, including serial numbers, of your personal property. Remove briefcases, purses and other valuable property from you vehicle when you park it, close the windows and lock the doors.
PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY
Do not give any personal information, including your full name, address, date of birth or social security number to anyone unless you are positive you are dealing with a reputable business or person. There are many different frauds and con games occurring daily all across the country, including our Borough. The popularity of computers has only increased this problem and made it easier for criminals to attempt these fraudulent attacks. If you have any doubt, please contact the Mechanicsburg Police Department.
MECHANICSBURG NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH PROGRAM
The Crime Watch Program is comprised of residents who have joined together to help prevent crime in the Mechanicsburg area. By employing the crime prevention measures outlined in the program, area break-ins and thefts can be greatly reduced. All residents are invited to attend the meetings on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 PM at the Senior Citizens Center on Portland Street. A representative of the Police Department gives a summary of criminal activity in the Borough each meeting and various guest speakers address a variety of topics for discussion. The Crime Watch Program has been endorsed by the Mayor of Mechanicsburg and the Police Department.
