Police report: truck-enforcement citations, new equipment and focus on domestic-violence training

Morrisville's police chief told council on Feb. 18 that Part 1 offenses were down compared with last year but calls for service were about 300 higher in January. The chief reported that thefts from vehicles accounted for most serious offenses and reminded residents to lock their cars.

The chief reviewed equipment and program updates: a fingerprint machine has been ordered and Comcast installed a modem to support the device; TRAC e-citation (electronic ticketing) is being implemented; and a new Tahoe vehicle outfitted for motor-carrier enforcement is in service. The chief said, "As of Friday, there was, 2 0 6 citations written, just truck enforcement on South Pennsylvania Avenue." Council clarified whether the Tahoe was a donation; the council president later said the vehicle involved an outside party and indicated the borough was handling invoicing while the donor preferred anonymity.

The chief also described stepped-up truck enforcement after counting truck volumes in borough entry corridors and said officers and details will continue enforcement efforts. He noted Waste Management has provided funding in prior years to support a truck-enforcement officer and expressed appreciation that the company indicated willingness to renew support.

On training, the chief said domestic-violence response is included in academy training and that the department is increasing continuing-education opportunities, with several officers scheduled for training this year. He also noted the department uses a co-responder (Taylor) for additional resources in domestic cases.

What comes next: the police department will continue truck-enforcement details, pursue e-citation approval to streamline ticket filing, and follow up on training opportunities in coordination with county resources.

Sources: Police chief report, Feb. 18 Morrisville Borough Council meeting.