The Van Wert County Courthouse

Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024

Sheriff announces office protocol changes

VW independent/submitted information

Van Wert County Sheriff Thomas M. Riggenbach has also announced changes to his office’s protocols because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“After careful consideration, receiving input from local health officials, and in order to protect our staff and inmates regarding COVID-19, we ask the public that you do not enter the Van Wert County Sheriff’s or Van Wert County Correctional Facility during this time, if you have the following symptoms: fever, coughing-sneezing, cold symptoms, difficulty breathing,” the sheriff noted. “In order to keep our facilities free of COVID-19, we are asking you to abide by this.”

Sheriff Riggenbach

Sheriff Riggenbach noted that anyone needing to speak with a deputy should call the office at 419.238.3866, or the Correctional Facility at 419.238.2464.

Those people who have “active” signs of the virus should stay home, avoid contact with the public, and contact their doctor as soon as possible for additional guidelines.

The sheriff is also implementing the following temporary changes, effective 8 a.m. Thursday, March 19:

Public lobby doors at the sheriff’s office and jail will be locked. Those needing to see someone in person can use the call button near the front doors of both buildings, but should call first before coming to either building, if possible.

Civilian fingerprinting, also known as Webcheck, is temporarily suspended.

Concealed carry weapon applications will be processed by appointment only on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Those wanting to file a CCW application should call Sgt. Mike East at the above telephone number.

All public record requests must be submitted by telephone, fax, or email.

Those people permitted in the buildings will be asked health-related questions, be required to use hand sanitizer, or have their temperature taken.

Non-emergency reports will be taken over the phone by a deputy whenever possible. County residents will be able to access documents from the Sheriff’s Office website at www.vanwertcountysheriff.com in the coming days to file a report, while the department will also respond to reports that need further investigation. All 9-1-1 emergency calls will be handled as before.

Dispatchers who receive calls where a deputy is needed to respond will ask if anyone in a household is exhibiting flu-like symptoms (see above). They will also be asked about recent travels. The answers to the question will not prevent a deputy from responding, but will assist deputies in how to respond while also protecting themselves.

“I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause the citizens of Van Wert County,” Sheriff Riggenbach said. “I believe this proactive measure is best able to protect our employees, the public, and to keep the Sheriff’s Office running as efficiently as possible.”

POSTED: 03/18/20 at 5:21 pm. FILED UNDER: News