VWPD announces new report filing policy

VW independent/submitted information

The Van Wert Police Department is committed to being proactive in service to the community and enforcement of the law. In continuing to provide the same high level of service during the COVID-19 pandemic, the VWPD is implementing new, additional ways to serve the public while maintaining the health of the community and officers.  

Effective immediately, city residents wanting to make a report of lower level, nonviolent crimes that are not in progress can start the reporting process by filling out an online form and submitting it electronically to the police department.  

Residents who do not have access to the online form can pick up a form at the Van Wert Municipal Building, 515 E. Main St., to fill out. In submitting the form, residents are not generating a report but rather giving an officer all the necessary information to start an official police report. After the form is received, an officer will contact the person completing the form within 72 hours to obtain any follow-up information and provide that person with a report number.  

In addition, officers will also be taking reports over the phone, whenever possible. In the event that an officer would need to visit a residence for a report, the department is requesting that, weather permitting, residents come outside to meet the officer and provide information.  

These steps are being taken to follow guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control in social distancing and to prevent illness. Police officers come in contact with many people in all types of environments over the course of their daily shift and these proactive changes are being made to decrease the likelihood of cross contamination in the public.  

Examples of reports that would qualify for the online reporting system would include stolen bicycles, identity fraud, property crimes, etc. Anyone needing to report violent or in progress crimes should still call 9-1-1 for a police response. Those who are unsure if their report would qualify for the online system should call the dispatch center at 419.238.2462 for guidance. 

Access to the online reporting form can be made by visiting the police department website at https://vanwert.org/police-department/. Follow the Van Wert Police Department Facebook page for additional information and updates at https://www.facebook.com/VanWertPD/.  

VWPD officers and dispatchers remain dedicated to their mission and will be available around the clock to assist the community as it moves through the pandemic.