Richmond residents are urged to report crimes directly to the police rather than relying on social media platforms like Nextdoor, as emphasized during a recent Crime Prevention Meeting focused on parking enforcement. Lieutenant (LT) highlighted the importance of immediate reporting, stating, “Please call things in as they happen.” This call to action comes in light of the current unavailability of online reporting, which has left many residents unsure of how to file reports for incidents such as vehicle break-ins.

The meeting underscored that while social media can be useful for community engagement, it is not an effective tool for reporting crimes. LT stressed that officers cannot respond to incidents reported on platforms like Nextdoor, as they may not reflect real-time situations. Instead, residents are encouraged to call 911 for emergencies or the non-emergency dispatch number for less urgent matters.

For those needing to report issues like abandoned vehicles or code enforcement complaints, specific contact numbers were provided. Residents can reach the abandoned vehicle hotline at (510) 620-6644 or the non-emergency number at (510) 233-1214. The importance of having these numbers readily accessible on personal devices was also highlighted to ensure quick reporting.

As the city works to restore online reporting capabilities, officials are committed to maintaining open lines of communication with the community. Residents are encouraged to spread the word about these reporting methods to ensure that all incidents are addressed promptly and effectively. This proactive approach aims to enhance public safety and community engagement in Richmond.