Long Beach Police Officers No Longer Respond to Most Non-Injury Crashes Due to Staffing Shortages
Pilot Program Launched to Refocus Resources
The Long Beach Police Department has launched a pilot program, effective October 1, to stop responding to most non-injury crashes due to staffing shortages. The program aims to reallocate resources to prioritize responding to priority one emergency calls, which will improve overall response efficiency.
Staffing Issues
As of October 15, the department is facing a 19% vacancy rate, with a budgeted 824 sworn staff positions compared to the actual number of staff available. This has led to the need for a strategic reevaluation of how the department allocates its resources.
Which Crashes Will Officers Still Respond To?
Despite the pilot program, officers will still respond to the following non-injury crashes:
- Deadly crashes
- Crashes involving injury, including those where anyone involved complains of pain
- Crashes involving cyclists and pedestrians
- Felony hit-and-runs
- Crashes involving impaired drivers
- Crashes damaging city property or involving a vehicle owned by a federal, state, or local public agency
Reporting Non-Injury Crashes
Those involved in a non-injury crash can file a police report online at longbeach.gov/LBPDOnlineReporting. The online reporting system allows victims to report other crimes, including lost property, vandalism, theft, or attempted theft, and harassing phone calls. For non-emergency reports, call the police non-emergency line at 562-435-6711.
Evaluation and Review
The patrol bureau will conduct quarterly assessments to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the pilot program, which will remain in place for a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the Long Beach Police Department no longer responding to most non-injury crashes?
A: The department is facing staffing shortages, with a 19% vacancy rate, and is realigning its resources to prioritize responding to priority one emergency calls.
Q: What types of non-injury crashes will officers still respond to?
A: Officers will still respond to deadly crashes, injury crashes, crashes involving cyclists and pedestrians, felony hit-and-runs, crashes involving impaired drivers, and crashes damaging city property or involving a vehicle owned by a federal, state, or local public agency.
Q: How do I report a non-injury crash?
A: You can file a police report online at longbeach.gov/LBPDOnlineReporting or call the police non-emergency line at 562-435-6711.
