Chief: See it, report it

Coulee Dam’s police chief published a statement Monday asking people to report crimes to police, not just post it on Facebook.

“If we don’t know about it, we can’t do anything about it,” noted Chief Paul Bowden.

Bowden said the don’t consider Facebook posts as a proper way to report police issues.

“This is a reminder to PLEASE report any criminal or suspicious activity such as thefts, car prowls, break- ins, etc. directly to the Police Department by calling MACC Dispatch at 1-888-431-9911.”

Bowden also addressed comments he’s heard that there are no police officers in the area. “The Town of Coulee Dam Police Department currently has a force of 4 full-time Police Officers,” he wrote. “While we are not quite a 24/7 patrol coverage department, we do have an officer on-call 24/7 to respond to emergencies. If you are a Colville Tribal Member, you can also reach out to Colville Tribal Police to report issues.”

Bowden said people can leave department voicemail at 509-633-1234, but the department does not have in-office personnel. “We will respond to your message as soon as we are able, but it could take more than 24 hours. If you would like contact from an officer, you MUST call MACC Dispatch and, as always, if it is an emergency and you need immediate assistance, dial 911.”

Bowden put his message out via the town’s web page and through its text message alert service.