What information should I give the dispatcher if I'm reporting a crime in progress?
The dispatcher will ask questions pertinent to the crime or incident being reported. Typically the questions include:
  • What are you reporting?

  • Where is the crime and/or incident occurring?

  • Who is involved? Be prepared to give name(s) of the subjects involved, their descriptions (height, weight, hair color, clothing) and any cars that may be associated with the crime or person.
  • When did this happen?

  • Why this happened (if known)

  • Are there weapons, drugs or alcohol involved? (if appropriate)

It may seem some questions are unnecessary or don't make sense to you, but there are reasons why they are asked. Try to be as brief as possible, but accurate. Patience will help us get through the call quickly and efficiently. Remember to remain calm at all times. Be prepared to stay on the line with the dispatcher to provide updates or answer additional questions.

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1. How can I compliment an officer or employee?
2. Can I make an appointment with the Chief of Police?
3. How do I get in touch with a specific officer or employee?
4. I have a warrant for my arrest, how do I take care of it?
5. How can I get a copy of a police or accident report?
6. What is your mailing address?
7. What is your physical address?
8. Do you provide fingerprinting services?
9. How can I get a domestic violence restraining order?
10. How can I get a civil harrassment restraining order?
11. Where can I get general information about the services the Records Department offers and the general business hours?
12. When should I call 9-1-1?
13. What happens when I call 9-1-1?
14. What happens when I call 9-1-1 from my cellular phone?
15. What number do I call for a non-emergency situation?
16. What information should I give the dispatcher if I'm reporting a crime in progress?
17. Does the police department assist those who speak other languages or are speech impaired?
18. I dialed 3-1-1 and nothing happend. Why?
19. What happens if there is a power outage, earthquake or natural disaster?
20. How do I check for sexual predators in my neighborhood?
21. I own a business and a customer wrote a check that returned as non-sufficient funds (NSF). Who should I contact?
22. What happens if my child gets arrested?
23. How can I check on the status of my case?
24. What should I do if I believe I am the victim of identity theft?
25. How do I go about applying for a job with the police department?
26. What is the hiring process for police officer?
27. Whom do I call about crime prevention and neighborhood watch programs?
28. How do I get involved in volunteering for the Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Department?
29. Do you fingerprint children?
30. How do I report traffic violations in my neighborhood?
31. I received a traffic citation for an equipment violation. How do I get this ticket “signed off”?
32. How can I find out if my vehicle has been towed, and what is the procedure for getting it back?
33. How can I have my child safety seat inspected?
34. Who should I call to report a low flying aircraft or helicopter?
35. What is the process to obtain my property if it was taken for safekeeping?
36. Does the police department hold auctions for recovered unclaimed property?
37. If I find money or other valuable property, and turn it into the police, can I later claim it if the true owner has not collected it?
38. Whom do I call about barking dogs and other loud noise in my neighborhood?
39. What are your Police Department fees?
40. What is the curfew law and why does it exist?
41. Where are your parking frequently asked questions?
42. How do I report an abandoned vehicle?
43. Do you have a Resident Outreach Program?