Public Information This page is designed to provide everyone with information on what is happening at the police department. It will contain information about ongoing programs, Activities which already took place, programs/activities which are planned and crime alerts (an area where we might be requesting help from the public). BIBLE HILL ROAD SPEED ZONES Recently, the Board of Selectmen held a Public Hearing regarding the speed limit on Bible Hill Road. The hearing was very productive with a lot of input from the public. With the exception of a couple of people, everyone wanted to leave the speed at 25 MPH. All aspects were considered: roadway layout, businesses, recreation and residences. The main focus was on safety. The final decision was to leave the speed at 25 MPH for the entire road. The following is a list of fines for speed summons. The amounts are per State statutes. 1-10 miles over speed limit $50.00 11-15 miles over speed limit $75.00 16-20 miles over speed limit $100.00 21-25 miles over speed limit $200.00 26+ miles over speed limit must appear in court If the circumstances call for a different action a person could be charged with Reckless Driving. That charge would result in a fine and loss of license. The hearing focused on Bible Hill Road; however, I must point out that traffic laws will be enforced on all Bennington roads. Our goal is to make the roads safe for everyone, not to see how many tickets we can give out. Thank you for keeping the roadways safe, which in turn keeps everyone safe. ONGOING: 1. GUN LOCKS: The Bennington Police Department is now issuing gun locks. We have a limited supply, therefore we will issue no more than two per family. If you would like a gunlock or two please stop by the police station. 2. FINGERPRINTING: We recently took a day to do fingerprints of the Pierce School students. If you have a child you wish to have fingerprinted please make an appointment to come by the police station. We will gladly provide you with a fingerprint kit and, if necessary, assist you in taking the fingerprints. Or, if you wish, you may pick up the Fingerprint Identification Card, take it with you, and do the prints yourself at home. 3. CAR SEATS: The police department also has Child Safety Seats which we can loan out. We have infant seats, toddler seats, and booster seats. (Numbers are limited). We loan them to people who cannot afford them. Also, grandparents might wish to come by for a visit and need to borrow a seat so they can take their grandchildren for a ride. If you need one please contact the police department and we will gladly loan you a car seat. 4. PHONE LOAN: The police department has cellular telephones to loan out. They can be used for different situations. Examples: domestic abuse situations, medical emergencies and vacations (just in case you need to call E911 while traveling). It is important to note they can only be used to call 911. For information or to borrow a phone please contact the police department. 5. BICYCLE HELMETS: Starting June 1st the police department will have a limited supply of bicycle helmets. These helmets will be issued to individuals who cannot afford to purchase one. Since we have a limited number of helmets we respectfully ask that you only request one if you really can’t afford to buy a one. Safety is our main concern; therefore, please make sure your child wears a helmet. For information or to request a helmet please contact the police department. 6. QUILTS: If you have a small child and are in need of a quilt please contact us. A very nice donation was made of handmade quilts for infants. If you have extra quilts that are in new condition that you want to donate, we would kindly accept them. 7. TEDDY BEARS: We also have a number of stuffed animals (yes, some are teddy bears). You are welcome to bring your young child by to meet the police. When you visit, don't forget to ask for your teddy bear. 8. RIDE-A-LONG: The Bennington Police Department has a policy for ride-a-longs. Over the years we have given countless ride-a-longs. If you are interested in taking a ride with a police officer to see what we do please stop by the police station and fill out a request and waiver form. 9. VACANT PROPERTY: As most of you are aware, we also conduct vacant property checks. Therefore, if you are away on vacation or for any other reason would like to have the Police Department check your property, please contact us. 10. CHILD NOTIFICATION: If you would like to be notified any time your child has an official contact with the Police, please contact the Police Department. This information could be of a criminal act, an investigation, or a motor vehicle stop. The intent is to keep you informed as to what your child is doing. 11. SCHOOL LUNCH: As all of the teachers, students, and many parents know, I (Chief of Police) have many lunches at the school. Believe it or not, there is a program in which a student can actually buy (trade in ribbons) lunch with me. I have lunch at least once a month at the School. Sometimes I cause a disrpution at School (in a nice way); however, I believe it is very important for the young people in Town to get to know their local Police Department. 12. TOWN EVENTS: I do not have a written policy on attending Town functions; however, each of my Officers know I highly encourage them to attend social functions - School functions (Assembly, Christmas concerts, Talen Show, Graduation, etc.), holiday events (Santa Claus, hay rides, pumpking decorating, etc.), and any other event which might be planned. If you know of an event or are having an event and would like to have a Police Officer stop by and speak to you (safety briefings, etc.) or would just like to have an Officer stop, by please contact us. CRIME ALERT Police are looking for assistance in the following case: There was a theft at a local business in which a roll of copper was taken. The value was approximately $4,000. Recently (2007) we had a residential burglary. A couple of the items taken were televisions. Please contact the Bennington Police Department with any information regarding this theft. We promise to keep your identity confidential. In some cases rewards are offered.