COVID-19 Impacts Local Police Departments

(Crystal City/Festus) The coronavirus has not only put a strain on staffing shortages at times for businesses in the commercial, industrial, and medical field, but first responders have been hit hard too.

Both the Crystal City and Festus Police Departments have had a number of officers and other staff out due to the virus.

Crystal City Police Captain Mike Pruneau says at one point they were down 6-7 officers on the road.

Festus Police Chief Tim Lewis says COVID has hit them pretty hard this month.

Despite being down on staff, both department’s say they continue to have road patrols fully staffed with back up or reserve officers.

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