Festus Police Remain Cautious of COVID-19 concerns

(Festus) The Festus Police Department continues to be cautious in how its officers respond to emergency situations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Festus Police Chief Tim Lewis, his department has revamped their response times on certain calls for service.

Much like Jefferson County 9-1-1, Festus Emergency Dispatchers are also screening callers and asking medical questions if emergency services do have to respond to a scene.

While the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has seen over a 40 percent increase in domestic disturbances, Lewis says things haven’t been too hectic in the City of Festus.

Lewis adds officers continue to clean and disinfect their patrol vehicles along with the police department to ensure the safety of citizens they come in contact with.