Pennsylvania State Police to Patrol Collingdale Amid Officer Shortage
- The Collingdale Police Department is currently understaffed, with only nine officers available for duty.
- Residents are worried about longer emergency response times, prompting support from Pennsylvania State Police.
- Local officials emphasize the urgent need to restore the police force while navigating budget constraints.
In Delaware County, Pennsylvania, the local police department in Collingdale is experiencing a significant staffing crisis, with only nine officers available for duty and one officer set to leave soon. This shortage has raised concerns among residents about the safety and efficiency of emergency response services in the borough. Collingdale Mayor Donna Matteo-Spadea noted that the staffing issue is exacerbated by budget constraints, complicating the recruitment process for new officers. Although the Pennsylvania State Police are stepping in to assist, local law enforcement is irreplaceable, as highlighted by the local FOP president who warned that response times from state police could average 30 to 40 minutes. These delays could jeopardize residents' safety. Matteo-Spadea indicated that it may take several months to replenish the local police force, emphasizing the urgency of the situation as emergency services face potential delays. The community remains committed to maintaining public safety, even in the face of these challenges.