Hamilton County Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush announced changes his office is making due to coronavirus.
Sheriff Quakenbush in a social media video message said, “All services to the public will continue.”
“My number one goal for our community is to ensure confidence in the fact the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office will continue to operate and provide the duties and functions, while also making the necessary changes to allow us to carry out these functions in the safest possible way,” Quakenbush said. “The safety of our community, employees and inmates is at the top of our priorities. When you call dispatch or 911, patrol deputies will respond. Some investigations may be handled by telephone if the complaint is not in progress. We will continue to proactively patrol and enforce the law.”
Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush released a video message Wednesday letting the public know that essential public safety services and resources will continue. Click here to watch the video message. (Photo provided)
The Sheriff said correction facilities will operate without interruption.
“We have medical housing, quarantine facilities and a 24-hour medical staff to maintain a safe correction environment,” Quakenbush said.
Jail visits will be restricted to remote video visits. To register for a remote video jail visit, go to gettingout.com.
If you are symptomatic, sick or have been in the last 72 hours, please do not come to the Sheriff Department campus unless you are court-ordered. Quakenbush explained that if you must report to the Sheriff’s Department campus as a result of a court order, the Sheriff asks that you call (317) 773-1872 during business hours or (317) 776-2595 after hours before you come.
Critical sex offender registration will continue to occur at the Sheriff’s office. Fingerprint requests will be processed inside the lobby. Necessary background checks, public record requests and many other inquiries should be requested by fax or email. Local background checks for gun permit applications will continue; however, the Sheriff asks that you call (317) 773-1872 in advance. Tax warrant payments in the form of money order or cashier’s check can be mailed to the Sheriff’s Department or paid online through Indianataxwarrants.com.
In his statement, Quakenbush encouraged county residents to shop local. The Sheriff also explained there is a blood shortage and reminded residents to donate if possible.
“Check on your neighbors. This is a communal effort,” Quakenbush said. “The men and women of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department are working hard to keep everyone safe.”