Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department With the passing of Halloween, my favorite holiday of the year, Thanksgiving, is right around the corner. The pandemic changed many things in our lives and certainly makes us appreciate the ability to gather for this special day. The Christmas and holiday season will be upon us soon. People who like to get a jump on their purchases will be buying gifts now in preparation for the season. By shopping on-line, people avoid the crowds and lines at stores and shop from the convenience of home. This results in an influx of package deliveries. With thefts of packages left on doorsteps prevalent during this time of the year, I wanted to remind everyone to take the necessary precautions when expecting deliveries. The number one goal of on-line purchasing is to receive your items in a timely manner. Packages should be delivered to your residence if you will be there or to a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor. Leaving items unattended outside your home can be risky. If the item is taken illegally, you may not be aware of this until long after the incident. The best method of ensuring your delivery arrives safe is to arrange in advance to have these packages delivered while someone is at home or to leave them with a person you know. It is always important to track your packages while they are in transit. Most companies provide tracking numbers and have up to date information on where your package is located. Check this process early and often. This can be done over the phone or on-line. If you experience any problems or have questions, contact the company or person who is responsible for shipping your package. There are other on-line options which allow you to track your packages. Do some research to determine what may be best for you. Safeguarding your investment is important to make sure your holidays are happy and not frustrating. With gifts in mind, and with the approach of the holiday season, our department will once again be collecting Christmas gift donations for resident families in need. New and unwrapped toys and clothing can be brought to the Dudley Police Department at 71 West Main Street. Of need in the past were gifts for children between the ages of 10 – 15 years old. Monetary donations as well as gift cards are also accepted. Anything remaining is distributed locally (at places such as Webster / Dudley Food Share) for families on our two towns. Checks should be made payable to the “Dudley Police Association” with a special note for the Holiday Drive. Officers Keith Remillard and Luis Pacheco will be |
leading this year’s drive and they can be contacted at the station if people have questions or require more information. Their efforts are greatly appreciated. The Department thanks everyone in advance for their continued generosity. Despite what many may believe, people in our area have a need and, thanks to you, we have assisted numerous local families in the past. Anything you can give will help bring some happiness to those who would otherwise go without during this holiday season.
For those still seeking vaccination or COVID related information, it can be found at www.dudleyma.gov or by calling The Board of Health 508-949-8036. During these challenging times, we, at the Dudley Police Department, greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community. Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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