Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Sergeant Dibble at sdibble@threeriversmi.org or 269-278-1235. Tips may also be submitted to: St. Joseph County Central Dispatch: 269-467-4195 Three Rivers Police Department: 269-278-1235 Silent Observer: 616-774-2345
In an exclusive interview with Watershed Voice, Three Rivers Chief of Police Scott Boling and Detective Sgt. Steven Dibble said the cameras provide an additional investigative tool to help identify vehicles connected to crimes. Flock Safety’s license plate reader system has drawn national criticism from civil liberties groups, particularly the American Civil Liberties Union, which argues the technology enables a form of mass surveillance that extends beyond its original purpose. Boling said there is no “backdoor access” to the system, including for federal agencies such as ICE, and that any data sharing must be approved by the department.
To discuss Three Rivers’ future desires for the cameras, Watershed Voice reached out to a representative of the Three Rivers Police Department but was told all media requests are now to be directed to City Manager Joe Bippus. Multiple attempts to seek comment from Bippus were made but, as of the publication of this article, Bippus has yet to respond.
This commission will meet this evening to discuss a proposed zoning ordinance for veterans housing, a purchase contract for an aerial ladder fire truck, and funding to sponsor a new police cadet.
The used 2023 Chevy Blazer will be utilized as an unmarked vehicle for the Three Rivers Police Department. The purchase will be covered, in part, by trading in three department vehicles with mechanical issues, along with a $14,760 city contribution.
While suspects have been identified, Three Rivers Deputy Chief Sam Smallcombe said police are awaiting additional documentation before submitting the case to the St. Joseph County Prosecutor's Office for review.
While the department’s primary funding comes from the city’s budget, special projects and initiatives often rely on federal grants. After successfully implementing a crime reduction program for a year, the department planned to apply for renewed funding but that was put on hold due to the federal funding freeze.
The police department confirmed the leak was contained shortly after 11 a.m. today. Hoppin Elementary had been advised to keep students inside.
Consequences for terrorizing threats have included long-term suspension or expulsion from school, plus criminal charges, Three Rivers’ deputy chief of police says.
Superintendent Nikki Nash said schools will resume classes Friday, and that all high school athletic events will resume as scheduled Thursday.
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