Below you will find information on recent activity involving the Penn Hills Police Department, as well as information on current events happening around the municipality that our department may be involved with. This is not a list outlining all police calls for service and incident descriptions, though, at times, we may deem it necessary to post information or photos seeking tips on unsolved crimes or missing persons.
Remembering Canine Riggs – A loyal servant and a loving partner.
It is with a tremendous amount of sadness that the Penn Hills Police Department announces the passing of police Canine Riggs. Riggs was diagnosed with an advanced stage of cancer that was incurable. His partner and lifelong friend, Officer Ryan Walters, made the decision to end his suffering, and he was gently put to sleep yesterday afternoon.
Riggs was twelve years old and served the community with Officer Walters since 2009. He was a Dutch Shepherd and came to us all the way from Holland. Riggs loved coming to work and riding around with his partner to fight crime every day. We are grateful for all the years he spent with us at the PHPD and will miss his energetic personality. Rest in peace Riggs. Thank you for all the wonderful years you gave us!
Celebrating a Milestone and Welcoming the Future of the PHPD!
At Monday night’s council meeting, Chief Burton was recognized for completing what is genuinely a fantastic milestone, fifty years of service with our agency! Chief Burton began his career with the police department in March of 1969. Over the years he worked his way up through the ranks, starting as a patrol officer, then working as a detective, supervising officers on the road as a sergeant, overseeing operations as a lieutenant, and finally being appointed to the position of Chief of Police in 1999. Chief, thank you for all the years of selfless service to the community!
In an ideal setting, the PHPD welcomed in a new generation of police officers to its ranks. Officers Amanda Duncan, Kevin Persichetti, Jacob Smith, and James Spade were sworn-in as the municipality’s latest crime fighters. We congratulate them on their appointment to our agency and wish them success in their careers as Penn Hills police officers!
2019 Polar Plunge!
On Saturday, February 23, 2019, several Penn Hills police officers, including Chief Burton, participated in the 2019 Polar Plunge, held near Heinz Field in downtown Pittsburgh.
The “plungers” tackled cold temperatures and ice cold water in an effort to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics PA. The Penn Hills Police Department has been participating in this event since 2011. Thanks to all who participated, including the many officers from other local law enforcement agencies in Western Pennsylvania.
Michael J. Crawshaw EOW: 12/06/2009
Today we reflect on the ninth anniversary of the passing of Officer Michael Crawshaw. On Sunday, December 6, 2009, Michael lost his life in the line of duty while serving our community.
Michael left a legacy of heroism and human decency that will forever be embraced by the men and women of the Penn Hills Police Department, especially for those who had the privilege of serving with him.
We offer our prayers and thoughts to Michael’s family and to all of those who knew him. Not a day passes that he is not missed. May peace be with you on this day of mourning.
New Internet Purchase Exchange Location
We are pleased to announce that we now offer residents and visitors a safe place to meet for internet purchase exchanges. Located within the visitor parking lot at the new municipal complex are two parking spaces reserved for internet transactions, marked by the sign pictured below.
Monitored by video surveillance, the parking spaces are close to the municipal building, which houses the police department and is always accessible to visitors in need of police assistance.
Sadly, law enforcement agencies throughout the country have been taking reports for robberies that have occurred during meetups for internet transactions. Though most people have good intentions when posting offers on sites like Craigslist, OfferUp, letgo, and Facebook’s Marketplace, some are not legitimate and are merely attempting to lure unsuspecting buyers/sellers carrying cash or valuables, with the intent of robbing them.
We also encourage buyers and sellers to read the advisory content posted by most internet marketplace sites, warning of potential scams and other issues. Remember the adage “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
New PHPD Headquarters – Effective 07/19/2018
Beginning Thursday, July 19, 2018, the Penn Hills Police Department will shift all operations to the new municipal complex, at 102 Duff Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235. The police department entrance will continue to be open 24 hours a day to the public. The Records Division hours will remain the same.
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, we were unable to forecast the moving date with much notice. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. As always, we look forward to serving you from our new home.
Buying fireworks? Know the laws.
On October 30, 2017, the laws concerning fireworks in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania officially changed, replacing the Fireworks Act of 1939. As summer rolls in, we want residents to be aware of the new changes to the laws, and how they could affect you. If you’re planning on purchasing fireworks this season, please take a moment and view the following link outlining the most notable changes to the laws, provided by the Pennsylvania State Police.
Pennsylvania State Police – Fireworks Information Page
Animal Friends’ Community Vaccine Clinic – Coming Soon!
Animal Friends will hold their annual low-cost vaccine clinic on Sunday, July 8, 2018, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the Penn Hills Department of Public Works building, at 6600 Leechburg Road, Verona, PA 15147. This is a cash-only clinic.
All residents of Penn Hills, as well as non-residents, are encouraged to bring their pets, both cats, and dogs, to be vaccinated and microchipped. Please bring paperwork indicating prior vaccinations and any alteration surgery (spay/neuter).
We ask that cats be in carriers and dogs be on a leash. For safety reasons, non-retractable leashes are preferred. You are still welcome to attend the clinic if you use a retractable leash, but please “short-leash” your dog.
“Click it or Ticket” enforcement campaign to start soon!
Beginning May 14th, the Penn Hills Police Department will be participating in the national seat belt enforcement campaign known as “Click it or Ticket.” The program is sponsored by Buckle-Up Pennsylvania and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 413 people who did not buckle up lost their lives in crashes on Pennsylvania roadways in 2015.
The campaign will run until June 3rd. These will be “zero tolerance” enforcement details, meaning you will be cited if you are caught not wearing your seat belt and stopped for a primary traffic violation. The campaign also targets children who are not properly restrained in child safety seats or booster seats, if required by law.
Please wear your seat belt. Many studies have proven that wearing your belt dramatically increases your chances of surviving a serious traffic collision. The few seconds it takes to buckle-up may save you some money, but more importantly, may save your life!
Penn Hills Night of Awareness
On Thursday, May 17, 2018, a group of concerned Penn Hills citizens will be hosting the “Penn Hills Night of Awareness” inside the auditorium at the Penn Hills Senior High School, at 309 Collins Drive. The symposium will run from 6:00 to 8:30 PM, and will focus on issues of addiction, mental health, and recovery.
A host of speakers from various local agencies will be on-hand to present information on these topics, answer questions, and suggest resources on where to find help for anyone struggling with these issues. This event is open to the public, though some material may not be suitable for children. Click on the link below for more information.
