Letter to the Editor: What's Up with Local Law Enforcement?

Dear Editor,

Last week I had an unpleasant experience with our local law enforcement after I was involved in a car accident. Nothing major, but I was struck by another vehicle from behind at the intersection of K and 74 in Sussex.

It was the first accident I've had in 5 years and I was somewhat shaken up, although I was (luckily) not injured.

A deputy from the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department responded to the accident and I was surprised but how unfriendly he was, and was especially taken aback that he barely asked if I was alright before sticking his hand out for my insurance information and driver's license.

I was visibly upset but he didn't seem too concerned anything besides the protocol he needed to follow with this situation.

The deputy returned my license and insurance card. He informed me that the other driver was issued a citation and that he "lives just up the road," like that made any real difference to me. I also live just up the road from the accident and didn't see why that was relevant.

He didn't offer any other information, such as any written documentation from the accident. (He had us both write our statements, and I suppose I expected I would receive a copy or some other report immediately).

I was still a bit shocked from the collision and didn't know exactly what to do besides immediately report the accident to my insurance.

I was very disappointed that the deputy didn't attempt to ask if I needed anything else or if I had any questions, and that he didn't provide me with any documents to provide to my insurance company. 

Later on in the day, I realized that I could stop by the on Main Street to speak with someone about getting a copy of the report from the accident. I needed this for my claim with the insurance companies and wanted to get that taken care of as soon as I could.

I stopped by the Sussex Public Safety Building at 4:48 p.m. and was pleased I made it before they closed at 5 p.m., the time listed on their website and on the doors of the building.

To my surprise, the entire front part oft he building was dark and the doors to enter the lobby were locked. I know exactly what time I was there, because I took a picture of the phone that is mounted on the wall just outside the 2nd set of doors of the building.

It was the cherry on top of an obnoxious day. 

Overall, it was a frustrating experience with our local law enforcement. I am grateful that I was not injured, and the damage to the vehicles can certainly be fixed.

However, after having an event like that take place and needing to talk to someone at the Village Safety Building, I am very disappointed. 4:48 is not 5:00. I don't leave my job 12 minutes early. You are cheating the people in your community that may really be in need of your assistance.

Sincerely, 

Samantha Heffron

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