Plattekill Police Department experiences staffing shortage

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The Plattekill Police Department in Ulster County is relying on the county sheriff’s office and state police to fill shifts during a historic staffing crisis that is similarly being seen among law enforcement agencies nationwide. The department’s chief, Oscar Lopez, tells News 12 that they are relying on mutual aid to fill shifts when no officers are available. Plattekill is a part-time police department and state police routinely cover their overnight calls even before the shortage, according to officials. According to the National Police Association, law enforcement staffing levels are at historic lows nationwide, partly due to what they say is an increased anti-police sentiment among the public and softening laws on crime. It supports the Filling Public Safety Vacancies Act (H.R. 8420), which addresses shortages by providing federal funds to aid law enforcement agencies in their recruitment needs. News 12 reached out to the Plattekill town supervisor for further information but didn’t immediately receive a response. "