Frequently Asked Questions
Should I call the police if I see something suspicious or unusual in my neighborhood?
Yes. The Westmorland Police Department relies on community involvement and we encourage citizens to report criminal activity or problems. The likelihood of criminals being caught increases when witnesses call the police immediately after seeing something suspicious.
At what hour can I complain about a loud party or noise?
Noise violations can occur at any hour and may include noise sources such as loud parties, leaf blowers, construction etc. Commercial areas generally have less restrictive noise regulations. If you have a concern, please call and request an officer to inquire into the problem.
Where do I report a noise violation?
Call the police department at 760-344-3411.
Records Related:
How can I file a police report?
To report an emergency, dial 911. Our customers may file a non-emergency police report in the main lobby of the police department. Note: If you dial 911 from a cell phone, your call will be transferred to the California Highway Patrol.
How do I report a vehicle that has been abandoned?
Write down a description of the vehicle, the license plate number and the address where it is parked. And call 760-344-3411, Further investigation will determine whether the vehicle is illegally parked, stolen, or another condition is present allowing the immediate or subsequent removal of the vehicle.
How do I get a ticket signed off?
If you have received a "fix it" ticket from the Westmorland Police Department, it can be signed off at our department by an officer. Please have your ticket with you, photo ID, and your repaired vehicle.
How do I commend an employee for a job well done or exceptional service?
You have several options available to report a job well done by an employee of the department. Citizens can mail a letter to the police department to the attention of:
Chief of Police Fred Beltran
355 South Center Street
Westmorland CA
92281
New Wireless Telephone Laws - Effective July 1, 2008 The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has recently released a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) regarding two new laws that address the use of wireless telephones while driving. Please take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with these new laws. When do the new wireless telephone laws take effect?
The new laws take effect July 1, 2008.
What is the difference between the two laws?
The first law prohibits all drivers from using a handheld wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle unless the telephone is configured to allow hands-free operation (Vehicle Code (VC) 23123). The second law prohibits drivers under the age of 18 to use a wireless telephone or hands-free device while operating a motor vehicle (VC 23124).
What if I need to use my telephone during an emergency and I do not have a hands-free device?
The law allows a driver to use a wireless telephone to make emergency calls to a law enforcement agency, a medical provider or the fire department.
Will I receive a point on my driver's license if I'm convicted for a violation of the wireless telephone law?
The violation is a reportable offense: however, DMV will not assign a violation point.
Will the conviction appear on my driving record?
Yes, but the violation point will not be added.
Are passengers affected by this law?
This law applies only to the driver of the vehicle.
Do these laws apply to out-of-state drivers whose home states do not have such laws?
Yes.
Can I be pulled over by a law enforcement officer for using my handheld wireless telephone?
YES. A law enforcement officer can pull you over just for this infraction.
What if my phone has a push-to-talk feature, can I use that?
No. The law does provide an exception for those operating a commercial motor truck or truck tractor (excluding pickups), implements of husbandry, farm vehicle or tow truck, to use a two-way radio operated by a "push-to-talk" feature.