It is our pleasure to serve the community of Windsor Heights. One of our many roles as a Police Department is educate and share information with the community. To effect this, we have provided answers to some frequently asked questions.

Question

Why did the police officer tell me to stay in my car after he stopped me for a traffic violation?

Answer

The two main reasons that we have people remain in their vehicles are:

1. Officer Safety. It has been proven that the safest way for an officer to approach a vehicle is to the occupants remain seated in the vehicle.

2. Occupant and Driver Safety. The people in the vehicle are safer if they stay in the vehicle, rather than getting out and possibly stepping into the path of an oncoming car.

Question

Why did the officerfollow me for six blocks before stopped me for a violation?

Answer

Police Officers will attempt to stop you as soon as practical after a violation, but a number of factors must be considered for a safe traffic stop. Those factors include: roadway geometrics, traffic volume, lighting, roadway environment etc. The officer considers these factors ind will try to stop in an area that will present the least amount of hazard to you, the officer, and other motorists. Back to the Top.

Question: Vacation Checks

Does the Police Dept offer vaction watches on on residents homes?

Answer: Vacation Checks

Yes, the Police Department does check houses for residents while they are away. You are encouraged to notify the Police Department when you will be away and leaving your home unoccupied . Time and manpower permitting, the Police will visually check you home several times a day and log all comments. We ask that when you call in for a vacation check you have all needed information ready and at your disposal. Such as: Name, address and phone number of anyone who will have a key to your home, if anyone will be entering your home and for what reason, if your home is equipped with an alarm system and who monitors it, etc. There is no minimum amount of time to be gone to qualify. You may call for a vacation check Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Back to the Top.

Question

I received a seatbelt ticket . When I asked the officer why he had stopped me he said it was for the seat belt violation and no other reason. I've been told you couldn't be stopped or ticketed for not wearing a seat belt if you were not violating any other laws.

Answer

The Code of Iowa, with very few exceptions, requires all front seat occupants of a vehicle to properly wear seat belts. All children under three years of age, no matter their position in the vehicle, must be properly secured in an approved child restraint system. A child of at least three but under six years of age, also no matter their position in the vehicle, must be properly secured in an approved child restraint system, safety harness or seat belt. Back to the Top.

Question:

I received a ticket for a window tint violation. The officer said that the State Code required a minimum of 70% light transmission and I was ticketed for 18%. How is it legal for the dealer to apply darker than legal tint if it is illegal?

Answer:

Most window tint dealers require you sign a waiver acknowledging you are aware the tint is in violation of the State Code and you are subject to being charged if stopped by the Police. Others just plainly do not mention it. Back to the Top.

Question:

I need to be fingerprinted for a job application, professional license or other required reason, will the Windsor Heights Police Department do this?

Answer:

Yes, but by appointment only. Additionally, there is a $15.00 charge per card that is usually tax deductible if it is an employment expense. You will need to bring all the fingerprint forms as well as an acceptable form of identification. Back to the Top.

Question:

In my neighborhood, I see things that are out of place, unusual or people who are suspicious. I don’t really feel comfortable with calling the police. What should I do?

Answer:

Remember that this is your neighborhood and a responsibility of being a good citizen. Call 911 to report it and explain why you think this situation is “suspicious”. Because of constitutional protections, the police must have a legitimate reason to contact someone. Your observations and explanation of why this person/situation is suspicious will more than likely determine the officer’s response on the call. Back to the Top.

Question:

Should I install a burglar alarm in my home?

Answer:

There is no clear answer and is more a matter of personal choice. Keep in mind, a burglar alarm is not a guarantee that you will not become a burglary victim. An alarm may provide a deterrent. Alarms should only be used as a backup to physical security. Back to the Top.

Question:

What can I do about speeding vehicles on my street?

Answer:

Contact the Police Department at 277-4453 during business hours and report your concern. We will do a speed/traffic study of the area to monitor and log all traffic. If a problem is identified, officers will take enforcement action as needed. The Department may place a voluntary compliance sign to serve as a speed reminder. Back to the Top.

Question:

What do I do if I get annoying, threatening or obscene phone calls?

Answer:

Particularly in the event of a threatening call, report it to the police. Note the number(s) that the call(s) came from if you have caller ID, or if you used the *69 feature. If this is an ongoing problem, keep a written log of the dates and times of calls, what was said, if the call is male of female or known to you and anything unusual or distinctive about the call or caller. In the case of threatening or obscene calls, contact the phone company as well. In most cases, they require a police case number before they will do anything such as putting up a “trap” on your line. Back to the Top.