West Valley police department limiting lobby access due to safety concerns

PHOENIX – A West Valley police department will no longer keep its lobby open 24 hours due to safety concerns.

The Surprise Police Department announced that the entryway to its headquarters at 14250 W. Statler Plaza will be locked nights from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. and on weekends starting Nov. 1.

A video intercom system will be installed outside the lobby entrance to maintain 24/7 access at the station. Dispatchers will be able to unlock the doors remotely for an emergency, if needed.

Surprise residents can still reach police by calling 911 for emergencies and 623-222-4000 for nonemergency situations.

Why is Surprise Police Department closing lobby at night?

The department said the changes are in response to an increase in incidents involving theft of city property and people sleeping overnight in the lobby.

“This adjustment is about balancing accessibility with security,” Chief Evan Becher, who was elevated to his position earlier this year, said in a press release Monday.

“Our priority is always the safety and well-being of our community, and these measures allow us to continue providing reliable, around-the-clock public safety services while protecting city property.”

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