The Lewiston Police Department will no longer allow its officers to speak to reporters over the weekend under a newly implemented policy.
Police Chief Chris Ankeny tells the Lewiston Tribune that the change is needed because there is not enough staff available to answer press inquiries between Friday and Sunday.
Previously, officers fielded calls from reporters at their convenience during weekends. However, under the new policy, reporters must arrive at the crime scene to get information about the incident.
The new policy also mandates that reporters submit written questions between noon and 1 p.m. Monday through Friday to allow officers time to research and provide accurate answers.
City Councilman Jesse Maldonado called the new policy upsetting, adding that resident interest in the city doesn't stop on Friday. Meanwhile, Mayor Jim Kleeburg says the new policy can always be changed if he feels public information is being impeded.
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