Deputies to cut back on traffic crash response during RNC

If you get into a fender bender in Hillsborough County next week, you're probably on your own.

Sheriff's deputies won't be responding to minor crashes without injuries and minor crimes the way they normally do.

"First of all, our response to priority calls will not change: Your in-progress calls, your burglary calls," said detective Larry McKinnon. "But, of course, with the manpower needs of the RNC we're going to have to cut back somewhere. And that's going to be for those parking lot traffic crashes, fender benders."

Thousands of law enforcement officers will be in downtown Tampa keeping the RNC safe. Hundreds of other Hillsborough County deputies will be busy handling priority 911 calls and major crimes.

But they say the stolen bikes, noisy neighbors and other non-emergency calls will have to wait.

"Understand that this would be like if a major category hurricane came into the Tampa Bay area. And once that occurs, obviously you've got to prioritize your calls a little differently than you would during the normal course of the day," McKinnon said.

Within the city limits, a smaller area to patrol, Tampa police say non-emergency calls will be treated the same.

And for those who live in the county, the sheriff's office said the change is only temporary. Residents can report minor crimes and car accidents over the phone bank or pick up a report at one of the district offices.

"They may have to face some delays on getting a law enforcement deputy to respond for minor crimes. But one thing is guaranteed: We will not compromise on anything regarding life or death or priority one emergency calls," McKinnon said.