Crime is happening in every local community, but you wouldn't know it by reading the police logs in the newspaper.

That's because some police departments choose not to make public what should be public information.By not giving residents information about burglaries, thefts, and other serious incidents, police chiefs and mayors give the false impression that the municipalities they serve are virtually crime-free.It couldn't be farther from the truth.These officials are doing a disservice. Reporting burglaries, thefts, etc. will not only make the public aware and keep an eye open for such activity but also potentially help resolve these matters.Franklin Township supervisors received complaints that no incidents are reported, but the supervisors and police department don't seem to care that the public isn't informed.We're still not getting reports.We know of burglaries and other incidents which were never reported in various municipalities. Residents have called us and asked about the incidents, but the police haven't released information about them.If we in the media can't communicate with the police, certainly residents have the same problem.In Coaldale earlier this year, mayor Richard Kellner said, "You also took away the town's police department and there are still crimes taking place even if you don't read about them all in the newspaper."Some police departments do an excellent job keeping the public informed.But the majority of the police departments give the impression they are above reporting to the public.This is wrong. The public deserves to know when burglary rings are operating, when violent crime is occurring, and when serious incidents happen.Once they know, they will be able to take preventive measures. They will more closely watch out for their neighbors.Knowing could even result in an arrest if residents have information about a suspect.Police departments can submit information to us by email (tneditor@tnonline.com), fax (610-826-9608), phone call, or sending us affidavits and incident reports.Our tax dollars pay for police protection.Residents need to be kept informed regarding what's happening.Unfortunately, too few municipal police departments cooperate with the media on such matters.Some police argue they are so overworked they don't have time to give press releases. This is a poor argument since incident reports must be compiled on every serious matter.By RON GOWERrgower@tnonline.com