BROWN COUNTY — While semi truck traffic may be less affected, local and area law enforcement reports fewer calls and traffic and vehicle stops since the COVID-19 stay-at-home request by Gov. Tim Walz last week.

“Deputies say there is not a lot of traffic and less activity now. There are fewer traffic stops,” said Brown County Sheriff Jason Seidl. “We’re serving fewer civil papers doing less jail bookings.”

The jail population has dwindled. The Brown County Jail had six inmates on its roster Tuesday morning.

Seidl said about the only part law enforcement activity that has risen lately is gun permits.

“We’re doing jail improvements now, adding more and better cameras as planned and regular jail maintenance,” Seidl said.

“Much of the world has stopped,” Seidl said.

Sleepy Eye Police Chief Matt Andres said officers are keeping (six feet) social distance with people and not going to medical calls unless they are life threatening.

“The ambulance service goes to all medical calls. If they decide they need us, they’ll let us know,” Andres said. “Officers say they are seeing less traffic and people driving at more of a leisurely speed. It appears a number of people drive around just to get out of their residence, especially at night.”

Last week, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) reported a 39 percent drop of statewide traffic volume.

New Ulm Police Chief Dave Borchert said his department has adjusted to COVID-19 in a number of ways.

“We put in different time off measures and adjusted (work) schedules,” Borchert said. “We want to keep everybody healthy as long as we can and limit exposure as much as we can. We put only one person in a squad car and adjusted work stations.”

Borchert said police, other law enforcement partners are preparing for higher COVID-19 numbers.

“We’re preparing for the worst and hoping for the best,” Borchert said. “Police officers are essential employees. We’re working closely with the sheriff’s office and New Ulm Medical Center. We all have a very good working relationship which I think is a big benefit.”

Brown County Attorney Chuck Hanson said his office prioritized cases that the Court wants to see right away.

“I was in court with three other people Monday. Defense attorneys are using their phones for court,” Hanson said. “We will charge out lower priority issues when the Court is fully operational. I think most city attorneys operate like that too now.”

Hanson said there is less court business and less offenses in recent weeks.

According to the Governor’s Office Stay Home Minnesota website, individuals and families should use their best judgement and buy only what they need for essential needs.

All Minnesotans are urged to voluntarily comply with the executive order effective from March 27 to April 10.

Although the Governor’s order doesn’t close playgrounds, local authorities may do so.

If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Fritz Busch can be emailed at fbusch@nujournal.com.