Police
Police in the United States and Lincoln don’t just take people to jail.
They are generally regarded as public servants who help and protect communities and their residents, regardless of race, religion or nationality. Police do arrest criminals, but they also patrol streets, assist victims of crime, enforce traffic laws, and sometimes help resolve minor disputes.
If Americans have to deal with a police officer, it is usually during a traffic stop for a minor violation such as speeding. There are three key things to remember if the flashing lights of a police car ever appear in your rearview mirror.
- Pull over immediately
- Do not get out of the car
- Make certain your hands are visible at all times
A police officer who pulls someone over for a traffic violation might ask for three things:
- Driver’s license
- Registration
- Proof of car insurance
If you are the victim of a crime in a non-emergency situation,contact the Lincoln Police Department at 402-441-6000. A police officer will then meet with you to learn more information about the crime, and investigate the matter. In a situation such as stolen items from a car, the lost property may never be recovered, but reporting the theft does help police keep track of where crimes are committed and prevent them in the future. Also, a police report is often necessary to file an insurance claim on stolen property, which is sometimes part of a purchase agreement with cell phones or purchases made with a credit card.
In addition to city police, Nebraska law enforcement also includes county sheriff departments (deputies) and the Nebraska State Patrol (troopers). Essentially, all of them do the same things, only in different areas. Officers in LPD police the city, while the deputies in the sheriff’s department focus more on the rural areas. And the state police cover the entire state, most visibly on major highways.
Anyone who deals with a Lincoln police officer should know that the LPD and its officers strive to conduct themselves with professional courtesy and fairness at all times, and anyone who experiences otherwise can file a complaint.
Health & Human Services
Of all the government agencies, Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) oversees some of the more critical services for those in need. Low-income families can go to the DHHS to apply for financial assistance in paying for...READ MORE
Fire Department
The Lincoln Fire Department not only responds to fires, but also provides emergency medical treatment, secures hazardous materials and enforces the state’s fire safety and prevention laws.
In an emergency, such as a fire...READ MORE
Other government agencies
There are useful government agencies at every level: City, state and federal.
Dealing with these agencies can be complicated, even for natural born Americans, but there are people who know how to best navigate these systems, and they’re willing to help if you let them. Two prominent examples are...READ MORE
Housing
The Lincoln Housing Authority seeks to provide affordable housing for low-income families. Eligibility is determined by family size and income levels. This process can be long, and could take several months.
The city’s department of Urban Development also offers resources for low-income and first-time home-buyers.
Other agencies
There are useful government agencies at every level: City, state and federal. To learn more about some of the more important government agencies that may be able to help, follow this link.
Health Care
America's health care systm can be complicated and confusing.
Go here to learn more about it.