TBS Today, Nov. 13
Last night, we really felt the effects of the recent decision to encrypt Berkeley police radio traffic.
There was a major police response, by both UCPD and city police, but there was no immediate way to hear what was happening (or even know anything was happening).
Fortunately, multiple readers quickly got in touch to let us know something big was going on at Willard Park.
We were able to piece together some preliminary details from Berkeley Fire dispatches, which remain unencrypted.
We also leaned in to some of our unofficial police sources, who helped confirm what was going on. And we did get a call back from UCPD before the night was out.

But reporting was still delayed and less detailed than it would have been before. And, due to the delays, there was no way to get a photographer to the scene.
On that note, if you see police activity and feel safe to do so, please consider taking a few photos (horizontal is best) and send them in for possible publication.
In the end: We're glad we were able to publish a story relatively fast, and also get the authoritative scoop on significant news.
But this is probably the best-case scenario. We don't expect it to always go this smoothly. Now more than ever, this work is going to take a village.


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