Patrol Division
The Patrol Division includes the traffic unit, patrol squads, Public Safety Officers, and police K-9 officers.
The patrol division work shifts are each 12 hours in length. Officers are assigned to one of four shifts, Days 1, Days 2, or Nights 1, and Nights 2. The standard rotation allows each officer to have every other weekend off (for a three day weekend.) Each shift is supervised by a Sergeant, who is assisted by a Corporal.
Patrol officers normally drive full sized rear-wheel drive sedans which traditionally have been Ford Crown Victorias. However; the department recently began purchasing Dodge Chargers and Magnums to update the fleet. Patrol officers make traffic stops and issue citations, but their principal duty is to patrol the residential and commercial areas of the City, respond to calls for service, and watch for opportunities to address hazards and interdict in criminal activity.
Public Safety Officers (PSOs) carry out duties that are normally associated with police activities. In addition to performing police duties, the PSO serves as a firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician. The PSO carries firefighting protective turnout gear, oxygen, automatic defibrillators, and a medical kit in the patrol vehicle. Because of additional trunk space needed for the extra gear, PSOs drive Dodge Magnums when working on a patrol shift.
Police Services also has K-9 handlers. These officers drive a specially outfitted vehicle to accommodate the police dog, and train rigorously with their canine partners for use in police work.
The Patrol Division is commanded by Police Lieutenant