Chain of Command
Department Hierarchy
1
Commissioner
Top-level leadership. Responsible for promotions, SOP compliance, paperwork, and training organization.
2
High Command (HC)
Second-in-command. Handles high-priority situations, complaints, strikes, SOP violations, and promotion recommendations.
3
Supervisor Team
Third-in-command. Responds to all supervisor calls and manages on-scene supervision.
4
FTO — Field Training Officer
Conducts all training for new recruits.
5
FTA — Field Training Assistant
Starting FTO officer; assists when there is a shortage of available FTOs.
6
Public Safety Officer
Standard officers who enforce SOP and departmental rules.
Disciplinary Actions
Notes
- Accumulation of strikes is tracked individually per officer.
- Officers may be assigned ride-alongs with higher-ranking officers.
- Strikes reset after 2 months of clean conduct.
Promotions & Training
Promotion Requirements
- No promotions within 1 week of a previous promotion.
- 75% vote required from Head Administration and High Command.
- Officer must be active and on duty.
- Promotions and demotions occur as needed.
- No strikes within the same 2 weeks from promotion date.
Training
- Cadet training, ride-alongs, and scenario-based exercises.
- Specialized training for subdivisions: SWAT, Air Support, Gang unit.
Operational Guidelines
Standard Loadout & Equipment
- Duty belt, sidearm, patrol vehicle, taser, cuffs.
- Armory access for vehicles and equipment.
- Care for assigned vehicles is mandatory. All engine work is at your cost.
- Body work is fronted by the department if damage is not excessive (you will be reimbursed).
- PD repair station is to be used only when no mechanic is on duty.
Vehicle Operation & Pursuits
1
Code 1
Routine driving, no lights or siren
2
Code 2
Lights on, occasional siren use
3
Code 3
Full lights and sirens, emergency response
- PIT maneuver allowed under 80 MPH.
- Pursuit termination allowed by any officer with supervisor approval.
Traffic Stops & Scene Management
- Use Code 2 lights, maintain cover, and approach safely.
- Identify yourself, verify license, and enforce applicable penalties.
Use of Force — Escalation Continuum
1
Show Presence
Appearing confident and in control of the situation.
2
Verbal Commands
Using the tone of your voice to assert authority and discourage resistance.
3
Controlling Force
Laying hands on someone in a non-combative manner (e.g., pushing an uncooperative individual aside).
4
Impact Force
Use of a police baton or flashlight to disarm or subdue. Only permitted if the suspect employs the same level of force.
5
Deadly Force
Authorized only if someone is attempting to inflict great bodily harm against you or a person in your immediate presence. The escalation continuum is mandatory — deadly force requires an immediate threat.
Communications & RTO
- Keep all transmissions concise.
- Wait 3 seconds between transmissions.
- Signal 100 for high-priority incidents.
Specialized Situations
Hostage Negotiation
- The first officer on scene takes command (may be overridden by an HC officer).
- No weapons or vehicles given to hostage takers. Only patrol cars may be offered — no helicopters, moto units, or marine units.
- Proof of life is required before negotiations advance.
- Breaching only permitted with HC officer approval.
Domestic Violence Response
- Separate all parties immediately.
- Collect statements from all sides.
- Ensure proof before making an arrest.
- Ask if the victim wishes to press charges.
High-Risk Pursuits
- Match force with force.
- Air Support (Air-1) assists if a pilot is available.
- Scene command (HC) approval required for any breach.
Patrol Operations & Codes
Emergency Response Codes
1
Code 1
Low-priority response
2
Code 2
Lights on, limited siren
3
Code 3
Full emergency response
Unit Response Limits
- Traffic Stop Max 2 vehicles. Code 5 stops: no more than 4 units.
- Bank Robbery Varies by location. Air-1 authorized if a pilot is available.
- Shots Fired All units respond. Air-1 deploys if available.
Legal References
Key Case Law
Tennessee v. Garner
Deadly force may only be used if the suspect poses an immediate risk of serious harm.
Terry v. Ohio
Officers may stop and frisk an individual based on reasonable suspicion.
Miranda v. Arizona
Suspects have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.
Constitutional Amendments
1st
Freedom of speech, religion, and assembly.
4th
Protection against unreasonable search and seizure.
5th
Due process and protection against self-incrimination.
6th
Right to a speedy trial.
7th
Right to a jury trial.
Professional Conduct & Ethics
Standards
- Maintain respectful communication at all times.
- Avoid abuse of rank or authority in any form.
- Uphold integrity both on and off duty.
- Public safety is the top priority of every officer.
Subdivisions Overview
🔥
Heat Unit
Speed enforcement, high-speed chases, and Code 5 stops.
🛡️
SWAT
High-risk operations, hostage rescue, and armed interventions.
🚁
Air Support — Air-1
Aerial surveillance and pursuit assistance.
🔍
Crime Investigation Department (CID)
Crime scene management and evidence collection.
🕵️
Gang Narcotics Division (GND)
Gang-related crime scene investigation and narcotics enforcement.
Appendices
Firearm Classes
C3
Snipers / Heavy Weapons
SWAT only
Vehicle Guidelines
- Assigned vehicle: Bravado STX Cruiser.
- Refuel and repair before storing your vehicle.
- Maximum 2 officers per patrol vehicle, unless cleared with a shift supervisor.
Report Writing
- Primary officer: responsible for the scene report.
- Arresting officer: handles transport, booking, and processing.
- Unauthorized firearm discharge: must be reported immediately to the highest-ranking officer on scene.