Certified Police Officer

Police Officer

Protects lives and property of the citizens of Belleview. This is accomplished by actively patrolling high crime areas, implementing plans of action to combat criminal activity with the assistance of citizens. Reports to the Patrol Sergeant.

Patrols an assigned area to establish a presence, reduce opportunities for crime, detect criminal activity and render service to the public. Listens to the car radio to receive messages and remains aware of surrounding activities on an assigned shift. Investigates trouble spots in high crime areas and in an assigned patrol area. Remains alert and observant in order to detect anything unusual within the patrol area. Drives a patrol car at a high rate of speed in response to emergency or enforcement of situations according to departmental policy. Patrols an assigned area in a patrol car and on foot. Confronts suspects or suspicious persons and takes enforcement action as deemed appropriate. Proceeds to crime scene, accidents, or incidents based on radio message received. Reads maps or follows directions to get to an address or location which requires assistance. Responsible for patrolling assigned area in a "community policing" manner which consists of knowing assigned zone, its geography and trouble spots and knowing the merchants and people. Conducts preliminary investigations. Conducts interviews and interrogations. Locates and questions witnesses and potential witnesses when investigating crimes. Determines whether or not there is probable cause for arrest. Handles crowd control at parades, street events, accident scenes and incidents. Directs traffic using hand signals. Writes accident reports. Writes reports in a narrative form, describing activities, events, investigations, and enforcement action taken. Prepares arrest warrants for suspects, presenting sufficient information to record the warrant. Writes application for search warrants, presenting sufficient information to gain legal approval to proceed. Makes field notes in notebook to document activities, conditions, and other necessary information. Completes departmental forms to record time worked, overtime, and leave requests. Takes personal notes on assignments and information given by supervisors, and other information such as stolen vehicles and securities. Talks to citizens while on routine patrol to answer their questions and reflect their interest in them and their community. Responds to citizen requests for police service or assistance. Deals with upset and angry people; attempts to calm them and explain procedures. Interacts with persons who have drug problems or alcohol problems. Talks to residents or merchants to establish a presence, identify problems and encourage cooperation. Communicates clearly and politely. Talks with various people in person and by telephone to receive complaints, answer questions or provide information. Notifies parents or guardians of juveniles involved in mischief or taken into custody. Practices firearms skills on firing range in order to qualify with service weapon. Attends classes, workshops and conferences on police procedures to update and improve skills. Reads court decisions and or changes in statutes, ordinances and legislation to stay informed of changes. Reads and interprets criminal law, operations orders, department policies and procedures. Meets with attorney to provide case facts, discuss evidence, and prepare for testimony. Gathers and organize all records, and information needed for court presentation. Testifies in court regarding the facts of the case known first-hand, evidence collected, notes and action taken.