The Patrol Unit represents the backbone of the Department. Of the Department’s authorized strength of 51 sworn officers, 39 uniformed officers are assigned to the Patrol Unit. Four lieutenants, commonly referred to as Platoon Commanders, are in command of the on-duty platoon, with one of the four typically scheduled for duty on each of the Department’s three duty tours.
Five sergeants serve as first line supervisors, with one sergeant typically assigned to each of three tours of duty in the Communications Center. Twenty-seven officers, assigned to individual squads, are assigned to patrol duties with a specific number of officers assigned to each squad to provide adequate police patrols in designated patrol sectors around the clock.
Two officers are assigned to a Special Enforcement squad targeting select problems throughout town. One officer is typically assigned to the Communications Center to assist during peak daytime call volume hours.
The Patrol Unit handles the majority of 
the demand for police services, including accident investigation, burglar alarm activations, domestic and other disturbances, traffic/DWI enforcement, warrant service, responses to 911 calls, and responses to assorted other crimes and incidents.
All officers are trained at least the Medical Response Technician (MRT) level and respond to all requests for medical assistance; each of the Department’s marked patrol cars is equipped with an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) and all officers are trained annually in its use.
The Department practices community policing every day. Community policing is an important goal of working in partnership with the community to not only apprehend law violators but to resolve and prevent problems relating to crime and neighborhood safety. Residents are encouraged to get to know the officers working their areas and let them know of any concerns or problems that may have. Residents with concerns regarding problems in their neighborhood can also contact the Platoon Commander by calling the Department's main number.
Your Questions Answered
Conceived as an educational tool regarding traffic markings, traffic enforcement, motorist and pedestrian safety. You can email Officer Ken and he will respond in the local paper.