Police departments are organized into different divisions to handle different aspects of law enforcement. At Fruitland Police Department, our divisions include Communications, Bike Patrol, Motor Unit, K-9 Unit, CID (Criminal Investigation Division), and S.O.A.R Team. Scroll down to read more about each division and how they help serve our community.
The Communications Division is the first point of contact when calling or responding in person to the Police Department. Our Emergency Police Communications Specialists are trained to ascertain specific information regarding to the request, relay the pertinent information to the officers, coordinate resources for a multitude of requests, and are required to obtain and maintain mandated training on a multitude of systems. The Communications Division is staffed 24/7 by highly trained personnel to answer and dispatch calls for service. Emergency Police Communications Specialists assist with investigations, road patrol operations, as well as administrative functions throughout the department.
Bike patrol deters crime and allows for community engagement. Officers are trained in cycling techniques, patrolling tactics, and safety measures. It allows officers to approach the public more easily. Bike patrol increases visibility, affords the opportunity to build positive relationships and improve community trust in law enforcement.
Police motor units are specialized teams of highly trained officers who patrol on motorcycles. They are effective tools in community policing, accessing areas that patrol cars can’t, and responding quickly to emergencies. The Fruitland Police Motor Unit participates in a multitude of Community Events such as escorts, parades, and special assignments.
Police K-9s are specially trained dogs used in law enforcement for detecting narcotics, explosives, tracking criminals and missing persons, and apprehending suspects. They undergo intensive training and work closely with their handlers. K-9s are deployed in various law enforcement scenarios such as drug raids, search and rescue operations, and crowd control. They also serve as ambassadors to build community relationships and educate about their important role in law enforcement. The Police K-9 program plays a vital role in keeping communities safe and protecting law enforcement personnel.
CID is a specialized branch of the police force responsible for conducting thorough investigations of criminal cases. The CID police investigation process typically involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses and suspects, analyzing forensic evidence, and building a case to present in court. This process can be time-consuming and complex, requiring careful attention to detail and adherence to legal protocols. CID investigators are trained to use a variety of techniques and methodologies to solve cases, such as surveillance, undercover operations, and information gathering from informants.
The Fruitland Police S.O.A.R Team is a special group of police officers trained to handle high-risk situations beyond regular law enforcement. These situations include hostage-taking, barricaded suspects, and high-risk arrests. SWAT teams have specialized weapons, protective gear, and advanced tactics to handle these situations with minimal risk. The officers undergo extensive training in areas such as hostage negotiation, marksmanship and tactical operations. They work as a coordinated unit to respond quickly and effectively to high-pressure situations. Though their use has been criticized, SWAT teams are vital to maintaining public safety where normal police methods are insufficient.
