ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF, OF RECEIPT OF, AND COMPLIANCE WITH, STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES...

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF,

AND COMPLIANCE WITH, STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Socorro Independent School District Police Department’s Standard Operating Procedures Manual. I understand that, as a condition of my employment, I am responsible for understanding and complying with the contents of this manual as well as with all other policies and procedures, laws, rules, and regulations issued by the Socorro Independent School District, the Police Department, and the State of Texas.

(EMPLOYEE)

(DATE)

This signed form shall be retained in the employee’s Department personnel file. Copies will be maintained in the District’s personnel file and this manual.

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Police Department Policy Manual

Socorro ISD County-District No. 071-909 Development Date: August 2008 Effective the 2014-15 School year in compliance with Policy CKE(LOCAL), the Chief of Police and the Superintendent shall review the manual annually and make any appropriate revisions. The Board shall be notified of any revisions to the manual.

Compliance Superintendent/Chief of Police Review: 03/16/2015 Board Notified of Revisions: 03/24/2015

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MISSION STATEMENT It is the mission of the Socorro ISD Police Department to provide services with integrity and dedication, to preserve life, to enforce the law, and to work in partnership with the Socorro Independent School District, the City of El Paso, and other law enforcement agencies in order to enhance the quality of education and life in our community.

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CORE VALUES

We respect life: We hold the preservation of life as our sacred duty, our value of human life set our priorities. We revere the truth: We accept nothing less than truth, honesty, and integrity in our profession. We enforce the law: We recognize that our basic responsibility is to enforce the law. Our role is to resolve problems through the law, not to judge or punish. We seek community partnership: We view the people of our school district as partners who deserve our concern, care, and attention. We are committed to reducing the fear of crime in our schools and community. We endeavor to do this by creating partnerships in our schools and neighborhoods. We honor our police powers: We understand that our police powers are derived from the people we serve. We do not tolerate the abuse of our police authority. We conduct ourselves with dignity: We recognize that our personal conduct, both on and off duty, is inseparable from the professional reputation of the officer, the police department, and the school district.

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DEFINITIONS

CHAIN OF COMMAND The unbroken line of communication and authority from the

Superintendent to the lowest ranking employee. CIVILIAN Any person other than a sworn officer in the Department. COMMISSIONED OFFICER Person who performs law enforcement duties in the field and possesses

approved State of Texas commissions. DEPARTMENT The Socorro Independent School District Police Department. DIRECTIVES Written rules, regulations, orders or procedures. EMPLOYEE All personnel of the Department unless otherwise indicated. FIELD SUPERVISOR Person in a command capacity whom is responsible for the proper work

performance of subordinates. GENDER Use of masculine gender also includes, where applicable, the female

gender. INCOMPETENT Incapable of satisfactorily performing assigned duties. I.D. Identification INSPECTION Examination to ensure that appearance, uniforms, buildings, offices,

equipment, duties, and operations conform to established standards. INSUBORDINATION Willful disobedience of any order lawfully issued. JUVENILE A person under 17 years of age. LINE OF DUTY Only those actions taken while in the lawful and proper discharge of duty. LINE OFFICER Person who performs enforcement/security duties in the field at the

execution level. May be commissioned or non-commissioned. MALFEASANCE An act or instance of wrongdoing that is legally unjustified or contrary to

law. MAY When used, the word may is permissive. MISFEASANCE The performance of a lawful action in an illegal or improper manner. NEGLECT OF DUTY A knowledgeable failure to perform assigned duties or to respond to a

situation requiring appropriate action. NONFEASANCE Omission to do what should be done. OFF DUTY That period of time when not scheduled for duty. OFFICER Includes line, supervisory, and command personnel unless otherwise

indicated.

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ON DUTY That period of time when scheduled to perform official duties or when

required to act in an official capacity while off duty. ORDER Instruction or directive, written or oral, issued by a supervisor to a

subordinate or group of subordinates in the course of duty. PERSONNEL All employees of the Department unless otherwise indicated. POLICY A general oral or written statement which guides the Department and its

employees in the direction of Department goals and objectives. PROBATIONARY EMPLOYEE A full-time employee who has not yet completed the trial phase of

employment with this department. PROCEDURE Officially approved method of handling, responding to, or dealing with

any given situation. May be enacted verbally, in writing, or by approved custom.

RELIEVED OF DUTY Not permitted to perform any official duty. SHALL When used, shall is mandatory SHIFT SUPERVISOR Person in a command capacity that is responsible for the proper work

performance of subordinates. SHOULD Highly recommended course of action. SUSPENSION An action placing an employee in a non-duty status for a period of time. TERMINATION The resignation, retirement, dismissal, or death of an employee

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CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL PROVISIONS 1.00 ESTABLISHMENT OF STANDARD GENERAL MANUAL The General Manual for the Socorro Independent School District (SISD) Police Department is hereby established and is hereafter referred to as “The General Manual” or the “Manual.” This manual is adopted pursuant to and subject to SISD Board Policies CKE (Legal) and (Local). It is also subject to applicable state and federal laws, and applicable Board policies of the Socorro Independent School District. 1.01 CONTENT OF GENERAL MANUAL The General Manual describes the organizational structure of the Department, projects the police purpose and sets forth policies and procedures in keeping with that purpose. 1.02 AUTHORITY OF MANUAL The General Manual is an official instrument of the SISD Police Department. All commissioned and non-commissioned employees are required to comply with the provisions of the General Manual unless by their nature, the provisions are inapplicable to the person’s position or assigned duties. All existing orders and regulations that are in conflict with the General Manual are hereby revoked. All, or portions of, existing orders and regulations which have not been included herein, and which do not conflict with the provisions of the General Manual, remain in effect. 1.03 VARIATION OF TERMS AND GENDER The definition of any term used in this manual applies to each grammatical variation and gender of that term. 1.04 NUMBERING SYSTEM A modified numerical decimal system is used to number each chapter, section, and subsection of the manual to provide quick reference to all or selected materials. 1.04.001 PROCEDURE Chapter and sub-topic or section, followed by procedure, designates the numbering system, for example: 5.08.003 would be Chapter 5, Section 8, etc., followed by numbers 1,2,3, in the accepted outline form. Exceptions are noted as such. 1.05 DISTRIBUTION OF MANUAL The SISD Police Department distributes the General Manual to all commissioned and non-commissioned officers and personnel and a record receipt by signature is maintained. 1.05.001 CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF THE MANUAL Each employee is responsible for the care and updating of the Manual. The Office of the Chief of Police will furnish revisions and additions and will maintain distribution records. Supervisors will periodically inspect the manual of each subordinate to ensure completeness.

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1.05.002 CONTENTS OF MANUAL CONFIDENTIAL All employees are reminded that copies of the General Manual are solely concerned with policies and procedures of the SISD Police Department. The General Manual is not for distribution or use by any non-department employee without the express, written authority of the Chief of Police. 1.05.003 DISPOSITION OF MANUAL WHEN EMPLOYEE LEAVES DEPARTMENT Upon transfer, termination, resignation, or retirement, etc., from the Department, it is the employee’s responsibility to return the Manual to the Office of the Chief of Police. 1.05.004 LOST OR STOLEN MANUAL In cases of lost or stolen Manuals, appropriate documentation in the form of an Incident Report must be prepared. If the loss of the Manual is found to be due to employee negligence, the employee will purchase a Manual from the school district. The cost of the Manual will be $25.00 and the Office of the Chief of Police will retain records. 1.06 OPERATIONS MANUALS “Operations Manuals” may be developed for the implementation of the policies and procedures as set forth by the General Manual. Operations Manuals may be developed at the direction of Chief of Police for each division or section in the department. These manuals are to be extensions of the General Manual and do not conflict with the General Manual. 1.06.001 COORDINATION AND CONTROL OF OPERATIONS MANUALS Operations Manuals may be developed at the direction of the Chief of Police. Prior to approval by the Chief of Police, the manuals will be checked for conflict with the General Manual. The Office of the Chief of Police will handle printing and distribution of the Operations Manuals. 1.07 SUGGESTIONS FOR CHANGES AND CHANGES IN THE GENERAL MANUAL Department employees may submit suggestions for improvement to the provisions of the General Manual in the form of an inter-office memorandum, via the chain of command. These communications are forwarded to the Chief of Police for consideration. If approved, a notification of change will be issued by the Office of the Chief of Police to incorporate the change or revision into the field Manuals. Section supervisors will be held responsible for ensuring that the personnel under their direction possess manuals that are current and up-to-date. 1.07.001 INAPPLICABLE PROVISIONS If a provision of any manual is clearly inapplicable or hinders the performance of those persons charged with carrying out the provisions, it is the duty of the section supervisor to immediately bring the matter to the Office of the Chief of Police for review and evaluation. No revisions to the Manual will be performed without express, written permission and direction from the Chief of Police.

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CHAPTER TWO

ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION 2.00 ORGANIZATION To better accomplish the police purpose, it is necessary to create and maintain a sound organization through which the SISD Police Department can be easily and effectively controlled. The SISD Police Department is therefore organized to accomplish the following objectives: 1. Fix responsibilities for each function.

2. Provide for the delegation of authority.

3. Describe lines of authority.

4. Provide for basic changes within the organization. 2.00.001 OBJECTIVE 1. The Socorro Independent School District Police Department exists to provide safety and security in

the Socorro Independent School District. The primary objective of the Department is to assist the school administration in maintaining a school climate in which crime and other anti-social conduct is kept to a minimum and in which the education process can go forward relatively free of such impediments.

2. In carrying out its mission, the Department strives to foster and promote good citizenship among the

District population and works closely with staff, parents, other law enforcement and public agencies, juvenile justice authorities, and other private and governmental institutions as their functions relate to or influence public school matters and the police purpose.

2.00.002 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT 1. Preserve order on school property, in the vicinity of schools where there is a direct correlation to

school activity or property, school buses, and at any school sponsored or related activity, and in any place where the School District owns property or has a direct interest.

2. Protect pedestrians and vehicles transiting to and from school. 3. Prevent, deter, and reduce acts of crime against school students, personnel, related individuals, and

property. 4. Investigate incidents of school-related incidents and matters of District interest. 5. Maintain peace at all school-related events. 6. Apprehend offenders. 7. Recover stolen property. 8. Other activity as directed by the School District and the Chief of Police.

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2.01 ADMINISTRATION The principle objective of the administration is to manage the Department efficiently and economically. The administration strives to improve the ability and efficiency of the employees so that they properly perform the police task and to strengthen the relationship between all employees and the public they serve. 2.02 CHAIN OF COMMAND 1. The chain of command is to establish clear lines of authority, to ensure unity of command so that a

working, structural relationship exists between the Chief of Police and each employee. The chain of command provides for upward and downward communication. The SISD Police chain of command is as follows:

a. Police Officers and non-commissioned personnel b. Police Supervisors c. Chief of Police d. Superintendent 2. Personnel will strictly adhere to the established chain of command in all routine administrative and

operational matters. Conflicts, problems, and questions will be resolved at the lowest level of the chain of command as practical.

2.02.001 PRACTICAL APPLICATION Where there exists a position, by whose nature individual employees cannot, in a practical sense, follow the chain of command as outlined, the individual seeks accountability and advice through the next higher level of command, including, if necessary, the Chief of Police. 2.02.002 EXISTENCE OF THREAT Any officer or employee of this Department, who is confronted with a situation whereby he is unduly intimidated or threatened, or believes that the integrity of the Department is seriously jeopardized, is authorized to report this situation directly to his immediate supervisor. If urgent circumstances require, the situation is reported directly to the Chief of Police without prior consultation. All reported incidents in this category will be put in writing and forwarded to the Chief of Police. 2.02.003 LEVELS OF COMMAND It is essential that all employees adhere to the chain of command, as designated, by levels of responsibility. Final authority rests with the Chief of Police in all police department matters. The following are designated Levels of Command:

1. The Chief of Police is the top level of authority in the Police Department. The Chief of Police is

responsible for the administration and efficient operation of the Department. He shall take necessary and appropriate measures to ensure that the Department performs at an optimum level. The Chief of Police is the focal point for all dealings with any person outside of the Department. When other District officials or entities fall into the chain of command because of their areas of administrative responsibility, contact with those personnel and offices will be coordinated through the Chief of Police.

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2. Line Supervisors hold the rank Lieutenant, Sergeant and are responsible to the Chief of Police in the furtherance of the Department mission, goals, objectives, and operations.

3. Investigators are assigned to various positions and tasks throughout the department. They are

primarily responsible for conducting follow-up investigations in specialized areas, and are responsible to the Chief of Police. Investigators, Officer in Charge may, at the direction of the Chief of Police hold rank and supervise other members of the Department.

4. Patrol Officers are assigned to various duties throughout the Department, and are responsible to their

immediate supervisors.

5. Civilian employees are responsible to their designated supervisors or to the line supervisor in the absence thereof.

6. Communicators (Dispatchers) provide the necessary communications links intrinsic to police and

security operations. They are responsible to their designated dispatch supervisor, Chief of Police or designee in the absence thereof.

NOTE: The Department recognizes that there may arise a necessity for the creation of a capacity at any level of command, and it is possible that the position may be filled by an officer or employee of any rank. This, as with the entire organizational structure of the Department, will be at the discretion of the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police will designate and delegate duties and responsibilities to those placed in this capacity. 2.02.004 COMMAND AUTHORITY Command or supervisory authority personnel retain command powers over all subordinates within the Department, but exercise such powers over subordinates outside their usual command only in situations where the police purpose is better served, or when the reputation of the Department is jeopardized. 2.02.005 TEMPORARY ASSIGNMENT OF RANK (Officer In Charge, O.I.C.) A person, by order of the Chief of Police, may be temporarily required to perform the duties of a higher rank. When performing these duties, the person exercises the authority and bears all responsibilities of the higher rank. 2.02.006 UNITY OF COMMAND The principle of organization and chain of command does not relieve any supervisor from the responsibility for taking action in emergency situations that require immediate supervisory attention, decision, or disciplinary action against a subordinate assigned to another section. 2.02.007 SUPERVISION SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY: Employees in supervisory positions are responsible for effective leadership, and accountable for the activities of personnel under their immediate control. (Effective leadership includes the development of subordinates). Supervisory employees will ensure that subordinates receive all required training. Regular counseling and mentoring of subordinates should occur and at all times, supervisors will lead by example. 2.03 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE The structure of the Department is designed to enhance the realization of Department goals. This structure divides work according to purpose and function area. The following segments are reflected within the organization:

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1. Feeder pattern, Division – Grouping of schools that service a large physical area or a major unit

within the department performing a general police or support function.

2. Section or Shift – a major component of the department assigned to carry out a police or security function.

2.04 RELEASE OF INFORMATION 1. No persons other than those assigned by the Chief of Police will release any information, documents,

files, or reports, etc. to the public. All requests for reports will be routed to department administration. All reports that are released to anyone outside of the Department will have an official stamp designating the date released, to whom it was released to, and the person who released it.

2. Release of information to the media is covered later in this manual. 3. The Chief of Police controls release of information to other District entities. 2.04.001 CRIMINAL INFORMATION AND REPORTS FROM OTHER AGENCIES 1. Information received from criminal justice sources will be protected in accordance with state and

federal laws. No secondary release of information from outside sources will be made without authorization from the Chief of Police.

2. No person shall use his position to obtain criminal justice information for other than official purposes.

Obtaining vehicle information, criminal history information, or other criminal justice information for illegal purposes is cause for immediate personnel action and possible termination.

2.04.002 NCIC/TCIC TERMINAL 1. The Chief of Police will appoint an NCIC/TCIC Network Control Officer who shall administer and

enforce all rules and regulations affiliated with this system. No person, who has not been designated by the Network Control Officer, shall operate the system or have access to any associated records or reports. The NCIC/TCIC/TLETS system and all information related there is off limits to those not designated by the Network Control Officer.

2. Personnel will log all NCIC/TCIC/TLETS/NLETS information in accordance with the standards set by

the Network Control Officer. 3. Test messages will only be used for training or verifying entries as dictated by system policy. 4. All problems and violations associated with this system will be immediately reported to the Network

Control Officer. Personnel observing any misuse or perceived misuse of this system are obligated to immediately report it to a supervisor.

5. Dispatchers will check system information and operation at least once every half-hour, but more

depending on the volume of traffic. All information received will be printed out and time-stamped when the operator receives it. Review and destruction authority will be as dictated by the Network Control Officer. Only those authorized are permitted to remove printed material from the TLETS room.

6. Criminal history checks will only be requested through those designated by the Chief of Police.

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2.05 TELEPHONE MESSAGES 1. Any person receiving a message for any member of this Department will write the message down

including the name of the caller, the caller’s phone number, the date and time of the call, and the content of the message. The message should be routed to the person intended via either dispatch, E-mail Department administration.

2. Personnel receiving messages are required to answer them in a timely manner. 2.06 CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 1. Names, addresses, social security numbers and phone numbers of all SISD employees are not to be

released to the public, except in compliance with the Texas Public Information Act. Any written requests for such information that are received should be forwarded immediately to the Chief of Police, who shall then forward them to the Executive Director, Employee Relations.

2. Student records and student information will not be released to the public at any time. 3. The release of the above records to law enforcement/criminal justice agencies will be as directed by

the Chief of Police. 2.07 RECORDED TELEPHONE LINES AND SECURITY CAMERAS 1. Recorded Telephone Lines. For the purpose of public safety, certain telephone lines in the police

department are recorded. Recording equipment will not be defeated, altered, or tampered with by any person other than a qualified technician who is acting on an approved work order. Trouble with this equipment will be immediately recorded. The number one shift dispatcher is responsible for changing the recording tape and securing the tapes as directed. No person will access recordings for reasons other than public safety.

2. Security Cameras. The cameras installed in police headquarters District Service Center (DSC) and

schools are for public safety purposes. No person will defeat, alter, or tamper with this equipment. 2.08 LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE CALLS

No person shall make any long distance telephone calls on SISD telephones unless authorized by the Chief of Police.

2.09 USE OF SCHOOL BUILDING REQUESTS MADE THROUGH THE POLICE DEPARTMENT 1. No SISD facilities will be allocated for use by outside agencies without first contacting the school

administrator or designee of the facility. 2. No SISD facility will be used by this Department for training, meetings, etc., without first contacting a

school administrator or designee of the facility. 3. When receiving a request from outside agencies to use SISD facilities for training, the exact nature of

the training will be ascertained. No live ammunition or dangerous activities will be permitted. 4. Requests by outside agencies to use facilities for investigations or surveillance will be routed to the

Chief of Police.

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CHAPTER THREE

PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT 3.00 PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT To ensure that the Department is able to accomplish its overall objective and goals, considerable attention is focused on the proper management of Police Department personnel. This management begins prior to an individual’s employment, and continues until he leaves the Department. The specific management techniques emphasize the importance of each individual and the role that he fills to allow the Department to fulfill its responsibilities. Criteria and qualifications for prospective employees are included in the job description as set forth by the District Personnel Office. Employees are expected to continually meet the provisions of the job description throughout the entire period of employment. 3.01 SELECTION PROCESS Insofar as the Department has input into the selection process of personnel to be employed, it is the objective of this Department to ensure that only the most qualified persons are selected. The selection process could entail oral, written, or physical fitness tests or evaluations. 3.01.001 APPLICANTS Upon receipt of an eligibility list from the Office of Human Resources, the Police Department is responsible for participation in two phases of the selection process: background investigation and oral interview. 3.01.001.1 BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS The Chief’s designees are directly responsible for conducting background investigations of all Police and Civilian applicants. Because of the unique position of trust which every member of the Department is subject to, an intense, thorough and concise background investigation will be conducted. Personnel who intentionally deceive investigators or furnish false information on applications, questionnaires, and other documents are subject to immediate disqualification from the hiring process or to dismissal from employment as regulated by District regulations. The product of such investigations is a confidential written Background Investigation Summary. The Department is authorized to exceed District requirements concerning background investigations on all applicants for employment in the Department. 3.01.001.2 ORAL INTERVIEW 1. The Oral Interview Board is composed by the Chief of Police and from 3 to 5 SISD employees with a

position title designated by the Chief and could be as high as the rank of sergeant or higher or as designated by the Chief Human Resources Officer or designee. The Chief Human Resources Officer or designee and the Chief of Police select the personnel who comprise the Oral Interview Committee. Each committee member is furnished an Interview Rating Sheet and a copy of all documents submitted by the applicant. The Chief Human Resources Officer or designee regulates the interview.

2. On the basis of the interview, the Oral Interview Committee submits a recommendation concerning

the employability of each applicant to the Chief of Police. When a Certified Eligibility List is established, qualified candidates from that list will fill the positions.

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3.01.001.3 BASIS FOR REJECTION OF APPLICANT In the course of these phases of the selection process of police applicants, information may be developed which indicates that an applicant is not suitable for employment in the Police Department. When such information is developed, it is thoroughly documented and submitted in written detail to the Chief of Police. At his discretion, based upon the facts submitted or upon further investigation, the Chief of Police may request that such applicant’s name be deleted from the Eligibility List. Such request is made to the Office of Human Resources. 3.01.002 CIVILIAN APPLICANTS The Police Department has a twofold responsibility in the selection process of civilian employees. First, a Background Investigation Summary is prepared for each applicant. Any information discussed through the investigation is to be considered confidential and is not to be revealed to those uninvolved in the investigative or selection process. The scope and depth of the Summary is based upon the sensitivity of the position applied for, and such determination is left with the Chief of Police or his appointee. Second, the Chief of Police and the Executive Director of Human Resources or designee makes the final selection of each civilian employee in accordance with District hiring practices. 3.02 PROBATION The Department recognizes that, in spite of the care in examining or testing applicants, some of those employed may not be satisfactory. Therefore, final proof of competence is sought in actual job performance during a probationary period, both for new employees and newly promoted employees. 3.02.001 LENGTH OF PROBATION Probationary periods are as follows: 1. Newly employed police officers and civilian employees – 12 months.

2. Newly promoted personnel – 6 months. 3. CHIEF’S WAVIER: Due to the officer’s past law enforcement experience, the Chief of Police at his

discretion can waive the FTO program. The officer would then only have to attend a departmental orientation.

3.02.002 METHOD OF PROBATION 1. The probationary period of each employee consists of a monthly evaluation and a counseling session

with their immediate supervisor. All written reports affecting the probationary employee are made available to the counseling supervisor and the probationary employee and are the responsibility of the appropriate supervisor. The probation of newly employed police officers shall also be governed by the guidelines set forth in the Field Training Officer’s Program.

2. Regular monthly reports are made on each newly employed probationary employee. Newly promoted

probationary employees shall be evaluated by the use of unscheduled evaluations when deemed necessary by the immediate supervisor.

3. Failure to meet minimum standards will result in a recommendation for demotion, transfer, or

termination. 3.02.003 NEWLY PROMOTED Probationary employees (commissioned or civilian), who receive a less than satisfactory evaluation may challenge the rating and submit documentation in support of their objections to the Chief of Police via the chain of command.

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3.02.004 TERMINATION OF PROBATION If there are reservations concerning the suitability of the employee during the probation period, the Chief of Police may recommend termination of employment. Probation periods may also be extended when deemed necessary by the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police may mandate periods of remedial training as necessary to fulfill the Department’s mission requirements. 3.02.005 CONTINUING COMPLIANCE The Chief of Police may order a criminal history check or driver’s license check on any Department employee at any time to ensure continued compliance with these procedures, licensing requirements and the employee’s job description. 3.03 DISCIPLINE 1. The Department has adopted certain disciplinary procedures to channel the efforts of every employee

into effective and productive actions. The procedures affect the basic purpose of training and include encouragement and inspiration as well as sanction.

2. It shall be the duty of all supervisory personnel to take appropriate action whenever they, through

personal observation or report, learn of any violation of rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. 3.03.001 PERSONNEL INCIDENT REPORTS A Personnel Incident Report is the documentation of an incident involving an SISD Police employee that might necessitate administrative action. 3.03.001.1 MINOR INCIDENT REPORT Used when the information is of an obviously minor nature. An injury or accident on duty also falls under this category. The appropriate form for submission is a two-part, inter-office memorandum with the words “minor incident report” contained in the subject line. Injuries and accidents also require the immediate completion of District reports in accordance with District regulations. 3.03.001.2 SERIOUS INCIDENT REPORT Used when the information received concerns alleged misconduct or misdeed on the part of an officer or employee that could result in some form of disciplinary action. This report is used only when there is clearly no violation of law or civil rights indicated on the part of the personnel involved. The appropriate form for submission is a complaint report carrying the title “Personnel Incident Report (Level I).” Procedures for general filing of Personnel Incident Reports are discussed later in this Manual. 3.03.001.3 MAJOR INCIDENT REPORT Used when the information received is deemed to be sufficiently serious that disciplinary action and indefinite suspension or termination could result. This report is used in matters where a violation of the law or a violation of individual civil rights is either alleged or indicated. The appropriate form for submission is a complaint report carrying the title “Personnel Incident Report (level II).” 3.03.001.4 “GAG ORDERS” The utilization of the gag order will be restricted to those incidents that are currently being investigated and are serious in nature, either administrative or criminal. The Investigators assigned by the Chief of Police will investigate incident reports that would meet these requirements. Incident reports classified as

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“minor” or “serious” do not require a gag order unless the integrity of the investigation would be compromised if the gag order were not administered. 3.03.002 VALIDITY OF PERSONNEL INCIDENT REPORTS 3.03.002.1 MENTAL STATE OF COMPLAINANT When a Personnel Incident Report is received from a person who is intoxicated or in any other way mentally incapacitated, the complainant is re-interviewed at the earliest opportunity after the complainant has regained his sobriety or full mental capacity. 3.03.002.2 COMPLAINT INVOLVING DEPARTMENT POLICY OR REGULATION When a complainant’s allegation is determined to be relative to department policy or procedure and the matter cannot be explained to the complainant’s satisfaction, he is referred to the Office of the Chief of Police. 3.03.002.3 ESTABLISHING COMPLAINT CREDIBILITY A supervisor receiving information concerning a complaint must necessarily establish some degree of credibility and motive on the part of the person rendering the information. Included in the information to be obtained, if possible, is the “standing” of the person (i.e. how was the person involved.) Was the person simply a witness or bystander? Was he directly involved? Etc. The supervisor’s opinion of the person is included in the report for the benefit of those who will handle the report during subsequent investigations. 3.03.002.4 ANONYMOUS COMPLAINTS Information received from an anonymous source is given attention in the form of reducing the information to writing on an Incident report only when the seriousness dictates such action. Until further investigation gives substance to an anonymous report, it is given only the degree of credibility appropriate for such information. EMPLOYEE’S RESPONSIBILITY IN COMPLETING REPORTS 3.03.003.1 OPERATIONS LEVEL PERSONNEL When an employee who is not a supervisor becomes aware of possible misconduct by another member or members of this Department, he promptly notifies his immediate supervisor. In the absence of his immediate supervisor, he notifies the Chief of Police. 3.03.003.2 SUPERVISOR’S RESPONSIBILITY A supervisor who becomes aware of an alleged act of misconduct by an employee takes appropriate action to prevent aggravation of the incident and, if necessary, prepares a Personnel Incident Report without delay and forwards the report to the Chief of Police. It is the responsibility of the supervisor receiving the information to prepare and distribute copies of the report as required. It is not necessary that the supervisor personally attend to the preparation of the reports or their distribution, but he sees that each requirement is fulfilled. Final responsibility for completion of the process remains with him. The effected employee’s immediate supervisor will make formal recommendation concerning disposition. DISCIPLINARY PROCESS AND MATRIX: The purpose of this policy is to inform all employees of the procedures for accepting, processing and investigating complaints concerning allegations of employee misconduct. This policy defines provisions applicable only to the investigation and disposition of allegations of administrative misconduct. Establishment of procedures for investigating complaints and allegations of employee misconduct is crucial to the integrity of the Socorro ISD Police Services

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Department. The Department shall accept and investigate, fairly and impartially, complaints of employee misconduct and impose any disciplinary action that may be justified, in a timely and consistent manner.

A. Basis for Discipline. 1. Employees are subject to discipline for violations of law, rules and regulations of the District,

policies and procedures of the Socorro ISD Police Department and verbal or written directives of supervisory personnel.

2. All disciplinary actions taken under the section are subject to, and shall be consistent with, applicable state law, local ordinances, administrative rulings, District polices.

3. Employees who withhold information from, or fail to cooperate with internal investigations or who fail to report misconduct of employees, are subject to disciplinary action.

B. Acceptance of Complaints 1. Complaints may be received by supervisory members of the Department either in person, over the telephone, or in writing. The complainant need not be the aggrieved party, but may be anyone who witnessed or otherwise became aware of an incident.

2. Category C, D, and E Complaints. These are complaints that would, if proven true, result in suspension, demotion in rank or pay grade, or termination of the accused employee. These complaints will be investigated by the Chief’s designee; however, any supervisor receiving a complaint will undertake appropriate preliminary investigation. These types of complaints are documented on an incident report and forwarded through the chain of command. A copy of the incident report will be turned into the chief’s office upon completion.

3. Upon receipt of a complaint, the accused employee will be contacted and advised of the nature of the allegation(s). The employee will be advised of the appropriate discipline level, should the allegations be sustained. If desired, the employee will be given a reasonable opportunity to seek advice or counsel. 4. If the employee agrees that the allegations are true and that the discipline is appropriate, the case is resolved without conducting a formal administrative investigation.

5. The Department reserves the right to revisit or investigate the original matter should new allegations or evidence surface. 6. These dispositions are made with the understanding the employee will not appeal the agreed upon discipline.

7. Should the employee deny the allegations or not agree upon the appropriate discipline, the case will be investigated by a supervisor or chief’s designee.

a. After completion of the investigation, the case will be reviewed by the accused employee’s supervisor or designee will make an initial recommendation. The case will be sent through the employee’s chain of command to the Chief. b. The Chief will review the case and if it is determined to be not sustained, unfounded or exonerated, the case will be sent to H/R for filing and appropriate notification. c. Sustained cases will require the Chief to recommend the appropriate level of discipline and then forward the case to H/R. d. Supervisor or the Chief’s designee will prepare the appropriate pre-disciplinary paperwork for review by the Chief of Police. Once reviewed and approved by the Chief

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of Police, the employee will receive notification as appropriate.

8. Employees shall provide assistance to those who express the desire to lodge complaints against any employee of the Department. This includes, but is not limited to:

a. calling a supervisor to the scene to document the complaint, b. explaining the Department’s complaint procedures, c. providing referral to individuals and/or locations where such complaints may be made in person, or d. explain alternative means for lodging complaints, such as by phone or mail.

C. Categories of Discipline

1. Counseling

2. Written Reprimand

3. Suspension 4. Reduction in Grade/Rank.

5. Termination

D. Category A and B Complaints

These involve an investigation of those allegations that, if true, would result in counseling or a written reprimand. A Preliminary Incident Report will be completed.

1. The employee’s immediate supervisor will fully investigate and take appropriate statements to determine whether the complaint is sustained, not-sustained, unfounded or exonerated. 2. If the complaint is sustained, the supervisor will propose the appropriate discipline up to and including a written reprimand. 3. The complaint will be forwarded through the employee’s chain of command to the appropriate supervisor. After review and concurrence, the Chief will forward the complaint to a supervisor or designee whom will complete the necessary paperwork, and ensure proper distribution and notification.

4. Provide guidance and assistance in the filling out an improvement plan. Provide information on closed administrative investigations for strategies in the Individual Performance Plan.

5. Upon completion of the program, all documentation will be forwarded to H/R and the officer’s file for record keeping. 6. Supervisor or Chief’s designee will be responsible for issuing the final disciplinary paperwork and making all the proper notifications.

E. Disciplinary Matrix

1. In order to insure that discipline is predictable, fair and consistent among all ranks, the Department has established a disciplinary matrix to determine the appropriate level of discipline in the instances enumerated below.

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2. The application of the disciplinary matrix is designed to take into account any instance of previous discipline of a similar nature. Additionally, unrelated disciplinary action in the last five years will result in an appropriate upward adjustment in the amount of discipline. Additionally, the consequences of any violation will be taken into account when making adjustments in the amount of discipline. 3. In order to encourage an employee to readily accept responsibility, Category C complaints will be reduced by an appropriate amount when IAD offers the discipline as provided in Section VI. 4. An employee who commits a violation in the course of furthering a lawful police purpose will have Category C complaints reduced by an appropriate amount.

Additional items 1. The Chief of Police retains the right to depart from these guidelines when circumstances exist that would cause the imposition of the stated discipline to be inappropriate. Similarly, situations may arise that are not included in this matrix. In such a circumstance, appropriate discipline will be imposed.

2. The Chief of Police retains the right to modify or amend this matrix as needed without advanced notice. Supervisors (employee’s immediate supervisor): The employee’s immediate supervisor will: 1. Develop, write, and implement an Individual Performance Plan tailored specifically for the affected employee.

2. Present the employee with the Plan, discuss the Plan with the employee, and if appropriate, modify the Plan based on input from the employee. The employee will sign the Plan to acknowledge that he/she has been informed of the Plan. If the employee should refuse to sign the Plan, another supervisor will witness the refusal. 3. Monitor and evaluate the Plan with the affected employee and promote open discussions of their performance in the Plan. 4. Report back to the Chief or his designee as to the progress and status of the employee’s Plan on a monthly basis. 5. At the conclusion of the Plan, write a recommendation to the Chief or his designee as to the success or failure of the Plan. Individual Performance Plan Strategies: The following strategies may include, but not be limited to: 1. Re-training of the employee in a specific area. 2. Reviewing the employee’s weekly performance by supervisors with the employee. 3. Recommending a change of assignment or school. 4. Conducting daily conversations with the employee. 5. Assigning the employee to a different supervisor. 6. Assigning the employee to various supervisors or an FTO for individual tours of duty. 7. Conducting any combination of above strategies or any other appropriate strategy within the guidelines

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of the Department. 8. Preparing an unscheduled evaluation for the employee. 3.03.003.3 RESPONSIBILITY OF COMMAND LEVEL OFFICERS The responsibility of the Chief of Police, regarding review of Personnel Incident Reports involving alleged misconduct of a criminal nature, is to order an administrative investigation. 3.03.003.4 RESPONSIBILITIES OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS 1. It is the responsibility of the investigating officer who has been assigned by the Chief of Police to

ensure that a copy of the initial Personnel Incident Report is distributed to the officer involved in any incident investigated by the Department. A copy of the Incident Report is also sent to Human Resources to be placed in the personnel file. If distribution of the Incident Report may jeopardize the investigation, it is authorized to withhold distribution until the appropriate time.

2. In the event a civil suit is initiated against a Police Department employee as a result of some police-

related activity in which SISD agrees to defend the employee involved, the SISD Police Department is authorized to direct a Civil Liability investigation for the SISD legal counsel or liability insurance carrier.. The appropriate form for submission is a complaint report entitled “Personnel Incident Report.”

3.03.003.5 EXCEPTION When an alleged misconduct is of a criminal nature and where the integrity of the investigation might be jeopardized by reducing the allegation to writing, a Personnel Incident Report is made and forwarded to the Chief of Police, together with the Criminal Case Reports relating to the incident. The purpose of this exception is to minimize conflict of interest and to separate investigations of criminal, administrative, and civil liability cases involving police personnel. The appropriate division or agency will handle the criminal investigation. 3.03.004 GENERAL REPORTING PROCEDURES 1. Supervisory personnel, upon receipt of information concerning any member of the SISD Police

Department which might necessitate administrative action, exclusive of a Citizen’s Complaint Report, forward Personnel Incident Reports through channels to the Chief of Police.

2. If, in the opinion of the immediate supervisor, the allegations are minor and can be handled at the

operational level, it is handled in that manner and disposition is made on the report by said supervisor. Before disposition is made by the supervisor, he secures recommendations as necessary from the Chief of Police.

3. If disciplinary action is indicated which would cause loss of pay, rank, or employment, the immediate

supervisor presents the report to the Chief of Police for review. The Chief of Police makes a recommendation utilizing the SISD Personnel Action Report Form and forwards all the documentation to the Chief Human Resources Officer or designee.

4. If further investigation is needed to complete the report, the Chief of Police notifies the investigating

officer, which completes the investigation and returns the report to the Chief of Police. 5. A member superior in rank will notify the Chief of Police or his designee before relieving any Police

Department employee from duty who is involved in an incident serious enough to be relieved from duty. Once approved, the superior officer will advise the affected employee to report to the Office of the Chief of Police at a designated date and time. At this time, the Chief of Police will make a

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decision for determination of the affected employee’s work status and whether or not further investigation will be conducted.

6. A list of offenses and suggested penalties exists to assist all supervisors when making

recommendations for cases of employee misconduct. They are used as a general guide in recommending disciplinary action to assure like penalties for like offenses when all circumstances surrounding an alleged act of misconduct are taken into consideration.

CATEGORY of Offenses

1ST

OFFENSE

RECOMMENDATION

2ND

OFFENSE

RECOMMENDATION

3RD

OFFENSE

RECOMMENDATION 1. Violation of any departmental rules, orders, regulations, or the laws of the State of Texas, including any violation of School District policy which does not cause any harm or injury to a third party, or which does not result in damage to the property of another (e.g., tardiness, failure to observe rules, failure to appear in court, sick leave abuse, etc.)

Counseling To Reprimand (oral or written)

Written Reprimand To Suspension

Suspension To Termination

2. Dereliction of duty, major violations, conducts discrediting the department, willful misrepresentation and purchase or acceptance of a gift from a prisoner.

Written Reprimand To Suspension


Termination

4. Violation of any departmental rules, order, or regulation, or the laws of the State including violation of School District Policy, which causes bodily injury to a third party (e.g., excessive force, false arrest, etc.)



Termination

5. Violation of any departmental rules, order or regulations, or the laws of the State of Texas, including violation of School District Policy, regarding the use of deadly force, which causes bodily injury to a third person.


Termination

6. Violation of any departmental rule, order or regulation, or the laws of the State of Texas,

30-day Suspension

Termination

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including School District Policy regarding the use of deadly force which causes serious bodily injury or death.

To Termination

This table does not restrict the discretion of the Chief of Police. There is consideration into the employee’s past performance, history, and circumstances of the offense in deciding what type of discipline should be meted out or recommended in a particular case. 3.03.004.7 Dereliction of duty on the part of any employee of the Department is cause for disciplinary action. The following constitutes violations of this rule: 1. Failure to observe and give effect to policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and directives of the

Department and the Socorro Independent School District 2. Failure to obey orders or willful or repeated violations of any rule, regulation, procedure, or policy of

the Department or the Socorro Independent School District 3. Failure to make proper report of offenses investigated, observed, or reported. 4. Sleeping on duty 5. Neglect of duty 6. Being absent without leave. This shall mean either failure to report for duty at the scheduled time and

place, or assignment without proper authorization or leaving a duty assignment without proper authority

7. Participating in or promoting gossip and rumors towards any employee of the District. 3.03.004.8 The following will be considered major violations of this set of rules and a failure of a supervisor to take immediate action towards a subordinate employee shall constitute dereliction of duty on the part of the supervisor: 1. Failure to deliver to a supervisor or to the Chief of Police for safekeeping, any property found by,

confiscated, or relinquished to members of the Department. 2. Being under the influence of any intoxicant or drugs while on duty. 3. Willful disobedience of any lawful order issued to him. 4. Unnecessary violence or excessive use of force towards any person. 5. Indecent, profane, or harsh language used in the performance of official duty. 6. Disrespect towards a supervisor. 7. Disrespect towards a subordinate or fellow employee. 8. Obvious cowardice.

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9. Conduct subversive to the good order and discipline of the Department. 3.03.005 DISPOSITION OF PERSONNEL INCIDENT REPORT 1. Once the Chief of Police or supervisor has taken a final action on the Personnel Incident Report,

copies are forwarded to the following:

a. Chief’s Personnel File b. Human Resources Personnel File c. Department member affected

2. The responsibility for distribution rests with the immediate supervisor of the member involved. 3.03.005.1 EXCEPTIONS Final dispositions of Incident Reports, depending upon the seriousness of the matter, are conceivably handled at various levels within the department. 3.03.005.2 SERIOUS INCIDENT REPORTS 1. Under the distribution of Serious Incident Reports, it may be acceptable, in some circumstances,

subject to the requirements of the SISD Board Policies CKE (Legal) and GBA (Legal), to withhold giving the concerned employee a copy of the original report until such time as a disposition has been decided upon. Normally, these circumstances could occur at the conclusion of an investigation that was criminal in nature.

2. It is recommended that if the investigation is clearly administrative in nature, that the employee is

given a copy of the original incident report allowing the employee to more fully understand the issue and to answer any allegations.

3.03.005.3 MAJOR INCIDENT REPORTS Under the distribution of Major Incident Reports, it is acceptable, in some circumstances, subject to the requirements of the SISD Board Policies CKE (Legal) and GBA (Legal), to withhold giving the concerned employee a copy of the original report until such time as a disposition has been decided upon. Once disposition has been made, proper notation is annotated on the report under the heading “Disposition,” a signature affixed, additional copies containing the disposition are given to the concerned employee and appropriate Department and District personnel. In any event, it is the responsibility of the person signing the “Disposition” portion of the report to see that the foregoing distribution requirements are fulfilled. 3.03.006 EMPLOYEES ARRESTED/DETAINED FOR PROSECUTABLE OFFENSES When any employee of this Department is arrested, detained, or investigated for a felony or misdemeanor offense committed in any jurisdiction, the first supervisor who becomes aware of the incident initiates a Personnel Incident Report and notifies the Chief of Police immediately. The supervisor then forwards copies of all reports and documents to the Chief of Police as soon as possible. If the alleged incident is of a felony or serious nature, the supervisor is authorized to relieve the employee from his primary duty until contact can be made with the Chief of Police. The relieving supervisor advises the employee involved when and where to report, if necessary, for an alternative work assignment, further investigation of the alleged incident or for disciplinary action.

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3.03.007 FORMS OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION Any member of the department may be made the subject of disciplinary action for the commission or omission of any act that is required or prohibited, for malfeasance, misfeasance, misconduct, incompetence, insubordination, inefficiency, nonfeasance, failure to obey rules, regulations, ordinances, statutes and laws, or to cooperate reasonably with supervisors, fellow officers or employees. Disciplinary actions may fall into any of the following categories: 1. Oral counseling by supervisor and oral counseling with written memorandum placed in personnel

folder

2. Oral reprimand with written memorandum placed in personnel folder 3. Remedial training

4. Written reprimand 5. Suspension 6. Demotion 7. Dismissal 3.03.008 CONDUCT DURING SUSPENSION 1. Upon notification of suspension, a member of the Department shall immediately surrender his police

badge, police identification card, and any other equipment deemed necessary by the Chief of Police. 2. Members shall not wear their uniform, nor carry a weapon, nor shall they take any police-type action

other than what might be expected of a citizen performing his civic duty. Members are not to engage in any off-duty employment that would require any type of Police action.

3. During suspension, a member shall remain subject to departmental rules, regulations, and

procedures where applicable. 3.03.010 ADMINISTRATIVE USE OF THE INTOXILYZER AND FITNESS FOR DUTY EVALUATIONS 1. The administrative use of the intoxilyzer is not allowed. In view of the fact that there are other means

of documenting an employee’s possible intoxication (e.g. physical appearance, slurred speech, etc.), and the possible loss of program certification, the administrative use of the intoxilyzer testing by the Department is not allowed.

2. Any supervisor who has reason to doubt an employee’s physical or mental fitness for duty may send

a request for evaluation to the Chief of Police. Physical infirmity, which appears to be affecting job performance, psychological problems affecting job performance, indications of alcoholism, or indications of abuse of other drugs shall all constitute reason for such a request. It shall be the supervisor’s responsibility to provide all documentation supporting the request for evaluation to the Chief of Police.

3. The Chief of Police after review of the supervisor’s request may require the employee to seek medical

or psychological evaluation subject to SISD Board Policy DBB (Legal) and (Local). The results of such evaluation shall be made available to the Chief of Police.

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3.04 CITIZEN’S COMPLAINT 1. It is essential that the entire community have confidence in the administration that supervises the

exercise of police authority. The Department also recognizes the need to establish a system whereby citizens are confident that legitimate complaints filed against an officer or other employee of this Department is handled properly. Procedures for adequate and expedient processing of allegations of misconduct by Department members are therefore established. To ensure that a comprehensive record of all such citizen’s complaints is kept the Chief of Police or his designate will maintain files of these complaints as required. While it is not the objective of the Department to disseminate numerous copies of citizen’s complaints, it is the objective of the Department to distribute reports to the following individuals:

a. Complainant b. Officer/employee named in the complaint c. Officer’s immediate supervisor d. Chief of Police

2. In order to protect the civil rights of the employee named in the complaint, distribution of additional

copies may be authorized only by the Chief of Police. 3.04.001 GENERAL PROCEDURE FOR ACCEPTING A CITIZEN’S COMPLAINT 1. Any citizen’s complaint, regardless of category, can be accepted at any police facility. Complaints are

accepted in writing only; however, in unusual cases, where the nature of the report might endanger the health or well-being of the reporter, the report may be taken by other means of communication. No disciplinary action is taken prior to the filing of a formal written complaint. Citizen complaints are accepted in the form of sworn and notarized written statements. The supervisor then initiates either a Level I or Level II Personnel Incident Report based on the seriousness of the allegation.

2. Upon request, the complainant may have whatever assistance is necessary to complete the

statement form. If the complainant is given assistance, the officer or other person assisting includes a brief supplement to his report as to why such assistance was given. The representative of a complainant, or any person assisting, and the complainant, both signs the statement. If the receiving supervisor assists the complainant in preparing the statement, the supervisor signs a separate statement explaining his actions. After the complainant has completed the statement, the receiving supervisor reviews the contents for legibility. If a word is not legible, the supervisor asks the complainant the meaning of the word and prints the proper word directly above the complainant’s handwritten word. The complainant is requested to initial the correction. The signature of the complainant is always notarized.

3. The receiving supervisor completes a Personnel Incident Report and associated supplement reports

on the basis of his own knowledge and what he may gain from the complainant. 4. Where there is an allegation of excessive force and the complainant displays visible injuries the

supervisor receiving the complaint photographs the injuries as soon as practicable. Color photographs are preferred. Developed photographs are forwarded to the Chief of Police as soon as possible.

5. The original handwritten copy of the entire report is placed in a sealed envelope and forwarded to the

Chief of Police as soon as possible. The second copy of the complainant’s statement is given to the complainant to serve as a receipt of the complaint by the police department. The copy given to the complainant does not contain any attachments prepared by the supervisor receiving the complaint.

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6. When it appears to the supervisor accepting a complaint that the complainant apparently is under the

influence of an intoxicant or drug, or apparently suffering from a mental disorder, or evidences any other trait or condition bearing on his credibility, the accepting supervisor notes these conditions and any other pertinent remarks on a separate report supplement. He also includes in his preliminary report, his observations as to the physical condition of the complainant, specifically noting any visible marks or injuries relative to the alleged complaint. All such remarks and statements are followed by the signature of the supervisor making the statement.

3.04.002 COMPLAINT RECEIVED BY MAIL A supervisor receiving a citizen’s complaint through the mails forwards such complaint to the Chief of Police. 3.04.003 ACCEPTING A COMPLAINT BY TELEPHONE Used when the complaint is of such a nature that it cannot be given in person. A supervisor accepting a citizen’s complaint by telephone will enter, on a Personnel Incident Report, all pertinent information, endeavoring to obtain the facts necessary to complete the report. The statement will reflect the words “Telephone” in the “how received” block of the incident report. Procedures as previously outlined will then be followed. The Department recognizes that complaints handled by phone should come only after determining a valid reason for not appearing in person. 3.04.004 PROCEDURE UPON RECEIPT OF COMPLAINT Upon receipt of a citizen’s complaint the supervisor makes prompt notification to the Chief of Police as soon as practical. After review by the Chief of Police, the supervisor notifies the member complained about that the processing has begun. If the Department member complained about is not specifically identified in the citizen’s complaint, the required notification is made as soon as the member’s identity is established. 3.04.004.1 INVESTIGATION 1. The investigator who is assigned by the Chief of Police processes the complaint and in doing so, is

authorized to employ all recognized investigative methods towards procuring a complete investigation of an administrative complaint. Investigation may include, but is not limited to, the following methods:

a. Taking oral statements and/or written statements from any person whom alleges misconduct by a

Department member or any witness to such alleged misconduct.

b. Taking or accepting signed and notarized statements from members of the Department who have been accused of misconduct or where misconduct is alleged to have occurred. Department employees are required to cooperate fully with all administrative investigations. In instances where a Department employee refuses to give a statement, answer questions which are pertinent to the investigation, or refuses to cooperate with the investigation in any other manner, after having been ordered to do so by a supervisor and after being advised of the proper legal warnings, the employee will immediately be relieved of duty by the ranking supervisor present. In those cases that are administrative in nature, the following provisions apply:

c. Use of any offense reports or supplementary reports to assist in an investigation is authorized.

2.If during the course of an internal investigation, it appears there is or may be a criminal law violation, the investigation’s criminal portion is assigned to another investigator who initiates the criminal case and runs the criminal inquiry concurrently with the administrative case.

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3. Upon completion of a citizen’s complaint investigation, the results of the investigation are forwarded to the Chief of Police.

3.04.005 DISPOSITION The Chief of Police makes determination of, or decisions regarding, the administrative complaint. After he makes his determination, he makes a written recommendation and presents it with all the documentation compiled in the case to the Chief Human Resources Officer or designee. The Chief Human Resources Officer or designee will either accept the recommendation of the Chief of Police or make an alternate decision regarding disposition. 3.04.006 NOTIFICATION OF ACTION TAKEN When a final decision is made, the affected employee will be notified. 3.04.007 RESIGNATIONS OR RETIREMENTS PRIOR TO DISPOSITION 1. The investigation of a Personnel Incident Report or citizen’s complaint involving an employee who

resigns or retires prior to final disposition continues until the case reaches a final disposition if the allegation is of a criminal nature.

2. The acceptance of a resignation by the Chief of Police in lieu of disciplinary action terminates the

administrative case insofar as it regards to the resigning employee. No arrangements to offer a guarantee of immunity from criminal prosecution are made in consideration of resignation.

3.05 COMMENDATIONS AND AWARDS High standards are set for members of the SISD Police Department, but recognition is given for performance, which go beyond the norm in order to provide incentive for greater productivity and to maintain a high morale within the Department. 3.05.001 LETTER OF COMMENDATION 1. This formal letter is given to an officer or civilian employee for his intelligent and successful handling

of a difficult situation and performance above the norm set by the department. 2. The award consists of a formal letter on District letterhead stationary describing the situation, the

employee’s performance, and the outcome. 3. The letter is written by any supervisor and presented to the officer by the Chief of Police or his

designee. A recommendation for a letter of commendation is also acceptable. These are made to the officer’s or civilian employee’s immediate supervisor by officers in charge of follow-up investigations in which the investigator feels the officer is deserving of recognition for outstanding performance. 3.06 CAREER DEVELOPMENT The Department recognizes, encourages, and promotes individual career development and self-improvement to bring about a high degree of professionalism in law enforcement for the SISD Police Department. Career development is achieved through various pre-service and in-service training schools and through providing incentives to continue individual higher education.

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3.07 PRE-SERVICE TRAINING The SISD Police Department only accepts applicants who have met pre-service training requirements as established by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). The Department “activates” an officer’s commission so long as the minimum requirements mandated by the State are met and maintained. 3.07.001 IN-SERVICE TRAINING Determination of needs: 1. The determination of in-service training needs for the members of the Department is the primary

responsibility of the Department Training Coordinator at the Direction of the Chief of Police. Such determination is made through an evaluation of several sources that include:

a. Operational needs of the Department b. Surveys of opinions and facts c. Review of training files

d. Review of personnel files e. Review of disciplinary files, employee appraisals, and reports of substandard performance (in

cases of remedial training) f. Reports from supervisory personnel g. Requests made by individual Department members

h. TCOLE Mandates i. Any other factors deemed necessary by the Chief of Police

2. When the need for in-service training is established, and after the required course work is designed,

personnel are selected to attend. All in-service training falls under one of two categories: that training which is conducted under direct control of the Training Coordinator (in-house training) and that training offered to members or classes of members of this Department which is coordinated through the Training Coordinator and the Chief of Police. No training is conducted or scheduled without the concurrence of the Training Coordinator and the Chief of Police. The Training Coordinator will establish long and short range training plans and schedules, which shall be approved by the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police has sole discretion on the training standards and assignments for the Department.

In-house Training – Personnel Selection: All training, which is conducted under the direct control of the Training Coordinator, falls under two classifications: mandatory training and voluntary training. The process by which availability rosters are developed is different for each. Mandatory Training: When course work is developed which is identified as mandatory by State law, or by Departmental directive, the Training Coordinator is responsible to establish schedules and availability rosters. There are two main considerations toward the establishment of such rosters. 1. Which personnel, or classes of personnel, are required to attend.

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2. The number of personnel who may be assigned from any given work assignment without dangerous depletion of manpower at the operational level.

Scheduling for mandatory training, established by the Training Coordinator, is made with the same two considerations, and is coordinated through the respective supervisor. Voluntary Training: When course work is developed and offered to Department members who wish to attend of their own volition, the Training Coordinator is responsible to notify personnel of their eligibility to attend and to establish availability rosters from which personnel are selected. To effect these purposes, the following guidelines exist: 1. All reasonable means are exercised by the Training Coordinator to notify personnel of their eligibility

to apply.

2. Eligible personnel wishing to apply for courses submit their requests to the Training Coordinator, through their immediate supervisor.

3. All other selection criteria being equal, final selection is made by the Training Coordinator or on first-

come, first served basis. Specialized Training – Personnel Selection Other law enforcement agencies and education organizations often make specialized training available to members of this Department. The Chief of Police receives notice of availability of such courses, and determines both the potential usefulness of the training for members of this Department and the degree of applicability the proposed training holds for police functions exercised in the District. The Chief makes the appointment. Among factors to be considered when selecting personnel to attend such specialized training are: 1. Which choices would most likely benefit the Department to the greatest extent.

2. Which choices would represent individuals with the highest aptitude for the subject matter. 3. Which choices would represent individuals with the greatest capacity to make practical use of the

specialized training. Contact with Outside Agencies It is the responsibility of the Training Coordinator to schedule personnel for approved training. Department personnel will refrain from obtaining training quotas without direction of the Training Coordinator. No persons other than those designated by the Chief of Police shall submit training requests to anyone under the name of this Department. All training that relates to the Department will be coordinated through the Training Coordinator. 3.07.002 CONDUCT WHILE IN TRAINING 1. While attending training, all personnel are still considered employees of this Department and all the

rules and regulations set forth by the Department and District still apply to the employee. 2. In conjunction with Department and District rules and regulations, employees will also abide by the

rules of the agency and instructor conducting the training. 3. Personnel who are assigned Department sponsored training are on duty. Any absences or illnesses

will be reported to the Department.

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4. Personnel will not leave training for court unless subpoenaed or ordered to do so by proper authority.

Personnel who leave training for court will also notify the Department. 5. Working hours and overtime considerations will be discussed with the shift supervisor and the

Training Coordinator prior to personnel reporting to training. Normally, overtime is not granted for training situations. Additionally, personnel are expected to work an eight-hour day while in training.

6. Personnel will not bring discredit upon the Department while attending any training. Personnel are

reminded that they represent the Department and District while undergoing training with outside sources.

3.07.003 CERTIFICATION T.C.O.L.E. , as the governing body over police training standards in this State, gives formal recognition to various levels of career development through a process of certification. The Commission certifies police instructors and issues four other certificates: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Master. All certificates are issued upon consideration of factors that include training, education, and law enforcement experience. The Training Coordinator and the Office of the Chief of Police maintain records of certification and employee progress. It is the responsibility of the officers to report all pertinent facts concerning college transcripts or training received on their own time to the Training Coordinator, thereby facilitating efficient update of the TCOLE files. When the TCOLE approves certificates, they are forwarded to the Chief of Police. Officers obtain their certificates in person at the Office of the Training Coordinator by signing for them. The commission also certifies peace officers as police instructors and issues an Instructor’s Certificate to qualified personnel. 3.07.004 ENCOURAGEMENT FOR FURTHER EDUCATION 1. In fulfilling its commitment to provide professional police service, the Department encourages all

employees to further their education to the highest levels possible. No specific procedures are set forth for members who wish to obtain off-duty educational credit hours at colleges, universities, or other sources. The Department however, recognizes the need for educational planning in developing a sound career development system. The Training Coordinator is available to council members who desire this service.

2. All Department personnel must understand that engaging in off-duty education does not guarantee

altered work schedules to accommodate course work, assignment to a particular job, duty, or position, or any other benefit, etc. because of this education or training.

3.07.005 GENERAL FIREARMS TRAINING 1. As firearms and firearms training are integral parts of the professional life of the law enforcement

officer, it must follow that each plays a role in the career development of the individual. 2. To facilitate individual efforts at improvement in these areas, a firearms program is maintained as a

function of the Training Coordinator. 3. Special or remedial training is also conducted within the same system. Practice sessions, on the

other hand, are the responsibility of every Department member to maintain or improve his proficiency level with the police weapon between the times of departmental firearms qualifications.

3.07.006 PISTOL RANGE OPERATIONS The Department does not maintain its own pistol range and relies upon other agencies to provide their facilities to assist in maintaining required qualifications. The Training Coordinator will schedule range time

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for annual qualifications and the rules and regulations of the host agency with prevail during training and qualification sessions on their range. Personnel using other agency ranges for practice will strictly adhere to guidelines set forth by the host agency. 3.07.007 FIELD TRAINING OFFICER PROGRAM The Field Training Officer (FTO) Program is the first step in career development for the probationary officer. The FTO Program is designed to broaden the probationary officer’s basic law enforcement knowledge by reinforcing skills under actual school and street conditions. The FTO Program is an extension of academic instruction and other agency experience received prior to the probationary officer’s employment by this Department. Since the Department only hires commissioned officers, the program is tailored to each probationary officer’s individual needs. The F.T.O. Coordinator will determine the time spent in field training. A field-training plan developed by the F.T.O. Coordinator will be prepared and discussed with the probationary officer and his assigned Field Training Officer. During the time assigned to field training, the probationary officer is provided with direct field supervision, guidance, and assistance by assigning him to a Field Training Officer. Objectives: During the entire course of the Field Training Program, an evaluation system will be utilized to provide written documentation on the performance and progress of the new officer, the competence and success of the trainer (FTO) and the content of the program. In general, the objectives of the FTO Program evaluation process are to: 1. Systematically process all incoming police officers during the probationary period; 2. Develop police generalists who capably further the police purpose and carry out departmental

objectives in the most efficient and effective manner; 3. Assess the progress of the probationary officer to ensure continued development in the general areas

of appearance, attitude, knowledge and performance; 4. Screen out those individuals who are unacceptable and cannot be qualified for police service. Upon successful completion of the program, the new officer will possess the abilities to function as a one-man (solo) school or patrol unit under normal field supervision. The new officer will have demonstrated competence in performing the carried duties of an SRO or patrol officer as set forth by department policy. Administration: The Training Coordinator will be responsible for administration of the FTO Program. Shift supervisors, in addition to regular field supervision duties, will also oversee the working relationships of all FTOs and probationary officers under their command. The Sergeant will scrutinize all aspects of the training and will closely monitor the various evaluation forms as prescribed in the FTO Program. Selection of Field Training Officers: Recruitment and selection of Field Training Officers will be at the discretion of the Chief of Police. Once accepted into the program, a prospective FTO must successfully adhere to all FTO program mandates. Selection Process. Selection will be made from officers currently assigned to the field training program and command staff. Applicants will submit an inter-office memorandum to their shift supervisor requesting consideration for appointment. . The Chief of Police however, may at his discretion, make a permanent or temporary assignment to meet the demands for qualified FTOs. Qualifications: A minimum of two years’ experience with the SISD Police Department is desired. The Chief of Police may grant waivers as necessary.

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FTO Insignia: Any person who is currently assigned as a Field Training Officer and is actively engaged in the training of a new officer may wear the FTO insignia. The pin may be pulled upon just cause as determined by the Chief of Police. 3.08 TIMEKEEPING In order to meet its responsibilities to its employees, the Department maintains the need for an accurate, efficient, and uniform timekeeping system. Duty hours and absences of all Police Department personnel are therefore; reported on a sign-in sheet, to the Office of the Chief of Police. The Office of the Chief of Police will process and calculate each employee’s time and forward the appropriate forms to District Payroll. 3.08.001 TIME AND ATTENDANCE FORM 1. The “Time and Attendance Form,” commonly referred to as the time or sign-in sheets must contain

information concerning days off, absences, and actual hours worked. The “Action Sheet” commonly referred to as the “Action Copy” contains the shift supervisor’s verification of the information contained on the Time and Attendance Form.

2. Overtime slips and court slips must be posted on the Action Sheet on the same date of regular duty

and turned in to the Office of the Chief of Police on the first workday following the date of overtime or court appearance requiring overtime pay. If an overtime slip is late, it is marked overtime on the date posted, e.g. “worked overtime on October 14, 2014.” In the case of late overtime, the member and his supervisor will submit an inter-office memorandum explaining why the slip was late. No erasures or changes are permitted on the Time and Attendance Forms or on the Action Sheet after they have been submitted to the Office of the Chief of Police. Additionally, members are only permitted to mark their hours worked and their initials on the Time and Attendance Form. If the member was absent, he/she will not place any mark for the day he/she was absent. The Office of the Chief of Police will complete the entry with the proper coding explaining the member’s absence. Only supervisors are permitted to mark on the Action Sheet.

3. In calculating days off, the calendar week (Monday through Sunday) is used. The days off of an

employee may change so long as he/she retains two per calendar week. 3.08.002 AUTHORIZED ABSENCES 1. Approved Vacation - Member listed under the vacation section of the Action Sheet. Approved

vacation is that which the Chief of Police approved at least 10 days prior to the first day of vacation. 2. Approved Sick Leave – Member listed under the sick leave section on the Action Sheet. Sick leave

for more than 3 days must be accompanied by a doctor’s slip. Approved sick leave is sick leave that was called in at least 2 hours prior to the start of the member’s shift.

3. Occupational Injury Leave (OJI) or Assault Leave – Member listed under the sick leave section of the

Action Sheet with either (OJI) or (AL) after the name. All OJI and assault leave is accompanied by a doctor’s slip.

4. Military Leave – Member listed under the vacation section of the Action Sheet with (ML) listed after

the name. One copy of orders will accompany the leave request. Military leave will be requested at least 10 days prior to the start of the first leave day.

5. Personal Day – Member listed under the sick leave section of the Action Sheet with (PD) following the

name.

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6. Maternity and Parental Leave - As described in Board Policy. List members under the vacation section of the Action Sheet.

7. Emergency Leave - As described in Board Policy. List member under the leave section on the Action

Sheet. Note: All regulations concerning leave and vacation are ultimately governed by School Board Policy. Those guidelines will be strictly adhered to at all times. 3.08.003 UNAUTHORIZED ABSENCES 1. Absent without Leave - Used when a member does not show up for work and his/her status is

unknown. The member’s name is listed in the sick leave section with (AWOL) listed after the name. The Chief of Police will be notified as soon as practical when a member is listed as AWOL. The member’s supervisor will make an attempt to contact the AWOL member and make a determination as to his/her status. The circumstances surrounding the incident will be documented and reported to the Chief of Police in writing so that proper accounting for the member’s time can take place.

2. Tardiness – When an employee foresees that he/she will be unable to report for work on time, he/she

will call his/her immediate supervisor and the dispatcher and advise of the time he/she expects to report. Members who are late will explain the reason why to their supervisor via an inter-office memorandum. Appropriate action will be initiated by the supervisor to dock the member’s pay and to correct the member’s behavior. Upon receipt of the fourth unexcused absence within any six-month period, the member will automatically become the subject of a personnel action report.

3. Official Time – the clock in dispatch is considered the official time for the department in any situation. 3.08.004 OVERTIME 1. Payroll records will reflect all overtime worked by employees. Written justification will be provided for

all overtime recorded. 2. Overtime is computed at the rate of time and one-half for all time worked in excess of 40 hours per

workweek. 3. All posted overtime must be accompanied by written justification that is (a) signed by a supervisor

and (b) in a method approved by the Chief of Police. 4. Overtime will not be authorized as a matter of routine. Supervisors will ensure that overtime is

authorized for valid reasons only. They will also take proactive steps to prevent overtime situations when possible. All abuses or careless assignments of overtime will be immediately reported to the Chief of Police. Overtime is not granted for meal breaks, coffee breaks, uniform changes, report writing (unless carefully approved by a supervisor), or travel to and from an assignment.

5. Recurring overtime for anticipated shortages in personnel or for special assignments will be assigned

as fairly as possible. Normally, a request for volunteers will be posted to fill anticipated overtime assignments. Employees who are scheduled for overtime shall notify the supervisor as soon as possible if he/she cannot work the overtime. If an employee signs up for overtime, he/she shall find a replacement if he cannot work. Failure to fill an assignment for which an employee has signed up requires a memorandum of explanation to the immediate supervisor. Assignments to this type of overtime are on a first come, first served basis.

6. If volunteers do not come forward or time constraints or job requirements dictate, mandatory overtime

may be assigned at the discretion of the appropriate supervisor. Mandatory overtime will be used in

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cases where personnel shortages will adversely impact the Department’s mission and officer safety. Personnel refusing to work mandatory overtime will be referred to the appropriate supervisor.

7. Mandatory overtime is assigned by a supervisor in cases warranted by the needs of the Department.

Some examples where mandatory overtime might be appropriate is:

a. District or Department emergencies

b. Severe personnel shortages

c. Special operations

d. Assignment completion 8. Periodically, the Department receives requests to provide officers at schools or other locations.

Overtime will be paid only when the Department authorizes it. The additional pay may come from the Department’s budget or from the requesting entity. The Office of the Chief of Police will make the determination as to how the member is going to be paid. Off-duty employment for reasons such as security for dances, parties, etc. will be covered later in this manual.

9. Responsibility for the accuracy of all time sheets and Action Sheets is that of the documenting

supervisor. 3.08.004.1 COMPENSATORY TIME Compensatory time will be accrued and managed in accordance with District policy. The department will monitor accruement of hours; when hours exceed an accumulation of 9 total; officers will be subjected to exhausting hours to avoid extended periods of time spent away from his/her duty. Any arrangements for accruing or requesting compensatory time will be cleared through the Chief of Police. Requests for compensatory time off shall be governed under the same regulations as vacation requests. Compensatory time shall not be used in conjunction with days off, vacation, sick leave, or any other type of time off unless approved by the Chief of Police. 3.08.005 SICK LEAVE 1. No sick leave of three consecutive days or more is granted to any employee unless a certificate from

a physician accompanies the leave request. The documentation must verify the necessity for sick leave and must comply with departmental and established District and Board policy. Note: the Chief of Police may require written documentation from the employee’s physician for any sick leave absence taken.

2. Employees requesting absence from their duty assignment due to illness must call the on-duty shift

supervisor at least two hours prior to their scheduled duty time. This will apply to all instances except for extreme personal emergencies. During emergency situations, contact will be made with the shift supervisor as soon as possible. The Chief of Police will make the final determination as to what constitutes an emergency. Upon such determination, the Chief of Police may initiate appropriate action against personnel when the absence is declared by him to not be an emergency.

3. If the employee is unable to contact the shift supervisor, notification will be made to the Chief of

Police. 4. If no supervisor or the Chief of Police is available, notification will be made to the dispatcher on duty

who will notify the next available supervisor. 5. The employee will advise the person notified of the reason for the absence.

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3.08.005.1 ABUSE OF SICK LEAVE 1. Abuse of sick leave is defined as the utilization of sick leave for other than an authorized absence for

illness, illness of a family member, personal time, or an injury or death of an immediate family member as defined by established School Board Policy.

2. The following patterns of absences may indicate sick leave abuse:

a. Frequent absences preceding or following days off or other authorized absences;

b. Pattern of weekend absences;

c. Pattern of absences after working an off-duty or second job;

d. Pattern of absences associated with shift change or assignment to a particular shift;

e. Pattern of absences associated with a particular job assignment. 3. If abuse of sick leave is suspected, the supervisor may conduct and independent investigation and/or

require a doctor’s statement for the absence as outlined in the Employee Handbook. Should the investigation reveal that the abuse occurred, the incident will be documented and appropriate disciplinary action taken.

4. A doctor’s certificate may also be required for each future absence of any duration if abuse is

suspected based on one of the above patterns. If a doctor’s certificate is required, the employee must be notified in writing of the requirement. The requirement for a doctor’s certificate should be reviewed at least every six months.

5. Abuse of sick leave will not be considered as a certain number of days used within any given period

of time. Abuse of sick leave can only be established if the absences fall within the above definition. 6. Employee appraisals may be lowered if abuse of sick leave has been established and documented. 3.08.005.2 INJURIES AND LIGHT DUTY 1. On the job injuries (OJI) and assault leave is regulated by School Board Policy. 2. Light duty is not approved for off duty injury. Personnel are obligated to use sick leave in accordance

with District policy. Light duty requests may be made to the Chief of Police in writing and he will be the final authority for granting or denying the request. Light duty requests will be evaluated on a case by case basis and the approval or disapproval of requests for other employees will have no bearing on any case presented to the Chief of Police. If approved, light duty personnel must be able to meet all of the major requirements of their job description. Light duty that will exceed two weeks will be at the discretion of the Chief of Police

3.08.006 PERSONAL DAYS Personal Days are defined and permitted by School Board Policy DEC (Legal) and (Local). 3.08.007 VACATION 1. All applications for leave, including vacation, leave of absence, etc., are turned in to the immediate

supervisor not more than 30 days and not less than 10 days, including date of application, before the desired date to begin leave. In cases of application for minimal vacation (i.e. 2 or 3 hours off), that

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would not interfere with court scheduling or Department operations, the ten-day advance requirement is waived at the discretion of the employee’s immediate supervisor.

2. For vacation requested in lieu of sick leave, the employee is subject to all rules governing sick leave. 3. The Chief of Police reserves the right to cancel, change, and/or disapprove vacation time as he

deems necessary for the proper operation of the Department. 3.08.007.1 VACATION RESTRICTIONS 1. Leave requests are submitted to his/her immediate supervisor, If Department operations are not

negatively impacted, the shift supervisor may then recommend approval of the request in accordance with the following considerations:

a. No more than 1 officer and/or 1 dispatcher will be granted vacation or personal days during the

same time period. b. No vacation or personal days will be granted during any holiday or recognized school break

period, with the exception of the summer break unless approved by the Chief of Police. c. If requests are received for the same period by 2 or more employees in the same position, 1

employee will be granted vacation at the discretion of the Chief of Police. 2. In all cases where a supervisor is recommending disapproval of a vacation request, the Chief of

Police will be personally consulted. All vacation requests will be routed to the Chief of Police for final approval.

3. In order to cancel or change a leave request, an employee submits an inter-office memo to his/her

shift supervisor requesting cancellation of the entire leave time. If an employee wishes to cancel only a portion of the leave and take the rest, the employee cancels the entire leave and resubmits a new request for the time the employee wishes to take.

4. All requests for routine vacation will be submitted at least ten days in advance. The needs of the

Department will take precedence over all other considerations when approving vacation. Non-emergency requests that do not comply with the above requirements will be denied.

5. In most circumstances, overtime will not be approved to fill vacancies left by absent employees. The

Chief of Police may, at his discretion, rearrange schedules to cover any manpower shortage. 3.08.008 VACATION AND SICK LEAVE INQUIRIES 1. The employee, in writing to the Chief of Police, via his/her immediate supervisor, submits any

inquiries regarding the balance of an employee’s vacation or sick leave. The Chief of Police will then forward the request to the District Payroll Office. Payroll will compute the balance and send the tally back to the employee.

2. Except in emergency situations, employees shall refrain from circumventing this procedure.

Circumvention includes inquiry by phone or personal appearance at the Payroll Office. 3. From time to time, the Department may request, from the employee, the balance of their leave and

sick days. All employees will respond immediately to such requests. 3.08.009 PAYROLL INQUIRIES Inquiries regarding payroll or an individual paycheck are directed to the employee’s immediate supervisor for permission to contact the Payroll Office. The supervisor determines if the request should be reduced

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to an inter-office memo or, if necessary, the Payroll Office should be contacted by phone or in person by the employee involved. Department operations will not be impacted for personnel wishing to go to payroll or any other District office. 3.09 OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT 1. The nature of law enforcement tasks requires Department employees to have the ability to work

irregular duty schedules that are subject to change to meet department needs. Additionally, it is necessary that an employee have adequate rest to be mentally and physically alert during his tour of duty. It is also deemed necessary that Police Department employees refrain from taking part in those outside activities that would demean the individual employee, the badge, or the agency. It is essential that employees conduct themselves in such a manner as to comply with these stated objectives. All off duty employment will conform to Department and District regulations.

2. All officers working either temporary or permanent part-time work will submit an “Application for

Outside Employment” request via memorandum to the Chief of Police. If approved, the request will expire one year from the date of approval by the Chief of Police.

3. It will be the responsibility of the officer involved to submit an official request for renewal, if the officer

wishes to renew the request, at least seven working days before its expiration. 4. Employment of a short duration if approved and conforming to Department and District policy, e.g.

PTA sponsored dances, etc., need not require a request. The member’s immediate supervisor will be notified and he will make necessary notifications to concerned personnel in the Department.

3.09.001 RESPONSIBILITY 1. In all cases of outside employment, the primary duty, obligation, and responsibility of an employee is,

at all times, to the Department, and not to the off duty employer. 2. An Officer, while engaged in outside employment, takes proper action on any offense or condition of

which he has or acquires knowledge, and which would normally require police attention, including arrests and making reports.

3.09.002 RESTRICTIONS 1. All work performed while engaged in outside employment is limited to those duties, locations, and

employers which would not create a conflict of objectives of the agency and which do not diminish the employee’s capacity to perform effectively for the SISD Police Department. No Department issued uniform equipment or district vehicles will be used in off duty employment situations.

a. Personnel will coordinate with the appropriate jurisdiction when working outside of the District

b. Personnel who are working will inform the dispatcher and their shift supervisor of their location

and the hours that they will be working. .

c. The Department and District will not assume any liability in any off-duty employment situations for any employer other than the SISD.

d. The Chief of Police may take control of any off duty job occurring in SISD jurisdiction that is of a

long-term duration. He may set-up a special detail at that location and establish duty rosters as he deems appropriate. This includes publishing the job for all interested personnel who wish to partake in that employment.

2. The following are not approved employment situations:

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a. A location or employment which tends to bring the Department or District into disrepute.

b. In any establishment where the sale of any alcoholic beverage is the principle business

c. In any employment requiring any affiliation, membership, or allegiance that would interfere with the proper discharge of duties as an employee of the Department, or with loyalty to the Department, District, or the public interest.

d. In the SISD Police uniform at other than a District property or related function or in the performance of tasks other than of a police nature. The Chief of Police may grant waivers to this requirement on an individual basis.

e. In any employment requiring the service of civil processes

f. On investigation or other work in which the employee may avail himself/herself of his/her access to police information, records, files, or correspondence and thus create a conflict of interest.

g. For any municipality or political subdivision of the State except by express permission of the Chief of Police and the Superintendent. .

h. For any outside occupation while the employee’s status is “on duty,” “sick,” “injured,” “OJI,” “light

duty,” or “AWOL” with the Department. 3.09.003 HOURS Outside employment is not considered for approval where a conflict arises with the employee’s normal tour of duty. In cases of mandatory overtime situations, the member’s outside employment is not a factor in the decision to assign the overtime. 3.09.004 PAY AND BENEFITS Outside employment also includes employment by parent/teacher groups, alumni associations, etc., who may be using a District facility for a function or event, in which case the employee makes his own arrangements for pay and benefits with the persons who hire him. The Department is not responsible for intervention in pay disputes arising from any outside employment activity. The Chief of Police, at his discretion, may set minimum and maximum pay caps for off-duty jobs. Officers may also find themselves approached by individual schools or principals for services such as security at sports events, dances, bazaars, etc. When the officer is to be employed by the school itself (as opposed to an outside group such as the PTA, booster club, alumni association, etc.), the officer may accept the employment only with the specific, advance authorization by the Chief of Police. Specific approval in advance by the Chief of Police is required in this type of situation, so that the Chief may make a determination in advance on whether the officer will be eligible for overtime pay. As a matter of routine and unless specifically authorized by the Chief of Police, no overtime work or pay is authorized, and no Department employee may work for the SISD and/or any of its schools for more than 40 hours in any one work week. 3.09.005 REVIEW Each supervisor shall continually review the performance of employees who engage in outside employment and require the termination of that outside employment, by notifying the Chief of Police and or designee, if the employee does not meet his Department responsibilities to the fullest extent. 3.10 FILES The Department has adopted certain procedures to maintain permanent files of every employee for the purposes of record keeping.

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3.10.001 DEPOSITORY The main depository for the employee’s permanent departmental file jacket will be in the Office of the Chief of Police. 3.10.002 TRAINING RECORD The Department maintains a separate training record file for each employee. The Training Coordinator maintains this file. Upon termination or resignation, the record will be forwarded to the Office of the Chief of Police. As part of the long-range training plan, the Training Coordinator will review this record with the affected personnel on a quarterly basis. The training record is the property of SISD. 3.10.003 ADDITIONAL EMPLOYEE FILES An employee’s immediate supervisor may maintain a separate file on employees under his/her authority. These files are for management purposes only and are regulated by the same guidelines governing all employee files in the District. A supervisor’s file on an employee will not duplicate or replace the files identified above. 3.10.004 APPEAL OF THE PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL BY PERMANENT EMPLOYEES 1. The employee appraisal system is a uniform procedure whose purpose is to evaluate the work and

behavior of employees. The system’s function is to provide recognition for good work, locate special talents and abilities of employees, and identify a need for training in specific areas. The performance rating system is separate from the FTO evaluation system. Supervisors, when called up, will take part in the appraisal process. The Chief of Police will be the final authority for appraisal ratings.

2. An employee may contest the employee appraisal as outlined by District Policy. Contested FTO

evaluations shall be directed to the Chief of Police via the chain of command. 3.11 HOLIDAY WORK SCHEDULING 1. In an effort to address the manpower shortage that frequently occurs on holidays in the Department

and to afford more personnel the opportunity to take holiday vacation that might otherwise be denied due to personnel shortage, the following procedures have been adopted:

2. Definitions

a. A holiday is defined as one of the days outlined by Board policy in the approved District calendar.

b. Non-essential personnel are those individuals who by their job assignment are classified by the Department as not scheduled to work the days carried as a District holidays.

c. Essential personnel are all sworn personnel (regardless of rank), dispatchers, and security guards scheduled to work on a holiday.

d. Non-essential personnel are not required to work on declared holidays or during periods specified by their assignment under Board and District policy and District scheduling.

3. Essential personnel are required to work in accordance with their assigned calendar (“A” or “B”) and

Department Schedule. Vacation requests will be submitted to a Supervisor who will establish a holiday vacation schedule. A quota will be established allowing a percentage of personnel to take holiday leave that does not adversely impact Department mission requirements. A memorandum will be posted by the Office of the Chief of Police announcing the submission and cut-off dates for vacation requests for holidays. No submissions will be taken before or after those dates and all requests received during the submission period will carry the same weight. The Chief of Police will

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make final determination for holiday vacation approval in accordance with the overall needs of the Department. A holiday vacation schedule will be published once that determination has been made.

4. Based on the needs of the Department, there is no guarantee that holiday vacation will be approved.

Disapprovals or alternate recommendations will be discussed between the affected member and his/her immediate supervisor.

3.12 DEPARTMENT TRAVEL 1. The following is procedure to be adhered to for requesting and securing out of town travel for

approved training and Department sanctioned assignments:

a. Identify the purpose of the travel and receive approval from the immediate supervisor

b. After receiving all necessary information, the employee will complete the travel request form and all associated paperwork. Included will be the total number of work hours that will be missed from the duty station.

c. Submit the travel request form with an inter-office memorandum detailing all factors of the travel to the Chief of Police.

2. If approved, the Chief of Police will identify a funding source and submit all paperwork to the

appropriate District department for final travel arrangements. 3. The employee will have two working days upon completion of the travel to report to the School District

Travel Office and turn in all receipts, travel claims and forms, and any money not expended. 3.13 WORKING HOURS The Department operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Shift schedules and assignments are made to support Department operations as approved by the Chief of Police. Assignments to shifts and assignments are made based on the needs of the Department. The Chief of Police has final authority for shift manning, working hours, and schedules. The Chief of Police is not restricted as to how to schedule Department personnel. Personnel will not leave their assignments until completed or properly relieved. 3.14 MEAL BREAKS Patrol unit lunch breaks will be taken at a location within the officer’s assigned area unless authorized by a supervisor. The supervisor will determine how many units may take a meal break at one time. A - sixty minute meal break is authorized in accordance with District policy. All patrol units will request permission from the dispatcher prior to taking a meal break. The unit will give the address and name for the location he/she will be at. All department personnel are subject to call-out while on a meal break. Care will be taken in selecting a location where it is least likely that officers will get involved in activities outside their jurisdiction. On all requests for police assistance on minor incidents such as drunk disturbing, failure to pay, etc., officers will only get involved to the point of maintaining the peace and then refer the matter to the appropriate jurisdiction. Officers shall not take or demand gratuities from merchants. Officers will make all reasonable efforts to pay full price for their meals.

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3.15 SENIORITY 1. Seniority has no bearing on how work or equipment is assigned or administered in the Department.

The Chief of Police or his assigned designee will assign personnel to work assignments based on the needs of the Department and the aptitude of the individual assigned.

2. Seniority will only be factored in accordance with District policy. 3.16 RECALL 1. It is mandatory for every member of the Department to keep the Chief of Police informed as to their

current address and phone number. Any change of address or phone number shall be reported to the Chief of Police within 24 hours. The Chief of Police will be advised of any employee who refuses to work when recalled.

2. All Department personnel are subject to immediate recall to duty as dictated by the Chief of Police.

This applies to emergency situations, special assignments, personnel shortages, training, or during other situations deemed necessary by the Chief of Police.

3.17 WORK SCHEDULES 1. Barring any conflict with District labor policies, the Chief of Police may schedule personnel in any

manner desired to meet the objectives of the Department. Prior to any change in scheduling assignments, the supervisor must receive permission from the Chief of Police unless the authority to do so has been previously delegated.

2. The work schedules for patrol and dispatch is posted prior to the date they begin. No switching of

schedules or workdays between officers or dispatchers will be allowed unless authorized by the Chief of Police or his designee. All requests for work schedule switches must be for serious or emergency conditions. Any requests for switches must be in writing and accompanied by any associated documentation, i.e. doctor’s notes, etc.

3.18 WORK ASSIGNMENTS The Chief of Police is the final authority for all work assignments. Personnel may be placed in any assignment that furthers the Department’s mission. Assignment to posts, districts, special assignments, details, etc. are not guaranteed to any employee. As previously stated, the Chief of police is also the final authority on light duty. As a general rule, there is no light duty in the Police Department. The Chief of police may, at his discretion, waive this policy and assign light duty on a case by case basis. When assigned, light duty will never extend past two weeks. Those persons considered for a light duty assignment must be able to perform the majority of their job description. The Chief of police may also terminate light duty assignments when the policy governing it is not being met. 3.19 EQUIPMENT ASSIGNMENTS The Chief of Police is the final authority for all equipment assignments. Personnel may be issued equipment or required to turn in equipment based upon department needs. Vehicle assignments, cellular phone and pager assignments, etc. will be made as the Chief of Police or his designate desires. 3.20 MEDICATION AND ILLNESS Each employee will advise the appropriate supervisor when he or she is ill, under any type of medication, doctor’s care, or injured and the condition impacts their ability to perform their job in accordance with this manual. All personnel taking any medication that has any type of side effect will immediately report this fact to the shift supervisor.

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3.21 ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES No employee of the Police Department will consume any alcoholic beverage within eight hours prior to reporting for duty. 3.22 SOCIAL MEDIA At Socorro ISD Police Services, we understand that social media can be a fun and rewarding way to share your life and opinions with family, friends and co-workers around the world. However, use of social media also presents certain risks and carries with it certain responsibilities. To assist you in making responsible decisions about your use of social media, we have established these guidelines for appropriate use of social media. This policy applies to all employees who work for SISD Police Services. Supervisors should use the supplemental Acceptable Use Policy guidelines for additional guidance in administering the policy.

1. GUIDELINES In the rapidly-expanding world of electronic communication, social media can mean many things. The term "social media" includes all means of communicating or posting information or content of any sort on the Internet, including to your own or someone else's web log or blog, journal, or diary, personal web site, social networking or affinity web site, web bulletin board, or a chat room, whether or not associated or affiliated with Socorro ISD, as well as any other form of electronic communication. The same principles and guidelines found in Socorro ISD policies and three basic beliefs apply to your activities online. Ultimately, you are solely responsible for what you post online. Before creating online content, consider some of the risks and rewards that are involved. Keep in mind that any of your conduct that adversely affects your job performance, the performance of fellow associates or otherwise adversely affects members, customers, suppliers, people who work on behalf of Socorro ISD Police Services or Socorro ISD legitimate business interests may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination. 2. RULES Carefully read these guidelines, Socorro ISD Statement of Ethics Policy, the District’s Acceptable Use Policy, and the discrimination & harassment prevention policy, and ensure your postings are consistent with these policies. Inappropriate postings that may include discriminatory remarks, harassment, and threats of violence or similar inappropriate or unlawful conduct will not be tolerated and may subject you to disciplinary action up to and including termination. 3. RESPECT Always be fair and courteous to fellow associates, customers, members, suppliers, or people who work on behalf of Socorro ISD. Also, keep in mind that you are more likely to resolve work-related complaints by speaking directly with your co-workers or by utilizing our Chain of Command policy than by posting complaints to a social media outlet. Nevertheless, if you decide to post complaints or criticism, avoid using statements, photographs, video, or audio that reasonably could be viewed as malicious, obscene, threatening, or intimidating, that disparage students, staff, customers, community members, associates, or suppliers, or that might constitute harassment or bullying. Examples of such conduct might include offensive posts meant to intentionally harm someone's reputation or posts that could contribute to a hostile work environment on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, or any other status protected by law or company policy.

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4. HONESTY

Make sure you are always honest and accurate when posting information or news, and if you make a mistake, correct it quickly. Be open about any previous posts you have altered. Remember that the Internet archives almost everything; therefore, even deleted postings can be searched. Never post any information or rumors that you know to be false about Socorro ISD, students, staff, fellow associates, community members, customers, suppliers, people working on behalf of Socorro ISD, or competitors. 5. POSTING APPROPRIATE AND RESPECTFUL CONTENT

Maintain the confidentiality of Socorro ISD trade secrets and private or confidential information. Trade secrets may include information regarding the development of systems, processes, products, know-how, and technology. Do not post internal reports, policies, procedures, or other internal business-related confidential communications.

Respect financial disclosure laws. It is illegal to communicate or give a "tip" on inside information to others so that they may buy or sell stocks or securities. Such online conduct may also violate the Insider Trading Policy.

Do not create a link from your blog, website, or other social networking site to a Socorro ISD website without identifying yourself as an employee of Socorro ISD.

Express only your personal opinions. Never represent yourself as a spokesperson for Socorro ISD. If Socorro ISD is a subject of the content you are creating, be clear and open about the fact that you are an associate and make it clear that your views do not represent those of Socorro ISD, students, staff, fellow associates, community members, customers, suppliers, or people working on behalf of Socorro ISD. If you do publish a blog or post online related to the work you do or subjects associated with Socorro ISD, make it clear that you are not speaking on behalf of Socorro ISD. It is best to include a disclaimer such as "The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Socorro ISD." 6. USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AT WORK Refrain from using social media while on work time or on equipment we provide, unless it is work-related as authorized by your supervisor or consistent with the district Acceptable Use Policy. Do not use Socorro ISD e-mail addresses to register on social networks, blogs, or other online tools utilized for personal use. 7. RETALIATION IS PROHIBITED Socorro ISD prohibits taking negative action against any associate for reporting a possible deviation from this policy or for cooperating in an investigation. Any associate who retaliates against another associate for reporting a possible deviation from this policy or for cooperating in an investigation will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination. 8. MEDIA CONTACTS Associates should not speak to the media on Socorro ISD behalf without contacting the Public Relations Department. All media inquiries should be directed to them.

9. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you have questions or need further guidance, please contact your HR representative.

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CHAPTER FOUR

PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT 4.00 ON-DUTY CONDUCT Every member of the Department shall devote his entire time and attention to the business of the school district while on duty. It is expressly prohibited for department members to engage in any activity in which he has no jurisdiction or which may conflict or interfere with his responsibilities to the department or school district. 4.00.001 RULES OF CONDUCT 1. All employees will maintain sufficient competence to properly perform their duties and to assume the

responsibilities of their position. Personnel shall perform their duties in a manner that will maintain the established standard of efficiency in carrying out the functions and objectives of the Department.

2. All employees shall discuss grievances and problems with their immediate supervisor. If it cannot be

resolved at that level, the employee may request a meeting with the next level in the chain of command. Personnel desiring to utilize the chain of command will notify the level that they are dealing with of such desire. The level currently being utilized will set an appointment with the next level and inform the employee of the time and date of the appointment. The chain of command has the right to communicate with each other prior to that appointment to include the forwarding of any written matters concerning the employee in question. Grievance rights and procedures are discussed in SISD Board Policy DBGA.

3. All employees shall obey all criminal laws of the United States of America and of any state or local

jurisdiction in which they are present. A conviction for the violation of any criminal law shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of these rules of conduct.

4. All employees shall cooperate fully with a supervisor or person designated to conduct an internal

investigation and shall be afforded all rights and protections provided by law. 5. All employees shall report for duty at the time and place required by assignment or order and shall be

physically and mentally fit to perform their duties. Employees shall be properly equipped so that they may immediately assume their duties. Judicial subpoenas in writing shall constitute an order to report for duty under these rules of conduct.

6. Employees shall operate Department vehicles and equipment in a careful and prudent manner and

shall obey all laws and Departmental procedures pertaining to such operation. Loss or suspension of any driving license or other certification or qualification shall be reported to a supervisor immediately.

7. All employees shall not leave any post unless properly relieved including during times of personal

emergency, illness, or injury. 8. All employees shall direct their best efforts to accomplish the functions of the Department intelligently

and efficiently. They shall not engage in any activity, or promote any activity, which may cause them or others to neglect or be inattentive to duty.

9. No employee shall feign illness or injury, falsely report himself or herself ill or injured or otherwise

deceive or attempt to deceive any official of the Department or District as to the condition of their health

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10. No employee shall solicit or accept, either for him/herself or another employee, gifts gratuities, or compensation for services performed in the line of duty, other than that which is paid by the Socorro Independent School District unless authorized by the Chief of Police.

11. All employees shall promptly obey all lawful orders of a supervisor or orders given via the radio. 12. Personnel shall utilize Department equipment only for its intended purpose in accordance with

established Department procedures and shall not abuse, damage, or lose Department equipment. All Department equipment shall be maintained in proper order. All loss or damage shall be promptly reported to the immediate supervisor. Employees shall replace, at no cost to the Socorro Independent School District, all equipment lost or damaged intentionally or through negligence.

13. Employees shall not possess, store, or bring into any Socorro Independent School District facility or

vehicle, any alcoholic or intoxicating beverage, controlled substances, narcotics, hallucinogens, pornography, offensive material, or contraband except in the performance of their duties or as legally prescribed. When such substances are prescribed for use on duty, personnel shall notify their supervisor.

14. No employee shall drink any intoxicating beverage off duty to the extent that it renders them unable to

report for their next scheduled tour of duty or discredits the Department. Consumption of alcohol eight hours prior to duty is prohibited.

15. No employee shall publicly criticize the Department, its policies, or other personnel in a manner that is

defamatory, obscene, unlawful, or undermines the effectiveness of the Department, interferes with the maintenance of discipline, or is made with reckless disregard for the truth. Personnel shall not hold themselves out as representing the Department without prior authorization.

16. No employee will knowingly interfere with the investigations, assigned tasks, or duty assignments of

another and shall not directly or indirectly by threat, bribe, influence, or coercion attempt to secure the withdrawal or abandonment of a complaint or charges.

17. All employees shall submit all necessary reports on time and in accordance with established

Department procedures. Reports shall be truthful and complete. Personnel shall not knowingly enter or cause to be entered any inaccurate, false or improper information.

18. All employees shall truthfully answer all questions specifically directed and narrowly related to the

scope of employment and operations of the Department, which may be asked of them by a supervisor.

19. All employees shall have telephones in their residences and shall report any changes of telephone

numbers or addresses to their immediate supervisor. 20. No employee shall use his official position or official identification card or badge for personal or

financial gain, for obtaining privileges not otherwise available to them except in the performance of duty, or for avoiding the consequences of illegal acts. Personnel shall not lend to another person their identification cards or badges or permit them to be photographed or reproduced. Personnel shall not authorize the use of their names, photographs, or official titles in connection with testimonials or advertisements of any commodity or commercial enterprise without the approval of the Chief of Police.

21. All employees shall treat the official business of the Department as confidential. Information

regarding official business shall be disseminated only to those for whom it is intended and on a “need to know” basis.

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22. All employees shall obtain information in an official and courteous manner and act upon it in a proper and judicious manner within the scope of their duties and consistent with the established Departmental procedures whenever any person applies for assistance or advice, or makes complaints or reports either by telephone, in person or in writing.

23. Personnel shall not use coarse, violent, profane or insolent language or gestures. Personnel shall not

make statements or take actions that constitute or reflect discrimination or harassment based on an individual’s race, color, creed, age, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, military status, or mental or physical disability. See SISD Board Policies DAA (Legal) and (Local) and DHC (Legal) and (Local).

24. No employee shall recommend or suggest in any manner, except in the transaction of personal

business, the employment or procurement of a particular product, professional service or commercial service (such as attorney, ambulance service, towing service, bondsman, etc.).

25. All personnel shall avoid regular or continuous associations or dealings with persons whom they

know are under active criminal investigations or indictment or who have a reputation in the community or the Department for present involvement in felonious or criminal behavior, except as necessary in the performance of official duties or where unavoidable because of other personal relationships.

26. No employee shall knowingly visit, enter or frequent a house of prostitution, gambling house, or

establishment wherein the laws of the United States, the state, or local jurisdiction are regularly violated.

27. Members shall use a common-sense approach and tactical/environmental considerations will be

looked at in determining whether it is safe for the Officer to stand his/her ground. 28. No employee shall directly or indirectly solicit or receive, be in any manner concerned in soliciting or

receiving any assessment subscription, or contribution for any political party, or for any political purpose whatsoever while on duty. No employee will campaign for any political purpose while on duty. No officer will provide police service to political parties or affairs on or off duty.

29. No employee, unless designated by the Chief of Police, will interview prospective employees or use

their position or employment in order to get any personal acquaintance, relative, or associate hired in this Department.

30. No employee in this Department will attempt to procure appointment, promotion or transfer in the

Department by means of willful misrepresentation, or ask any civilian to aid him as such. 31. No employee will circulate any petition or request a petition to be circulated by citizens or employees

in his behalf requesting transfer or assignment, promotion, change of assignment, or in regard to his/her or another employee’s employment.

32. Members of the Department shall keep all of their personal financial obligations current. 33. Any member of this Department shall give his/her name and badge/code number when called upon to

do so or as soon as practical. 34. No member of this Department shall concern themselves, either directly or indirectly, in any

compromise or other arrangement between a person charged with or suspected of a criminal offense and the person who has suffered by the person’s act with a view towards permitting such person to escape the penalty of law. No employee will seek to obtain continuance or dismissal of any case in court or any case under investigation with any agency or entity because of friendship, personal relationships, favors, or obligation to the defendant.

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35. “Fixing” any criminal case, citation, inquiry, investigation, etc. is strictly prohibited. Additionally, no employee will use his position to influence any matter being handled by any agency.

36. No release of liability shall be given by any employee of the Department in the name of the

Department or the District, in any action arising in the course of the employee’s employment. 37. All employees will cooperate with each other in the course of Department and District business. 38. No Department employee shall make public presentations, nor shall write or author any article

intended for publication, concerning the affairs of the Department or District without prior approval from the Chief of Police.

39. No employee of this Department will file a civil suit regarding police incidents without first notifying the

Chief of Police. 40. No employee will give any statement in any civil case against the Department or the District or

release any information in that regard without prior permission from the Chief of Police. 4.00.002 OFF-DUTY CONDUCT 1. During off-duty hours, commissioned personnel are expected to maintain the same professional

demeanor displayed on duty. Because of the responsibility placed upon police officers, their conduct needs to be exemplary to project a positive image to the community served. Because of that responsibility, a situation may arise when, during off duty status, an officer may find it necessary to take some type of appropriate police action.

2. Officers will have their Department identification card reasonably available at all times. The carrying

of the police badge is optional. The carrying of the Department identification is not required when officers are engaged in activities where it is not reasonable to have the card in their possession, e.g. running, swimming, etc.

3. Display of the identification and badge while off-duty is best limited to only those situations where an

officer is taking police action. 4. Carrying of a weapon while on off-duty status is optional and left to the discretion of the individual

officer. If the officer chooses to carry a weapon, the weapon will be an approved handgun and it will be in their possession, or as accessible as the situation might allow. Exceptions to this might be activities whereby the weapon might clearly be inappropriate. An example of this might be while engaged in physical activity such as jogging, swimming, etc.

5. If a handgun is carried off-duty, it is carried concealed in such a manner so as not to attract

unnecessary or unfavorable attention. 6. Officers choosing to carry handguns off-duty will refrain from carrying their handguns on their

persons:

a. Into any establishment where alcoholic beverages are sold for on premise consumption, as the primary business operation of such premises,

b. While under the influence of alcohol or immediately after consuming any alcoholic beverages, until such time as any adverse effect from such consumption has dissipated,

c. Into the concourses of the local international airport,

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d. A common-sense approach should be taken when traveling with handgun out of the State of Texas. Officer will check the laws regarding to the carrying of weapons in states where Officer will cross;

e. While under medication which impairs any motor skills;

7. Any Officer involved in any off-duty police action must immediately notify his/her immediate supervisor through SISD Police Dispatch or via cell phone. 4.00.003 OFF-DUTY WEAPONS 1. It is recommended that officers of the SISD Police Department utilize their approved service firearm

as off-duty weapons, if the officer chooses to carry a handgun off-duty. If the officer wishes to carry a different weapon, it must be of a caliber and type approved in writing by the Chief of Police.

2. Only Department-approved factory ammunition will be utilized in off-duty handguns. No magnum,

armor-piercing, tracer, wad-cutter ammunition, or any other exotic ammunition will be utilized. 3. Those officers choosing to carry off-duty handguns must qualify at least one time per year with their

handguns. Qualification dates, times and the course of fire will be at the discretion of the Training Coordinator. Those officers who opt to utilize their service weapons as off-duty weapons are exempt from additional qualifications. No officer may carry, off-duty, a weapon for which he has not qualified with.

4. All weapons will be safety inspected by the Range Officer. Any weapon that is deemed unsafe will

not be fired until such time as it is repaired, re-inspected and passes a safety inspection. 5. At qualification time, each officer will fill out a prescribed form for each weapon that will be used by

the officer, whether on or off-duty. Upon qualification, the forms are sent to the Training Coordinator who will file it in the member’s training record and update Department records accordingly.

4.00.003.1 OFF DUTY POLICE ACTION 1. Off duty police action is limited to offenses:

a. Which endanger the loss of property

b. Where a threat of serious bodily injury is present

c. When any grade offense directly involves the off-duty officer and quick action is necessary for the safety of the officer or others. (Note: For all other offenses, the off-duty officer attempts to gather all useful information and awaits a marked unit from the Department or the department who has primary jurisdiction over the area in order to relay such helpful information)

2. Taking police action is approved when the officer is employed off-duty in an approved capacity

wherein the employer expects that appropriate police action be taken in all criminal offenses. The Department and District assume no responsibility or liability regarding such off-duty employment.

3. Off-duty officers take police action only after tactical consideration of the situation and of the possible

liability of the officer and the SISD. The appropriate police action must be taken in each situation. This police action may be limited to the taking or observing of license numbers or physical descriptions of subjects or vehicles involved and phoning this into a police dispatcher depending on the situation. In any case, the officer should attempt to take at least some police action which is deemed appropriate by these regulations for the situation. Officers must keep in mind that each situation is different and must weigh several factors before deciding on what the appropriate police

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action should be. The main consideration should always be the officer’s safety and the safety and welfare of the public.

4. While on off-duty status, officers are expected to comply with all Department and School District rules

and regulations and state and local laws. 4.00.003.2 INDEBTEDNESS Regarding indebtedness, employees must take care that creditors are kept satisfied, so that creditors do not seek assistance through the Department for collections. 4.00.003.3 OFFICER CONDUCT 1. Incidents involving members of the Department (on or off-duty) which may bring discredit to the

Department or the School District, or require any police action, shall be immediately reported to a supervisor on duty. It is the responsibility of investigating officers to request a supervisor to any given scene.

4.00.003.4 COURT APPEARANCE 1. The Department recognizes the legal and professional requirements of its personnel to respond to

summonses and subpoenas as courts of law may issue them. 2. Officers subpoenaed into District Court are responsible for verifying their appearance by checking the

District Court Trial List before appearing in court. 3. Officers subpoenaed into County Court are responsible for verifying their appearance and determine

the status of County Court cases by contacting the court the day before or on the date scheduled to appear.

4. Officers who fail to comply with the above procedures and who appear unnecessarily, forfeit their

right to court overtime worked for the appearance. 5. On all court overtime certificates, officers submit the actual time appeared in court even though there

is a minimum call back time. The signature of the prosecuting authority or bailiff, with the time released, is required on the court overtime certificate to verify attendance in court.

6. Officers must be available to appear in any court or Grand Jury when officially notified to appear.

Officers will not show-up in court when they have not been officially summoned, unless permission has been received from a supervisor. In civil cases, members of the Department will be required to respond to legal subpoenas only unless ordered by the Chief of Police.

7. Any officer, who is unable to attend court for any reason, must be excused from the court, grand jury,

or the prosecuting attorney prior to the scheduled court date. A supervisor cannot excuse anyone from court. The employee will also notify the shift supervisor that he is unable to attend court.

Court Overtime Procedures 1. Officers who are required to appear in court up to and including two (2) hours after the end of the

normal shift remain on duty (continuation) until court testimony is completed. An Officer remaining on duty is entitled to overtime from the end of the normal shift until all court duties are completed.

2. Officers who are required to appear in court two (2) hours or less before the beginning of the normal

shift shall report to duty at the time of the court appearance. For example, an officer working the evening shift from 3:00 PM- 11:00 PM who is scheduled to appear in court at 1:00 PM, will be

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required to begin his shift at 1:00 PM. and will be entitled to 1 3/4 hours overtime, the overtime ending fifteen (15) minutes before the normal shifts begins.

3. The overtime provisions discussed here assume that the normal 40-hour week is worked. 4. Generally, officers are required to appear in court while under subpoena status. Officers on FMLA

(Family Medical Leave) or Workmen’s Comp status or for other physical hardship cases, who need to get a release from the court, contact the prosecuting or defense attorney who issued the subpoena and request a release from them. Officers in turn notify the shift supervisor if a release is obtained. Officers on leave, compensatory time off, etc., are not entitled to court overtime.

4.01 CONDUCT DEALING WITH THE PUBLIC In keeping with the philosophy that all members of the SISD Police Department are public servants, it is the goal of the Department to keep all contacts with the public professional and courteous. 4.01.001 DEALING WITH THE LAW VIOLATORS It is the responsibility of all members of the SISD Police Department to conduct themselves within the law and with due regard to the rights of the citizens concerned. When dealing with a law violator, the use of verbal abuse or unnecessary physical violence does not further the advancement of Department objectives. The use of any slur towards or about any law violator or suspect is strictly prohibited. 4.01.002 GRATUITIES AND CONTRIBUTIONS 1. All personnel are reminded that seeking or accepting special privileges or favors is not appropriate

conduct and is disrespectful for the law and the police profession. It is expected that employees not place themselves in a position of compromise by soliciting or accepting gratuities.

2. Contributions from outside sources are accepted only for the furtherance of SISD-related activities

and not for the personal benefit of Department employees. Department personnel receiving such contributions do not enter into any agreements that would compromise the effectiveness or integrity of the Police Department or the School District.

RETAIL MERCHANTS Retail merchants, often with the highest intentions, refuse to accept full payment from officers for goods and services rendered. In such cases, the officer, without creating a disturbance or public spectacle, should make every effort to pay for the services and goods and make an attempt to explain the Department’s position. CONTRIBUTIONS FROM OUTSIDE SOURCES Money or any other resource received from a source outside the Department, which is intended to benefit a particular fund or school district activity, is directed toward the appropriate fund or function. All other contributions are disposed of according to SISD policy. 4.01.003 REFERRALS It is unethical and contrary to the goals and objectives of the Department for an employee to refer an arrested violator to an attorney, bondsman, or the agent of either. It is also unethical to provide any person with unauthorized, confidential information regarding a prisoner’s confinement.

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4.01.004 DEPARTMENT CRITICISM Constructive criticism by this Department’s personnel concerning its operations, functions or employees is encouraged. Thoughtless or destructive criticism, however, is not conducive to the accomplishment of the police purpose and often discourages harmonious working conditions, thus reducing effective law enforcement and is therefore, not condoned. 4.01.005 CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 1. Due to confidential information obtained during the course of investigations, unauthorized and

indiscriminate release of such information is prohibited. 2. The Department recognizes that the public has the right to be fully and accurately informed on all

matters involving the total police operation. The news media services the need of the public and it is their responsibility to satisfy the public’s right to know. The Department actively seeks to establish a cooperative climate in which news media may obtain information on matters of public interest through SISD Public Relations Department

All news releases will be done through SISD Public Relations Department. 4.01.006 PUBLIC AFFAIRS/EMPLOYEE RELATIONS PRESS INFORMATION OFFICER. There exists within the SISD, a Press Information person who acts as a liaison between the school district and the media. Its purpose is to create goodwill and positive publicity to enhance the school district image and contribution to public support. Any release of information to the news media will be through the SISD Public Relations Department. 4.01.007 RELATIONSHIP WITH SUBORDINATES As leaders of personnel within the Department, supervisors are reminded that their example is a model after which a high level of proficiency and morale is patterned. Therefore, supervisors will conduct themselves in a manner likely to bring about activity on the part of subordinates consistent with the goals and objectives of the Department. 4.01.008 LEGAL OPINIONS FROM THE SCHOOL DISTRICT ATTORNEY 1. All legal opinions made by the School District Attorney are submitted to assist the Department in

clarifying legal matters. 2. When assisting citizens, officers may verbally explain the SISD Police Department’s position on

specific legal matters based on opinions from the School District Attorney. However, no copy of a written communicative, directive, or opinion written by the School District Attorney will be distributed to the general public or non-Police Department personnel without the approval of the Chief of Police.

3. Additionally, written legal opinions provided for the SISD Police Department’s use may not be posted

at locations where the public may read the opinion. 4.02 CIVIL SUIT INVOLVEMENT When the SISD pays damages for vehicles, hospital bills and officer’s time while incapacitated, its right to recovery of such damage must be protected. An officer seeking to collect personal damages must notify the Chief of Police.

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4.02.001 NOTIFICATION 1. Any officer becoming involved in a Civil Suit or other court action must notify the Chief of Police, in

writing, immediately. This notification is made through the supervisor and forwarded through channels.

2. The notification shall contain the following:

a. A description of the incident;

b. The necessity for the court action or reason for officer involvement;

c. The name of counsel for the officer. 4.03 CLAIMS AGAINST THE SISD Officers must notify a Supervisor and the Chief of Police as soon as possible when the below situations apply: 1. Automobile collisions with serious injuries or death where SISD vehicles are involved. 2. Automobile collisions involving serious injury or death where the collisions allegedly arises from

missing stop signs, defective traffic control signals, etc., where SISD vehicles are involved. 3. Officers involved in shooting incidents where injury or death result:

a. The shift supervisor will act as liaison to make contact with the Chief of Police as soon as possible after being notified by the officer.

b. The Chief of Police or his Designee will upon notification determine whether an immediate civil

liability investigation will be conducted. In the event such an investigation is necessary, statements will be obtained from all witnesses, victims and any other parties involved.

4.04 RELATIONSHIP WITH SUBORDINATES As leaders of personnel within the Department, supervisors are reminded that their example is a model after which a high level of proficiency and morale is patterned. Therefore, supervisors will conduct themselves in a manner likely to bring about activity on the part of subordinates consistent with the goals and objectives of the Department. 4.05 ON DUTY CONDUCT 1. Employees shall remain alert, observant and occupied with School District business during their tour

of duty and must not conduct themselves in a manner that would merit criticisms or give the appearance of loitering.

2. No television sets will be used by any member of the Department while on duty for the purpose of

recreation. A supervisor or the Training Coordinator will regulate the use of televisions for any other purpose.

4. Department computers are for the business of the department. The placement or playing of games or

the use of computers and related equipment for personal or other purposes other than Department business is not authorized.

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4.06 SMOKING AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS 1. Department personnel will comply with SISD policy regarding smoking and the use of tobacco

products. 2. Smoking is strictly prohibited in all Department buildings, parking areas and offices. 3. The burning of any material that produces smoke, smoke by-products, or heat is strictly forbidden

within any Department building or office.

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CHAPTER FIVE

INTER-AGENCY COMMUNICATIONS 5.00 INTER-AGENCY COMMUNICATIONS

To facilitate the exchange and dissemination of information necessary for the efficient operation of the Department, effective communication within the Department and with the School District and other agencies must be utilized.

5.00.001 TELEPHONE COMMUNICATIONS

1. Proper telephone communications are a vital part of police service that provides the public direct contact with the Police Department. Therefore, all employees answer all incoming calls as promptly as possible to determine if a need for police service exists and to provide the requested service.

2. Employees answer all incoming calls in a courteous, professional manner. The employee identifies himself by his department, name and rank, and attempts to assist the caller with the information requested. He promptly refers the party to the proper department, section or other public or private agency for assistance, when necessary.

3. The use of departmental phones for personal calls is restricted to keep the line open for official use. 4. Employees obtain approval from their supervisors before making long distance calls. 5. Personal long distance calls on departmental phones are not permitted

5.00.002 INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS

RULES AND DEPARTMENT REGULATIONS Rules and Regulations are written directives issued by the Chief of Police. Departmental rules and Regulations remain in full force until amended or rescinded by the Chief of Police. The Rules and Regulations are directives that affect the entire Department and are the most authoritative directives issued by the Chief of Police. They take precedence over all other written directives, and are used to amend, supersede or rescind any rule or regulation. Departmental rules and regulations are only amended, rescinded or superseded by revision, establishment of other rules and regulations, or at the direction of the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police and the Superintendent shall review the manual annually and make appropriate revisions. Special Orders 1. Special orders are written directives issued at departmental levels and are used to govern or

announce special situations. They are effective for a period of one year from date of issuance unless a shorter time is specified within the order itself. In the event a Special Order is incorporated into the General Manual or Operations Manual, such Special Order is then superseded.

2. Should a situation of special importance to a specific group or area require policy or procedure, such Special Order is issued and signed by the supervising officer when the order applies only within his command. Such are subject to the approval of the Chief of Police and do not conflict with provisions of the General Manual.

3. The appropriate section or shift supervisor keeps a file of active Special Orders.

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4. Every Special Order is routed through the Chief of Police to verify that no conflicts exist with Department policy and procedures and to ensure that a central file of all current Special Orders is maintained.

Memoranda 1. Inter-Office memoranda are used to give information, suggestions, notices or announcements of

general interest issued at all levels. 2. Memoranda are issued to express the intent and/or attitude of the issuing authority on the subject

contained in the memorandum. They do not replace Orders nor stand in lieu of policy and procedure. 3. When the nature of a situation dictates immediate issuance of an Order, the Order takes issue in the

form of a numbered Special Order.

5.00.003 CORRESPONDENCE WITH OTHER AGENCIES

1. Official correspondence with persons or agencies outside the Department is written on Department letterhead stationery. All outgoing correspondence will be routed through the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police signs all outgoing correspondence unless otherwise stipulated or authorized.

2. In-coming correspondence is received by the Office of the Chief of Police and distributed from there to the proper section. Outgoing correspondence is handled as follows:

a. All mail is taken to the Chief’s Office for mailing.

b. Correspondence pertaining to criminal matters addressed to other agencies or persons is signed

by the supervisor and approved by the Chief of Police.

c. If correspondence deals with a case presently being worked or which has been worked by this department, a copy of the correspondence is attached to the working case file.

d. Correspondence concerning controversial issues or matters which by their nature may be an

embarrassment to the Department is approved and signed by the Chief of Police.

5.01 USE OF REPORTS

An accurate records system should be upheld to coordinate the efforts of the Department, document criminal activities of the Department; facilitate the proper disposition of cases handled by the Department, bring attention when unusual or dangerous situations occur to the Department or other agencies as well as aid in the investigation and prosecution of cases. Officers’ reports, which make up the majority of that system, will meet certain standards. Officers and employees responsible for those reports should become thoroughly familiar with the goals and objectives of the Department with regard to records and report writing.

5.01.001 COMPLAINT REPORTS

1. Every member of this department is responsible for ensuring that a complaint report is completed before the end of the shift in which the officer observes, discovers or receives information of: a. A criminal offense or possible criminal offense

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b. Any dangerous or unusual situation of interest to this department or other agencies. The Chief of Police or any supervisor may direct the completion of a report for any situation they deem important.

2. The face sheet of the complaint report will be brief and concise, providing only that information which

is required by the Texas Open Record Act. Other pertinent information will be supplied on either a Supplementary Report or on a Sworn Supplement. If an arrest has been made, the name(s) of the subject(s), witnesses, suspects not under arrest, etc., will be listed on a separate Supplementary Report.

3. Military time, or 24 hour time, will be utilized on the face sheet and all additions, supplements, etc. 4. A complaint report is completed in the third person narrative.

5. If one incident contains several complainants, for example a shooting where one person shoots three people, it is necessary to make one complaint report for each complainant. It is permissible to designate one of the reports as the “master case”, with all supplements, sworn supplements, etc., attached to this case. All other cases may be assigned as “slave cases”. The body of the report on a slave case need only make reference to the master case and need not provide details. On the slave case, it is necessary to fill in all necessary blanks, including subject information, if available.

6. Supervisors will check completed complaint reports. Supervisors will approve the complaint report

through Departmental report writing system. 7. All personnel will turn in complaint reports regarding information only within 8 hours, and complaint

reports regarding arrest or motor vehicle accidents within 16 hours. All reports regardless of nature shall be submitted at days end with all open records act information to include persons and vehicles.

8. Officers will not make any statement regarding follow-up investigation in the main report (number

one). Statements such as “open for investigation,” case continues,” follow-up or investigation requested,” “investigation requested,” etc., are prohibited.

5.01.002 STATEMENTS

STATEMENT FORM

The Statement Form is a form that may function as two types of statements: Sworn Statements and Witness Statements. These statements are to be utilized in the prescribed manner. SWORN STATEMENT A Sworn Statement is a statement that is sworn to by a complainant, a witness, or an officer and certified by a notary public.

When to make a Sworn Statement:

1. When taking a statement from a witness or when taking a non-consent and prosecution statement from a complainant and there is a notary public available to certify the signature.

2. Officers will complete a Sworn Statement upon receiving a request from a District Attorney, the County Attorney or a member of their respective staff, regardless of the grade of offense.

Officers will, in the “Sworn Statement“, provide all necessary information to include any observations, information received, known elements of the offense and any action taken in a first person narrative form.

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The Sworn Statement is concluded with the phrase “I have read the above and find it to be true and correct to the best of my knowledge”. This statement was made freely and voluntarily without any threats or promises extended to me.” The last page of the statement is signed by the officer and sworn to before a notary public or magistrate.

WITNESS STATEMENT Witness Statement is a statement that an officer takes from a civilian complainant or witness, which is written in the first person and signed with two officers as witnesses to the signing.

When to make a Witness Statement:

Witness Statements are taken when a notary public is unavailable and it is necessary to certify the signature of a complainant or witness.

Directions for Completion of a Witness Statement:

1. In the upper portion of each page of the Witness Statement, officers provide the necessary information by filling in the blanks.

2. The statement is taken in the witness’ own words, even if slang or profanity is used. Police jargon is kept to a minimum, unless that is the way the witness actually speaks.

3. The witness or complainant signs the last page of the witness statement in the presence of two

officers. The two officers also sign the statement as witnesses to the signature. 4. Officers submit the completed Witness Statement with their incident report

ADMINISTRATIVE STATEMENT Administrative statements will not be released to any outside agency; nor will any administrative statement be turned in with criminal report.

5.01.003 SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT

A Supplementary Report is a report made by an officer that is written in the third person and is not sworn to or notarized. The Supplementary Report is distinguished from Continuation Report, in that the Supplementary Report is not a continuation of the original Complaint Report.

When to make a Supplementary Report:

1. When officers are making a follow-up investigation to a case

2. When officers have additional information necessary to the development of the case Directions for completion of the Supplementary Report

1. Fill in the appropriate information in the heading blocks of the report form and mark the box “supplement”

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2. The heading blocks labeled “report date” refer to the date of the original report. 3. Write in all necessary information in the narrative block of the report. 4. The Supplementary Report is not notarized. 5. Officers submit the completed Supplementary Report to a supervisor for approval.

5.01.004 CONTINUATION REPORT

The Continuation Report is a continuation of the original Complaint Report made by the officers. It is written in the third person and is not sworn to, nor notarized.

When to use the Addition to Complaint Report: 1. When officers are making the original Complaint Report and an additional page or pages are required

to complete the narration of the original report.

2. When officers are making the original Complaint Report and an additional page or pages are required to complete information on vehicles and/or property.

When the Addition to Complaint Report is not used

The Addition to Complaint Report is not used as a Supplementary Report (as a follow-up to a case or other information necessary to the development of the case which is not a continuation of the original Complaint Report).

The completed Addition to Complaint Report form(s), together with the face sheet of the Complaint Report, is submitted to the supervisor for approval. 5.01.005 AFFIDAVIT

In all cases where an arrest has been made without a warrant, or when a warrant is to be obtained prior to an arrest, an officer will complete an affidavit, pursuant to Article 15.05, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.

5.01.006 APPROVED FORMS

1. Only those forms provided or approved by the District or the Department will be used during the course of duty.

2. No employee shall initiate a print request for anything through the District print shop or outside printing sources without first contacting the Chief of Police.

3. When necessary forms are not available, the supervisor will be contacted.

4. Employees will only take enough forms from Department stock to complete necessary assignments. Employees shall not stockpile excess amounts of forms.

5. Blank forms will not be used as scratch paper.

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6. Forms will not be left lying about. Personnel will return forms to the appropriate storage area.

7. Copying blank forms on the copy machine will only be authorized as an emergency action. If copying blank forms are necessary, only the amount necessary to complete a task will be duplicated.

5.01.007 APPROVED FORMAT

1. The format for all forms and reports will be as specified by Department procedures, training and custom. Complaint report titles will be drawn from a department-approved list. In cases where a situation occurs and an approved title is not available, the reporting officer will title the report under the appropriate law or regulation.

2. Reports will be grammatically correct, neat, legible, and have words spelled correctly.

3. Elements of offenses are key to all reports. Officers will note when elements have or have not been met based on the information received. Offenses that require specific values, damages, injuries, etc. will have that information included in the report.

4. Complaint reports will be written in regard to the “who, what, where, when, why, and how” format.

5. All parties to a report will be completely identified. There is no need to submit demographic sheets and student referral sheets with a report.

6. All crime scene photographs and fingerprint lifts will be processed as evidence. Personnel will not keep copies of any Department related photograph unless it is being used for court or an active investigation. Personnel utilizing digital cameras will download and process photographs to be submitted as evidence.

7. All reports and related paperwork will be turned in prior to the end of the shift as per Departmental policy.

8. There is no need to repeat information that is already stated in the top portion of the report. Text

such as “On the above date and time, at the above location, the reporter identified above, filed the above stated report,” is not authorized. The approved start of a complaint report is “Reporter, head custodian, Lamar Elementary, advised of a fire…” The facts of the report will be listed sequentially in a form that makes the report easy to read. The use of police jargon is discouraged.

9. Student demographic forms and school disciplinary referrals and reports will not be submitted with the

complaint report unless they are related to the incident. If submitted an appropriate reference to the forms will be included in the complaint report or supplement.

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CHAPTER SIX

LEGAL ASPECTS OF ENFORCEMENT LEGAL ASPECTS OF ENFORCEMENT It is the intent of the department to follow the guidelines as provided by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, to enforce the laws of the State of Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, to enforce the laws of the State of Texas and of the United States and also to enforce the Policies and Procedures, Rules and Regulations of the SISD. The objective of the SISD Police Department is to conduct all enforcement activities in an equal manner, through the use of the statutes as described above and through the additional use of departmental rules and procedures as may be set forth from time to time. 6.00.001 STOP AND FRISK Under the stop and frisk rulings of the Courts, an Officer may investigate an individual when his manner and actions are suspicious, even though no probable cause for arrest exists at that time. In these circumstances, the Officer may take necessary measures, when appropriate, to determine whether the individual is armed and to neutralize the threat of physical harm. In a stop and frisk situation, the following criteria must be present: 1. The stop is lawful; the Officer has reasonable suspicion to stop the individual. 2. The Officer identifies himself as a police officer. 3. Only reasonable inquiries related to the purpose for the stop are made. An Officer may make

inquiries of any person, but may not detain the individual if he wants to leave or does not want to cooperate, unless the Officer has grounds for a valid stop. The stop cannot be too lengthy . The suspect cannot be extensively moved (may not be transported to a station house).

4. The Officer has reasonable belief that the subject is armed in order to frisk. A frisk is a pat down of a

subject’s outer clothing for weapons. An Officer cannot legally search inside pockets unless a weapon is felt in them. Even if an Officer has grounds to conduct a stop, the Officer does not necessarily have an automatic right to conduct a search of an individual.

6.00.002 FORCED ENTRY 1. In the case of a felony or misdemeanor arrest, policy and procedure set forth in the Code of Criminal

Procedure will be adhered to. 2. There may be certain circumstances whereby it is necessary to make forced entry into a dwelling or

building where arrest is not the primary objective. If the Officer sincerely believes it is a life-threatening situation and all other reasonable means to try and resolve the situation have been exhausted, it may be necessary to make forced entry into the building or dwelling.

3. It may also be necessary to make forced entry into a dwelling or building when an Officer reasonably

believes that evidence is being destroyed in a felony case and there is no time to procure a search warrant. The purpose of the forced entry would be to preserve the evidence.

4. If possible, a supervisor is notified before making forced entry into a building or dwelling, for whatever

purpose. If there is no time to notify a supervisor before forced entry, a supervisor is notified as soon as possible after the forced entry is made and is appraised of the situation. In all cases, a complaint report is made. If there is damage inflicted upon property because of the forced entry, photographs are taken of the damage.

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5. Before entering the premises, Officers must “knock and announce”, but “no knock” entry is permitted if the Officers believe on reasonable grounds that the occupants would either resist the Officers by using force and/or endanger the Officers, or remove or destroy evidentiary items for which a warrant was issued.

6.00.003 LEGAL ASPECTS OF EVIDENCE The importance of identifying and preserving evidence is that it can provide facts in determining the truth and support or discredit unsubstantiated testimony. The following procedures are set forth to ensure that evidence is preserved in keeping with the rules of evidence. To satisfy the legal requirements concerning physical evidence, the following aspects must exist: 1. Each piece of evidence is identifiable, even months after the collection of such evidence. 2. The exact location of the items(s) and the time of collection is describable. 3. Proof is offered that from the moment of its collection until presentation in a Court of Law, the

evidence was in continuous and proper custody, not susceptible to alteration. 4. A change that may have occurred in the evidence between the time of its collection and its

introduction as evidence in court is describable. 6.00.004 WARNINGS 1. All subjects taken into custody on Class A and B misdemeanors and all felonies with or without a

warrant are advised of their rights by the arresting Officer. Also, suspects taken into custody to be interrogated regarding their possible participation in a criminal offense are advised of their rights by Officers.

2. Each time a subject is interrogated by an Officer, he is advised of his rights and an entry is made in

the complaint or supplementary report. 3. When Officers are required to warn a subject, Subject is advised as per the following:

a. You have the right to remain silent.

b. If you give up the right to remain silent, anything you say can and may be used against you in a court of law.

c. You have the right to speak with an attorney and to have him present during any questioning.

d. If you are unable to employ an attorney, you have the right to have one appointed to counsel you prior to or during any questioning.

e. You have the right to terminate the interview at any time. 4. After warning is given, the following questions are asked:

a. Do you understand each of these rights which have been explained to you? b. Are you willing to answer questions and make a statement knowing that you have these rights

and do you waive these rights freely and voluntarily with no threats or promises of any kind having been made to you?

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5. If the subject indicates his desire for an attorney, no interrogation may occur in the absence of an attorney.

When a suspect is taken into custody and does not understand English, an Officer fluent in the subject’s language gives the warning and questions. When no Officer who speaks that language is available, the suspect is not questioned. 6.01 HANDLING AND DISPOSITION OF PRISONERS When custody arrests are made, it is important that prisoners are treated with decency and humanity, and that they are protected against unnecessary physical harm. All reasonable efforts are made to safeguard their health and personal property. 1. Taking Before Magistrate

a. When a person is arrested for the commission of a criminal offense, the law requires that the arresting Officer take his prisoner before a magistrate without unnecessary delay. This is for the purpose of having the magistrate advise him/her of his rights and set the amount of bail, when necessary.

2. Treatment of Prisoner

a. Officers are required to treat prisoners in their custody with decency and humanity and to refrain from the use of unreasonable force. However, Officers are expected to use reasonable force, if and when necessary, not only to effect a lawful arrest, but also to secure and safeguard the custody of their prisoners after they have been apprehended.

b. “Reasonableness” of force depends upon all the surrounding facts and circumstances of each individual case. Officers are reminded, however, that unnecessary force and violence is unlawful and that such mistreatment constitutes a criminal offense on their part. Brutal treatment of a prisoner violates a prisoner’s constitutional right to due process of law and any evidence obtained from him as a result endangers the possible success of subsequent prosecution.

3. Protection of Prisoner

a. Officers are responsible for the protection of their prisoners during the duration of custody exercised over their prisoners.

b. An Officer having a prisoner in custody also sees to it that he is reasonably protected against assault or harm by others, including fellow prisoners. Jail authorities are personally liable for negligent or willful failure to provide reasonable protection to prisoners against physical harm. This responsibility extends to Peace Officers who have prisoners in custody before they are turned over to a jail custodian.

4. Fingerprinting and Photographing

a. Such data is of assistance in the prosecution of criminals after their arrest. For instance, fingerprints found at the scene of a crime may be shown in court to match the fingerprints of the accused taken immediately after his arrest. Also, on the question of prior convictions, fingerprints taken from the accused after his arrest may be shown to match his fingerprints on file in the penitentiary when he served a prior sentence sometime before, for the purpose of showing identity.

b. Photographs will be taken when it is lawful to do so. Photographs often are of invaluable assistance to the prosecutor at the trial.

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c. Courts have consistently held that taking fingerprints and photographs of a prisoner while in custody, even though intended for use as evidence against him, does not infringe on constitutional privileges against self-incrimination.

5. Physical Examination

a. Incidental to lawful arrest, a prisoner’s body as well as his clothing is subject to search and examination. The authority of Peace Officers to obtain identifying data and information from the prisoner includes the right to examination of him in order to record his measurements and to discover and note identifying marks such as scars, bruises, birthmarks and similar distinguishing features.

6. Property of Prisoner

a. Officers are responsible for the personal property retrieved from their prisoners. It is the duty of each Officer who takes control of a suspect or custody of a prisoner to thoroughly search their prisoners and inventory their property. This responsibility continues until the prisoner is booked into jail or turned over to the Juvenile Probation Department and a receipt is issued to the prisoner for the property collected.

b. Articles taken from prisoners which are of evidentiary value are to be held subject to the order of the Court. If they are stolen articles, the Court may agree that they be held in safekeeping, even against the claims of the true owner, until prosecution of the prisoner is terminated. If they consist of contraband or other articles that can have no lawful use, they should be disposed of at the termination of the case as the Court shall order--by destruction or other disposition.

c. Other articles of personal property taken from a prisoner after his arrest are inventoried and stored for safekeeping, unless it is considered advisable to permit the prisoner to have possession of the property while in custody. Any property taken from him for safekeeping, however, is the responsibility of his custodians and is returned to him or his duly appointed representative when he is released or transferred from custody. Failure to properly safeguard and account for a prisoner’s property can subject a custodian to civil liability and sometimes to criminal liability.

7. Hazardous Property Legally Possessed by Prisoner

a. Officers taking custody of a prisoner who is in legal possession of potentially hazardous non-evidentiary weapons or material shall issue a property receipt to the prisoner for the goods and place the item(s) in safe keeping. Example: Firearms are stored in Property Room, unloaded. Officers should include in their original report the items stored for safekeeping to document the prisoner’s possession of the item.

8. Right to Confer with Lawyer During Interrogation

a. When a person has been arrested for the commission of any criminal offense, the arresting Officer may ask general questions of the prisoner such as name, address, date of birth, etc. that are required for the booking and report process. The general questioning may be accomplished without the prisoner consulting with an attorney; however, if an interrogation is to be conducted, different rules apply.

b. If, at any time during interrogation, the prisoner requests an attorney, the interrogation is terminated until the prisoner has obtained counsel. Once the prisoner invokes his right to counsel, Officers may not re-approach the prisoner unless and until an attorney is present. Any action which an Officer should reasonably know is likely to result in an incriminating response is the equivalent of interrogation.

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c. Failure to allow a prisoner to call family or friends for the purpose of having them retain a lawyer constitutes denial of due process of the law. Holding a prisoner incommunicado (without means of communication) and denying them the opportunity to contact their friends or relatives for the purpose of having them retain a lawyer or not, frequently has courts to exclude as evidence any statements that were made such circumstances.

d. Peace Officers are not required to find an attorney for a prisoner or to call one for them. Officers do not suggest the name of any particular lawyer to a prisoner.

e. If at any time during the interrogation, the prisoner indicates his desire to remain silent, the

interrogation must cease. 9. Injury to Prisoners or Persons in Custody

a. All injuries to prisoners or persons in custody are brought to the immediate attention of a supervisor.

b. Officers will take immediate action to get the person the medical attention they need. If in

custody, prisoner must be taken to University Medical Center (formerly known as Thomason Hospital)

c. The supervisor will determine whether the injuries occurred prior to the Officer’s involvement with

the person or during the apprehension. If the injuries occurred prior to the Officer’s involvement, the incident will be briefly documented in the supervisor’s log (photographs attached) and the Officer will document the injuries in the complaint report.

d. If the injuries occurred during or after contact with the individual, the supervisor will interview the

Officer(s), the prisoner, and any witnesses to the incident and thoroughly document the incident in a “MEMORANDUM OF RECORD” (including names of each involved person and their statements). Supervisors will also make note of the incident on their daily log including their observations and opinion as to the validity of the complaint.

e. If there is an outcry by the prisoner of alleged unauthorized force or improper tactics, photographs

of the prisoner will be taken and attached to the supervisor’s log. f. If the injuries require admission of the prisoner into a medical facility and there is an outcry of

alleged unauthorized force or improper tactics, or if the prisoner is incapacitated to the extent he is unable to respond, the supervisor on duty will assess the situation and, contact the Chief of Police.

6.01.001 PRISONER HANDLING (GENERAL) 1. All subjects taken into custody for an offense higher than a class “C” misdemeanor will be advised of

their Miranda warnings by the arresting Officer. Suspects being questioned or interrogated regarding their participation in a criminal offense will be Mirandized. If the person cannot speak, English, then an Officer fluent in the person’s language will Mirandize the prisoner.

2. All persons taken into custody will be thoroughly searched prior to their placement in the patrol

vehicle.

3. All prisoners will be handcuffed with hands behind their back. 4. Officers will check the back seat of their patrol vehicle for contraband when removing a prisoner from

the vehicle.

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5. Before placing a prisoner in any room or cell, the Officer will first check it for weapons or contraband. After the prisoner is removed, Officer will again check the area for contraband.

6. Prisoners will be thoroughly searched before their placement in any holding cell or jail. All of their

property, including their belt, will be removed from their possession. All of their property will be inventoried and their money counted in their presence. Large sums of money will be reported to a supervisor. It is the Officer’s duty to safeguard prisoner property.

7. Juvenile prisoners will not be placed with adult prisoners at any time. 8. Male and female prisoners will not be placed in same holding cell at any time. 9. Prisoner handcuffs will be double locked at all times. 10. No prisoner will be left unattended. 11. No prisoner will be allowed to use the bathroom unattended. The prisoner’s hands may be

handcuffed in front for this purpose. 12. If it becomes necessary to strip-search a prisoner, at least two Officers will be present and it will be

conducted in an out of the way place. Only authorized medical personnel will perform body cavity searches.

13. Prisoners will be isolated from complainants and witnesses as soon as possible. 14. All prisoners will be securely belted in when transported in a vehicle. 15. Officers will not respond to any incident while they are actively engaged in prisoner transport. 16. “Hog-tying” prisoners will not be allowed at any time. 6.01.002 ILL OR INJURED PRISONERS REQUIRING MEDICAL ATTENTION 1. If an Officer of the Department has a prisoner in custody that is in need of medical attention, the

following guidelines shall be strictly adhered to:

a. Officers who have an ill or injured prisoner in their custody will notify their immediate supervisor of the nature of the illness or injury without unnecessary delay.

b. Ambulance drivers will not relay Police Hold requests in order to have hospital personnel detain a subject for questioning nor to allow Police Officers time to complete work in the field before arriving at a hospital and taking physical custody of a prisoner. An Officer shall accompany the prisoner in the ambulance when possible. When a police hold is required, Officer will make contact with SISD Police Dispatch and request that contact be made with University Medical Center and request Police hold.

c. University Medical Center is the only facility that has a jail ward and therefore the only hospital where the Sheriff will provide a deputy to detain the prisoner while he is admitted for treatment.

d. All prisoners will be treated at University Medical Center unless an officer finds it necessary to

utilize another medical facility due to the critical nature of the prisoner’s injuries. In such cases, immediate notification is made to the officer’s immediate supervisor who will be responsible for arranging for officers to guard the prisoner until such time as he can be transferred to the University Medical Center jail ward.

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e. Police Officers will remain with their prisoners at all times. Prisoners are to remain handcuffed behind the back unless treatment is hindered in the opinion of the attending physician. If the attending physician makes such a determination, the Officer may relocate the handcuffs or restrain the prisoner by other methods as may be appropriate.

f. There may be occasions when the attending physician for proper medical treatment of the prisoner deems the complete removal of all restraints necessary. In such cases, the Officer must consider both the need for such treatment and his own responsibility to protect the lives of all concerned. Prior to the complete removal of the restraining devices, if possible, a University Medical Center Security Supervisor will be apprised of the situation for reasons of safety documentation.

g. If it is necessary for the prisoner to be admitted into the hospital for treatment, an arrest warrant must be obtained in order to have the jail ward of University Medical Center accept custody of the prisoner. This is done by presenting the prisoner to the jail ward and informing the Deputy of the prisoners name, charge, and the fact that a warrant has been obtained and had been presented to the Booking Section (or is in the process of being taken to the booking Section) where the warrant will be administratively booked. It is not necessary that a copy of the warrant be presented to the Deputy at University Medical Center. If there is no Deputy at University Medical Center , the arresting Officer must phone the supervisor on duty at the booking section immediately upon receiving an arrest warrant so that a Sheriff’s Department Jail Supervisor is apprised of the situation and will then dispatch a Deputy to the jail ward to take custody of the prisoner.

h. Officers do not leave their prisoner for the purpose of obtaining arrest warrants. If necessary, as in the case of a solo unit, the Officer will contact his immediate supervisor who will arrange for the Officer to be assisted.

i. At no time does Socorro ISD Police Department personnel attempt to question a patient at any hospital, unless the patient’s physician or the head nurse on duty has given proper approval. Questioning of patients during normal visiting hours is permissible on “open” wards.

6.02 WITNESS IDENTIFICATION 1. One-on-One Confrontation

a. Before a suspect can be brought before a witness for the confrontation, Officers must have probable cause to believe the suspect is the subject who committed the crime.

b. All attempts are made to avoid any suggestion of unfairness to the suspect in the confrontation

c. No suggestion is made to the witness that the suspect is the one being sought for the crime or other crimes.

d. If the suspect is brought to the witness, the suspect is not allowed into the crime scene.

e. The confrontation can take place within a reasonable amount of time after the outcry if the investigation is continuous and ongoing.

2. Photographic Line-ups

a. The photographic line-up contains six photographs; including that of the suspect.

b. Photos used of the suspect are the most current available.

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c. The line-up is constructed in such a way as to avoid suggesting who the suspect is; and all photos shown will be all in color or all in black and white.

d. The photos should depict individuals who are of the same sex, race, or nationality, complexion, approximate age, build, hair length, color, and facial hair as the suspect.

e. The fronts of the photographs are numbered (if photos shown are not mug shots) in a consecutive manner.

f. No suggestion is made to the witness regarding who the suspect is or if his photo is present in the line-up.

g. The photo line-up is not shown to more than one witness at a time to prevent one witness from influencing others.

h. If an identification is made by the witness, the witness signs his name, date, and time of identification next to the photo, and is informed of the name of the person identified.

i. When identification is made, a written statement is obtained from the witness. The statement will include the number of photos shown, position of the identified and the name of the suspect, if identified.

j. The photo line-up shown is retained as evidence, and placed in the Property Room; as per proper procedure.

3. Physical Line-Ups Prior to Indictment

a. Physical line-ups are held in a designated area of the El Paso County Jail. b. The jailer is advised of the time of the line-up as soon as possible prior to the scheduled time to

allow for construction of the line-up.

c. The suspect is advised on what day and time the line-up will be presented.

d. If the suspect does not want an attorney present to represent him at the line-up, he signs the waiver form titled “Waiver of Right to Have Attorney Present at Line-up”.

e. Should the suspect request an attorney, he is allowed to contact his attorney.

f. If the suspect wants an attorney and cannot afford one, the magistrate is contacted who gave the suspect his magistrate’s warning and a request is made that an attorney be assigned to represent the suspect at the line-up.

g. The line- up will consist of at least five individuals including the suspect. All persons in the lineup are of the same sex, race or nationality, hair color, style and length, complexion, build, approximate age and similar dress.

h. If the suspect has any physical traits that would not suggest a fair, impartial line-up, the prosecuting agency is contacted for advice. The suspect has a Sixth Amendment right not to have the line-up procedure be extremely suggestive.

i. The suspect is allowed to arrange the individuals who are in the line-up as he wishes and to choose his position in the line-up.

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j. If the suspect’s attorney fails to appear at the location of the line-up at the pre-arranged time, a reasonable amount of time is allowed for his arrival. Should he still fail to appear, the line-up is conducted without him.

k. If the suspect’s attorney is present, the witness is advised that he does not have to talk to the attorney if he does not wish to do so. The suspect’s attorney is only present to confer with his client, and not to run the line-up proceeding. If the attorney makes constructive suggestions for operating the line-up, the Officer in charge decides if he wishes to comply with the suggestion or disregard it.

l. A 3 x 5-index card is prepared with numbers representing the number of each position occupied in the line-up. There is one card per line-up witness.

m. If the witness identifies a subject, he circles the number that indicates the position of the subject identified. He then signs his name. The date and time of identification are also noted.

n. If more than one witness views the line-up, those witnesses who viewed the line-up are kept separate from those who have yet to view it. This prevents one witness from influencing identification of other witnesses.

o. All line-ups will be photographed with individuals in the line-up standing in the same position they occupied when viewed by the witness. Photos will be taken of the front view and both profiles. If positive identification is made, a witness statement will be taken from each witness making identification.

p. The position, name, and date of birth of the individuals in the line-up is recorded for supplementary report.

NOTE: The suspect has a Sixth Amendment right to a lawyer present to represent him at the line-up if

the line-up is conducted after judicial proceedings have begun. 6.03 CONFESSION, ADMISSIONS AND STATEMENTS Sworn witness statements, confessions and formal admissions are documented and become permanent records of individual recollections of facts and circumstances. They serve as the basis for criminal investigations and prosecutions and are useful to refresh the memories of the person involved. 1. Confessions/Admissions

a. Exceptions to the hearsay rule are confessions and admissions on the part of an accused in a criminal prosecution. In considering the admissibility of confessions, the courts have established certain protective requirements in the nature of rules of evidence, which govern their reception. In order to be sure that a confession is worthy of belief, the prosecution must show that it was made:

1) Freely, willingly, and knowingly;

2) Intelligently and voluntarily, without coercion or duress of any kind; and

3) Without any promises or similar inducements

b. Procedures for obtaining confessions from juveniles are covered later in this manual.

2. The procedures for obtaining a written confession are as follows:

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a. If a subject invokes his right to counsel, officers may not re-approach the subject unless an attorney is present. However, Officers may seek a waiver of counsel and/or interrogate only if a subject voluntarily and spontaneously seeks to discuss the crime with the Officers.

b. When the Officer becomes aware of a subject willing to give a voluntary, written confession, the

Officer will take the subject before a Magistrate for a formal warning. After the Magistrate gives the warning to the subject, the subject will sign his name, will note the correct time and will date the Magistrate’s Warning Form.

c. If, however, a Magistrate is not readily available and every reasonable effort to locate a Magistrate has been exhausted by the Officer, the following may be used:

d. Miranda Warning Card

1) A written statement made by an accused as a result of custodial interrogation is admissible

against the accused only if certain things are shown on the face of the statement. The statement must demonstrate that:

(a) The person was given a Miranda Warning; (b) The Miranda Warning was given by either a Magistrate or by the person to whom the

statement was made; and

(c) That prior to and during the making of the statement, the person intelligently and voluntarily waived his rights.

2) The officer will read the Miranda Warnings to the subject from the approved Miranda Warning

Card. The subject will then sign the card and will note the correct time and date on the card. 3) When a Magistrate issues the warning, the Magistrate will fill out all appropriate spaces on

the Voluntary Statement of Accused Form (Confession Form).

4) Before beginning the actual confession, the subject will initial, date, and note the correct time the confession is to begin at the top of the Confession Form.

5) At this point, the Officer begins taking the actual confession. If room does not allow, the Officer will use the back of the confession form. It is best to use the subject’s exact wording on the confession, even if slang or profanity is used. Police jargon should be kept to a minimum; unless that is the way the subject usually speaks. If it is necessary to go to the back of the form and additional space, the Officer will use another confession form starting on the front and labeled page 3. The form is again initialed and the subject fills in the correct time and date. At no time is a Statement Form used to take a written confession.

6) If the subject is confessing to several crimes, the Officer will attempt to use a separate confession form for each crime. If this is not possible and only one confession form is to be utilized, the Officer will attempt to separate the crimes by listing each crime in a separate paragraph, if possible.

7) There are numerous ways to begin the confession itself. It is best to state where the

confession is being taken, for example SISD PD Report Room. The Officer taking the confession is also listed in the opening paragraph. It is a good idea to describe the surroundings, that the subject was offered water or a cigarette, for example. It is also necessary to list in the opening paragraph that the confession is strictly voluntary and that no promises have been made to the subject. All of the above is listed in the first person.

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8) The Officer will secure two unbiased witnesses, excluding the Officer taking the confession. Confessions are never notarized. The subject must then sign the confession in the presence of the witnesses. The subject and the witnesses sign each page of the confession, as this cannot be considered a confession until the subject properly signs it. At least two copies of the confession are then obtained and the copies are attached to the original complaint report form. A Chain of Evidence form is then filled out and the original confession is taken to the Property Room, to be turned in as evidence along with the Chain of Evidence form. Investigations will file a copy of the confession with the case.

3. Warning Procedures

a. If a prisoner, after arrest and while in custody of a Peace Officer, has received his/her Magistrate’s warning, further warnings from Peace Officers interrogating the accused for the purpose of obtaining a statement from him/her are not necessary. However, it is the better practice for the interrogating Officer to give the warning before taking any statement from him/her and to incorporate in the statement, at the beginning, the warnings that were given to the prisoner, and the Magistrate that gave the prisoner the warnings.

b. If, after being warned and advised as to his/her right to counsel, the accused decides to waive his/her right to counsel and starts to make a statement but in the midst of it changes his/her mind and indicates that he/she now wishes to remain silent, the interrogation ceases. Also, if during an interrogation, the accused changes his/her mind and indicates he/she wants an attorney before he/she gives any further information, the interrogation ceases until the attorney is present.

c. Whenever Peace Officers want to obtain a statement from a person in custody and that person

requests the presence of his/her attorney, the attorney is notified at once. After such notification, any evidence of what the accused says in response to questioning without specific waiver and in the presence of his attorney is admitted into evidence at the trial.

4. Oral Statements

a. Made After Arrest, While in Jail or Station

1) A prisoner, after arrest and while in custody of Peace Officers, might choose to make an oral statement but not a written one. After he/she has received a Magistrate’s warning or has been properly warned by the interviewing Officer or prosecuting attorney, evidence of his/her statement would probably be admissible only if he/she has included facts and they are found to be true. Some examples of establishing the truth of the facts in an oral statement are: (a) The finding of secreted property mentioned in the statement (b) The finding of stolen property mentioned in the statement (c) The discovery of an instrument with which the stated offense was committed

2) Officers are reminded that an oral statement is only what an accused has said to interviewing Officers where there has been no attempt on his/her or their part to write down what he/she said. It includes what he/she has said to them as it has been typed out on a typewriter and afterwards transcribed as a written statement. When the statement is read back to the accused and he/she reads a copy of it, he/she may say that everything in the statement is true but he/she may refuse to sign it. This statement is not disposed of. The statement may not be admissible as a confession because statute requires it to be signed by the accused. However, what he/she has said for the purpose of preparing the written statement and his/her later statement of facts indicating guilt has been proven by the findings of other definite corroborative evidence.

b. Made When Not Under Arrest or in Custody

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1) There are numerous instances where persons who later are charged with the crime involved

make statements to or in the presence of Peace Officers which later turn out to be incriminatory against the person who made them. At the time they are made, these persons are not under arrest nor have they been deprived of their liberty or freedom. In such cases, statements constituting a confession or admission are admissible in trials against the persons who made them despite the fact they had not been warned of their rights or did have the benefit or the presence of counsel. A good example of the above would be a Res Gestae Statement.

2) If, however, there are indications that the person, as a result of the oral statement, will be

arrested and charged with a crime, the Officer should give the Miranda warning as soon as is possible under the circumstances.

c. Recorded Oral Statement

1) An Oral Statement of an accused made as a result of custodial interrogation is admissible

against the accused in a criminal proceeding when: 2) An electronic recording, which may include motion pictures, or other visual recording, is made

of the statement; 3) Prior to the statement but during the recording the accused was told that a recording is being

made; 4) Prior to the statement but during the recording the accused is given the required Miranda

warning and the accused knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily waives any rights set out in the warning;

5) The recording device was capable of making an accurate recording, the operator was

competent, and the recording is accurate and has not been altered, and reflects that the accused was advised before the interrogation will be recorded.

6) If the accused is a deaf person, a qualified interpreter must properly warn the accused.

7) All voices on the recording are identified.

d. Witness Statements

1) When an Officer obtains a witness statement, it is important that the statement is voluntary.

The statement best includes the following: witness’ name, address, age, phone number (home and business), where witness resides and for how long, where witness is employed and type of work done and all pertinent information concerning the incident which the witness perceived (including all senses: sight, hearing, taste, smell and feel).

2) It is best to use the witness’ exact wording on the statement itself. Police jargon is kept to a

minimum, unless that is the way the witness usually speaks.

e. Dying Declaration

1) The dying declaration of a deceased person may be offered in evidence, either for or against a defendant charged with the homicide of such deceased person, under the restrictions hereafter provided. To render the declaration of the deceased competent evidence, it must be satisfactorily proven:

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(a) That at the time of making such declaration, he/she was conscious of approaching death, and believed that his/her death was imminent;

(b) That such declaration was voluntarily made, and not through the persuasion of any

person;

(c) That such declaration concern the cause or circumstances of what the declarant believed to be his/her impending death;

(d) That such declaration was not made in answer to interrogatories calculated to lead

the deceased to make any particular statement; and

(e) That he/she was of sane mind at the time of making the declaration. 6.04 RECEIVING CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 1. Use of Informants

a. In the course of police investigations, the use of the informant has long been a prime source of information. An informant’s knowledge should be carefully evaluated to determine the quality of the information and motivation of the informant.

b. When an Officer of the SISD Police Department encounters a person who is willing to voluntarily offer information concerning criminal matters, it is the Officer’s responsibility to establish the credibility of the information and the person who furnished the information.

c. When an Officer of this department has a person who furnishes reliable information, it is the Officer’s responsibility to see that his supervisor is informed of the relations and activities involving these persons.

2. Identity

a. It is the responsibility of the Officer and his supervisor to keep the identity of a person furnishing confidential information secret so as to protect that person from any retaliation or bodily harm. The courts decide whether the identity of any person furnishing confidential information is revealed.

3. Immunity

a. Persons will sometimes offer to exchange information for immunity from prosecution or for their release. Such immunity may properly be granted by the judicial system; however, neither the Department nor its officers are authorized to grant any person immunity from prosecution. Officers, when receiving confidential information, do not make any promises of money to the person who furnishes the officer with the information.

4. Compensation

a. If information is to be obtained from a person, and that person wants money for the information, that person will be informed that the SISD and its Police Department will not pay for information. Officers of this department do not hold any warrants that are issued on a person who furnishes confidential information. If a person has a warrant issued on him, that person is handled in the same manner as any other person against whom a warrant is issued.

5. Juvenile Informants. As a matter of routine policy, juveniles will not be used as informants.

Information may be taken on a one-time basis and all statements will be taken in accordance with state law. Deviation from this policy will be at the discretion of the Chief of Police.

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CHAPTER SEVEN

JUVENILES 7.01 TEXAS FAMILY CODE 1. The State Legislature has enacted a family code which consistently emphasizes the special interests,

care, guidance and control of juveniles and the Department recognizes its responsibility to promote the welfare of the juvenile offender.

2. To distinguish between adult and juvenile offenders, as required by law, the department establishes

procedures to be followed. It is the intent of the Department to act in accord and cooperation with all members of the juvenile justice system.

7.01.001 DEFINITIONS 1. CHILD is a person who is 10 years of age and under 17 years of age, or 17 years of age and under

18 years of age, who is alleged or found to have engaged in Delinquent Conduct or Conduct indicating a Need for Supervision as a result of acts committed before becoming 17 years of age.

2. PARENT is the mother, father, whether or not the child is legitimate, or an adoptive parent, but does

not include a parent whose parental rights have been terminated. 3. GUARDIAN is the person who, under court order, is the guardian of the person of the child or the

public or private agency with which a court has placed the child. 4. CUSTODIAN is the adult with whom the child resides. 5. TRUANCY is the unexcused voluntary absence of a child on 10 or more days or parts of days within

a six (6) month period, or three (3) or more days or parts of days within a four (4) week period from school without the consent of parents.

6. RUNAWAY is the voluntary absence of a child from his/her home without the consent of his/her

parent or guardian for a substantial length of time or without intent to return. 7. DELINQUENT CONDUCT is conduct, which violates:

a. A penal law of this state punishable by imprisonment or by confinement in jail (all felonies, all class A and B misdemeanors); or

b. A reasonable and lawful order of juvenile court 8. CONDUCT INDICATING A NEED FOR SUPERVISION is conduct, which on three or more occasions

violated any of the following:

a. The penal laws of this state of the grade of misdemeanor punishable by fine only

b. Student Code of Conduct

c. Truancy Laws

d. Runaway Laws e. Laws against the influence of intoxicating liquor (first and subsequent offenses) or under the

influence of any narcotic drug (first and subsequent offenses).

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7.01.002 WHEN A CHILD MAY BE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY 1. Pursuant to an order of the juvenile court 2. Pursuant to the laws of arrest 3. By a law enforcement officer if there are reasonable grounds to believe the child has engaged in

Delinquent Conduct or Conduct Indicating a Need for Supervision. (This provision dispenses with the requirement of obtaining a warrant of arrest from the juvenile court.)

4. Taking a child into custody is not an arrest except for the purpose of:

a. Determining the validity of taking the child into custody; or

b. Determining the validity of a search under the laws and constitution of this state or the United States.

7.01.003 WARNING OF CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS REQUIRED WHEN: 1. When taking an oral statement, whether or not the child is in custody. In order for such oral

statement to be used, it must be a statement of facts which leads to the fruits of the crime or the instrument used in the commission of the offense, or the statement was res gestae.

2. If a child wishes to give a written statement, it is essential that:

a. It be made after the child has been taken before a Magistrate and warned of his/her constitutional rights and brought to the SISD PD Juvenile Investigations Section (JIS) where the statement is taken, and afterwards is returned to the Magistrate for the signing of the confession. b. It be made by the child and the attorney for the child, and that both be appraised of its consequences and that it be voluntary.

3. The warning includes the following statements:

a. You have the right to remain silent.

b. You do not have to make any statement, oral or written, to anyone.

c. Any statement you make may be used in evidence against you.

d. You have the right to have a lawyer present to advise you before and during any questioning.

e. If you are unable to employ a lawyer, you have the right to have a lawyer appointed to counsel you, before and during any questioning.

f. You have the right to terminate the questioning at any time you want.

g. If you are 14 years of age or older and you have committed a capital felony, aggravated controlled substance felony, or felony of the first degree, or you are 15 years of age or older and you have committed a felony of the second degree, third degree, or state jail felony, the juvenile court may waive its jurisdiction over you and you may be tried as an adult in a criminal court.

h. You may be sentenced to commitment in the Texas Youth Commission with a possible transfer to

the Texas Department of Corrections for a maximum term of 40 years for a capital felony, felony of the first degree or aggravated controlled substance, 20 years for a felony of the second

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degree, or 10 years for a felony of the third degree, if you are found to have engaged in habitual felony conduct by violating a penal law of the grade of felony, other than a state jail felony, if you have at least two previous adjudications as having engaged in delinquent conduct violating a penal law of the grade of felony and the second previous adjudication is for conduct that occurred after the date the first previous adjudication became final, alleged in a petition approved by a grand jury or if you have been found to have engaged in delinquent conduct that includes: Murder, Capital Murder, Aggravated Kidnapping, Sexual Assault, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Injury to a Child, Elderly individual or Disabled Individual that is punishable as a felony other than a state jail felony, Deadly Conduct discharging firearms at persons or certain objects, an offense that is a felony of the first degree or an aggravated controlled substance felony involving certain controlled substances, Criminal Solicitation, Indecency with a Child, Criminal Solicitation of a Minor, or Criminal Attempt to Commit Murder, Capital Murder, Indecency with a Child, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Sexual Assault and Aggravated Robbery.

i. All of the rights that have been explained to you are continuing rights which can be used by you at any time.

7.01.004 RELEASE OR DELIVERY TO COURT 1. An officer taking a child into custody, without unnecessary delay and without first taking the child

elsewhere, shall do one of the following:

a. Release the child to his/her parent, guardian, custodian or other responsible adult, upon that person’s promise to bring the child before the juvenile court when requested by the court;

b. Bring the child before the office or official designated by the juvenile court if there is probable cause to believe that the child engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision;

c. Bring the child to a detention facility designated by the juvenile court; or

d. Bring the child to a medical facility if the child is believed to suffer from a serious physical condition or illness that requires prompt treatment.

2. A person taking a child into custody shall promptly give notice of his action and a statement of the

reason for taking the child into custody, to the child’s parent, guardian or custodian and the office or official designated by the juvenile court.

7.01.005 FILES AND RECORDS 1. All files and records of a juvenile court, clerk of the court, or a prosecuting attorney relating to a child

who is a party to a proceeding under Title 3 of the Texas Family Code are open for inspection only to:

a. The judge, probation officers and professional staff, or consultant of juvenile court

b. A juvenile justice agency that has custody or control over juvenile offenders

c. An attorney for a party to the proceeding

d. A public or private agency or institution providing supervision of the child by arrangement of the juvenile court order

e. Any other person, agency or institution having a legitimate interest in the proceedings or in the work of the court, with leave of the juvenile court

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2. Law enforcement files and records concerning a child are kept separate from files and records of arrests of adults and are maintained on a local basis only and not sent to a central state or federal depository.

3. Except for files and records relating to a charge for which a child is transferred (under Section 54.02,

Title 3) to a criminal court for prosecution, the law enforcement files and records are not open to public inspection, nor are their contents disclosed to the public. However, inspection of files and records is permitted by:

a. A juvenile court having the child before it in any proceeding

b. An attorney for a party to the proceeding

c. Law enforcement officers when necessary for the discharge of official duties

7.01.005.1 COMPLAINT REPORTS Whenever a juvenile is named as a subject, reporter, complainant, or witness, he/sher must be completely identified in the report to include complete parent or guardian information. Juveniles will not be referred to as “suspect” in any part of the report. The juvenile may be referred to as “the juvenile” or “subject.” Subjects will not be referred to as “student.” All juvenile subjects and witnesses will be completely identified in a supplement report. Juvenile reporters and complainants will be identified on the main report. 7.01.006 FINGERPRINTING 1. No child is fingerprinted without the consent of the juvenile court except:

a. If the child is taken into custody for conduct that constitutes a felony or a misdemeanor punishable by confinement in jail.

7.01.007 PHOTOGRAPHING 1. No child is photographed without the consent of the juvenile court except:

a. If the child is taken into custody for conduct that constitutes a felony or a misdemeanor punishable by confinement in jail.

7.02 PROCEDURES (CRIMINAL) 7.02.001 INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITY When it has been determined that a juvenile is a suspect or subject in a felony matter, the investigator for SISD PD is contacted to assume responsibility for investigating the offense. In instances when the SISD PD Investigator is not available or declines the case, officers originally assigned to the call are responsible for the investigation. 7.02.002 HANDLING OF JUVENILE OFFENDERS 1. When available, or in situations which would be practical, officers taking a juvenile into custody notify

J. P. D. personnel for assistance. Arresting officers are authorized to transfer the juvenile to J.P.D. in the field as soon as possible; or

2. Take the juvenile to the J.P.D. office. The receiving J.P.D. officer is given a complete complaint

report together with the juvenile.

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3. It is the responsibility of the officer to make proper notification of parents and make a disposition of

the juvenile. 7.02.003 FELONY OFFENDERS 1. Officers arresting a juvenile for a felony should:

a. Advise the juvenile of his constitutional rights.

b. Notify parents. If notification cannot be made, so indicate on Juvenile Offense Report.

c. Complete the necessary reports. (Complaint reports, witness statements, , prosecution statements, officer’s statements).

d. Complete Juvenile Offense Report. Mark at top “In custody”.

e. Take youth to Juvenile Probation Department, together with completed reports. 7.02.004 CLASS A OR B MISDEMEANOR OFFENDERS 1. Officers arresting a juvenile for a class A or B misdemeanor are authorized to handle the situation in

either of two ways. The method chosen is left to the discretion of the arresting officer.

a. Juvenile to be immediately referred to Juvenile Probation Department

1) The youth is taken into custody

2) Parents are notified. If notification is not made, this is so indicated on the Juvenile Offense Report.

3) The necessary reports are completed. (Complaint reports, , prosecution statements, witness

statements, etc.).

4) A Juvenile Offense Report is completed, marked at top “In Custody.”

5) The juvenile is fingerprinted and photographed and the CR-43J is completed

6) The youth is taken to the Juvenile Probation Department, together with the completed reports and the blue and green copies of the Cr-43J

b. Juvenile to be released to parent or responsible adult:

1) The youth is taken into custody 2) The juvenile is transported to SISD Police Headquarters where a CR-43J is completed and

fingerprints are taken along with a photograph

3) The juvenile is then turned over to a parent or responsible adult who are advised that a follow-up conducted by the Juvenile Probation Department, a social agency, will be made

4) Complaint report is completed indicating that the case is being referred to J.P.D.

5) A Juvenile Information Sheet is completed and a copy attached to the complaint report

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7.02.005 CLASS C MISDEMEANOR (offenses punishable by fine only) 1. Officers will have the following options regarding Juvenile Class C Misdemeanor:

a. Close the matter by completing a complaint report. The officer indicates why the decision to close the matter was made. Officers are reminded that no follow-up is conducted in this instance.

b. A class “C” case is prepared and referred for adjudication.

1) Issue citations as necessary and release; or 2) Transport home and release to a responsible adult; or 3) Transport to school and release to an administrator.

c. Warn and release, or warn and deliver to a responsible adult.

d. No written statements from witnesses, complaints, nor other officers are required when a

complaint (class c misdemeanor) is filed. 7.02.006 INTOXICATED JUVENILES 1. When an intoxicated juvenile is confronted under non-violent or non-aggravated conditions, the

juvenile is turned over to his or her parents or other responsible adults. 2. If an intoxicated juvenile is confronted under violent or life threatening conditions, the arresting officer

attempts to turn the juvenile over to the juvenile’s parents or a responsible adult only if the parents or the adult can handle the situation and the officer is convinced that no harm will come of this, either to the juvenile or to the parents or the adult. If the Officer determines that harm to either the juvenile or the parents exists, the arresting officer prepares the proper paper work for a PCO, and takes the juvenile before a Magistrate for admission into University Medical Center, or the arresting officer takes the juvenile to University Medical Center for an emergency PCO, whichever is appropriate.

3. It should be noted that for the purpose of the Family Code, a PCO is construed as an Officer or the

Department actually taking custody of the juvenile. It is therefore necessary to contact Child Protective Service immediately and to advise Child Protective Services of the particulars of the incident, especially if juvenile is transported to the local hospital

4. A report will be completed when an officer confronts an intoxicated juvenile, whether aggravated or

non-aggravated. 5. Should any problems occur with the aforementioned procedure, a Supervisor should be contacted for

guidance. 7.02.007 INTERROGATION In accordance with the Texas Family Code, a juvenile is advised of his/her constitutional rights before being interrogated. When a juvenile is to be interrogated at his/her home, parental permission is requested prior to interrogation. If denied, the interrogation is not conducted. When possible, interrogation of a juvenile suspect is always conducted at SISD PD JIS. When a juvenile is in custody for questioning or interrogation, his/her parent or guardian will be notified. 7.02.008 OBTAINING CONFESSIONS 1. In obtaining a confession from a juvenile it is required that the child knowingly, intelligently and

voluntarily waive his/her rights prior to and during the taking of a confession.

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2. When practical, the presence of an investigator is sought when a confession is to be obtained from a

juvenile to ensure no violation of legal guidelines exists. In addition the following steps are necessary:

a. When an officer takes a juvenile into custody, and intends to take a confession, the officer must,

without unnecessary delay and without first taking the child elsewhere” take the child to the Juvenile Probation Department. The intake officer from J.P.D. will review the officer’s reports to determine probable cause.

b. Once the child has been transported to J.P.D., the intake officer has ultimate control over the investigative function of the case. Once the intake officer determines probable cause, the intake officer makes a decision as to whether to subject the child to custodial interrogation (confession) by the officer.

c. If the intake officer makes a decision to allow the child to give a statement, the juvenile will be

transported to a Magistrate for his statutory warning. Statutory warning and confession forms are obtained at the Juvenile Probation Department.

d. A Magistrate is contacted and the juvenile, together with the above forms, is taken to the Magistrate. If prior to taking the juvenile to a Magistrate, a juvenile has given the officer a verbal statement the officer must notify the Magistrate that the juvenile has given a verbal statement.

e. Once the juvenile has been warned, he/she is taken back to J.P.D. as soon as possible where the confession is obtained by either the police officer or the intake officer. J.P.D. has allowed the Police Department use of their facility on a 24-hour basis for the obtaining of statements. This to separate the juvenile from any “JAIL HOUSE” atmosphere.

f. Once the confession is obtained, the juvenile is taken back to the same Magistrate, if possible, without the juvenile signing or initialing anything at JPD

g. If the same Magistrate cannot be located, another may be used. With no law enforcement officer or prosecuting attorney present, the Magistrate reads the confession to the juvenile and the juvenile sign it in his presence.

h. The juvenile, along with the original confession, is taken back to Juvenile Probation Department. The original confession is left with the intake officer at J.P.D. The officer taking the confession will obtain a copy of said confession and forward it, together with the case to record at SISD PD Headquarters.

7.02.009 ILLEGAL ALIENS 1. Juvenile illegal aliens taken into custody for any Felony, Class “A” or Class “B” Misdemeanors are

referred to the Juvenile Probation Department together with the necessary completed reports. 2. Juvenile illegal aliens committing any offense shall be referred to the proper authorities.. Only the

complaint report and the Juvenile information sheet is completed in these situations. 3. Complete processing includes photographing and fingerprinting the illegal alien offenders. 7.02.010 WITNESS/COMPLAINANT STATEMENTS Before a juvenile can give a sworn complaint/prosecution or witness statement, the officer first obtains permission from a parent or legal guardian allowing the juvenile to go to the station, give a statement and appear in court. When practical, parental permission is in writing. If permission is denied, there is no

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statement taken. Additionally, any time a juvenile is listed as a complainant in a criminal case, officers will obtain a non-consent/prosecution statement from the parent or guardian. 7.02.011 INVESTIGATION OF STUDENTS AT SCHOOL 1. In all investigations involving the questioning or arrest of a juvenile on school grounds and during

school hours, officers contact the school principal or assistant principal and explain the reason for desiring to arrest or question the juvenile. The officer can request permission to question the juvenile at the school or request permission to take the student from the school for the purpose of questioning him/her or placing him/her under arrest.

2. An exception to the above procedure is in instances where a crime, on school grounds, is being

committed in the presence or view of the officer(s). In this instance, the juvenile may be arrested and the school officials notified.

3. When a conflict arises between an officer and a school administrator, the officer will contact his

supervisor for guidance and/or resolution. 7.02.012 EVIDENCE AND NARCOTICS All evidence and narcotics of a crime involving a juvenile suspect is handled in the same manner as set forth in the Property and Evidence section of this manual. 7.02.013 PROPERTY All personal property of a juvenile stays with the juvenile and is processed in the same manner as for an adult subject. Any instrument which may be used for injury or escape is kept by the officer and released to the parent or official at the Juvenile Probation Department. 7.02.014 OUT OF TOWN JUVENILE WARRANTS 1. If circumstances indicate that out-of-town authorities may want the child, the officer first determines

whether:

a. The out-of-town authorities have issued a warrant;

b. A Teletype message is received containing all necessary information; or

c. A telegraphic warrant is received in lieu of the warrant; 2. When the aforementioned information is available, the officer;

a. Completes a complaint report;

b. Completes a Juvenile Offense Report;

c. Transfers the child to the Juvenile Probation Department together with all completed reports, warrants and Teletype messages;

d. It is the responsibility of the Officer to make proper notification of parents and make a disposition of the Juvenile.

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7.02.015 CRIMINAL OFFENSES COMMITTED BY JUVENILES UNDER THE AGE OF TEN Any time an officer is confronted with a child, who has committed a criminal offense though not old enough to be taken into custody, a complaint report is made and the child is released to a parent or responsible adult. If the offense is of a serious nature the same procedure is adhered to and a copy of the report is forwarded to the Child Protective Services. 7.02.016 HANDCUFFING JUVENILES 1. Juveniles taken into custody for a criminal offense will be handcuffed as specified for adult

subjects. 2. When the arresting officer feels it is in the best interest of a juvenile, that is to avoid undue stress or

trauma, and based on the Officer’s discretion, Juveniles need not to be handcuffed.. The officer in this situation takes full responsibility for any consequences of his/her decision.

7.02.017 USE OF DETENTION FACILITIES 1. Juveniles in custody will be transported to JPD as soon as practical within time constraints. 2. Prior to booking a juvenile into JPD, they are first processed at SISD Police Headquarters. At no time

will a juvenile be processed at school. 3. Juveniles are not to be placed in the same holding cells as an adult. 4. Avoid contact between any juvenile in custody and an adult(s) in custody. 5. The arresting officer should not leave the presence of the juvenile in his custody at any time unless

being assisted by another officer 7.02.018 SEARCHING OF JUVENILES 1. Juveniles will be thoroughly searched by the arresting officer as soon as practicable after the arrest. 2. A female employee will search female juveniles. It is permissible to search outer garments, such as

coats or jackets, and purses or handbags possessed by juvenile females. 3. A field supervisor will first clear any deviation from the above procedures, due to exigent

circumstances. 4. Strip searches of juveniles are discouraged. If, under the circumstances, it is deemed absolutely

necessary to conduct a strip search, it will first be cleared by the Shift Supervisor. Procedures used for strip searching adults will be adhered to.

7.03 PROCEDURES (NON-CRIMINAL) Officers of this department are regularly confronted with situations involving children. Proper disposition of cases, involving these children is important, as they do not come under the jurisdiction of criminal law. The department is especially concerned with protecting the welfare of children and, therefore, has established guidelines for the conduct of cases dealing with children. 7.03.001 STATUS OFFENDERS 1. Officers are authorized to take a child into custody when truancy and runaway is the only concern, but

the child is not taken to the Juvenile Probation Department.

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2. A complaint report and the Juvenile Information Sheet are completed. 3. The child is released to a parent, responsible adult, or school official in the case of truancy. 4. A copy of the Juvenile information sheet is given to the parent, responsible adult, or school official

accepting the child. 7.03.002 LOCAL RUNAWAYS 1. When a child is reported as a runaway, a preliminary investigation by the investigating agency is

conducted to verify the fact and to obtain additional information necessary to locate the child. The investigation begins by checking the child’s home and vicinity. Once satisfied that the child has indeed run away, the officer obtains the following:

a. Sufficient background information to determine the possible reasons why the child left home and

his/her possible whereabouts.

b. A recent photograph of the child for possible reproduction and department use.

c. Agreement from the parents to notify the police of new developments, particularly the child’s return home.

d. The officer relays the spot broadcast information to the police dispatcher.

e. If the child is 13 years of age or younger, and has no history of being a runaway, a continuing effort is made to locate the child. (If there is doubt as to whether or not the search should be continued or terminated, a supervisor is contacted and the decision rests with him/her).

f. The officer completes a complaint when a report has not been made prior to the officer’s preliminary investigation.

2. When a local runaway is located in the district, officers will adhere to the following:

a. Notify SISD Police Dispatch and request a runaway check. If runaway check is confirmed, Officer will request the entering agency to location of juvenile to check welfare and to cancel the spot broadcast and NCIC entry.

3. In situations where it is not in the child’s best interest to be returned home or placement cannot be

made with a responsible adult, the Child Protective Services is contacted for disposition of the child. 4. A local runaway may be taken to the El Paso Runaway Center if the following conditions are met:

a. The child is between the ages of 12 and 17 inclusive.

b. The child has a parent’s permission to go to the center.

c. The center is contacted by phone to determine if an opening exists at the center, prior to the delivery of the child by the entering agency

7.03.003 OUT OF TOWN RUNAWAY 1. When an out-of-town runaway is located, investigations are contacted to handle the case. The out-of-

town runaway is taken to the El Paso Runaway Center. The following procedure is followed:

a. A complaint report is initiated and includes NCIC information or other information on contacts made by the officer to verify runaway status.

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b. The officer contacts the runaway center by telephone to ascertain if a vacancy exists.

c. The runaway is then transported to the runaway center where he/she is turned over with a copy

of the report. 2. If the out-of-town runaway is younger than 12 years, or the runaway center has no vacancies, the

Child Protective Services is contacted for disposition of the child. 7.03.004 LOST OR MISSING CHILD 1. Parents are frequently caused a great deal of anxiety by the discovery that their child is missing.

Most are found to have simply wandered away and become lost; however, some are found as victims of crime.

2. A missing child is a person under 17 years of age whose whereabouts are unknown to the child’s

legal custodian, and whose absence is not voluntary and the taking of whom was not authorized by law. A missing child also includes anyone who is missing and:

a. Is under proven physical or mental disability, or is senile, and because of one or more of these

conditions is subject to immediate danger or is a danger to others.

b. Is in the company of another person under circumstances indicating that the missing child’s safety is in doubt; or

c. Is emancipated as defined by the law of this State. 3. An immediate investigation will be conducted and will include the following steps:

a. The identity and description of the child is obtained;

b. It is ascertained if the child is suffering an illness requiring medication;

c. The time and place the child was last seen and the direction headed is determined if known;

d. A systematic search beginning at the child’s home is initiated;

e. Notify Investigations Division of the particulars of the case. Investigations will assume

responsibility for the continuance of the case when available;

f. The search for the child is extended to surrounding buildings. If the child is not located at this point, a spot broadcast is initiated;

g. One of the parents is instructed to remain at home and to immediately notify the police if the child returns;

h. Neighbors and playmates of the child are interviewed and their assistance is enlisted;

i. If kidnapping is suspected, a supervisor is called to the scene. Note: “stranger” kidnappings are handled by Investigations;

j. If there is doubt as to whether or not the search should be continued or terminated, a supervisor is contacted and the decision rest with him/her;

k. Officers receiving a report on a missing child shall immediately have the information entered into the NCIC files as required by law. All identifying features that are available, such as dental

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records, fingerprints, physical characteristics, and clothing worn when last see, will be entered into the file. The Investigator assigned to the case will enter any of the required records not available to the initial officer;

l. Investigations Division will be responsible for the investigation of all missing juveniles. If information is developed to indicate a kidnapping or homicide may have occurred, then the case will be turned over to the police department having jurisdictional authority over case;;

m. When it has been learned that the lost or missing child has been found or has returned home, officers make verification by returning to the home and conducting a short interview with the child. The interview is necessary to determine if the child was victimized in any way during the time away from home.

7.03.005 ABANDONED CHILDREN 1. According to the Child Protective Services guidelines, an abandoned child is a child under the age of

17 years who is left without parental care or supervision. When an officer is investigating an abandoned child:

a. A full description of the child is obtained and any further information that the child himself/herself

can provide.

b. The Child Protective Services is contacted and the information relayed to the Protective Services caseworker. It is determined at that time by the caseworker whether the Child Protective Services handles the case.

c. A complaint report is made and directed to Child Protective Services.

7.03.006 SICK OR INJURED JUVENILE 1. Officers assisting sick or injured juveniles request ambulance service through the police dispatcher, if

necessary. Except in extreme emergency situations, officers refrain from transporting sick or injured juveniles in the police vehicle. Pending arrival of the ambulance, officers render to sick or injured persons the aid which is reasonably necessary and within the officer’s abilities to sustain life, prevent or control shock and prevent further harm. Any sick or injured juvenile who is not under arrest is sent to the hospital of his/her choice. If the juvenile is unable to specify a preference for a hospital and no responsible member of the immediate family is present to do so, the juvenile is sent to the nearest emergency facility.

2. All efforts are made to notify parents as soon as possible. If a juvenile in custody is sick or injured, or

if the arresting officer believes the juvenile is sick or injured, the juvenile is taken to University Medical Center. Notification of parents or guardian is made without delay.

7.03.007 ABUSED AND NEGLECTED CHILDREN 1. Definitions

a. ABUSE is defined by Child Protective Services as non-accidental infliction or threat of physical injury or emotional or mental damage to a child by a person responsible for the child’s health or welfare. Abuse can also involve withholding of needed care for the child. Medical, psychiatric or psychological personnel usually corroborate abuse. Examples of abuse include burns, fractures, bruises, welts, sprains, exploitation, confinement, poisoning, exposure, starvation, malnutrition, sexual abuse and withholding of needed medical attention.

b. EXPLOITATION of a child exists when the child is forced or unduly encouraged to participate in activities detrimental to his well-being, such as begging, stealing, exposure to immoral or

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degrading circumstances, inappropriate role responsibilities and working too hard for too many hours.

c. SEXUAL ABUSE of a child exists when any sexually-oriented act or practice by a person responsible for the child threatens or harms the child’s physical, emotional, or social development. Examples of sexual abuse include fondling, sexual intercourse, sexual stimulation, sodomy, incestuous family relationships and rape.

d. NEGLECT is defined by the DPRS as depriving a child of living conditions which provide the minimally needed physical and emotional requirements for life, growth and development by a person responsible for the child’s health or welfare, e.g., inadequate food, inadequate housing and clothing, lack of needed medical attention, abandonment, lack of supervision or guidance and unmet educational needs.

e. MEDICAL NEGLECT is not considered in the following instance: “A parent or guardian legitimately practicing his religious belief who hereby does not provide specified medical treatment for a child for that reason alone shall not be considered a negligent parent or guardian. However, such an exception shall not preclude a court from ordering that medical services be provided that child where his health requires it.”

2. Emergency Situations

a. In emergency situations, an officer does have the authority to protect the child under Title 5, Chapter 262, Section 262.104 of the Texas Family Code and also the authority from the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 6.05 and 6.06. If an officer encounters a situation he/she considers to be life threatening, the officer:

1) Due to the fact that the CPS Caseworker needs to observe the conditions present at the scene for the CPS investigation, the Officer attempts to notify CPS from the scene, and remains at the scene, awaiting the CPS Caseworker’s arrival. If, however, there are exigent circumstances, it is permissible to take the children to the nearest police facility and notify CPS from there. When calling the CPS Caseworker, it is necessary to relay the following information:

a) Names and ages of all children b) Language spoken c) Special needs (medical, food, etc.) d) Brief description of environment and/or immediate problems

b. Remains at scene and assists CPS case worker.

c. Makes a complaint report and marks it “Copy for C.P.S. ”. 3. Non-Emergency Situations

a. When an officer encounters a situation which he/she considers at the time not to be an extreme emergency or life endangering to the child, but believes the situation requires attention, a complaint report is made and marked “Copy for CPS”.

4. Referral to Social Agencies

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a. Instances when a juvenile is not in custody or has not committed or taken part in a criminal offense, but is in need of counseling only, referrals to social agencies are initiated. The referral can be accomplished by completing a complaint report describing the problem or circumstances necessitating further inquiry. The police department makes a referral to the proper agency.

7.03.008 JUVENILE TRAFFIC VIOLATORS In accordance with Texas motor vehicle laws, juveniles under the age of 14 are not issued traffic citations. 7.03.009 JUVENILES DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL 1. Juveniles of the ages 10 to 16 who are taken into custody for DWI or DUID are classified as Children in Need of Supervision and are under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.

a. No arrest warrant or warnings from a Magistrate are required.

b. The juvenile will be advised of his constitutional rights.

c. The interview section of the DWI or DUID report is given at the scene as conditions permit. At no time will the interview be held at any other place.

d. A breath test is offered and given. If he refuses, then a DIC-24 is completed.

e. The juvenile is then released to a responsible adult or parent.

f. The case is turned over for presentation to JPD.

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CHAPTER EIGHT

FIELD OPERATIONS AND RELATED MATTERS 8.00 DEATHS The procedures contained herein are designed to satisfy the Department’s responsibility of investigating and recording the circumstances surrounding deaths within its jurisdiction. 8.00.001 HOMICIDE (FOUL PLAY SUSPECTED) 1. The unit assigned by the dispatcher to a homicide, when foul play is suspected, immediately isolates

the vicinity where the crime was committed, or where the body was found. The officer(s) begin and maintain a log of those persons that enter and exit the crime scene.

2. It is the unit’s responsibility to see that no one is permitted to approach the scene. 3. The unit assigned to a homicide notifies the dispatcher as to what other units are needed at the

scene. If death has been determined, a supervisor, when available, is requested to come to the scene. Officers assigned verify that the dispatcher has notified an Investigator and the Local Municipal Police Agency.

4. When the investigators assigned to the investigation arrive, they are in charge of the SISD

investigation and utilization of the officers who were dispatched to the scene initially. 5. When death occurs at the scene, it is the responsibility of the officers originally dispatched to make

the SISD death report. 6. When and if no Investigator unit is available, the initial unit on the scene has the responsibility of

conducting the preliminary investigation and making all required notifications. 7. SISD police will defer all homicide investigations to Jurisdictional agency. SISD police may conduct

their own investigation and participate and support the EPPD investigation to any extent necessary. 8.00.002 DEATH (NATURAL) 1. It is the responsibility of the officer assigned to a death scene to determine whether death has

occurred. 2. If there is any suspicion that the person is still alive, the victim is immediately removed by a trained

ambulance crew, for medical treatment. 3. When death has been established, the investigating officer determines if there are any signs of

violence or evidence that a criminal offense has been committed. The primary jurisdiction for the location and a supervisor are called to the scene. SISD will conduct its own investigation and will support the other jurisdiction as necessary.

4. If no signs of violence are found, the investigating officer ascertains if the deceased had a significant

medical history. 5. If death occurs where there is an attending physician, the officer determines from the physician if he

will sign the death certificate. If the physician will not sign the certificate, the investigating officer makes the Death Report.

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6. The death scene is thoroughly searched for papers, letters, documents, etc., which might be helpful in determining the cause of death.

7. If death occurs within 24 hours of the deceased being admitted into a hospital and a physician

attended the death, a homicide report is not made. 8. If a physician attended the death, regardless of time span or location and the physician refused to

sign the death certificate, a homicide report is made and EPPD or EPCSO, depending on jurisdiction, is contacted.

8.00.003 UNIDENTIFIED BODIES 1. When the identity of a deceased person is unknown, the officer enters the name of either “John Doe”

or “Jane Doe” on the Death Report. 2. The investigating officer then notifies the dispatcher of the circumstances surrounding the death and

requests units as required, such as EPPD or EPCSO, a supervisor and a medical examiner. 3. The deceased is then removed by a medical examiner and taken to the County Morgue. 8.00.004 RELATIVES OF DECEASED PERSON (NOTIFICATION) 1. In cases of a natural death, or where foul play is suspected, when next-of-kin are unaware of the

death, it is the responsibility of the jurisdictional agency assigned to investigate the death to make the notification.

2. When the identity of a deceased person is unknown, the responsible agency follow-up investigator

makes the notification. 3. Regarding notification of next-of-kin, notification is made as soon as practicable. Action taken as to

notification is noted in the Death Report. 4. At no time is the name of the deceased publicly released. 5. When death notification is required, a supervisor is notified. 8.00.005 MEDICAL EXAMINER’S OFFICE NOTIFICATION 1. When the death of a person has been established, the investigating officer contacts the police

dispatcher. The dispatcher in turn contacts the Sheriff’s Office Dispatcher, or EPPD Dispatcher. The jurisdictional agency Dispatcher in turn contacts the Medical Examiner.

2. A Medical Examiner is requested:

a. When a body is found and the circumstances of death are unknown;

b. When the circumstances would lead to suspicion that the person died from unlawful means;

c. When the circumstances would lead to suspicion that the deceased may have committed suicide;

d. When death occurred without the presence of an attending physician;

e. When a person dies who has been attended by a physician and the physician does not know what the cause of death is, or the physician does not want to sign the death certificate.

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8.00.006 JURISDICTIONAL BOUNDARY LINES AT ISSUE When other than a natural death occurs within the SISD jurisdiction, the appropriate outside jurisdiction handles the investigation of the case. Chief of Police will be notified via Department memo stating the reasons as to why the case was referred to another agency. 8.00.007 DEATH OF ON-DUTY OFFICER 1. When the death of an on-duty officer occurs, the officer assigned to the case first notifies the Chief of

Police. Afterwards, he requests that an investigator from Jurisdictional agency and a Crimes Against Persons Homicide unit from EPPD or EPCSO respond to the scene.

2. When an officer dies in the line of duty, it is the responsibility of the supervisor assigned to the case to

make the notification of the officer’s next-of-kin. 8.00.008 TRANSPORTING OF DECEASED PERSONS 1. When a physician has attended a death, it is left up to the physician, or members of the immediate

family to have the body removed to a mortuary. 2. When a medical examiner is at a death scene, the medical examiner makes arrangements for the

body to be removed. 3. At no time do members of this Department transport deceased persons in a police vehicle. 8.00.009 NOTIFYING IDENTIFICATION AND RECORDS 1. When a death has occurred and ID&R personnel are requested, the investigating officer contacts the

police dispatcher. The dispatcher, in turn, notifies the ID&R agency of the known facts concerning the request.

2. ID&R personnel are responsible to their officer, if any, who is assigned to the investigation. 8.00.010 HANDLING OF PROPERTY 1. When any property of a deceased person is brought into the police station as evidence, the officer

assigned to collect the property initiates a chain of evidence form. It is the responsibility of the officer assigned to secure the property and to properly tag it by means of initials, time and date.

2. When property of a deceased person is not taken into custody, this is so noted on the death report

and the disposition of such property is indicated. 8.00.011 ACCIDENTAL DEATH 1. When an officer is assigned to a death scene where the death of a person was caused accidentally, it

is the responsibility of the officer assigned to the call to make the SISD death report, unless referred to another agency.

2. A supervisor is called to the scene of all accidental deaths. 8.01 SPECIAL OR UNUSUAL SITUATIONS OR EVENTS The department recognizes the need to deal with certain situations not encountered in routine operations, but which, when they do occur, present special tactical problems. The department expects all personnel to respond in a reasonable manner to these situations and therefore provides guidelines to aid personnel

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in carrying out departmental objectives. The basic objective is to preserve the peace and protect lives and property. Failure to follow this directive will be subject to disciplinary action. 8.01.001 PARADES Officers at the scene of a parade take that action necessary to accomplish effective crowd and traffic control, and the preservation of peace. 8.01.002 ORGANIZED MARCHES, DEMONSTRATIONS, STRIKES, LABOR DISPUTES 1. Officers remain impartial in all labor or civil disputes. Upon arrival at the scene of such an event an

officer:

a. Takes any action necessary to preserve peace and prevent destruction of property. The officer will also assess the entire situation and relay his findings to the shift supervisor.

b. If not already on the scene, requests sufficient units via the shift supervisor to effectively handle the situation. The officer at the scene will advise the responding units where to position themselves until the supervisor arrives.

c. Requests that a supervisor is sent to the scene. Upon his arrival, the supervisor will make another assessment and report his findings to the Chief of Police.

2. To ascertain the nature and extent of the problem, a representative of the march or demonstration is

interviewed separately. In a strike or labor dispute, a separate interview of a management representative and a labor representative is made. The representative is advised that force or violence is not tolerated and that the law is enforced impartially.

3. The right of the public to use the streets and sidewalks is protected. Striking employees or

demonstrators may conduct orderly picketing or marching in accordance with the conditions at that location. Officers will enforce Section 42.03 Texas Criminal Laws Penal Code, Obstructing Highway or Other Passageway, or other laws when violations are observed. The use of language offensive to public decency is not permitted. Officers will also act to ensure that school activity and safety is not disrupted.

4. The Special Response Team and any available SISD Peace Officers can be utilized if it appears that

the dispute or demonstration may become violent. Arrangement should be made in advance if possible. All requests for additional or outside assistance will be coordinated through a supervisor.

8.01.003 ROADBLOCKS 1. A roadblock is a deliberate obstruction of traffic on a street or highway at one or more selected points

installed for specific purpose. The objective of an effective roadblock is to reduce danger to civilians, minimize the exposure of the officer and still effect the purpose of the block. The authority to institute a roadblock is given to the rank of field supervisor or above. The roadblock is authorized for set-up in the following situations:

a. To perform crowd control or traffic control.

8.01.004 REQUESTS FOR ASYLUM When a foreign national contacts an officer of this Department and requests asylum, he/she is normally directed to contact the U.S. Department of Immigration and Naturalization. If the situation is aggravated, the officer ensures that the person requesting asylum is provided the rights, privileges and protection to which he/she is entitled under the law. Under aggravated circumstances officers are authorized to use that force necessary to protect the rights of persons requesting asylum to ensure their safety. An officer

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that handles an aggravated incident involving a request for asylum by a foreign national will, as soon as practical, notify the shift supervisor who will in turn, notify the Chief of Police and the U.S. Department of Immigration and Naturalization and be guided by their advice. 8.01.005 MOTORIZED POLICE ESCORTS 1. All requests for motorized police escorts are referred to the shift supervisor. 2. Requests for escorts are not granted to any person for the purpose of expediting his journey or to

provide publicity or personal convenience. 3. Motorized police escorts are granted under the following circumstances:

a. When their safety can be assured in no other manner and the protection is requested by an official request;

b. For a private or public event, such as a street parade, officially approved, when circumstances threaten public safety or indicate a serious disruption of normal traffic flow;

c. At the discretion of the Chief of Police when the safety of the public, and individual, or a group is of concern to the Department;

4. A motorized escort is provided when required for the preservation of life, without authorization. 8.02 PROPERTY AND EVIDENCE 1. It is the objective of the Department to provide guidelines to personnel who are charged with the

responsibility of handling evidence and property. 2. All property evidence collected during a shift is properly marked and accounted for and turned in with

the required chain of custody to the evidence custodian or the evidence locker at SISD Police Headquarters.

8.02.001 UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS FOR STORAGE IN THE PROPERTY ROOM 1. HUMAN BODY PARTS OR SUSPECTED HUMAN BODY PARTS

a. The Property Custodian does not accept human body parts or suspected human body parts. All parts or suspected parts of a human body are handled by the established rule or order of the Medical Examiner’s Office.

2. EXPLOSIVES

a. Explosives are to be handled in the manner outlined. It is the responsibility of the EPPD or the military EOD Bomb Squad to determine if the evidence is safe to photograph and retain as evidence. In all instances involving evidence or abandoned explosives, the EPPD or Military EOD Bomb Squad makes the final disposition of the explosive item. Investigating officers supplement the original police report with the information that has been advised by the Hazardous Devices Technician.

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3. LIVE ANIMAL

a. Live animals of any type that are being held as evidence or for safekeeping are turned over to the Animal Control Center. All of the necessary reports are made and the Animal Control Center is furnished with a copy. It is the responsibility of the Animal Control Center to release any animal held upon telephonic authorization from the Police Department when a final disposition of the case is reached.

4. FLAMMABLES a. Flammables and other hazardous materials will be stored as the evidence custodian directs. 8.02.002 ACCEPTABLE EVIDENCE / PROPERTY FOR STORAGE IN PROPERTY ROOM Only lost or abandoned property, and possible evidence that is to be used in A & B misdemeanor and felony cases is routinely accepted by the Property Custodians for storage in the Property Room. Exceptions to this rule are limited to unusual circumstances and must be approved in writing by the officer’s immediate supervisor. For example: A non-evidentiary weapon belonging to an arrested subject cannot be kept by booking personnel nor transferred to the County Jail. Placing the weapon in the Property Room for safekeeping is permissible with the written approval of the officer’s immediate supervisor. 1. PERISHABLES

a. Perishables cannot be accepted by the Property Custodians for storage. Such items that are evidence are photographed, properly described in the complaint report and returned to the owner. A receipt is obtained from the owner for all items returned. Perishables that are non-evidentiary are not to be treated as abandoned property. Every effort is made to locate the owner of such items but when no owner can be located the item will then be turned into the Property Room for disposal during the next business day.

b. The complaint report will describe the perishables, steps taken to try to locate the owner and the method of disposal. To prevent the SISD from incurring any liability, perishables or foodstuffs that are considered abandoned are not distributed to any organization, charity, or individual for consumption or other use.

2. FLAMMABLES, CORROSIVES, AND POISONS

a. Flammables, corrosives, and poisons may be turned in to the Property Room and special storage requirements will be provided as needed.

3. FIREARMS

a. When unfamiliar with the unloading of a weapon, Officer will attempt to make contact with Range master through SISD Police Dispatch for assistance and with Evidence Custodian for evidence submission, if possible.

b. All firearms are unloaded prior to turning them in to the Property Room. No officer attempts to unload a weapon with which he/she is unfamiliar but contacts his/her immediate supervisor. The Property Custodian accepts rifle and pistol ammunition when needed as evidence.

8.02.003 RESPONSIBILITY OF INVESTIGATING OFFICER- FELONY CASES 1. All property which may be related to a crime or a possible crime, or which may implicate or clear a

person of a criminal charge is the responsibility of the investigating officer. He/She properly identifies, tags, dates, initials, and transports all collected evidence to the Property Room.

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2. The investigating officer who collected the evidence originates a Chain of Evidence Form describing

the evidence by brand names, serial numbers, color, physical description, and any other available markings or characteristics that will facilitate identification of the items at a later date. Initials used by the Officer for identification purposes are so placed that they will not damage, mar or lessen the value of the items initialed. The Chain of Evidence Form is turned in to the Property Room with the evidence and a copy of the complaint report. This will remain with the evidence until the proper authority makes a final disposition.

3. Officers who receive any properties are responsible for issuing a Property Receipt to the person who

had possession or control of the property. 4. When property is stolen, as defined in the Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 38.34a, in a burglary or

a theft and if the aggregate value of property in the theft is of felony value, it is acceptable to photograph all evidence and return it to the complainant, if available, and to retain one item of evidence as necessary.

5. Chain of Evidence Form. The officer must obtain a receipt from the person receiving the property that

is returned. A copy is filed with the police report. The photograph(s) of the additional evidence is properly marked as evidence and turned in with the collected item.

8.02.004 RESPONSIBILITY OF INVESTIGATING OFFICER CLASS A & B MISDEMEANORS 1. All property which may be related to a crime or a possible crime, or which may implicate or clear a

person of a criminal charge is the responsibility of the investigating officer. Evidence collected in misdemeanor cases involving weapons, narcotics and paraphernalia, inhalant abuse (properly marked and packaged) or pornography, are treated in the same manner as felony evidence by using the Chain of Evidence and submitting the property to be stored in the Property Room until disposition is determined by the proper authority.

2. When property is stolen, as defined in Article 38.34a of the Code of Criminal Procedure, it is

permissible to photograph all items and to return all items to the owner, if available. A receipt must be issued. The photographs will then be turned in to the Property Room along with a Chain of Evidence Form, as per proper procedure.

3. In all other misdemeanor theft cases, it is recommended that evidence is collected and turned in to

the Property Room along with the Chain of Evidence form, as per proper procedure. In cases where this would cause a substantial inconvenience to either the complainant or the Department, a supervisor is contacted and the supervisor makes the decision whether or not to have the evidence photographed and returned to the owner.

8.02.005 EVIDENCE- LARGE QUANTITIES / OVERSIZED If evidence or property is so large or the quantity is such that the investigating Officer cannot easily transport it, the Officer contacts the Dispatcher, who in turn contacts the warehouse. The warehouse has trucks large enough to assist in transporting large quantities or bulky material. At this point, it will be the responsibility of the Officer’s immediate supervisor to contact the evidence custodian for arrangements to be made where to store the property. If the item cannot be stored at the Property Room, the supervisor for warehouse may allow the property or evidence to be stored there. If space is not available, another suitable location must be found. 8.02.006 OFFICER’S ACCOUNTABILITY FOR EVIDENCE AND PROPERTY The officer who withdraws evidence from the Property Room for presentation in court is held responsible for the safeguarding of such evidence until it has been received by the Court or returned to property storage. Any time an officer or any other employee relinquishes custody of evidence to a Court, that

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officer or employee must obtain a property receipt for the evidence or property releases. Copies of the all receipts are included in the case file. The Chain of Evidence is signed by the person receiving the evidence and remains with the evidence. Anytime evidence or property is transferred from one person to another, a property receipt is given to the person relinquishing custody of the evidence or property. Every item of evidence or property signed for must be included in the receipt and adequately described to permit easy identification of the items. 8.02.007 DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY NO LONGER REQUIRED AS EVIDENCE Property that is no longer required as evidence in a case is the responsibility of the officer having final official assignment of the case. He/She is required to determine if there is in fact property in the Property Room and make notification to the Property Room. The investigator or officer notifies the Property Custodian who initiates destruction or notifies the owner by letter, that the property is ready for release. The Notification to Owner letter is the only release necessary for the owner to claim his property upon presentation of proper identification at the Property Room. Items to be returned to owners must be itemized in the letter to ensure proper release of property. Disputes over ownership of property are referred to the officer who made the seizure. All dispositions on property/evidence that have gone to court are disposed of in accordance with existing articles in the Code of Criminal Procedure. Notification to owners in cases that have been presented to the District or County Attorney, whereby prosecution was declined, are handled by the Property Custodian upon receipt of official notice. The person assuming control of the property shall issue receipts for all property being returned. 8.02.008 ABANDONED PROPERTY-UNCLAIMED PROPERTY 1. All property that is not evidence or held for safekeeping, and comes into the custody of a member of

the Police Department, is turned in to the Property Room as Abandoned Property if the owner of the property cannot be located to assume control of the property. All such property is properly tagged, using the property tag, listed on the police report, and itemized on the Property Receipt form. The reporting officer is given a copy of the receipt and the other copies are placed in the Property Room and case files. Officers are not to transfer custody of property until they obtain a signed receipt for the property, either from the Property Custodian or from the owner of the property, if he/she is located.

2. When the owner of the property is known but cannot be located, the Property Custodian completes a

“Notification of Owner” letter, itemizing all property that was turned in. The Property Custodian is then responsible for mailing and distribution of the letter.

3. The finder may claim abandoned property turned in to the Police Department provided that all of the

following conditions are met:

a. The claimant is the person who originally found the lost or abandoned property;

b. After turning the property over to the Police Department, the claimant serves written notice within 30 days of surrendering the property. All correspondence must be sent to the Office of the Chief of Police;

c. The lost or abandoned property has remained unclaimed by the owner or person having right to the property for a period of 30 days following the initial surrender.

d. The property in question is not:

1) Stolen or confiscated

2) Being held as evidence

3) Burglary tools

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4) Gambling apparatus 5) Explosive in nature

6) A narcotic or drug or implement

7) An alcoholic beverage

8) Soiled, bloody, or unsanitary clothing

9) Obscene prints, effigies, media, or other items

10) A potential threat to the health or safety of the public

11) Prohibited weapons

4. Once the finder’s rights criteria described above are met, the finder must sign a release and

indemnification form stating that the individual is the original finder, and that the found property is being returned conditionally to the finder.

5. No members of this department (civilian or sworn) shall claim “finder rights” to found property,

whether the property was found on-duty or off-duty. The final disposition of property found by a member of this department shall be in accordance with Article 18.17 of the CCP.

8.02.009 NARCOTICS To ensure the proper handling, storage and destruction of narcotics evidence and to establish a strong chain of custody, procedures for the role of the seizing officer and the Police Toxicologist are established. 1. The seizing officer will mark the evidence according to evidence procedures and bring the narcotic

evidence to SISD PD Property Custodian for proper forms and transfer to DPS Labs. 2. Since all cocaine and heroin must be analyzed at the DPS Laboratory, all narcotic evidence or

substance will be marked (DPS LAB) and prepared to be delivered to DPS Labs. 3. The chain of evidence is attached to the evidence before the narcotic evidence is placed into the

evidence drop box (locker) and depository. 4. The police evidence custodian removes the evidence from the depository and follows established Lab

Procedures in handling the narcotics evidence. The Evidence Custodian is responsible for the proper management of all narcotic evidence to ensure that the case evidence is processed through the criminal justice system to its final destruction in accordance with the law.

5. Only the actual narcotic and its container is considered narcotic evidence, e.g., syringes, bottle caps

and spoons (narcotic cookers). No other larger items of paraphernalia are considered narcotic evidence even if they contain a trace amount of narcotic. Residue and small amounts (such as in a pipe) are cleaned out by the seizing officer and put into an evidence bag and turned in together with the narcotic evidence. The pipe or other paraphernalia or devices is then turned over to the Property Room together with the proper chain of evidence.

6. An officer, after completing the Chain of Evidence form, will do the following:

a. Each container or the exterior of each piece of evidence will be marked with the officer’s initials, the date and the time;

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b. Any evidence requiring special handling or processing will be handled in such a manner so as not to destroy or contaminate said evidence (example: fingerprint or latent print evidence);

c. Trace evidence and small quantities of evidence will be placed in “zip lock” plastic bags. Do not

use tape or staples to secure plastic bags or paper bags;

d. Evidence descriptions will be exact as to number. General description of item-container, type substance, color and weight if used will be approximate weight and marked accordingly (approximately one-ounce loose marijuana). 1) Example: 1 plastic baggie containing 10 marijuana cigarettes and approximately 1-ounce

loose marijuana. The analyzing laboratory using certified scales will record exact weights 7. If evidence is to be placed in the evidence locker, the officer completing the Chain of Evidence form

on narcotics, controlled substances, or dangerous drugs will have a supervisor verify the following:

a. The supervisor will inventory the evidence to be turned in against each item on the Chain of Evidence form;

b. The supervisor will ensure that each item is properly marked with officer’s initials, date, time;

c. The supervisor will ensure that each time is accurately described. Example: 12 balloons containing unknown substance representative sampling (open 2 or 3) reveals brown substance -12 balloons containing brown substance -heroin. No visual verification made or representative sampling done-12 balloons containing unknown substance –heroin;

d. After the supervisor is satisfied that all is in agreement with the evidence and the Chain of Evidence form, the supervisor will sign his name (using a legible signature) and then list the time and date signed by the supervisor on the bottom left hand corner of the Chain of Evidence Form. If there are any discrepancies on the Chain of Evidence or on the case report, the Lab Technician will not accept the evidence and it will be immediately returned to the seizing officer and/or the approving supervisor for correction;

e. In cases where there is bulk or a very large amount of narcotics that cannot be turned into the

depository following the aforementioned procedures, it will be necessary to contact the evidence custodian.

8.02.010 HYPODERMIC SYRINGES AND NEEDLES 1. The DPS Laboratory will not accept needles and syringes for processing as narcotics evidence. 2. When hypodermic syringes with needles attached are taken as evidence, they will be handled with

utmost caution so as to avoid any accidental punctures by the needle or contact with the syringe contents.

3. If syringe needles are capped during the time of seizure, the officer will not under any circumstances

remove the needle cover. The cover will be secured to the syringe by tape so that it will not be dislodged either during transport or further evidentiary processing.

4. If a syringe needle is not capped with a protective cover, the needle will be clipped as soon as

practical. This will be done in an approved needle disposal canister. Officers are reminded that an accidental contact with the exposed needle can be a potential source for transmission of a variety of infectious agents including AIDS and Hepatitis. Officers should wear protective gloves, masks, and eye wear when clipping syringes. Upon completion of destruction of the needle, the needle hub will be taped so as to cover the exposed needle shaft and to secure the hub to the syringe.

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5. Officers are reminded that the Laboratory cannot analyze the contents of a syringe unless there is a visible quantity of liquid contained within. Should the visible contents of a syringe be deemed necessary for successful prosecution of a defendant, the syringe will be taken to the DPS Laboratory for processing.

8.02.012 DESTRUCTION OF EXCESS QUANTITIES OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES 1. It is the policy of the SISD PD to destroy “excess” quantities of controlled substances, which comes

under its control pursuant to a court order of forfeiture and disposition of controlled substances, as set out in Article 4476 Section 15, Controlled Substances Act.

2. For purposes of this procedure, excess quantities of a controlled substance is defined as any amount

in excess of the amount necessary to substantiate the criminal charge filed. 3. Police personnel will follow the listed procedures upon receipt of a case involving an excess quantity

of a controlled substance:

a. Determine the total gross weight or liquid measure of the substance;

b. Photographs of the controlled substance will be taken prior to the random samples being retrieved. Photographs must reasonably demonstrate the total amount of the controlled substance;

c. Retrieve a minimum of five random samples that are representative of the total amount of the controlled substance;

d. All of the random samples retrieved must be analyzed;

e. A Motion for Summary Forfeiture and Disposition of Controlled Substance will be prepared and

reviewed by the Chief of Police. The Motion will then be filed with the District Clerk who will assign a court for the hearing. Upon Completion of the hearing, the Judge will issue an Order for the destruction of the excess evidence;

f. All evidence in excess of the minimum amount to support the criminal charge may then be destroyed after receiving the necessary court order;

g. After the destruction, personnel shall complete a return schedule of the controlled substance involved. A copy of the schedule, the original Motion, and the signed Order from the court shall be filed with the District Clerk. A copy of all paperwork will be retained by Records and by the Chief of Police.

8.02.013 ASSET FORFEITURE The SISD Police Department recognizes asset forfeiture as an important tool to combat crime. All forfeiture property will be used for legitimate law enforcement purposes and in keeping with the spirit and the letter of the law. Any peace officer is authorized to enforce the provisions of the Asset Seizure Law as outlined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and various titles of the United States Code. With these goals in mind, the following procedures have been developed for the seizure and forfeiture of property as outlined in Chapter 59 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and section 481.153 of the Health and Safety Code. 1. DEFINITIONS:

a. Property may be defined as one of the following:

1) Real Property

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2) Tangible or intangible personal property including any item severed from the land

3) A document, including money, that represents or embodies anything of value

b. Applicable Offense is defined as a violation of the law under the following sections:

1) Any first or second degree felony under the Texas Penal Code

2) Any degree of felony under Chapters 29, 30, 31, or 32 of the Texas Penal Code

3) Any degree of felony under the Securities Act, Article 581-1

4) Any degree of felony under Chapter 481 or 483 of the Health and Safety Code (Controlled

Substance Act)

c. Property may be seized under any of the following conditions:

1) The property is used or intended to be used to commit or facilitate the commission of an applicable offense

2) The property is a vehicle used in the transportation to commit an applicable offense

3) The property consists of books, financial records, bank statements, payment records,

instruction and research materials used in the violation of any applicable offense

4) The property is a controlled substance, raw material, or equipment used in the manufacturing, sale or distribution in violation of an applicable offense

5) The property is personal property, weapons, a document or money that was utilized in the

commission of an applicable offense or obtained through the profits of a criminal enterprise from an applicable offense

2. PROCEDURES

a. Any item that has been seized shall be treated as evidence and will be turned into either the Property Room with the necessary paperwork.

b. The person assigned to follow-up the case, upon receipt of the case, will take immediate steps to secure the property to prevent the owner from reclaiming it.

c. The Investigative Unit will work with the District Attorney’s office in filing the affidavits and attending court hearings as necessary. Once the property has been forfeited, the unit will secure titles to property and dispose of the property either by converting it to law enforcement use or sale at public auction.

8.03 ANIMAL RELATED SITUATIONS The following procedures are designed for situations involving animals that pose special hazard, or become a concern to the police as well as the public. In all cases involving animal bites or animals which are sick or injured, lost, stolen, found, to be destroyed, vicious or rabid, or where an owner is arrested, a report is made by the officer and a copy forwarded to the City of El Paso Animal Control Unit.

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8.03.001 ANIMAL BITES 1. When animal bites a person, the El Paso Animal Control Center is notified. If the office is closed, the

officer makes a complaint report together with a copy for Animal Control. The following information is included in the complaint report:

a. Name, address, and telephone number and age of victim

b. Name, address, and telephone number of the owner of the animal

c. Description of the animal by breed, color, and sex

d. Circumstances of the bite

e. Nature of the treatment, when and by whom given

f. Location of the wound

g. Date and time the bite occurred

8.03.002 STOLEN ANIMALS Persons requesting that a report be taken concerning a stolen animal are referred to the Animal Control Center after the officer makes the complainant report for the individual. Such persons requesting the report are advised to inform the Animal Control Center that a report has been made. If an animal is found, the officers contact the Animal Control Center to advise the personnel that the animal has been recovered, and a supplementary report is made. 8.03.003 DESTROYING ANIMALS When an animal is critically injured and the Animal Control Center service is not readily available, the owner’s permission is obtained by the officer to destroy the animal with the officer’s service weapon. Before doing so, the officer contacts his immediate supervisor to advise the supervisor of the circumstances. If the supervisor grants permission, the officer takes all necessary precautions to ensure that the action taken is done in a safe manner. If the owner is not available, the names and addresses of witnesses who can verify the animal was critically injured are obtained and entered into a police report concerning the shooting. The officer should advise the owner or person in control of the animal to contact the Sanitation Department or a private rendering service for collection. In cases involving critically injured large animals, the same destruction procedure is followed, however; it is not necessary to contact the Animal Control. The Officer will contact sanitation or a private rendering service; they in turn will contact the owner. 8.03.004 VICIOUS OR RABID ANIMALS The owner’s permission is obtained and supervisor contacted prior to dispatching a potentially dangerous or rabid animal unless such delay would expose others to danger from the animal. Animals suspected of being rabid are not shot in the head except in emergencies. If the owner is not present, the names and addresses of witnesses who can verify that the animal was potentially dangerous are obtained and entered in the police report concerning the shooting. 8.03.005 CARE OF ANIMALS, OWNER ARRESTED When a person is arrested who has an animal in his possession, the arresting officer, if unable to make any other arrangements for its care, contacts Animal Control and obtains a receipt from the Animal Control employee for the animal. In addition, Animal control is notified of the circumstances so they will

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not destroy the animal. If Animal Control is not advised of the circumstances of the owner, they will destroy the animal within six days after awaiting response from the owner. 8.03.006 ANIMALS USED IN THE COMMISSION OF A CRIME When an animal is to be held as evidence, the Animal Control Center is notified and advised of the circumstances. Entry of such evidence is listed on the complaint report. 8.04 ILL OR INJURED PERSONS When the Department encounters ill or injured persons and recognizes the need to establish procedures to ensure that proper and prompt medical attention for these persons is provided. 8.04.001 GENERAL PROCEDURES AT SCENE 1. Upon arrival at the scene of a sick or injured person incident:

a. Police personnel request an ambulance, if necessary.

b. Pending the arrival of the ambulance service, officers render to the sick or injured person that aid which is necessary, and within the officer’s abilities, to sustain life, prevent or control shock and to prevent further harm.

c. Any sick or injured person, who is not under arrest, is sent to the hospital of his choice. If the person is unable to specify a preference for a hospital and no responsible member of the immediate family is present to do so, the person is sent to the nearest emergency facility.

d. Except in extreme emergency situations, officers refrain from transporting or escorting sick or injured persons with the police vehicle. If immediate medical treatment is required, an ambulance is not readily available and it appears that movement will not seriously endanger the person, officers are authorized to provide transportation or escort services. In all cases, the officers drive with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway.

e. A complaint report is prepared. 8.04.002 VIOLENT MENTALLY ILL PERSONS 1. When a mentally ill person’s behavior is such that confinement is necessary to prevent the mentally ill

person from harming him/herself, harming another person or committing a crime, the officer obtains a warrant of commitment from a magistrate for hospital admission of the mentally ill person. The person is placed into custody and taken to RETGH where the warrant and affidavit are presented to the hospital authorities and custody of the person is turned over to them. A copy of the witness statement is also turned over to the hospital authorities when a third person supplies the originating information, concerning the mentally ill person.

2. Officers are authorized to obtain a warrant and take into custody a mentally ill person when either of

the two following events occur:

a. When the officer has reason to believe and does believe upon the representation in writing of a credible person that the person is mentally ill and, because of this mental illness, the person is likely to cause injury to him/herself or others if not immediately restrained; or,

b. When the officer has reason to believe and does believe, upon the basis of the conduct of a person, or the circumstances under which he is found that the person is mentally ill and, because of the mental illness, the person is likely to cause injury to him/herself or others if not immediately restrained.

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8.04.003 NON-VIOLENT MENTALLY ILL PERSONS Mentally ill persons who are in need of attention but are not violent nor a threat to themselves or the person or property of others are handled in the following manner: 1. An attempt is made to locate responsible relatives or friends who can attend to the needs of the

mentally ill person. 2. If advice is requested, the officer advises the ill person and friends or a relative of the availability of

hospital care on a voluntary basis, or advises them to contact their family physician for more help. 8.04.004 WARRANT EXCEPTION - MENTALLY ILL PERSONS 1. Officers who have reason to believe, based on the representation of a credible person, or on the

basis of the subject’s conduct, or the circumstances under which the subject is found, that the person is mentally ill and because of such mental illness represents a substantial risk of serious harm to him/herself or others unless immediately restrained, and who believe there is not sufficient time to obtain a warrant, may take such person into custody and transport the person to University Medical Center or other appropriate mental-health facility. The officer is required to immediately file application with the facility for the subject’s detention under an emergency Protective Custody Order. This is applicable to Violent Mentally Ill Persons and Non-Violent Mentally Ill Persons. The application must contain the following:

a. That the officer has reason to believe and does believe that the person evidences mental illness,

b. That the officer had reason to believe and does believe that the person evidences substantial risk

of serious harm to him/herself or others, along with a detailed description of the possible harm,

c. That the officer had reason to believe and does believe that the risk of harm is imminent unless the person is immediately restrained.

d. A detailed description of the recent overt acts, attempts, or threats observed by or reported to the officer.

e. The names and relationships to the subject of any person(s) reporting such behavior or threats 2. Upon representation of the application, the facility is then required to accept the subject temporarily

for a preliminary examination by a physician. 3. The department’s policy in this area is to utilize this procedure only in emergency situations where a

warrant or commitment order cannot be obtained. Further, before utilizing this procedure, the officer must first obtain the concurrence and consent of his field supervisor as to whether the procedure is warranted.

8.04.005 PROCEDURES IN HANDLING MENTAL PATIENTS 1. Two officers handle the situation if possible. 2. Time to evaluate the situation is taken and attempts are made to talk to the subject to discover as

many facts concerning the situation as possible. 3. The person is encouraged to sit down and he is kept away from anything that could serve as a

weapon.

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4. The subject is not abused nor threatened. Since the subject will most likely be frightened, persuading him/her to believe that an officer wants to “protect” him/her will make it easier to calm him/her down.

5. Anger is avoided. A pleasant attitude is maintained and “I want to help you” is repeated. 6. Any atmosphere of excitement is avoided. Any crowd that gathers is dispersed. 7. If physical restraint is required, the subject is maneuvered into an area where he/she can be

overpowered, remembering that mentally disturbed persons occasionally have almost superhuman strength. Only that amount of force that is necessary is used with injury to the subject avoided, if possible.

8. Handcuffs, when required, are placed on the subject securely, avoiding injuries. The subject’s hands,

as with prisoners, are cuffed behind the back. 9. If the mental patient is extremely violent and uncontrollable, the patient will not be transported in a

police car, due to the danger presented to both the mental patient and the officer(s) involved. Therefore, under the aforementioned conditions, EMS will be called to the scene and the mental patient will be strapped down and transported to the hospital in the ambulance. It will be necessary for at least one officer to accompany the mental patient in the ambulance.

8.05 CIVIL PROBLEMS Civil matters are common of field situations. These are normally matters outside of the Department’s authority. The objective of the Department, in answering such calls for service, is primarily to preserve the peace and prevent crimes from occurring. Civil problems represent one of the most frequent requests for police services. When answering such a call, officers avoid creating a police problem when only a civil one exists. Police must, however, be prepared for anything. An attitude of indifference to such an assignment may cause officers to become careless, with tragic consequences. To effectively perform his responsibility, the officer maintains constant vigilance, critically surveys and analyzes the situations, and anticipates the unusual. As in all police operations, strict objectivity, which precludes any emotional involvement in the dispute, is maintained. While investigating the problem, the officer exercises patience and tact, and resorts to all his skills in human relations to restore order with the least amount of friction. Officers, though professionally involved, do not become personally involved in civil problems, but advise the parties to seek advice and assistance of legal counsel or from other social agencies. 8.06 HAZARDS Recognizing that members of this Department are confronted with hazardous and dangerous conditions that may affect welfare and safety, the following procedures are established for the handling of such conditions. 8.06.001 GENERAL PROCEDURES 1. When hazardous or potentially hazardous situations become known, a determination is made as to

the degree of danger or potential danger that exists. 2. If it is determined that the condition at the present does not pose an immediate danger, the police

dispatcher is notified of the hazard and its location, an entry is made in the daily log sheet and regular duties are resumed. The dispatcher, in turn, notifies the proper agency.

3. Should it be determined that the hazard is such that immediate action is needed to prevent injury or

damage, the dispatcher is notified of the hazard and its location to facilitate immediate action.

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4. In the event the hazard needs immediate attention and correction, Officers remain at the scene to provide that action which is necessary to prevent injury or damage.

5. Necessary reports are made in the event that damage or injury has occurred as a result of that

hazard. 6. Upon notification of a hazardous condition, the extent of danger and its location, those that have the

responsibility to control the location are contacted by the Communication Section. 7. If the hazardous condition requires some sort of immediate Police action, the Dispatcher assigns

another police unit until the hazardous condition is adequately addressed. 8.06.002 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL When Police Department personnel encounter any incident involving a hazardous material or radioactive substance within SISD jurisdiction, the following procedures will be adhered to. 1. DEFINITIONS

a. Hazardous Material - Any substance or material in a quantity or form which possess an unreasonable risk to health, safety, property or the environment

b. Hazardous Material Handlers - SISD Police Department or /EPCSO personnel who have received advanced, formal training in the properly handling or hazardous material incidents.

c. Radioactive Substance - Any substance that emits alpha, beta, or gamma radiation and which may pose a risk to health or safety

d. Incident Commander - The emergency response team of the Fire Department, having primary responsibility for the specific type of hazardous incident, will assume command and control of the incident upon their arrival at the scene and their ranking officer will become the Incident Commander.

2. Any departmental personnel responding to an incident resulting in the release of a hazardous

material or radioactive substance or environmental contamination by a hazardous material or radioactive substance will immediately notify the Dispatcher of the circumstances and request a field supervisor and the Fire Department. The decision as to whether Hazardous Material Teams will respond to the scene will be made by the appropriate agencies.

3. The ranking Fire Department personnel at the scene of the incident will become the Incident

Commander and will assume complete control at the scene. When a Hazardous Material Supervisor is present, regardless of rank or agency, he will take command of all police personnel until the situation has been declared safe by the Incident Commander.

4. The Incident Commander and the Police Department will evaluate the scene and take all appropriate

actions to ensure the safety of both citizen and emergency personnel at the location of the incident. Officers at the scene will make every effort to adhere to all safety rules for dealing with hazardous material incident. These include but are not limited to the following:

a. Approach the scene from the up-wind direction.

b. Entry into a contaminated area will not be made without the utilization of all proper safety

equipment. Safe perimeters shall be established following the guidelines in the Department of Transportation Emergency Response to Hazardous Materials Incidents Guidebook for the product involved.

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c. Since some materials can be injurious with minimal exposure. Rescue and evacuation from within the contaminated area will not be attempted unless authorized by the Incident Commander.

d. Binoculars should be used to read placards in an attempt to make initial identification of the products involved.

e. Public address systems on the patrol cars can be used to warn persons in the area. Persons exiting a spill location may be contaminated and should be isolated until decontaminated.

5. The Field Supervisor will be responsible for the handling and coordinating of the appropriate police

response and the liaison with other agencies at the scene. 6. The police unit originally assigned the call will be responsible for completing the Complaint Report. In

the report, all officers at the scene will be listed by name and identification number. This will document an officer’s presence at a scene in the event of an accidental exposure. A copy of the report is forwarded to the Hazardous Material Team Commander.

7. The Field Supervisor will be responsible for maintaining all necessary documentation regarding any

other items as needed. 8. Any officer exhibiting signs of exposure such as burning eyes, coughing, difficulty in breathing or skin

irritation should seek medical attention as soon as possible from either the EMS triage at the scene or at one of the local hospitals and notify a supervisor as soon as possible.

8.07 EMERGENCY SITUATIONS Of special importance for the Department are extreme situations involving immediate threat to life and property. It is the objective of the Department to anticipate these grave situations, and to take the appropriate action that will prevent needless injury, loss of life or destruction of property. 8.07.001 EMERGENCY SITUATIONS GENERALLY Officers investigating an incident which is, or may become, of unusual concern to the Department or District, or which requires major police action, will notify the dispatcher and the field supervisor. The first officer at the scene of an incident is responsible for making the notification as soon as practicable and will maintain the scene until a supervisor and assistance arrives. 8.07.002 DISASTERS 1. The primary objective in dealing with any disaster, whether natural or otherwise, is the preservation of

life and the prevention of further destruction. When members of this Department are called upon for aid in any disaster situation, the following procedures are followed:

a. The injured are located and cared for

b. Bodies of deceased are secured

c. The police dispatcher is notified of the situation and ensures that the appropriate assistance is

summoned, e.g., ambulance, fire, or city police

d. The scene is maintained for safety and necessary action is taken to minimize further injury or damage

e. In the event of a major disaster, the officer in charge at the scene notifies the shift Supervisor to ensure that a scene command officer is designated. It is the responsibility of the shift supervisor to notify the Chief of Police and concerned District Officials in the case of any disaster

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f. When necessary, the Scene Command Officer requests the assistance of any outside agency

through the police dispatcher

g. The Scene Command Officer has the responsibility of notifying, where applicable, persons having responsibility for the location of property involved

h. Any news releases or information requested by the news media are directed through the SISD Public Relations Department. In the event the SISD Public Relations Department is not available, the Scene Command Officer will refer media inquiries to the Chief of Police. Under no circumstances are the identities of those killed or injured released until appropriate notifications have been made

i. When there is loss of life or criminal destruction of property, the required reports are made. 8.07.003 RIOTS, LARGE DISTURBANCES 1. When a large number of people come together, such as protest rallies, athletic events, strikes,

parades or peaceful demonstrations, the potential for crowd or mob discord is present. When disturbances do occur, it is the responsibility of police personnel to restore order, protect life and property and maintain the peace. Beyond this, the officer must be able to quickly determine if a gathering could become uncontrollable and take immediate steps to prevent disorder.

2. When it is anticipated or apparent that a gathering is becoming uncontrollable, a Supervisor is notified

of the apparent urgency of the situation. He, in turn, proceeds to the scene and takes charge of the happenings and units there.

3. When an officer instructs a crowd to “Move on”, it must mean everyone. If exceptions are made and

some persons are allowed to remain, strong objections may be raised. 4. Verbal abuse is ignored, no matter how personal it may become. 5. Sufficient manpower is basic to crowd control:

a. Calls for assistance are not delayed

b. Unnecessary force is not used 6. Individuals involved in a precipitating incident are removed or isolated from the area before the crowd

can achieve unity 7. The crowd is fragmentized into small, isolated groups 8. The attention of the crowd is diverted

a. The public address system is used to urge the people to “break it up and go home”. The authorization tone of the command is amplified.

b. If possible, all persons actively engaged in inciting the crowd or aggravating the situation are arrested and immediately removed.

9. Officers remain in the affected area with adequate personnel and equipment, if time permits, for a

sufficient period of time after order is restored to convince all concerned citizens that additional outbreaks are not tolerated.

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10. Officers see that proper medical attention is rendered to those parties injured in the confrontation and summon additional assistance from other law enforcement agencies through the chain of command or fire and ambulance units as may be necessary.

8.07.004 GUIDELINES FOR PERSONNEL BEHAVIOR AT SCENE 1. Ground is stood without yielding. 2. All unnecessary conversations are avoided. 3. Pleasantries are not exchanged with the crowd nor are apologies made for actions of Department

members. 4. The impression that officers will not enforce police orders to disperse, nor arrest individuals defying

such an order is not given. 5. Violators are placed under arrest.

a. Violations or defiance of lawful order is not overlooked.

b. Bluffs are not made. If a lawful order is given and not obeyed, arrests are made immediately. 6. Reasonable force is used to enforce the law.

a. Sufficient manpower does not mean undue force.

b. Excessive force is not used as this often incites a crowd that will normally be passive or curious.

7. Officers remain on the fringe of the crowd. They keep violators who have sought refuge in the crowd under observation and wait until sufficient manpower is available to pursue.

8. Officers assist their fellow officers. If an officer stationed nearby is physically attacked, the others

come to his assistance immediately. The assailant is arrested. To permit such a person to escape encourages others to assault or try to overpower other officers.

8.07.005 ARMED INDIVIDUALS 1. At times, the Police Department receives requests for assistance concerning armed individuals.

These requests may involve a person in possession of a weapon, prohibited weapon, or any device which has been altered, adapted, or is being used to inflict death or serious injury upon another. After arriving at the scene of such a call, the officer determines whether the incident is founded. As circumstances dictate, he/she attempts to remove any bystanders from the area. The primary duty of the officer is to protect his/her own life and the lives of others.

2. When contacting the armed individual, officers make every effort to identify themselves verbally as

police officers. 3. All efforts are made to persuade the individual to surrender his/her weapon. 4. The secondary objective is to disarm and arrest the individual without harm coming to the officer or

others. It the individual should use or display the weapon in a manner calculated to place bystanders of officers in danger of their lives or serious bodily injury, then all reasonable efforts should be made to disarm the individual.

5. If deadly force becomes necessary, the officer calls for an ambulance to transfer all injured persons to

the hospital for medical attention.

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6. If an individual is fatally wounded, officers request the assistance of the following specialized units:

a. Field Supervisor

b. An investigator

c. Department Shooting Review Team

d. Medical Examiner (when death is involved)

e. Additional units for crowd control, witness identification and preservation of the crime scene as required

7. The initial officer at the scene makes the original complaint report. 8.07.006 SUICIDE ATTEMPTS 1. When officers are confronted with situations where an individual is threatening suicide and where the

safety of officers or innocent bystanders is in jeopardy, the following procedures are adhered to:

a. If an individual is contemplating suicide, it is presumed the person involved is dangerous and extreme caution is used.

b. Officers remain calm and call for assistance to seal off the area and evacuate all bystanders.

1) An individual threatening suicide with a weapon is not only a danger to themselves but to others as well.

2) Officers are necessarily prepared for the unusual and if necessary ready to use deadly force

against the individual in defense against deadly force threatening officers and bystanders.

c. Assistance from outside agencies is utilized.

1) Ambulance service is on stand-by. 2) Where the situation warrants, calls are placed for aid from the Fire Department and the city

police.

3) Attempts are made to ascertain the individual’s identification and religious faith.

(a) Relatives are located and motives for his/her behavior are determined. (b) The individual’s clergyman, one of his/her faith or a police chaplain is located.

d. If, after talking with the individual, he/she continues the threat of suicide, he/she is asked whether

he/she would like to speak with a family member or clergyman.

1) If he/she refuses to speak with them, then the family is not allowed near the individual or to speak with him/her.

2) If he/she refuses to speak to a member of the family, the conversation is allowed but the

family is not allowed near the person threatening suicide.

e. After the individual is taken into custody he is taken to the Magistrate as soon as practicable if a criminal offense had been committed by him/her during the episode.

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1) The person is warned of his/her rights, proper charges filed and warrants issued.

2) Officer then books the individual into the City-County Jail on the warrants.

f. If no criminal offense has been committed, the person is committed into University Medical

Center for psychological evaluation, as per proper procedures for dealing with mental patients.

g. After the situation is brought under control, the initial officers at the scene make an original report. 2. EXCEPTION:

a. There may be occasions when the investigating officers encounter a person reported as a potential suicide. If, based on hearsay with no evidence to the contrary, officers may use discretion as to committing persons who may be, in fact, stable.

b. Investigating officers make a complaint report, especially if the person refuses to cooperate or denies the allegation, or, if the extenuating circumstance precludes adherence to the established procedures regarding suicide attempts.

8.07.007 BARRICADED SNIPERS AND HOSTAGE SITUATIONS 1. Officers learning of barricaded subjects or snipers first determine the factuality of the report.

a. After assessing the situation and determining that there is a barricaded subject or a sniper, the officer requests a field supervisor to the scene.

b. If it is determined that the situation requires specialized teams to come to the scene, the field supervisor will call in those teams from SISD PD and or other agencies as appropriate.

c. The field supervisor is in command of the scene. 2. While officers at the scene are awaiting the arrival of specialized teams and or a field supervisor, the

following precautions are taken.

a. Calm is retained with fire discipline.

1) Revolvers/Hand guns (PERSONAL PROTECTION WEAPON USED FOR DEFENSE AND are usually inadequate during these situations, and random firing may cause serious injury to innocent citizens or a fellow officer.

2) If the use of the service weapon is necessary as a last resort, it is used without hesitation.

b. Assistance is called for to seal off the area and if possible, innocent persons are evacuated.

1) If citizens cannot be evacuated in a safe manner, they are instructed by the use of the patrol

vehicle public address system or by telephone to take cover, as best they can and to remain concealed until further notice.

2) With the area cleared, the targets are minimized and the threat of personal injury is reduced.

c. If possible, the location of the perpetrator is determined.

1) Attempts are made to determine the type of weapon he/she possesses.

2) Determination is made as to where hostages are held.

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3. With the arrival of Emergency Response Teams, all officers at the scene, regardless of rank, are

under the authority of the Emergency Response Teams Commanding Officer. The Emergency Response Team Commander is the senior Emergency Response Team member present on the scene. The Emergency Response Team Commander answers directly to the Chief of Police after taking command of the scene.

4. It is presumed that any persons involved are dangerous and extreme caution is used. 5. After the situation is brought under control and any perpetrator is in police custody, the officers who

first arrived at the scene make original complaint, report. 6. In the event the Emergency Response Team is required outside SISD jurisdiction by another

jurisdiction, the Chief of Police approves such request. 8.07.008 MAJOR FIRES AND ARSON 1. General Guidelines

a. In instances where a major fire has drawn a crowd, officers first take precautions to ensure the safety of everyone at the scene. Officers discovering a fire notify the jurisdictional Fire Department through the Police Dispatcher, giving the exact location, then:

1) Determine the severity of the blaze

2) Warn occupants of the burning building and of the danger and evacuate

3) Care for the injured, remove the deceased, and call for ambulance

4) Clear traffic from the immediate area, pending arrival of jurisdictional Fire Department

equipment

5) Direct approaching firemen to the fire 2. Control of Traffic at Fire

a. After the equipment has arrived, the ranking Fire Department officer is in charge of the fire scene and might request police to assist him/her.

b. The ranking police supervisor or senior officer present establishes liaison with such fire officers to receive orders.

3. Arson

a. Officers directing traffic at the scene of a fire are reminded to be alert to detect and apprehend arson suspects.

b. If a spectator seems to be unduly excited or extremely anxious to assist the firemen in controlling the blaze, an interrogation might be warranted.

c. Officers detain suspicious persons and turn them over to an investigator for investigation.

d. Although the investigation of arson is not primarily a police function, an officer observing a fire is

alerted to circumstances indicating that a blaze is of clandestine origin.

1) Fires under stairs or at the side or rear of buildings are most suspicious.

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2) The odor of gasoline or kerosene or the presence of crumpled paper at the spot where a fire

had apparently originated is good reason to suspect arson.

e. If such evidence is found at the scene of a fire, it is brought to the immediate attention of the fire official.

f. Officers who first arrive at the scene are responsible for filing the original complaint report.

8.07.009 AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS 1. Assignments of Police Units

a. When an aircraft crashes in SISD jurisdiction a field supervisor, if available, is requested to take charge of the scene.

b. Sufficient units are responded for crowd and/or traffic control.

c. If necessary, the scene is protected and evidence is preserved.

d. Local law enforcement and Fire Department are notified.

e. All appropriate agencies are notified, Medical Examiner, if necessary, FAA, etc.

2. Action Upon Arrival

a. The first officer arriving at the scene of such an accident in the absence of ambulance units, renders such first aid as necessary.

b. In accordance with first aid principles, victims are not removed unless their positions or the presence of possible fire seriously threatens their safety.

c. After the arrival of the ambulance crew, officers assist in the care and removal of victims from the area as requested.

3. Photographs

a. When a civil aircraft is involved in an accident, officer(s) assigned to the call take sufficient photographs to portray the scene of the crash accurately. EPPD ID and R Division is requested and will be responsible for the photography.

b. Federal law prohibits taking photographs of certain military equipment, therefore, the following

procedures are followed in the case of accidents involving the military:

1) News Media

(a) Officers do not prevent bonafide representatives of the press from taking photographs. Military authorities exercise the necessary censorship of these photographs.

2) Public

(a) Officers attempt to discourage citizens from photographing military aircraft or equipment involved in accidents.

(b) If a citizen is observed taking photographs of military aircraft or equipment, an officer

reports this to a military officer at the scene.

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(c) When such officials are absent, an officer obtains identification of the photographer and

turns the information over to the military authorities when they arrive.

(d) The initial units dispatched to the scene are responsible for all of the necessary reports. 8.08 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT REPORTS SISD PD will respond to all traffic accidents that occur in SISD jurisdiction, on SISD Property, involving SISD property or to accommodate the need of other agencies when SISD property or personnel are involved. 1. RESPONDING OFFICERS

a. When an officer is dispatched to the scene of an accident that falls into one of the below six (6) categories, the officer will make a Traffic Accident Report (completed CRB-3 form) No report is needed if EPPD or EPCSO are handling the accident. Officer will obtain case number of agency handling report, along with the name and ID number of Officer handling report and provide it to SISD Police Dispatch.

1) Accidents where one or more vehicles are disabled

2) Accidents where there is any injury or fatality

3) Accidents that require an officer to make a physical arrest

4) Accidents involving an SISD vehicle, regardless of damage; a diagram is required;

5) Accidents involving a vehicle with a gross weight of over 10,000 pounds or transporting a hazardous material

6) Accidents in which any vehicle has left the scene (hit and run)

7) A blue form will be given if accidents under $1,000; however, Officer will generate a CRB-3

report if driver(s) require/request one or if injuries occur. 8) Accidents on private property under $1,000, Officer may allow drivers to exchange

information if all drivers involved agree. Officer must inform all drivers that accident becomes a civil matter if the exchanging of information occurs.

b. If an officer drives up on an accident in city jurisdiction, and determines that it does not fall into one

of the above six categories, the officer will advise the driver(s) to clear the roadway, and will cause the dispatcher to notify city police.

c. If the vehicles cannot be moved, the officer will ensure the safety of the public until the city police

arrive. Once the city police assume responsibility for the scene, the SISD officer will return to service.

2. COMMUNICATIONS

a. When the dispatcher receives a call on an accident, he will attempt to determine the severity of the accident and a police unit will be sent.

b. In all incidents involving SISD property or SISD jurisdiction, a police unit will be sent. If it is determined that the accident involving district property falls under another jurisdiction, then the corresponding agency will handle accident.

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8.08.001 TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT SISD Police Personnel will enforce traffic law outside of SISD jurisdiction if traffic violations occur in Officer’s view. Officers are allowed to use discretion when real danger to life and property occur in the presence of the officer. The officer will be held responsible for his actions. 1. Off-Duty Status

a. Off-duty officers, while in their privately owned vehicles, are as likely to witness violations of the traffic law as when on duty and in the marked police vehicles. While off-duty, the officer has none of the protection afforded by the marked police vehicle. The officer has no access to assistance through a police radio, and the citizen could mistake the actions of the off-duty officer as some kind of criminal attempt (the officer not being readily recognizable as a peace officer). b. For these reasons, such traffic stops by off-duty officers are prohibited. When possible, the off- duty officer obtains a description of the violator and the violator’s vehicle and records all pertinent facts about the violation.

8.08.002 ARREST INVOLVING DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED 1. The arrest of a person for driving while intoxicated differs significantly from other traffic law violations.

The State of Texas has a DWI law and an implied consent statute. The DWI law accepts as prime fascia evidence of intoxication, an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher. The DWI law states that a specimen or specimens may be obtained from the suspect under arrest to be analyzed for the presence of alcohol, controlled substances, or any combination of the two. Provisions for obtaining specimens for analysis in relation to arrests for DWI are strictly regulated.

2. The following procedures are observed by the officers of this Department who detect drivers

suspected of being under the influence of intoxicating liquor, controlled substances or any combination of the two.

3. From the moment an officer suspects a driver of being under the influence of intoxicating liquor,

he/she observes the driving behavior of the suspect and records his/her observations. 4. This behavior includes such things as unusually slow speed, rough stops, erratic driving, excessive

lane changes, etc., and is noted in subsequent reports. 5. Officers use caution in the pursuit and stopping of drunk drivers. They remain alert to unpredictable

driving behavior at all times. 6. A location is selected where the violator can be stopped promptly, efficiently and safely. 7. Emergency lights are used to attract the attention of the driver and to warn other traffic. Flashing of

headlights, use of the horn and, if necessary, use of the siren is recommended. 8. Once stopped, the drunk driver is not allowed to drive any further. If it is necessary under extreme

circumstances, the officer drives the subject vehicle to a safe location. The officer will secure the vehicle with the engine off and the brakes properly set.

9. The violator is approached with caution. The violator is removed from the vehicle to a safe location

on the curbside of the police vehicle. 10. If the violation occurred in another jurisdiction, the officer will take proper action according to the

incident.

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11. Actions, statements, and appearances are carefully observed. All unusual occurrences or conditions

are recorded at first opportunity. Field sobriety tests should be utilized if the officer is properly trained and certified. Officers who have not received formal training on field sobriety testing are discouraged from giving these tests as their usage could later pose problems in court proceedings.

a. The violator’s driver’s license or other identification is obtained. If it is determined that the violator

is under the influence of intoxicating liquor, controlled substance or any combination, the officer will advise the violator of the charge and the “Miranda Warning” will be given. Following arrest and warning, the officer will read the violator the Dic-24, DWI Statutory Warning. The officer signs the DIC-24 and a copy is given to the suspect.

b. If it is determined that the violator is not under the influence of intoxicants, other appropriate enforcement action is taken.

12. Breath Tests

a. All persons arrested for Driving While Intoxicated, who are physically capable, are requested to submit to a breath test by the arresting officer reading and completing form DIC-24. The form is prepared in duplicate and the copy is given to the suspect.

b. The arresting officer may request multiple tests from a suspect; however, a DIC-24 is required for each request.

c. In the event a suspect records an intoxilyzer breath alcohol concentration of 0.35 or higher than the possibility exists of a fatal alcohol concentration in the suspect’s body. To protect the suspect, after a thirty-minute observation period, and with the suspect’s consent or tacit approval, another intoxilyzer test is given for administrative purposes. If the second test result is 0.36 or higher or if the suspect becomes comatose before or after the test, he/she is taken to University Medical Center by EMS as soon as possible for treatment of alcohol poisoning. In all emergency situations, EMS is called to the scene. If the second test result is 0.35 or below the suspect may be taken to the County Jail for booking. Jail personnel will be advised of the high-test results and they may accept the prisoner or request that the officer take the suspect to UMC for treatment prior to booking.

13. Blood Tests

a. If the arresting Officer suspects a chemical other than alcohol or if the suspect is already at a hospital for treatment, then the arresting officer may request a blood test by reading and completion of form DIC-24. The form is prepared in duplicate and the copy is given to the suspect.

b. When the officer requests a blood test, the officer shall supply a department-approved blood kit to the medical person drawing the blood. The officer should identify the party drawing the blood and request that a non-alcohol swab be utilized. The officer will complete all of the paperwork contained in the blood kit and he will take custody of the kit once the blood is drawn. Blood will only be drawn by licensed medical personnel with the officer as a witness. Once the paperwork is completed and sealed inside the cardboard container with the blood sample, the Officer will transport the kit to the Texas Department of Public Safety Lab. During regular business hours, the kit will be left with the lab technician and after hours, will be placed in the night depository at the lab.

c. When the suspect is admitted to the hospital for treatment of injuries, the arresting Officer completes the Socorro ISD Police Department DWI case report. DWI charges against the suspect are left pending for review by the County Attorney at this point in time as non-arrest

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14. Urine Tests

a. If intoxication from the use of marijuana is suspected, the best test is a urine test. Form DIC-24 is not required for a urine test and if the suspect refuses the test, DIC-23 is completed. In the event a urine test is given, the suspect should void his/her bladder, then a 10cc sample should be obtained about 20 minutes later. This sample should be handled as any other evidence and it should be taken to the DPS lab for analysis.

15. Refusals

a. In the event a suspect refuses to submit to a breath or blood test, as requested by the reading and completion of form DIC-24, the officer will ask the suspect to sign the DIC-24 form in the appropriate place. Whether the suspect signs or not the officer completes the form as appropriate.

b. In addition to completing the remainder of form DIC-24, the officer will also complete and submit in duplicate (both copies to have original, notarized signatures) form DIC-23. The form DIC-23 will contain the following information:

1) A statement outlining the probable cause for the DWI arrest including the time and location of

arrest, the offense committed, and signs of intoxication exhibited by the suspect.

2) That the test(s) was requested by the reading and completion of form DIC-24 and that the suspect refused to submit to the test(s).

3) That a qualified Intoxilyzer operator (his/her name and Intoxilyzer ID# will be listed) and a

functional instrument (the number of the instrument can be obtained from the operator) were available for a breath test or a qualified medical technician (give name and title) were available for a blood test.

c. All persons refusing requested tests should be videotaped at a certified location. (for example,

EPPD, EPCSO of any other agency available or qualified.) 16. Involuntary Manslaughter Cases

a. In accident cases involving an intoxicated driver resulting in death to an individual or serious bodily injury in which death appears imminent, a shift supervisor will be requested.

17. Video Taping

a. Any suspect arrested for DWI that refuses any test requested by the officer may be videotaped prior to booking if the suspect is physically able. In addition to refusal, any suspect charged with DWI with an alcohol concentration of less than 0.08 shall be videotaped. All suspects arrested for Involuntary Manslaughter may be videotaped, regardless of alcohol level, if physically capable and the means are available.

b. Prior to beginning the videotaping, the officer shall print the following information on a label

attached to the visual storage device:

1) Name of suspect

2) Suspect’s date of birth

3) Date of arrest

4) Time of taping

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5) Name of taping officer

c. Once the taping is completed, the officer plays the visual storage device back to make sure of the

quality of the recording. If the recording was defective, it is done over. The information on the recording is included in the officer’s sworn supplement.

d. If the recording device is found to be defective, the officer calls the County Attorney’s Office, if available. The officer also submits a memo to the shift supervisor describing the malfunction to insure timely repair of the equipment. The reason for not completing the recording is included in a supplement report prepared by the officer.

8.08.003 EMERGENCY VEHICLES 1. DEFINITION: Emergency vehicle

a. Police vehicles (local, state or federal), while responding to an emergency call, must make use of audible signals (sirens) and red lights if available in order to qualify as an emergency vehicle. Emergency equipment will only be utilized under emergency situations by SISD PD Personnel and will be subject to review by a supervisor.

b. Fire Department vehicles, while responding to calls and making use of both audible and visual signals (sirens and red lights).

c. Ambulances, while responding to emergency calls and making use of both audible and visual signals. The speed of ambulances is also regulated by city ordinance. Both public or privately owned ambulances must have a permit from the State Board of Health.

d. Physician’s vehicles driven by a physician responding to emergency calls. The exception granted to physicians will apply only to the speed laws or to the provisions relating to parking or standing unless the vehicle is equipped with and making use of both audible and visual signals.

e. All authorized emergency vehicles are operated with due regard for the safety of others. 8.08.004 UNAUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLES 1. In the event an officer observes a traffic violation committed by a motorist enroute to an alleged

emergency, the following procedures are observed:

a. Upon being informed of the emergency, the officer determines the intended destination of the driver.

b. If the emergency is extreme, the officer chooses between one of the following:

1) The driver secures his/her vehicle and (along with the patient, if the situation involves emergency medical treatment) is provided transportation by the officer.

2) The driver is escorted in a safe and reasonable manner, to his/her destination. If a sick or

injured passenger is being transported, the driver is escorted to the nearest or most accessible emergency hospital. This alternative is followed only in extreme cases because of the increased hazard of two vehicles traveling together on an emergency run.

c. In the event the emergency is not extreme, but urgent, the officer might:

1) Call for an ambulance, if medical attention is required

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2) Caution the driver to observe the traffic laws and allow him to proceed

3) In an accident situation, the officer arranges for the proper handling of the previous emergency.

d. In a non-aggravated case not involving an accident, the officer assists in emergency

transportation. 8.08.005 MULTIPLE VIOLATIONS IN TRAFFIC CASES 1. Upon observing a violation of the traffic laws, officers of this Department initiate immediate steps,

consistent with the approved procedures on stopping and approaching a violator, to take enforcement action.

2. Officers do not delay immediate enforcement action for the purpose of observing the violator in the

commission of additional offenses. When additional offenses are observed, or subsequently discovered by the officer, the following procedures are applicable:

a. A major objective of effective law enforcement is to fairly and impartially enforce all traffic laws

violated in the presence of a police officer.

b. In circumstances involving multiple, non-hazardous traffic law violations, officers shall take enforcement action at the Officer’s discretion. To do otherwise, would have the tendency of giving the Department the appearance of “piling it on,” an appearance totally inconsistent with all that has to do with effective Traffic Law Enforcement.

1) Municipal Court Jurisdiction/ Justice of the Peace Jurisdiction

(a) Only when Class ‘C’ Misdemeanors are involved, appropriate enforcement action is taken

on each violation which is separate and distinct and not a necessary element of any other violation committed.

2) County-Court-At-Law Jurisdiction

(a) When violations fall within the jurisdiction of the County Court at Law or a combination of

that court and the Municipal Court, appropriate enforcement action is taken on the most serious violation.

3) District Court Jurisdiction

(a) When a violation falls within the jurisdiction of the District Court, enforcement action is

taken only on the higher offense. If prosecution for this offense is declined, additional charges may be filed in the appropriate lower court.

8.08.006 STOPPING AND APPROACHING THE TRAFFIC VIOLATOR 1. In the interest of personal safety for the officer, the violator, and other users of the roadway, the

following procedures are followed when stopping and approaching a traffic violator. Varying conditions may require that an Officer modify this procedure to meet the existing conditions regarding engineering of the roadway, traffic volume or intoxicated state of the driver.

a. When an officer positions him/herself behind the violator, he/she notifies the Police Dispatcher of

the location and the vehicle registration number and the number of occupants inside

b. Officer notes the registration number on a note pad, to be left inside the patrol vehicle

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c. Officer chooses an appropriate location to complete the stop in order to provide minimum interference to approaching traffic and maximum safety for the officer and violator

d. The violator is signaled to stop, making sure that the violator is aware of the presence of the officer and understands his/her directions

e. The signals are red and blue light, horn, hand signals, or use of siren if other methods fail to attract the violator’s attention

f. Violator is directed to the right hand curb, the shoulder if possible, or in some instances where it is safer and practical to the median. If necessary, officer may give directions on the P.A. system. Officer gradually changes from lane to lane with violator until he/she is safely stopped

g. When violator’s vehicle is stopped in an appropriate location, the patrol vehicle is positioned approximately one car length to the rear of the violator’s vehicle

h. Officer uses caution in exiting the patrol vehicle and approaching the violator. Suspicious movements or actions by the violator or other occupants are watched for

i. Officer approaches from the rear of the violator’s car, looks into the rear seat area, then stops just behind the trailing edge of the left front door. When there are occupants in both the front and rear seats, the officer might find it necessary to move forward to a point enabling him to observe all occupants. A position is chosen where the door itself cannot be used as a weapon against the officer

j. If two officers man the patrol vehicle, the passenger side officer observes and covers his/her partner from a position to the right side and rear seats of the violator’s vehicle. The two officers never approach the vehicle together.

k. The approach remains basically the same at night. Officers avoid shining a spotlight directly into the passenger compartment in order to get the vehicle stopped. The spotlight may be shined into the passenger compartment of the violator vehicle after the violator vehicle has come to complete stop.

8.08.007 TRAFFIC DEATHS 1. When officers of this Department come upon an accident, where there is a death as a result of a

traffic accident, a shift supervisor is notified immediately. If accident occurred in another agency’s jurisdiction, the jurisdictional agency will be immediately requested through SISD Police Dispatch for proper handling.

2. While standing by, officers are reminded that the scene must be protected, as is any other crime

scene. If there are any witnesses present, the witnesses should not be released until the jurisdictional agency unit arrives to the scene.

3. The Medical Examiner is notified.

4. If there is any possibility that the victim(s) is still alive, EMS will transport as in any other case. If the

victim is obviously dead, EMS will not transport dead bodies. 8.09 ACCIDENT AND PROPERTY DAMAGE/LOSS REVIEW BOARD When an employee is injured on duty, or is involved in an incident involving damage of loss of SISD Property, the completed paperwork on the preliminary investigation will be forwarded to the Chief of Police via the Chain of Command for further dissemination as required.

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8.10 OFFENSES INVOLVING FOREIGN DIPLOMATS AND CONSULAR OFFICERS Diplomatic and Consular Officers are accorded their respective privileges, rights and immunities as directed by the international law and federal statute, specifically Articles 31, 34-5, 41, and 43 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Officials. These officials are treated with the courtesy and respect that befit their distinguished positions. At the same time, it is a well-established principle of international law that, without prejudice to their privileges and immunities, it is the duty of all persons enjoying such privileges and immunities to respect local laws and regulations. Definitions: Diplomatic Immunity Diplomatic Immunity, a principle of international law, is broadly defined as the freedom from local jurisdiction accorded to the duly accredited diplomatic officers, their families and servants. Diplomatic Officers should not be arrested or detained except for the commission of a serious crime. Family members of diplomatic officers, their servants, and employees of a diplomatic mission are entitled the same immunities under current U.S. law (22 U.S.C. 252) if they are not nationals of or permanent residents in the receiving state. Associated with this personal immunity, is the inviolability enjoyed by the premises of the mission of the sending state and the private residence of a diplomatic agency, his property, papers and correspondence. Diplomatic Officers Ambassadors and ministers are the highest-ranking diplomatic representatives of a foreign government. Other diplomatic titles are Minister Counselor, Counselor, First Secretary, Second Secretary, Third Secretary and attaché. These officials are located either in Washington, D. C., or in New York City. Diplomatic Officers, their family, official staff and servants who are not nationals of or permanently resident in the receiving state, are protected by unlimited immunity from arrest, detention or prosecution with respect to any civil or criminal offense. Consular Officers Consular Officers are Consuls-General, Deputy Consuls-General, Consuls and Vice Consuls. They are also official representatives of foreign governments. Consular Officers are required to be treated with due respect, and all appropriate steps are taken to prevent any attack on their person, freedom or dignity. They are entitled to limited immunity.

Under prevailing international law and agreement, a foreign career consular officer is not liable to arrest or detention pending a trial, except in the case of a serious crime (felony offense that could endanger the public safety) and pursuant to a decision by the competent judicial authority. His/Her immunity from criminal jurisdiction is limited to acts performed in the exercise of consular functions and is subject to court determination. Identification Career consular officers can be identified by credentials issued by the State Department and by other locally issued official identification papers. The State Department credential bears its seal, the name of the officer, his/her title and the signature of State Department officials. Honorary Consuls Often nationals or permanent residents of the receiving state are appointed and received as honorary consular officers to perform the functions generally performed by career consular officers. Such officers do not receive identification cards from the State Department of the type issued to career consular officers, though they may exhibit reduced-size copies of the executive or diplomatic note evidencing

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recognition by the United States government. These individuals are not immune from arrest or detention; they are also not entitled to personal immunity from the civil and criminal jurisdiction of the receiving state, except of their consular functions. However, appropriate steps are provided to accord such officers the protection required by virtue of their official position. In addition, the consular archives and documents of a consular post headed by an honorary consul are inviolate at all times and wherever they may be, provided they are kept separate from other papers and documents of a private or commercial nature relating to the other activities of an honorary consul and persons working for him. Families of Consular Officers Family members of consular officers do not enjoy the same privileges and immunities with respect to the civil and criminal jurisdiction of the receiving state, as do consular officers. They are, however, accorded appropriate courtesy and respect. Consular Premises Consular premises used exclusively for the work of the consular post cannot be entered without explicit permission of the head of the consular post or his designee or by the head of the diplomatic mission. This permission may be assumed in the case of fire or other disaster requiring prompt protective action. Consular Archives, Documents, Records and Correspondence The consular archives and documents are inviolate at all times and wherever they may be. The official correspondence of the consular posts, which means all correspondence relating to the consular post and its functions, is likewise inviolable. Traffic Violations When a consular official is stopped for a moving traffic violation, upon being advised by the driver that he/she is a consular officer and ascertaining that he possesses the proper credentials, the officer exercises discretion based on the nature of the violation and either lets him go with a warning of the danger of his/her actions or proceeds with issuance of appropriate citation. Mere issuance of a traffic citation does not constitute arrest or detention in the sense referred to above. Driving while Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs The primary consideration in this type of incident is to see that the consular officer is not a danger to him/herself or the public. Based upon an assessment of the circumstances, the following options are available:

1. He/She is taken to the station or a location where he can recover sufficiently to enable him/her to

drive safely.

2. He/She is taken to a telephone so he/she can call a relative or friend to come for him/her.

3. A taxi is called for him/her.

4. He/She is taken home. At best, this is a sensitive situation. The official is treated with respect and courtesy. It is impressed upon him/her that the officer’s primary responsibility is to care for his safety and the safety of others. Offenses Involving Family Members of a Consular Officer Family members of a consular officer cannot claim immunity. However, consideration is given to the special nature of this type of case. A violation is handled, when possible, through the seeking of a

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complaint. The individual is released once positive identification is made and relationship with the consular official is verified. If the relative is a juvenile, as in other juvenile cases, the subject is released to the parent consular officer.

Reporting of Incidents to Office of the Governor In the event that a consular officer or member of his/her family or personal staff becomes involved in any action taken by members of the Department, the Office of the Governor is immediately furnished with all pertinent information through the office of the Chief of Police who will also be responsible for notifying District officials as necessary.

This information is supplied by completion of a complaint report and if in the opinion of the officer additional information is needed, it is included in an inter-office memo to the Chief of Police. 8.11 Use of Emergency Equipment Officers, in the course of their duties, are frequently called upon to engage in emergency vehicle operations in response to calls for assistance, life-threatening situations and crimes in progress. Response Modes: 1. Code I – Officer to respond to the call in a safe and reasonable manner, obeying all traffic laws. 2. Code II – Officer to respond to a call as soon as possible, proceeding directly to the location, while

operating the vehicle with due regard for the safety of all persons, but without utilizing emergency warning equipment.

3. Code III – Officer is to respond to the call immediately, proceeding directly to the location as quickly

as possible, while operating the vehicle with due regard for the safety of all persons, utilizing all emergency equipment.

4. The Dispatcher will evaluate all calls for assistance and will recommend a response mode to all

dispatched calls. If no response mode is given to the assigned unit, it will be assumed that the response mode will be Code I. The Dispatcher will advise the assigned unit when a call is to be Code II or Code III. The field supervisor may override the response mode given by the Dispatcher, depending on the circumstances. The responding officer always carries the burden of ensuring each response is done safely and efficiently.

5. Response modes Code II or Code III will be assigned for the following types of calls:

a. Officer needing assistance b. Accidents, fires or injuries where human life may be in jeopardy c. Crimes of violence in progress

6. Response mode Code II will be utilized in any call where a silent approach is necessary to effect

successful completion of the call, such as burglary in progress. 7. The driver of a unit utilizing response mode Code III while responding to a call may:

a. Proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign, but only after slowing down or stopping as may be necessary for safe operation.

b. Exceed the speed limits so long as the driver does not endanger life or property

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8. Only those vehicles defined as emergency vehicles by the Texas Uniform Act, and properly marked and properly equipped, will utilize response mode Code III.

9. Officers responding to calls utilizing response mode Code II and Code III will be reminded that THE

USE OF EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT DOES NOT DEMAND THE RIGHT OF WAY, IT REQUESTS IT.

8.11.001 Headlight Flashers Headlight flashers (wigwags) when installed in a marked police vehicle will be used only in conjunction with the emergency lights or siren. The headlight flashers are not considered emergency equipment, but are a device used to enhance the visibility of the police vehicle to other motorists while emergency equipment is being utilized. 1. The headlight flashers will be used primarily when the police vehicle is in motion and will be turned off

as soon as practical after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. 2. There may be situations, during daytime hours, when it will be necessary to use the flashing

headlights while the police vehicle is in a stationary position to warn motorists of possible danger. The decision to use the lights in this manner will be up to the discretion of the individual officer.

3. Officers are reminded that when stationary, during nighttime hours, the headlight flashers have a

tendency to cause temporary night blindness to oncoming motorists. Officers should utilize the headlight flashers in a stationary mode only in extreme emergencies during the nighttime.

8.12 Vehicle Pursuit VEHICULAR PURSUIT POLICY: A vehicular pursuit is an active attempt by one or more Officers to apprehend a suspect operating a motor vehicle who is attempting to evade arrest. Vehicle pursuits should always be viewed as a last resort and should only be used in response to the most serious of incidents. Both audible (siren) and visual (emergency lights) emergency warning equipment will be used when engaged in a vehicular pursuit. All units involved in a pursuit will proceed in a safe manner and only at reasonably safe speeds, depending on the time of day, weather and road conditions, and amount of traffic. This policy establishes administrative guidelines for Officers to follow when engaged in vehicular pursuits. PURPOSE: The purpose of a vehicular pursuit is the apprehension of a subject who is operating a motor vehicle in a manner presenting a clear threat to the safety of others and who has not complied with Officers' orders to stop. When a vehicular pursuit creates an unreasonable danger for police or the public, it is inconsistent with the Department's goal to protect life and property the pursuit will be terminated either by a supervisor or dispatch. INVOLVEMENT: The following can be used as guidelines by Officers to determine when to involve or become involved in vehicular pursuits as appropriate.

1. When to Initiate: Vehicular pursuits of an actual or suspected violator of the law are permitted only when the actions of the suspect present a clear and immediate threat to the safety of others, the need for immediate apprehension outweighs the level of danger caused by the vehicular pursuit, and the Officer is authorized under the Transportation Code to operate the vehicle’s emergency equipment.

2. Initiating Pursuit: The decision to initiate a vehicular pursuit will be made by the individual Officer.

All emergency vehicle operations will be conducted according to Department policy and existing statutes. All audible and visual emergency warning equipment will be used during the pursuit.

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3. Safety: Officers involved in vehicular pursuits will operate their vehicle with an appropriate regard for the safety of others. Factors such as time of day, driver experience, traffic, road conditions, weather and the appropriateness of the speed of the pursuit should be continually considered and evaluated as the pursuit progresses.

4. Number of Vehicles: Vehicular pursuits will be limited to a primary unit and a secondary unit. Additional units may only be authorized by the Commanding Officer or Field Supervisor. All other units located in the area will remain aware of the pursuit. Other units will not participate, respond to, or parallel the pursuit unless specifically authorized to do so.

5. Unmarked Police Vehicles: Unmarked police vehicles will not initiate or participate in vehicular

pursuits except in extreme, life threatening situations.

6. Police Motorcycles: Police motorcycle units initiating pursuits will follow only at reasonable speeds and will immediately withdraw from the pursuit when a marked police car becomes available.

7. Offensive Tactics: Offensive tactics in response to vehicular pursuits are prohibited. These tactics

include, but are not limited to, ramming, forcing the pursued vehicle off the road, or roadblocks (moving and stationary).

8. Caravanning: There will be no caravanning of police units not directly involved in the pursuit.

Actively involved units will space themselves at intervals which allow for emergency braking.

9. Wrong Way on One Way: Officers will not travel the wrong way on one-way streets or controlled access highways while pursuing suspects.

10. Use of Firearms during Pursuit: The use of firearms during a vehicular pursuit is governed by the Department's Use of Force Policy. Officers will not discharge a firearm at or from a moving vehicle, except as permitted under the Department’s Use of Force Policy.

INITIATING/PRIMARY UNIT RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. The officer initiating a pursuit will immediately notify Dispatch of the following information:

a. UNIT - identification and location

b. TRAVEL - direction and speed

c. OCCUPANTS - number of suspects in vehicle and descriptions

d. VEHICLE - suspect vehicle description and plate number

e. OFFENSE - the offense for which the suspects are wanted

2. The initiating or primary unit will maintain responsibility and control of the pursuit unless relieved by a supervisor.

3. Primary units will update Dispatch with changing pursuit information. Minimally, updates will include

changes in direction of travel, speed, and road and traffic conditions. When the primary unit is a solo Officer, a full crew secondary unit may handle radio transmissions.

4. The primary unit may maintain the pursuit as long as continuation is appropriate under this policy, until directed to terminate pursuit by a supervisor, or until the suspect is stopped.

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SECONDARY UNIT RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assistance will be coordinated by Dispatch under the direction of the Field Supervisor. Assisting units will immediately notify Dispatch of their involvement in the pursuit.

2. Secondary units should maintain a safe interval with the primary unit but be close enough to render backup assistance if necessary. Secondary units will not pass the primary unit, unless it becomes disabled. Dispatch will be immediately advised when this occurs. The secondary unit then becomes the primary unit. Additional assistance will be coordinated through Dispatch.

COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION RESPONSIBILITY:

1. The Communications Division, upon notification of pursuit, will clear the air for emergency traffic and notify the area Field Supervisor and the Chief’s staff as soon as possible.

2. Communications will immediately notify the Chief or Lieutenant by phone.

3. Communications will coordinate assistance under the direction of the Supervisor directing the pursuit.

4. When pursuits enter new police areas, Communications will notify the area departments of the affected area.

5. Communications will not make any field decisions in regard to the pursuit.

6. Communications will notify area department for assistance. FIELD SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY:

A. Upon notification of a vehicular pursuit, the area Field Supervisor will take direct control of the pursuit and will ensure that all operations are conducted according to policy and procedure.

B. The Field Supervisor will verify the following:

a. Pursuit was initiated under circumstances authorized by this policy.

b. A maximum of two units are involved - one primary, one secondary.

a. Primary and secondary units are identified.

b. Aerial assistance has been requested, if necessary.

c. Appropriate agencies are notified.

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SHIFT SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY:

1. Upon notification of a vehicular pursuit, the Field Supervisor will immediately assume responsibility of the pursuit.

2. The Field Supervisor will submit an after action report for each pursuit to the Chief’s Office for review.

3. Supervisors will ensure that all Officers under their command are trained in pursuit policies and procedures and that the Officers review those policies and procedures regularly.

INTER-JURISDICTIONAL PURSUITS:

1. When a pursuit initiated by a member of the Socorro ISD Police Department continues outside city limits, the primary unit will notify Dispatch. Dispatch will request assistance from appropriate agencies. Field Supervisors will determine whether to continue the pursuit. Arrests will be handled by the agency having jurisdiction.

2. Pursuits will not continue across international boundaries. PURSUITS INITIATED BY OUTSIDE AGENCY:

1. When pursuits initiated by outside agencies cross into or are initiated in the jurisdiction of the Socorro ISD Police Department, the initiating agency will maintain responsibility for the pursuit. Department Officers will not become directly involved unless: 1) the suspect vehicle presents an immediate threat to the safety of others, 2) assistance is specifically requested by the pursuing agency, and 3) a Department Supervisor authorizes the action.

2. No more than one Socorro ISD Police Department unit may be involved at a time. When more than one unit is involved from an outside agency or a combination of agencies, Department Officers may not become involved. This prohibits paralleling the pursuit.

3. Officers of this Department will not take control of pursuits initiated by other agencies, will not

assume primary position in their pursuits, and will not continue to pursue when the initiating agency terminates pursuit.

TERMINATION OF VEHICULAR PURSUIT: A pursuit will be terminated under any of the following circumstances:

1. In the opinion of the pursuing Officer or a Field Supervisor, the pursuit creates a clear and unreasonable danger to Officers or the public.

2. The suspect has been sufficiently identified for later apprehension and termination of the pursuit will not pose an immediate threat to the life or safety of any person.

3. Traffic, road or environmental conditions present the need to discontinue pursuit for safety

reasons.

4. There is a reasonable belief that the fleeing vehicle is being operated by a juvenile and termination of the pursuit will not pose an immediate threat to the life or safety of any person.

PRIMARY UNIT: The patrol unit receiving the assignment from Dispatch is referred to as the “Primary Unit.” When an incident occurs where units were not initially dispatched, the first responding unit is the “primary unit.” The primary unit is generally responsible for completing necessary reports.

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8.13 WARRANTS The department recognizes the necessity for a uniform and practical means of recording and controlling the flow of warrants and therefore establishes procedures to guide the actions of members of the Department in handling warrants. 8.13.001 NOTIFICATION OF SUPERVISORS Before an arrest or search warrant is obtained, an officer contacts his immediate supervisor. The supervisor or others designated by the Chief of Police must approve any arrest or detention prior to it being initiated. 8.13.002 WARRANTS OF ARREST When an arrest warrant is obtained from a Magistrate, the complaint form is left with the issuing Magistrate when requested. 8.13.003 ISSUANCE OF MUNICIPAL COURT/JUSTICE OF THE PEACE WARRANT NUMBERS Municipal Court or Justice of the Peace Warrant numbers are issued by this Office or the Sheriff’s booking section. The location that is utilized will be at the discretion of the arresting officer. The following procedures will be adhered to: 1. General Guidelines: Warrant numbers for Municipal Court warrants will be issued by the clerk at the

Warrant Office or the Justice of the Peace. Police personnel may utilize either location to obtain the warrant number for booking process

2. Issuance of Warrant Numbers by the Warrant Office: A warrant number logbook for Municipal Court is

maintained in the Warrant Office located at 100 N. Overland. Police personnel will be required to supply the clerk for the Warrant Office a completed affidavit and signed warrant before a warrant number can be assigned.

3. Issuance of Warrant Numbers by the Sheriff’s Department: A warrant number log book is maintained

by the Sheriff’s Department personnel in the booking section of the County Jail as under the present system.

4. Warrant Numbers by Phone: No warrant numbers will be issued over the telephone either by the

Warrant Office or by the Justice of the Peace. All Police personnel will be required to submit the paperwork to the clerk who will be responsible for placing the warrant number on the affidavit, magistrate warning, and warrant.

Exception: The only exception to Section 4 is that the warrant number may be issued over the phone for an Emergency Detention Order. In those instances, the clerk at the Warrant Office may issue the warrant number. 8.13.004 EXECUTING ARREST WARRANT – DUE DILIGENCE When a felony arrest warrant is obtained, the assigned investigating officer makes a systematic, continuous effort to apprehend the subject. The fact that another division of the Department is responsible for the attempt to execute a warrant does not relieve any officer from his duty to arrest warrant subjects as soon as possible.

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8.13.005 OFFICER’S RESPONSIBILITY An investigating Officer securing any type of warrant on a suspect not in custody indicates on the Warrant Information Sheet that the suspect is “possibly armed” or “combative” when the suspect has a prior history of being armed or combative toward police. 8.13.006 REGISTERING OF WARRANTS IN NCIC/TCIC AND WARRANT OFFICE 1. No warrants will be entered into NCIC/TCIC without the express approval of the Chief of Police or his/her Designee 2. If the search for the subject named in the warrant is inconclusive, the investigating officer will return

the warrant to the issuing warrant office (municipal or Justice of the Peace).. 8.13.007 REGISTERING OF WARRANTS (CLASS “C” MISDEMEANOR) The Municipal court clerk registers all Municipal Court warrants with the warrant Office. 8.13.008 SIGN OUT AND RETURN 1. All outstanding warrants remain in the secured area designated by the Chief of Police to house

warrant on file until the suspect is in custody to be booked or until a Court Order (written only) has been received by the Courts to cancel or return the warrant to the court.

2. The arresting officer, after executing the warrant, documents any required information on the back of

the warrant and endorses it as required. The arrest warrant remains at the Booking Desk, together with the suspect.

3. In the event the Warrant is not executed and unable to be returned to the secured area designated by

the Chief of Police to house warrants, the officer leaves the unexecuted warrant with the Shift Supervisor. The supervisor then is responsible for the return of the warrant to the Warrant Office as soon as possible.

4. The officer responsible for the case will remove the NCIC entry, if any. 8.13.009 WHEN REPORTS ARE REQUIRED ON WARRANTS When an officer executes an SISD warrant, he obtains the case number and makes an Offense Report upon execution of the warrant. If the warrant is from another jurisdiction, he completes a complaint report detailing the arrest and warrant service. 8.13.010 WARRANT CHECK ON SUBJECTS IN CUSTODY When an officer effects an arrest for any offense, it is required that the officer checks for, and executes, any outstanding arrest warrant(s) prior to booking them into the County Jail. 8.13.011 NCIC HITS When an officer arrests a suspect on an NCIC “Hit” that originated outside this Department, the procedures listed below to be followed: 1. The officer verifies the suspect’s identification with the Dispatcher and is advised of the outstanding

warrant of the subject by the outside agency. 2. The dispatcher and a Supervisor decipher the teletype and make an additional copy for the arresting

officer, advising what the subject is wanted for and by what agency.

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3. The officer places the subject under arrest and follows proper handcuffing procedure. If any doubt as

to the subject’s identity or information as to the charge or agency exists, the officer contacts his/her immediate supervisor for advice.

4. The Officer transports the subject to the area station, advising a supervisor of the circumstances. 5. The officer goes to Dispatch where the copy of the teletype is collected by the officer and a

confirmation teletype message to the appropriate agency is sent, advising the subject is in custody and if extradition of the subject is requested by the outside agency.

6. The officer may place a long distance call, utilizing the correct Departmental Procedure, to the outside

originating agency to clarify, collect or disclose any information necessary for the case. 7. If the NCIC Warrant is from within the State of Texas, the officer prepares a Complaint Report entitled

“Wanted Subject”. It is necessary to complete Fugitive from Justice Warrant. The subject is taken before a Magistrate for warning then booked into the County Jail on the copy of the teletype which is attached to the Complaint Report.

8. If the NCIC Want is from outside the State of Texas, the officer prepares a Complaint Report entitled

“Fugitive from Justice” (Specific Warrant Number listed on the Teletype, State, and Authority of Issuance). The officer completes the appropriate Affidavit and Warrant Forms and the subject is taken before a Magistrate for formal warning. The subject is then booked into County jail on a Fugitive from Justice Charge.

8.13.012 SEARCH WARRANTS When obtaining a Search Warrant, officers will comply with Article 18, Code of Criminal Procedure. It is advisable to contact the District Attorney’s Office for advice prior to obtaining the Search Warrant, if at all possible. 8.13.013 RETURN OF SEARCH WARRANTS After a search warrant has been executed, a copy of the warrant and affidavit are forwarded to department administration to be filed with the case. In addition, the original warrant is returned to the issuing Magistrate. 8.14 VEHICLES, INVENTORY AND STORAGE Vehicles may be impounded and inventoried when circumstances justify and as prescribed by law. The Department recognizes the importance of so doing in a manner that is uniform and mindful of the rights of the concerned property owner. Procedures are established to guide employee action, notification of a Field Supervisor and the Chief of Police before initiating this action. 8.14.001 WHEN VEHICLES ARE IMPOUNDED Vehicles are impounded in the following situations as permitted by law: 1. From accident scenes 2. Illegally parked vehicles 3. Abandoned vehicles on school district property 4. Subsequent to the arrest of drivers

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5. Stolen vehicles 6. Vehicles constituting a traffic hazard 7. Upon order of a Magistrate No vehicles will be impounded without the approval of the Chief of Police or his designee. 8.14.002 REQUEST FOR WRECKER SERVICE 1. Requests for wrecker service are routed through the field supervisor and the police dispatcher. When

the request is made on behalf of a citizen, the dispatcher is advised that such request is a “Private Call”. The wrecker service is decided by the driver as a “Private Tow”.

2. A vehicle impound slip is completed for all vehicles stored by an officer. SISD Police Services

Dispatch is notified so that they may log the vehicle in case it is later reported as stolen. This information must be passes on to oncoming shift.

3. Appropriate reports are made when officers store vehicles through the wrecker service. 8.14.003 INVENTORY OF VEHICLES 1. When a vehicle is to be impounded, inventory the contents of the vehicle listing all the property on the

impound form. Open all vehicle compartments and all closed containers that can be opened without causing physical damage to the compartment or container and inventory the contents.

2. If a compartment or closed container, which cannot be opened without causing physical damage to

the compartment or container, appears likely to contain valuable property, perishable property, or property which may cause physical danger to police or other persons, or damage to property contact a supervisor. For action taken, the responsibility will then rest on the Supervisor.

3. Upon being so contacted, the supervisor shall determine whether the compartment or container

should be opened despite the likelihood of damage, so as to protect the department from: claims of loss; theft; or damage to property contained in the closed compartment or container; to protect police of this public from danger, and/or to preserve perishable goods.

4. Record the name of the supervisor contacted, the time of contact, and the supervisor’s instructions on

the Police report. Record any damage to any container or to the vehicle during the course of the inventory.

5. Property readily transportable with the owner of driver of the vehicle is to be sent with the owner or

driver, be it to jail, hospital, etc. When the property in a vehicle is large or too numerous it is to be inventoried and sent to the property room or other location as required. If an officer cannot make a complete inventory of the property the reason is to be noted in the report.

6. In cases involving commercial freight or large amounts of materials or perishable items the

investigating officer is not to separate the driver until a representative from the business or agency had been notified and advised. It is then the responsibility of the firm to instruct as to disposition of the materials and/or vehicle.

8.14.004 POLICE HOLD 1. Officers placing a “Police Hold” on a vehicle indicate the reason for the police hold in the body of the

report.

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2. Requests for the release of any impounded vehicle without payment of towing and/or storage fee is not authorized by the respective shift supervisor. If the towing company is a private business, then the towing and storage fees will be determined by the towing company utilized.

8.14.005 ACCIDENT OR ILLEGALLY PARKED VEHICLES Officers impounding illegally parked vehicles or vehicles involved in accidents make appropriate reports as soon as possible. Included in the report is all available information on the vehicle and the circumstances requiring its impoundment. Illegally parked vehicles will not be towed or impounded without permission from the Chief of Police or his Designee. 8.14.006 ABANDONED VEHICLES 1. An officer investigating an abandoned vehicle on District Property, that is in a non-hazardous position

and is not wanted by the department, does not store the vehicle. Officers utilize the warning sticker by filling out the prescribed information, leaving part I attached to the vehicle. The remainder is sent to records. Under normal circumstances, a complaint Report is not completed. The action will at least, be documented on the police officer’s log.

2. There may be occasions when; after an attempt to locate the owner of an apparent abandoned

vehicle is unsuccessful, the vehicle is being vandalized, or if in the officer’s opinion the vehicle needs to be safeguarded. The vehicle may be stored at that time for safekeeping as directed by the Chief of Police, his Designee, or the Supervisor. A complaint report is made and Dispatch is notified.

8.14.007 RECOVERED STOLEN VEHICLES When an officer recovers a stolen vehicle, the officer makes a Stolen Vehicle recovery report if it is an Socorro ISD Police Department case and there is an existing case number. Otherwise, a number one report shall be made and the originating agency that entered the vehicle as stolen shall be listed as the complainant. On all recovered vehicles, EPPD or EPCSO is contacted and a request for ID&R services is made. The jurisdictional officer also inventories the vehicle and fills out an impound slip and a copy is given to the wrecker driver.

1. SISD Police Officer will impound the stolen vehicle for safety reasons only if the entering agency does not impound the vehicle.

8.14.008 FOR EVIDENTIARY PURPOSES AND SUBSEQUENT TO AN ARREST Impounding vehicles for evidentiary purposes or subsequent to the arrest of the driver are followed as soon as possible by appropriate reports. Included in the reports is all available information on the vehicle and the circumstances causing the impoundment. Any contraband or evidence of a crime found in the vehicle is tagged and turned into the Property Room. In the case of narcotics being found, the evidence is tagged and turned in for preparation and transfer to DPS Lab. 1. In cases where the vehicle is clearly not evidentiary and in certain situations (notably minor

misdemeanors) it is permissible for officers to adhere to the following procedure regarding the arrest of the operator of the vehicle:

a) When the operator and the officer agree, in writing, that the vehicle not be stored, it is not.

However, it is emphasized that this is done IN WRITING, to release the officer and the Department from liability.

b) If, instead of leaving the vehicle properly parked (unattended), it is agreed that the vehicle be left

in the custody of another individual, the following provisions necessarily apply: the person is present at the time of the arrest, the person is properly licensed to operate the type of vehicle

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concerned, and the person is (in the officer’s opinion) mentally and physically capable of operating the vehicle.

c) Officers utilize the department form, Release From Liability, to effect these purposes.

8.15 SPECIALIZED UNITS To accomplish the police purpose, it is necessary to enlist specialized units. The Department realizes the importance of these units and therefore makes provisions for their deployment and implementation. 8.15.001 SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM (SRT) The Socorro SISD Police Services will develop and maintain a Special Response Team (SRT). The team will be deployed in the event of any critical incident. The SRT Supervisor will ensure that one team member will be assigned to each of the district feeder patterns. Only the Chief of Police or the Chief’s designee will determine if the Special Response Team will or can be activated or deployed. 8.15.002 SPECIAL OPERATIONS Special operation units will be established if deemed necessary by the Chief of Police. These units may be temporary or long term in duration. The Chief of Police will direct the establishment of operation policies and guidelines as necessary. 8.15.003 POLICE CANINE UNIT 1. Purpose

To provide legal and logistical guidelines for the deployment of SISD PD Law Enforcement Contraband Detector Dog Teams. a. Develop criteria that will guide the property administrators/managers of these locations to be

searched. Introduce these guidelines and customize as needed. b. Develop and implement a search schedule for the District properties that will be searched.

Ensure confidentiality of this information and disseminate only to those that have a need to know.

c. Develop and implement a Random sniff program. Ensure confidentiality of this information and disseminate only to those that have a need to know.

2. Policy Statement

The community relations value of the Canine Team is well known. Few branches of the Police Department inspire more interest among people of all ages than the Police dog and handler team. Properly presented to the public, the canine program is welcome and appreciated. The program epitomizes the high standards of courage and security that most citizens value. It is the goal of the SISD Police Canine Unit to represent the SISD Police Department on all occasions in a manner to reflect credit on themselves and the Department.

3. Policy:

a. Administration of the Canine Unit: All administrative requirements, including daily worksheets and any requests, will be forwarded to

the Canine Officer’s immediate supervisor and dispersed through the chain of command as required.

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b. Selection of a canine officer:

1) Departmental personnel desiring assignment will submit an inter-office request through

the chain of command.

2) The applicant must reside in home which provides sufficient yard space for the dog.

3) Supervisors will select the Officer most suited for the assignment and make this recommendation to the Chief of Police who shall appoint the Canine Officer.

c. Use of officer canine unit

1) Detection of contraband.

2) Canine units should not be limited to these situations only, but used in accordance with the Department policy for general police service.

3) In addition to the Canine Officers, other Patrol Officers should be trained in proper canine

handling and canine obedience in order to be capable of controlling the police canine in the event that the canine’s handler should become injured or incapacitated.

d. Use of canine units:

1) The Canine Handler will maintain under full control at all times.

2) Each Canine Officer will be required to utilize a report and/or supplement in each case

involving reportable incidents, particularly those cases where the canine was instrumental in making the capture or recovery of material.

3) Canines will be secured for their own safety and the safety of others when not

accompanied by the handler.

4) No one will be permitted to tease or antagonize the canine or attempt to touch the canine without the Canine Officer’s consent (authorized training excepted)

5) Canine handlers will not demonstrate the canine’s training abilities to individuals or

groups except upon authority of the supervisor or Instructor.

6) Canine Officers will avoid areas of inflammatory situations such as areas of lawful assembly, picket lines, student gatherings, disturbances and riot situations.

7) The Canine Officers must be completely aware of their canine’s state of training and

abilities, so far as to be able to use the canines abilities to the fullest, and to avoid attempting to use the canine beyond his capabilities that might cause injury to the canine or others.

8) When a Canine Officer is requested at a scene, the situation will be explained fully to

them by the officer making the request.

9) In the absence of a supervisor at the scene, the Canine Officer will be responsible for determining the canine utilization.

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2. Procedure:

a. The handler will report to the property administrator/manager and inform him/her that the property has been scheduled to be sniffed. The handler will ask if there is anything in particular the administrator/manager would like done and make every attempt to comply.

b. The handler will request that a property staff member or security be assigned to escort.

c. The handler will have the property manager or security sign the Olfactory Inspection Form.

d. The handler will conduct the K9 Sniff of the property.

e. In the event the canine team has an alert and the suspected presence of an illegal substance the

canine is trained to detect, the alert and the location of the suspected substance will be communicated to the property escort.

f. The handler will then conduct an investigation into the possible presence of the illegal substance.

This can be accomplished through a joint effort by the handler, a property representative or security.

g. When an illegal substance is located, the handler will assume jurisdictional authority and take the

evidence and any available suspects into custody. The handler will at all times follow established police procedure.

h. If the K9 Sniff yields no finds, the handler will complete the Olfactory Inspection Form and provide

a copy to the Property Administrator/Manager.

i. The handler will make the appropriate entry on his/her K9 Patrol Log. If the handler is enroute to another search location, the handler will call dispatch once he/she has arrived at the new location to be sniffed..

8.15.004 HAZARDOUS DEVICE TECHNICIANS (BOMB THREATS) 1. Officers do not touch, handle or transport any suspected explosive material, but confine their activity

to protecting the area and contacting appropriate disposal personnel. 2. Officers are reminded that energy transmitted from the police radio may detonate electric blasting

caps and use of the radio is avoided within 300 yards of any suspected device. 3. When a bomb threat has been reported to the police, certain procedures are followed 4. A police unit is assigned as quickly as possible. 5. On arrival, the officer locates the person in charge and the person who received the threat and

thoroughly interviews that person to gain as much information as possible before a search is made. The officer should strive to determine:

a) Exact words of threat; b) Name and address of person making the threat, if known; c) Circumstances surrounding the threat (motive); d) Description of voice of person making threat; e) Description of background noises during threat;

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f) Date and time threat was received; g) If the threat is in note form, it is handled in the same manner as evidence; h) Name of person who gave authority to search and/or to terminate searching the premises.

6. Whether the premises will be wholly or partially vacated is left solely up to the owner or person in

charge of the premises unless a clear and present danger compels the officer to evacuate for public safety reasons.

7. A search is made of the premises, if so requested by the person in charge, using a volunteer force of

persons most familiar with the area to be searched. The officer advises these volunteers not to touch or handle any suspected hazardous devices.

8. A search is orderly and begins where private places are accessible to the public, such as rest room,

storerooms, etc. 9. The searchers are advised to look for any unusual item that seems out of place, such as boxes, lunch

kits, or any container for which no one can account. 10. Searchers do not stop searching when an unusual item is located because there might possibly be

more items found. 11. Should a search reveal an object not accounted for, the officer writes a complete offense report,

paying special attention to the actual wording of the threat. If no suspected explosive is found, it is the responsibility of the complainant or the person in charge to return the premises to public access. It is not the responsibility of the officer to order the resumption of operation on the premise.

12. If a package or other item cannot be identified as belonging in an area, the officer does not touch or

allows nobody else to touch it. The officer will contact his supervisor and inform him of the situation. 13. ONLY Hazardous Device Technicians handle explosive items. In the event that a hazardous device is

discovered, the dispatcher will contact EPPD and the FT. Bliss Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (EOD).

14. If no clear and present danger exists, but a threat has been received, evacuation is made only with

the consent of the person in charge of the premises. 15. If no evacuation is decided upon, the area is evacuated quietly and cautiously. Persons leaving the

area are not left near glass windows or within approximately 300 feet of the premises. 16. The area is secured from intrusion by use of barricades or personnel. When called upon to assist

officers in the field, the senior HDT Officer present is in complete charge of the scene and/or incident, and is assisted in any manner requested by officers on the scene (regardless of rank).

17. The officer originally dispatched to the scene prepares the complaint report with other officers making

sworn statements. 18. Radio Active Materials,-Though no nuclear power plants of the breeder/reactor type exist in the

greater El Paso area, there are many potential sources of irradiation that might create a public health hazard.

19. Suspected or known radioactive materials are not handled, and are isolated if possible. The Fire

Department and EPPD or EPCSO are contacted immediately. A complete log should be established to record the extent of exposure or contact all persons have experienced with suspected material.

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8.15.005 LOCATING SUSPECT EXPLOSIVE DEVICES AND EXPLOSIVE DEVICES

INVESTIGATION 1. The investigation section of the SISD Police Department will be responsible for all follow-up

investigations of all bomb threats, information on a bomb, hoax bomb located explosives or explosive devices and explosions caused by an explosive device. With this policy in mind, the following procedures will be adhered to:

a. If a suspected device is located, a determination is made as to the existence of a clear and

present danger. b. No suspected device or explosive material is touched, and use of the police radio within 300

yards (900 feet) is prohibited. c. If a clear and present danger exists, the premises are evacuated in as orderly a fashion as

possible. When possible, persons are not advised as to the reason they are being evacuated, so as to minimize panic.

d. The police dispatcher is advised to contact EPPD, apprise of the situation and request their

assistance at the scene. e. Citizens are protected from the device and the area is secured to protect property. f. Regardless of rank, the Hazardous Devices Technician from EPPD is in command of the scene

and all officers present will render assistance as requested. g. Once the explosive device has been rendered safe, the Hazardous Devices Technicians will carry

out collection of any evidence of bomb components. h. The first unit assigned to the scene will be responsible for completing the complaint report. The

investigator for all devices will conduct the follow-up investigation and he will render all assistance necessary to Fire Department, EPPD, and other agency investigators as required.

2. TRAFFIC ACCIDENT INVOLVING EXPLOSIVES WITHIN RANGE OF AN SISD FACILITY

a. Officers keep all persons at a safe distance;

b. The dispatcher is notified by telephone and assistance requested; c. Officers request standby assistance from the Fire Department and EMS;

d. Officers investigating such incidents complete a complaint report.

8.15.006 CRIME SCENE SEARCH UNIT 1. ASSIGNMENT AND AVAILABILITY 2. Crime scene search units are available at various local agencies. When required, the field supervisor

will make the determination on which agency to call.

a. The Crime Scene Search Unit is requested whenever the requirements for crime scene search and evidence collection, in the opinion of a field supervisor, exceed the capabilities of the Department.

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b. All requests for the Crime Scene Search Unit are routed through the field supervisor and police dispatcher.

c. If special equipment is needed, that information must be included with the call for service.

3. CRIME SCENE SECURITY

a. It is the responsibility of the Officer calling for a Crime Scene Search unit to ensure the integrity of the scene, by the best method available, prior to the arrival of the Crime Scene Unit or until crime scene processing is complete. Under most circumstances, the requesting Officer will remain on the scene to advise the unit’s officer of the known particulars of the case. Entrance to the crime scene will be held to the absolute minimum required to save lives and protect property. A supervisor will take charge of all major crime scenes. The supervisor may, at any time, transfer command of the incident to another officer.

b. Upon arrival of the Crime Scene Search Unit, the senior-most Crime Scene Search Unit Officer

will be in complete control of the scene. All Department personnel will cooperate with the Crime Scene Search Unit if they are called to a scene.

c. Should a Crime Scene Search Officer require the assistance of a patrol unit during the

investigation of the scene, such assistance will be provided. d. Close coordination between the Crime Scene Unit and any criminal investigation will be

maintained. Investigating officers will be permitted to view the scene prior to the removal of any evidence.

e. The officer in charge of the call will ensure that a crime scene log is kept for all major crimes

being investigated by this Department. The log will identify all persons granted access to secure areas of the crime scene.

8.16 INTELLIGENCE

1. It is essential that the Department recognizes and properly utilizes the gathering of information

with regard to persons or organizations involved or potentially involved in criminal activities.

2. The primary function of the intelligence gathering is to bridge the gap between reported and unreported crime. To accomplish this objective, police officers will gather, evaluate and disseminate information internally in an effort to effectively control unreported crime and to assist in the anticipation of crime trends.

8.16.001 REPORTING INFORMATION 1. Any efficient intelligence gathering apparatus is dependent upon the smooth flow of information as

well as the cooperation within the organization. Any member of the Department who becomes aware of information regarding persons or organizations involved in potential of actual criminal or subversive activity which might be of significance to the Department (even if not within our enforcement jurisdiction) submits such information to the Investigations Divisions.

2. Such information included but is not limited to:

a. Organized Crime – all facets b. Threats to the safety of any head of state, elected or appointed public official, public figure or

person of prominence, school board member, or school official.

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c. Subversive or terrorist activities or conspiracies against any legally constituted government or to disrupt public order or the education process.

d. Gang activities e. Fraudulent organizations f. Government corruption g. Internal crime

3. Information is reported in writing, through an officer’s supervisor. Information of confidential nature is forwarded directly to the Chief of Police. In an emergency situation, officers are authorized to convey such information in person or by telephone.

8.16.002 DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION 1. All information developed by intelligence gathering activities is deemed confidential and disseminated

on a need-to-know basis. 2. The Department does not provide intelligence information to civilians or private concerns unless

cleared through the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police and the legal advisor pursuant to the Texas Open Records Act address requests of this nature.

8.17 LIQUOR VIOLATIONS WITHIN SISD PD JURISDICTION 1. If officers observe violations which they believe should be brought to the attention of the Texas

Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), the Commission requires the officer take immediate action. 2. Immediate police action means the officers arrest the violator. 3. Under the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code, a peace officer may arrest without warrant any person

found:

a. In possession of an illicit beverage; b. In violation of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code; c. In violation of Municipal Code or the Education Code;

4. And may seize the following items:

a. Any evidence of a violation of a municipal ordinance, education code, or other laws. 5. An illicit beverage is defined as any alcoholic beverage which is possessed, manufactured, bought,

sold, bottled or transported in violation of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code. 6. If an officer of this Department enforces any provisions of the Code, a complaint report will be

generated with all witness statements that are required. In the complaint report, all details of the offense will be fully explained to establish probable cause of the violation. The complaint report will include the following:

a. Date and exact time of the offense; b. Complete description of subject(s) involved;

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c. Full name and address of the establishment if known and in possession of a minor;

d. Type and brand of liquor involved; e. How the officer verified that the beverage is indeed an alcoholic beverage (color, smell, etc.); f. How officers were notified of offense (dispatched, on view, etc.).

7. If any evidence is seized, the officer will note on the complaint report circumstances of the seizure. Under no circumstances will any member of this Department dispose of or destroy any alcoholic beverage at the scene of an offense or at any Police Facility. All evidence will be turned over to the Property Room with a chain of evidence report or TABC for proper destruction. Photographs must be taken prior to destroying the alcoholic beverage and a receipt must be obtained from TABC, as well as having the Chain of Custody signed.

8. After the disposition of the case, all evidence to include any alcoholic beverage, its container and its

packaging seized under the provisions of the Beverage Code, will be turned over to the Commission as directed under Section 1.03.06 of the Code. At the direction and under the authority of the Commission, all evidence will be properly disposed of as set out in provisions of the Code.

8.18 SPECIAL INTEREST ACTIVITY 1. Officers are often deployed to watch scenes of interest to the police purpose. It is, however,

recognized that the primary concern is the preservation of life and that no innocent person be subjected to unreasonable risk.

2. Special interest activity may have one or more of the following objectives:

a. To obtain sufficient evidence to make physical arrest or to secure an arrest or search warrants; b. To locate and apprehend suspects; c. To attempt to prevent a person from committing a crime;

d. To check on informants or on information furnished by them; e. To prepare schedules and timetables of movements of persons for analysis in conducting further

investigations; f. To locate missing persons; g. To safeguard persons, places or things.

8.18.001 SAFETY OF BYSTANDERS 1. When possible, a suspect is not confronted by officers until he/she is at a point which is clear of the

victim or bystanders. For example: an armed suspect is not confronted until he/she is away from bystanders, in order to minimize the possibility of hostage situations.

2. This does not restrict the officer from taking immediate action to prevent injury or death. For

example: if a suspect, in the commission of a crime, is actually in the process of injuring the victim, immediate necessary action is taken.

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8.18.002 IDENTIFICATION 1. In any special interest activity situation, when confrontation of the suspect is made, members of the

Socorro ISD Police Department are readily identifiable as police officers. Members of the patrol division may wear the police uniform or civilian clothes as dictated by the supervisor in charge of the operation. If patrol personnel utilize plain clothes they must adhere to the same guidelines that apply to non-uniformed officers.

2. A blue windbreaker jacket with “Police” printed on the front and back in large letters or with a police

patch sewn on the front. The vest is worn with the issued baseball cap that has the police patch displayed on the front.

8.18.003 NOTIFICATION 1. It is the responsibility of the officer in charge to notify the Dispatcher and the area supervisor if the

special interest activity is to be conducted at a permanent location. 2. Should an incident turn into a hostage situation, it is the responsibility of the officers at the scene to

contain the suspect and obtain assistance. A supervisory officer is sent to the scene. If necessary, the SRT Team is deployed in accordance with conditions as outlined in this Manual.

8.19 TRANSPORTING OF CITIZENS NOT IN CUSTODY The transportation of citizens is often required for the completion of an official police action within the SISD PD jurisdiction. When transportation is authorized and necessary, it is the intent of the Department that the activity be performed with safety. 8.19.001 OFFICIAL POLICE ACTION RELATED 1. The dispatcher is notified at the start and conclusion of the trip. 2. The officer’s log sheet notes the location of beginning and end of the trip, identifies persons male or

female, juvenile or adult transported and purpose of trip. 3. Transporting of citizens does not occur for the purpose of expediting one’s journey or to provide

publicity or personal convenience. EMS will transport members who are ill or injured. 8.19.002 NON-POLICE ACTION RELATED 1. All requests by members of the press, writers, photographers or other persons to ride in police

vehicles for the purpose of gathering information for use in feature articles is referred to the Chief of Police or his Designee.

2. Valid identification is required before such permission is granted. 3. NCIC and local records checks are left to the discretion of the person granting permission and to the

officer with whom the person will be riding. 4. In the event that a records or NCIC check is made and unfavorable information is found or when rider

fails to obey all directives of the officer, permission is denied or rescinded. 5. Prior to such ride, the person requesting it completes a liability waiver form. Unauthorized persons

are not allowed to ride in SISD-owned vehicles.

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8.20 HANDLING AND TRANSPORTATION OF PRISONERS It is the objective of the SISD Police Department that all prisoners be handled and transported with special consideration to the security of the prisoner and safety for the officer. 8.20.001 USE OF HANDCUFFS 1. All felons and misdemeanants are handcuffed to maintain control of the arrestee and to minimize the

probability of escalating a situation to a point that would necessitate more drastic means of restraint. 2. The primary reason for handcuffing arrestees is to avoid the possibility of escape to avoid the

possibility of escalating the incident and to avoid the potential threat to the officer and other persons by the arrestee.

3. Exceptions may arise when an arrestee is injured or has a defect to the point where the arrestee

cannot be handcuffed. When this occurs, it is left up to the officer’s discretion to develop a method of safely transporting such arrestee.

4. Handcuffs on arrestees are placed behind the back, unless extenuating circumstances exist. The

handcuffs will be double locked to prevent injury to an arrestee. 8.20.002 PLACEMENT IN POLICE VEHICLE 1. POLICE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SAFETY SCREENS

a. Officers utilizing police vehicles that are equipped with safety screens will place their properly handcuffed prisoner(s) in the back seat of the police vehicle and utilize the safety belts and straps to secure the prisoner(s). No more than three prisoners are to be placed in a police vehicle at one time.

2. POLICE VEHICLES NOT EQUIPPED WITH SAFETY SCREENS

a. When an officer is working solo and an arrest is made, the officer places the arrestee in the front seat of the police vehicle. The arrestee is properly handcuffed and the safety belt and shoulder strap is placed on the arrestee. If a solo unit has more than one arrestee, the officer notifies the dispatcher, who sends another unit to assist in the transportation of the additional arrestees.

3. TWO-MAN UNITS

a. In two man units without screens when transporting an arrestee, one of the officers sits directly behind the driver of the vehicle and the arrestee is seated in the right rear of the police vehicle.

4. TWO OR THREE ARRESTEES

a. In vehicles without screens when two arrestees are in custody, one of the officers sits directly behind the driver of the vehicle and the arrestees are seated in the rear of the police vehicle. When three arrestees are in custody the procedure applies as for two arrestees, with the third arrestee placed in the front seat with safety belt and shoulder strap placed on him/her. All arrestees are properly handcuffed. One two-man unit transports no more than three arrestees.

5. FEMALE ARRESTEES AND JUVENILES IN CUSTODY Male officer(s) transporting female arrestees or any unit transporting a juvenile in custody will give location of departure and the mileage reading upon departure. When the officers arrive at their destination they give the ending mileage and their location.

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8.20.003 SEARCHING PRISONERS 1. When a person is arrested, it becomes the duty and the responsibility of the officer or officers who

have the subject in custody to carefully search him/her as soon as possible and preferably before transporting the prisoner from the scene. Any articles, which may serve as evidence against him/her, or any weapons or other articles which he could use to harm him/herself or other persons, or by which he/she might effect an escape are confiscated. Special emphasis is placed on those items of clothing that may be altered to conceal weapons (i.e., belts and boots).

2. If it is necessary to transfer the prisoner from one unit to another, the receiving unit conducts a search

of the prisoner before continuing the transfer. 3. At the Booking Desk, officers will stand by and observe while a detention officer searches the

prisoner. The arresting officer will assist in searching the Prisoner, if called upon. 4. Male officers normally confine their search of female prisoners to outer clothing, such as coats, and

purses or handbags. When available, a female officer or employee is requested to thoroughly search a female prisoner, whether at the scene or a holding facility. If no female employee is available, the officer notifies a supervisor. Under extreme circumstances, when there is a reasonable cause to believe a female is hiding a weapon on her person and no female employee is readily available, the supervisor may authorize a search and the supervisor is to be present during the entire proceeding.

8.20.004 PRISONER TRANSPORT VEHICLES Members of the Department, when handling prisoners, will do so with the highest regard for the legal process, the individual’s rights, the prisoners safety, and the safeguarding of personal property. 1. PRISONER PROPERTY

a. Arresting officers will be responsible for the inventory and securing of all prisoner property. No property is to be left in the prisoner’s possession. All property will be placed in a bag or envelope and marked with the prisoner’s name and date of birth.

2. MAGISTRATE WARNINGS

a. Upon assuming custody of prisoners, the officer will be responsible for having prisoners warned by a Magistrate.

8.21 USE OF FORCE The Socorro Independent School District recognizes and respects the value and special integrity of each human life. In vesting police officers with the lawful authority to use force to protect the public welfare, a careful balancing of all human interests is required. Therefore, it is the policy of this department that police officers shall use only that force reasonably necessary to effectively bring an incident under control while protecting the lives of the officer or other persons. DEFINITIONS:

1. Deadly force: use of force likely to cause death or serious bodily injury

2. Non-deadly force: use of force other than that which is considered deadly force PROCEDURE: 1. Parameters for use of deadly force:

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a. The Texas Penal Code sets forth when the use of deadly force is justified. The Department further restricts the use of deadly force. Deadly force, as a matter of departmental policy (whether the officer is on or off duty), is used only in the following situations:

1) When necessary to protect the officer from what is reasonably believed by the officer, at the

time, to be an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury; or

2) When necessary to protect another from what is reasonably believed by the officer ,at the time ,to be an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury

b. A police officer may discharge a firearm under the following circumstances:

1) In the use of deadly force;

2) During range practice or competitive sporting events;

3) To destroy an animal that represents a threat to public safety. After contacting a supervisor,

an Officer may dispatch a seriously-injured animal.

c. When feasible, before using a firearm, police officers shall identify themselves and state their intention to shoot.

d. As a matter of policy, firearms are not discharged:

a) As warning shots;

b) From a moving vehicle, unless in defense of the officer’s life or in defense of the life of

another;

c) At the driver of a moving vehicle or at the vehicle itself, unless the officer or another is in immediate danger of being struck by the vehicle and, in the case of an officer, the officer has no other means of escape or evasive action that the officer reasonably believes to be available.

e. Except for maintenance or during training, officers shall not draw or exhibit their firearms, unless

circumstances create reasonable cause to believe that it may be necessary to use the weapon in conformance with this policy.

d. The use of the following techniques shall be considered deadly force and are generally prohibited

except when the use of deadly force is justified and the officer must resort to those techniques:

1) The carotid or lateral vascular restraint;

2) The choke hold;

3) A blow to the head or neck area with any weapon, such as approved batons, flashlights, and other such items.

2. Parameters for use of non-deadly force:

a. When deadly force is not authorized, officers should assess the incident to determine which non-deadly technique or weapon the officer reasonably believes will best diffuse the incident and bring it under control in a safe manner.

b. Police officers are authorized to use department-approved non-deadly techniques and issued

equipment for resolution of incidents, as follows:

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1) To protect themselves or another from physical harm; or

2) To restrain or subdue a resistant individual; or

3) To bring an unlawful situation safely and effectively under control.

Use of Force Continuum: Level 1: Police Presence / Verbal Control In dealing with people, officers must make every reasonable attempt to inspire respect and generate cooperation and a feeling of good will between citizens and the department. A citizen’s encounter with the police can be a frightening and emotional experience; and, under these circumstances, the risk of misunderstanding is great. The manner and form in which an officer speaks to an individual can be an effective means of exerting control over the situation. Verbal control may be in the form of advice, persuasion, admonitions, or orders. The volume and tone of the officer’s comment may also allow a course of escalation. If necessary, and where properly used, this can be an effective tool to assume control over a situation without having to progress to any higher level of force. Level 2: Escort The majority of arrests handled by officers are made peacefully; the arrestee is handcuffed, searched, and transported without incident. However, in some of these situations, although there is no real resistance in complying, some form of physical maneuvering may be required in order to escort the individual from one location to another. This level of force precludes the suspect from experiencing any pain or sustaining any injuries. Level 3: Control and Compliance On occasion, police officers are faced with uncooperative individuals who refuse to be placed in custody or face other situations in which the aforementioned alternatives are inappropriate or have been ineffective. Incidents of this nature require officers to use some combination of strength, leverage, and come-along with sufficient force to make the lawful arrest without unnecessarily aggravating the situation. This level of force permits the officer to gain control and compliance while minimizing the risk of injury to the officer, the person being placed in custody, or innocent bystanders. Level 4: Chemical Agents Officers are permitted to carry and use the chemical agent Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) delivered in a non-flammable liquid medium when authorized by the Chief of Police. This is the only authorized chemical agent. OC is used only to the extent necessary to overcome the resistance of the subject within the current departmental training standards. Level 5: Unarmed Striking Techniques This level involves the use of the officer’s fists, hands, elbows, knees or feet in striking the adversary. These striking techniques may be used by officers to defend themselves against unlawful assaults where higher levels of force are not necessary and lower levels of force have been ineffective. Level 6: Impact Weapon The collapsible baton is the only authorized impact weapons that may be carried by qualified (pursuant to departmental training standards) uniformed officers. The collapsible baton is carried on one’s person or in a readily available location in the vehicle whenever the officer is on duty The collapsible baton shall only be used in accordance with current departmental training standards. The use of the collapsible

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baton as an impact weapon shall be restricted to quelling physical confrontations where higher levels of force are not necessary and lower levels of force are inappropriate or have been ineffective. Level 7: Police Canines Police canines are a recognized and valuable asset to law enforcement agencies. The use of a police dog by its handler in the performance of police duties may, depending upon the circumstances, be considered as an instrument of force. When police canines are used to neutralize assaults, overcome the resistance of an arrestee, or in the defense of an officer or another person, the use must be consistent with approved operational procedures and policies of the police canine unit. Level 8: Deadly or Potentially Deadly Force As long as members of the public are victims of violent crime and officers, in the performance of their duties, are confronted with deadly force, it will remain necessary for officers to use deadly force for the protection of society and themselves. Therefore, whenever deadly force is used, the use of that force will be consistent with procedures set forth in “Section 1, Parameters of Deadly Force” of this regulation. Situational Force Model The Socorro ISD Police Department recognizes that a police officer may have to immediately resort to any level of force appropriate for the situation at hand. As such, the Situational Force Model is designed to show that an officer has a variety of force levels available and shall select the least violent means available relative to the situation. The officer relies upon reasoned discretion to make the selection. The option the officer uses will depend on many factors, but is generally dictated by the amount of resistance offered by the subject. This model places the officer in the center of the situation. The officer is trained to re-evaluate the situation and select a more appropriate force option based upon the officer’s knowledge, skills, and ability to justify the force used. Use of Force Training Policy 1. Annual training will consist of the following:

a. Training in the department’s Use of Force Policy; b. Training in the department’s Use of Force Continuum, Levels of Force and the proper

application of each;

c. Instruction on safety, care and maintenance of each weapon.

2. All training must be conducted by a certified instructor and properly documented with the training coordinator. The Department will make its best effort to obtain as many certifying instructors as possible. 3. All commissioned personnel shall be trained and certified in the following:

a. Duty and off-duty weapons b. Expandable baton d. Chemical agents (OC/ if carried) e. Handcuffing

f. Any other approved weapons

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4. Duty and Off-Duty Weapons

a. All commissioned personnel will qualify annually with both their duty weapon and any off- duty weapons. Personnel must pass with a qualifying score. Failure to qualify with a duty weapon will result in remedial training and possible disciplinary action. Failure to qualify with an off-duty weapon will prohibit the officer from carrying it until such time that the officer can successfully pass a qualification course.

b. All commissioned personnel are encouraged to practice with their duty weapon and any

off-duty weapons on a quarterly basis.

5. Baton Training

Expandable baton: officers shall successfully complete an eight-hour certification course to carry the ASP. Certified officers must attend a four-hour re-certification course annually.

6. Chemical Agents

a. Officers shall carry only those chemical agents approved by the department. b. Officers shall successfully complete a certification course prior to being authorized to carry any

chemical agent. c. Officers must attend a four-hour re-certification course annually.

8.21.001 CRITICAL INCIDENT TEAM The Department evaluates every instance in which an Officer of this Department is called upon to discharge his/her weapon. This is accomplished through the Critical Incident Team. 1. The team members are selected by the Chief of Police and serve at his convenience. 2. The team members are selected from within the Department and/or from other agencies, and carry

on their regular assigned duties until assigned to investigate a shooting incident 3. The sole responsibility of the shooting review team is to investigate all incidents in which officers of

this Department discharge firearms while on/off duty or in the line of duty. The objective of such investigation is to gather the facts of the shooting and present them to the Chief of Police who determines if the shooting was within Department policy as set forth in this Chapter.

4. EXCEPTIONS

a. Practice at the firing range. b. Required firearm training or qualifications.

5. The critical incident team does not interfere with the investigations of any other division or law

enforcement agency that may be investigating circumstances surrounding the same incident. All facilities of the Department, however, aid each other when called upon for assistance. Either the criminal or the administrative investigators take statements.

6. Regardless of the hours, the supervisor aware of, or at the scene of a shooting incident, notifies the

police dispatcher to notify the Chief of Police or his designee.

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7. The police dispatcher is responsible for contacting the supervisor of the shooting team. If the supervisor is unavailable, a team member is notified.

8. The shooting team supervisor is responsible for providing the Dispatch Section with an up-to-date

listing of all team members’ home phone numbers, work numbers, home addresses. 9. All team members are responsible for providing the shooting team supervisor with the necessary up-

to-date information for the list 10. Upon notification of a shooting incident, the team supervisor determines if the team is activated. In all

shooting incidents in which anyone is shot, the team is activated. 11. The Chief of Police is responsible for contacting the SISD Cabinet members as soon as practicable

when the decision is made to activate the team. All team investigations are conducted under the authority of the Chief of Police. Their work product is considered confidential. The members of the shooting team are prohibited from discussing or releasing any portion of the investigation reports to anyone other than the Chief of Police.

12. If a team member fires his/her weapon in the line of duty, the team member does not participate in

the shooting team investigation of the incident. The officer will, however, participate as a witness at the request of the critical incident team.

13. As soon as the shooting team’s investigation is completed, a summary and facts are presented to the

Chief of Police. The Chief evaluates the results of the investigation and decides what action, if any, is taken.

8.21.002 REPORTING DISCHARGE OF FIREARMS

1. Whenever an officer discharges his/her firearm in the line of duty, except as part of a training exercise, he shall immediately notify his supervisor.

2. The officer discharging his/her firearm shall, as soon as practicable, advise immediate supervisor,

who will in turn file a written incident report. 3. If the officer is injured and unable to make the necessary reports, his/her supervisor shall do so.

8.21.003 OFFICERS SURRENDERING WEAPON 1. An officer or his/her partner may be at the mercy of an armed suspect who has the advantage, but

experience has shown that giving up his/her weapon on demand does not reduce the danger to an officer.

2. Surrendering a weapon might mean giving away ones only mean of survival. An officer, therefore,

uses every possible means at his/her disposal to avoid surrendering his/her weapon. 8.22 SEXUAL ABUSE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT In responding to calls from victims of sexual assault or sexual abuse, it is the intent of the Police Department to be concerned primarily with the welfare of the victim. Secondary goals are to accomplish the investigative objective of prosecuting the criminals involved.

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8.22.001 RESPONSIBILITIES OF RESPONDING OFFICERS The initial responsibility of the first officers on the scene is to assess the welfare of the victim, especially the need for emergency medical care. Emphasis must be directed toward protection of the victim and ensuring prompt treatment. Should time and circumstances be of such an emergency nature that expeditious transporting of the victim is required, the officer will proceed as set forth in this manual. 1. JURISDICTION

The responding unit will attempt to determine the location of the assault in an effort to confirm this department’s jurisdiction. The responding unit will not have the victim examined (even though the victim may have been taken to the Sexual Assault Center), but will notify the appropriate jurisdiction through the field supervisor. Once the agency called arrives, a medical examination may be conducted at the request of that agency.

2. INFORMATION FOR SPOT BROADCAST AND POLICE REPORT.

The officer will attempt to obtain the necessary information (location, specifics of the offense, and assailants description or identify) for use in making a spot broadcast and police report.

3. CRIME SCENE

a. When the officer is called to a crime scene, the officer will take all necessary steps to secure the area and prevent the destruction of possible evidence. Once the crime scene is secured, an investigator and field supervisor will be contacted.

b. When the officer is called to the location, other than the area where the assault took place,

attempts will be made to ascertain the location of the crime scene. If located, necessary steps will be taken to secure the crime scene so that evidence may be processed at the earliest time possible. The officer at the scene will then contact an investigator and a field supervisor.

c. If called upon, officers will cooperate to fully process the crime scene. All items of evidence will

be properly preserved, tagged and turned in as outlined in the following sections on Disposition of Evidence and Preservation of Evidence.

d. If SISD Jurisdiction is established, an investigator will be contacted and the jurisdictional agency

will be contacted, if necessary, for a joint investigative effort.

4. RAPE CRISIS CENTER:

a. Once the investigating officer has determined that a sexual assault has occurred, a request will be made via the field supervisor to relay to SISD Police Dispatch to contact the Rape Crisis Center. This center is available to respond to the Sexual Assault Center to provide orientation or guidance for the victim. The officer will explain to the victim that these services are available to the victim should they be desired.

b. If the officer has completed the investigation and a representative of the Rape Crisis Center has

not yet arrived, the officer will wait. 5. VICTIM EXAMINATION – SISD PD will relinquish primary investigative responsibility to the primary

jurisdiction and will adhere to the following:

a. Under no circumstances will any officer of the Socorro ISD Police Department medically examine the victim of a sexual assault or anyone else under any circumstance.

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b. It must be remembered that the sexual assault victim may be the most important source of

evidence; therefore, a medical examination of the victim should be conducted as soon as possible when authorized by the responsible jurisdiction.

c. If the victim is under the age of 18, a parent or guardian (adult brother or sister, grandparent,

adult aunt or uncle) is required to sign the authorization forms for medical examination. If the parents or guardians are unavailable, a letter of authorization must be obtained from District Judge ordering the examination.

d. Any exception to this procedure must be in compliance with the Texas Family Code Chapter 35,

Sec. 35.01. e. Once the physician has completed the examination, the crime Scene Technician or the

investigating Officer will ascertain from the physician if there were any injuries that need to be documented with photographs.

6. VICTIM’S CLOTHING

The officer will advise the victim that arrangements must be made for a change of clothing so that the clothing worn at the time of the assault may be collected and processed as evidence. While at the Sexual Assault Center, a crime scene technician will collect the clothing worn by the victim, regardless of whether laundering has occurred.

7. VICTIM RAPE KIT

The crime scene technician will immediately collect the victim rape kit obtained during the examination at the hospital. When a crime scene unit is not available, the next available unit will be sent to pick up the evidence.

8. SUSPECT

a. If a suspect has been arrested shortly after or during the time of the assault, he/she will be taken to the Sexual Assault Center where the examining physician will execute the suspect rape kit.

b. If the suspect is combative and refuses to let the physician collect the evidence, the suspect is

taken to the county jail where a crime scene technician will collect the evidence, with exception of the blood. Another officer will be present during the evidence collection for security reasons. If the suspect is a female, a female officer will be called to the jail, and under the supervision of the crime scene technician will collect the necessary evidence from the suspect.

c. Blood may be collected at a later date by an investigator who will obtain a warrant for the

evidence.

d. The officer will be responsible for the collection of the suspect’s clothing when a suspect has been arrested during an ongoing investigation. If a crime scene technician is called to the Sexual Assault Center, it will be that officer’s responsibility to collect the clothing.

9. BITE MARKS

When an officer observes what is believed to be bite mark injuries, a crime scene technician will be contacted to photograph the injuries.

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PRESERVATION OF EVIDENCE 1. CLOTHING

When clothing is obtained from either the victim or suspect, each item will be placed separately in paper bags. The outside of the container will be labeled “property”, so as to identify the contents and the source.

2. HAIR AND FIBERS

When hair and fibers are collected as evidence, these items will be placed in a sheet of clean paper which will be folded and placed in an envelope or small pill box type container. The containers will be sealed with tape and marked to identify the contents and source from which it was collected.

3. VICTIM AND SUSPECT RAPE KIT:

Once a Victim or Suspect Rape Kit has been collected, the crime scene technician will follow the guidelines set forth in their operations manual.

4. SERIOUS INJURIES – NOTIFICATION OF CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS

If a victim of the assault has been unusually or severely injured, or if the victim’s physical condition is such that it could result in death, the officer will contact a field supervisor and request notification to the Crimes Against Persons Section.

5. ARREST AND IDENTITY OF SUSPECT

a. If a suspect is arrested at the time of the assault or apprehended within a short time period and that person’s identity is in doubt, a one-on-one witness confrontation is permissible. Should the suspect be identified, a crime scene unit will be requested via a field supervisor for the purpose of photographing the suspect with the clothing worn at the time of the assault. If a line up is used the incident will be documented appropriately by the participating follow-up personnel.

b. If the subject is wearing the same clothing worn at the time of the sexual assault, officers obtain

the clothing as evidence. Officers issue a receipt for the clothing. The clothing is properly wrapped (paper bag), tagged and stored by officers in the property room.

c. Should the arrest be made shortly after the assault, hair samples (not less than ten) are obtained.

Loose evidence is combed from the subject’s pubic area, and clipped samples from the subject’s pubic and cranial areas are collected. The evidence is obtained by the physician and retained at the assault center. In circumstances where this procedure cannot be effected, (such as the suspect not granting the physician permission to examine him/her) the officer contacts an investigator to determine whether to conduct the examination over the suspect’s objections.

8.23 FIELD OPERATION – BURGLARIES These procedures are designed to satisfy the department’s responsibility of investigating burglaries. Police Officer(s) investigating burglaries call for a Field Supervisor under the following circumstances: 1. Where a subject(s) has been arrested at the scene or where a subject is named; 2. On all major burglaries where there has been extensive loss;

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3. On all safe burglaries; 4. Any burglary that the investigating officer’s supervisor determines that an investigator is needed. Interrogation of juvenile subjects remains the responsibility of Investigations, if available. However, nothing contained herein precludes uniformed officers from participating during this phase of an investigation. 8.24 COMMUNITY RELATIONS All requests for police related speeches, tours and displays are channeled through the office of the Chief of Police for approval and assignment. 8.25 ILLEGAL ALIENS It is not the objective of the Police Department to initiate police actions where the primary objective is to discover the alien status of a person. Police action that leads to illegal entry arrests is not initiated where no crime-related issues are involved or when no other issues of legitimate interest to Socorro ISD exist. 8.25.001 ARREST OF ILLEGAL ALIENS When officers arrest persons who are later determined to be of illegal alien status, and if police custody is to be otherwise terminated, such persons are released to the nearest immigration authorities. 8.25.002 CITIZEN COMPLAINT REGARDING ILLEGAL ALIENS 1. When an officer receives a call from a citizen complaining about an illegal alien and the officer

determines that the alien has not violated any law except that of being in this country illegally, the officer advises the complaining citizen to call the Border Patrol.

2. As the possibility of substantial civil liability or criminal penalty exists, Socorro ISD Police Officers do

not detain, frisk or arrest persons suspected solely of being illegal aliens. 8.26 REVIEW OF CRIME INFORMATION AT SHIFT MEETINGS It is of utmost importance that field officers are properly informed of recent major crimes to maximize apprehension rates and to ensure that officers are aware of trends and patterns of criminal activity. 8.26.001 GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES 2. When a subject or vehicle is involved, officers are expected to note the necessary information when

the offense has occurred in the area that they are assigned. 2. If arrests have been made, supervisors emphasize it and read the names of the arresting officers.

This provides recognition for qualitative felony arrests. 8.27 MISDEMEANOR CITATION SYSTEM (CLASS C CITATIONS) To increase the level of enforcement for minor crimes, and to allow officers to effect enforcement in a quicker, more efficient manner, the Department employs a system whereby a citation may be issued for certain Class “C” misdemeanors which include those listed in the Texas Penal Code as well as violations of the Texas Education Code.

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8.27.001 CITATION MAY ISSUE There are no instances where an officer is required to issue a citation, as the citation system is considered an enforcement option. Officers may issue such citations; however, only if all of the following situational factors exist: 1. The offense is one that is a Class C Misdemeanor (Texas Penal Code), municipal or county

ordinance, or a violation of the Texas Education Code. 2. The actor produces positive identification; 3. The actor lives or regularly works within the City Limits; 4. The actor is 10 years of age or older; 5. The officer reasonably believes the actor will appear within the prescribed period of time; 6. The actor signs the citation. 8.27.002 CITATION MAY NOT ISSUE 1. If any of the following situations exist, the issue of a citation is prohibited:

a. The actor demands an immediate appearance before a Magistrate; b. The arrest is made by the authority of a warrant or capias;

c. The actor fails to furnish any information demanded on the citation;

d. The actor is intoxicated to the degree that he/she is incapable of caring for him/herself;

e. The officer is aware of any outstanding warrant for the arrest of the actor;

f. The officer has had to physically restrain the actor;

g. The officer has reason to believe the actor is involved in a more serious offense;

h. The officer reasonably believes that the release of the actor would produce continuation of the

offense or that a more serious violation might occur;

i. The officer is aware the actor has a history of failure to appear for scheduled court appearances. 2. If an actor is to be physically arrested on a separate charge, the officer will book the actor for the

original charge. Example: If an actor is arrested for the theft under $20.00 and marijuana is found in his possession, he/she will be booked on both charges.

3. When citations are issued by officers working as off-duty security personnel, the citation and

accompanying reports are turned in as soon as possible.

4. The actor is advised where to appear in person to arrange a court appearance, and that failure to appear results in the issuance of a capias for his/her arrest or a summons to appear.

8.27.003 CITATIONS – WHEN REPORTS ARE MADE The issuing officer in all Class “C” Citation cases will make a complaint report.

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RECORDS TRANSACTIONS The Administrative Section is the Official Custodian of Records of the Socorro ISD Police Department. The administrative section processes case and arrest records, maintains the original files and retrieves these records for dissemination to police personnel, other law enforcement agencies and the general public. This case number is the control number for the offense reports and all related documents. Because the filing system is based on the issuing of case numbers, a document for which a “number one” has not been filed cannot be accepted in most cases. To maintain proper security of police records, it is necessary that the following procedure be followed when officers are engaged in transactions with the Records Division. Persons not assigned to administration are not permitted entrance into the department files and records storage areas without expressed authorization of the supervisor on duty. Officers requesting information in person are asked to make the request with enough information in order for administrative personnel to search and fill the request. Case numbers are assigned to original reports only, not to a Xerox copy. A case number is necessary for all arrests. Under normal circumstances, information given over the telephone is restricted to specifics only. (case numbers, names, addresses, etc.) Summary accounts of case information are not given over the telephone. Any changes, corrections, additions, or deletions to be made on a “number one” report must be requested officially on a supplementary report. Under no circumstances should an original document be changed. Private citizens requesting copies of reports should be informed of the 72-hour waiting period to obtain copies of reports. Citizens should be advised that the releasing of information is subject to the Texas Open Records Act. No employee will access Department files or remove any document or property without checking with a supervisor or a member of the administrative section. No employee shall obtain, or attempt to obtain, information from any Department file, record, report, etc., other than to which he/she is entitled in accordance with his/her official interest therein. No employee shall use records or information acquired during the course of employment or duty for their own private purpose, or removes them toward that end. 8.28 ALARM CALLS There are numerous occasions whereby officers are sent in response to alarm calls. Many of them are false alarms, creating a need for a system of controlling and recording such responses. 8.28.001 RESPONDING POLICE UNITS. When a police unit responds to an alarm, the below procedures are followed: 1. The building or location is physically checked for signs of entry or attempted entry; 2. If there is entry or attempted entry, the call is cleared as a true alarm;

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3. If an authorized person is in the building, the dispatcher is advised of the person’s name and reason

for being in the building. The correct origin of the alarm is advised; 4. The cause of the alarm is identified when possible, such as employee error, open door, power failure,

etc.; 5. If the alarm is activated for any reason, other than the purpose intended, the name of the person

responsible is obtained. 8.29 RELIGIOUS ASSISTANCE Due to the nature of his/her position, a member of the clergy can relay information and provide comfort in special circumstances. It is, therefore, the objective of the Department to cooperate in whatever way possible when a person suffering from an injury or illness requests the services of a clergyman. The dispatcher is notified. If the dispatcher is informed whether the clergyman is to be directed to the scene of the incident or to a particular hospital or clinic, the services of a clergyman are solicited on behalf of the injured or ill person. 8.30 MISSING PERSONS/JUVENILES Definitions 1. A runaway is an emancipated juvenile from the age of ten through sixteen, who is voluntarily absent. 2. A child, for the purpose of this section, is under ten years of age. 3. An “attempt to locate” is a type of report taken to document the absence of a person seventeen years

of age or older, that does not fall into the categories of Missing Person. 4. A missing person is anyone who is missing and falls into one of these listed categories:

a. The person either has a proven physical or mental disability or is senile and because of one or more of these conditions is subject to immediate danger or is a danger to others (NCIC entry code EMD);

b. Is missing under circumstances indicating that his or her physical safety appears to be in danger.

(NCIC entry code EMI);

c. Is missing under circumstances indicating that his or her disappearance is involuntary, i.e. kidnapping, abduction. (NCIC entry code EMI);

d. The person is emancipated as defined by the laws of the state, i.e. a runaway. (NCIC entry code

EMJ);

e. The person is the victim of a disaster or catastrophe. (NCIC entry code EMV). 8.30.001 DISPATCHER RESPONSIBILITY 1. SISD dispatchers will screen all calls to ensure the elements for a missing person complaint exists. 2. A report of a child under ten years of age reported as missing will cause an officer to be dispatched

with no exceptions. 3. A report of a child under ten year of age as located will cause an officer to be dispatched with no

exceptions.

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4. No calls regarding a report of a missing or located child will be canceled. 5. The Dispatcher will enter missing persons into NCIC on a priority basis once cleared through the field

supervisor. 6. The Dispatcher will forward a hard copy of the NCIC entry on a missing person seventeen years of

age or older to the reporting officer for inclusion into his/her report. 7. The Dispatcher will forward a hard copy of the NCIC entry on a Runaway or a Missing Person sixteen

years of age or younger to Department investigations. 8. The Dispatcher will accept NCIC cancellations of Missing Person and Runaway by phone from

officers. 8.30.002 OFFICER RESPONSIBILITY 1. An officer will be dispatched to all reports of a missing person, as defined by the criteria in section

8.34 of this manual, with the exception of runaways. Reports on persons that are missing that do not fit that criteria are titled “Attempt to locate”.

2. A Missing Person report will include all routine information, and additionally, will include the following

descriptive information:

a. full name of the missing person; b. alias (if applicable); c. race, sex; d. date of birth (more than one may be listed); e. height; f. weight; g. eye color (specify color changing contacts); h. hair color (include notation “natural” or “dyed”); i. scars, marks, and tattoos; j. physical deformities, i.e. missing body parts, glasses, hearing aids, chronic illnesses, medications

needed, etc.,; k. mental dysfunction, either chronic or incidental; l. identifying numbers, to include any or all of the following; social security number, driver’s license

number with the state etc.; m. date reporter has lost contact with the missing person;

n. list any public places the subject is known to frequent, close friends or relatives (including

addresses and telephone numbers). Name, address and phone number of attending physician if the subject is under psychiatric care.

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3. A sworn statement will be taken from the reporter when the missing person is seventeen years of age or older.

4. The officer will make a report on all children nine and under that has been reported missing, even if

the child is located before the end of the shift. In all cases involving a child nine and younger, an officer must make an on view confirmation of the child’s return and well-being before completing a supplement.

5. The initiating officer will submit a complete report and initiate an NCIC entry form via the field

supervisor. The dispatcher will perform the necessary NCIC transaction and forward a copy to the reporting officer for inclusion into his report.

8.30.003 SEARCHES A search will be initiated on all missing subjects, of ages 2 to under 17 years old, while under the control of the SISD. Canceling a search on a missing subject will only be done on the authority of a supervisor. 8.30.004 RECORDS RESPONSIBILITIES Missing Person reports, runaway and missing child reports received by the administrative section will be handled as a priority. 8.30.005 CANCELLATION OF MISSING PERSONS, RUNAWAYS 3. Anytime a Missing Person or Runaway is located, Officer will verify the Missing Person or Runaway

and contact the originating agency to take possession of missing person or runaway for clearance from NCIC/TCIC.

3. Cancellation of the NCIC entry may be done by phone, or over the radio. 3. In all cases involving a child nine years of age or younger, an officer must make an on-view

confirmation of the child’s return and well-being before making the supplement and canceling the NCIC entry.

8.31 FAMILY VIOLENCE It is the policy of the Socorro ISD Police Department to treat complaints of Family Violence as alleged criminal conduct and not as a civil problem. All members of the Department will familiarize and adhere to all applicable sections of the Texas Penal Code, the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, the Texas Family code and the Family Violence Prevention Act. 1. The Department goals in investigating family violence allegations or any investigations which lead to

alleged family violence are to:

a. Protect any potential victim of family violence; b. Enforce the law; c. Make lawful arrests.

2. Written Reports

a. Officers will make written reports in all cases where there is reason to believe that the use or threat of use of physical force against a member of the family or household has occurred.

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b. Officers will code all documents as “Family Violence”, to include all reports, affidavits, booking cards, death reports, etc. in which family violence is alleged.

c. In the event an arrest is made, all paper work must be completed as soon as possible. This includes the officer’s sworn statements. Upon completion of paperwork, all paperwork must be turned into the courts.

3. Family Violence Cards

Officers will advise potential victims of all reasonable means to prevent further family violence, and the availability of shelter or other community services. All adult victims will be issued a family violence Card.

4. Protective Orders

a. Officers will accept a certified copy of a Protective Order as proof of the validity of the order and it

is presumed that the order remains valid unless the order contains a termination date or is more than one year old from its execution date.

b. If the victim does not have a copy of a Protective Order, officers are required to check with the family court for validation of protective order before leaving the scene of the investigation. This is to be done via Police Dispatcher or by telephone.

5. Family Violence Affidavit

Officers will have the Family Violence Affidavit form readily available. When a victim requests prosecution, the form is to be completed by the officer and signed by the victim. The form is prepared in the first person form and can be notarized or properly witnessed. The affidavit is to be obtained in all cases where prosecution is desired, regardless of whether or not an arrest is made at the scene.

6. Transportation to Shelter

a. At the victim’s request, and with approval of a supervisor, officers may transport the victim and

any children to a shelter, safe house, or other facility for the victims of family violence.

b. The address and location of the Battered Women Shelter in El Paso is confidential. No resident information or the shelter location shall be divulged to non-law enforcement persons. Officers will determine if lodging is available at the Shelter for the victim through the dispatcher prior to transport.

7. Arrests

a. Officers are expected to make an arrest, when appropriate, after first determining that there is probable cause and evidence of an assault involving bodily injury; evidence of display, use or threat of use of a weapon; or a history of violence as provided by the dispatcher. Arrest is always expected when an offense is committed in the officer’s presence.

b. Officers will not base their decision to arrest, solely on whether or not the victim desires to

prosecute. Officers must emphasize to the victim and the offender that the State and not the victim are initiating the legal action.

c. An arrest shall be made when a protective order is violated in the presence of an officer. Officers

who make arrests for violations of protective orders will attach a copy of the protective order to their case. Protective orders can either be obtained from the victim or the Family Court Protective Order Office. .

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d. When probable cause to arrest exists, the victim desires prosecution and/or the officer believes there will be further violence but the offender is not present, officers shall secure an arrest warrant for the subject.

e. When officers do not have sufficient information or evidence to obtain a warrant, and/or the victim

will not cooperate in prosecution, officers shall present a non-arrest case. A supervisor who will determine whether an arrest warrant will be requested in all non-arrest cases.

8. Criminal Investigations

a. All family violence cases will be assigned for follow-up investigation.

8.32 NOTIFICATION OF OCCURRENCES

A. The Chief of Police will be notified through the appropriate supervisor when any of the following situations occur: 1. Any death;

2. Riots, walkouts, or demonstrations;

3. The injury of any officer (whether on duty or not);

4. Hostage or barricaded subject situations;

5. The arrest or investigation of any member of the Department;

6. The arrest or investigation of any District employee;

7. Serious fires, injuries, accidents, or events.

B. The on-duty supervisor will be notified when any of the following situations occur:

1. Any of the above incidents; 2. Any arrest.

8.33 Assignments. Patrol officers will immediately respond to calls given to them by the dispatcher. Officers who wish to respond to a call will also advise the dispatcher of their intentions. At any time, a supervisor may reassign calls or their priority. 8.34 Patrol Assignments. The shift supervisor will make shift assignments as necessary to adequately cover the school district. Normally, Department patrols are “solo” units. “Full-crew” units will only be placed in the field when approved by a supervisor or the Chief of Police. 8.35 Power and Radio Failures When a power or radio failure occurs and units cannot make contact with the dispatcher, all units, unless a situation dictates, will return to headquarters for instructions. If a unit is busy, he/she shall report to dispatch at the earliest possible opportunity.

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8.36 Severe Weather Conditions During periods of severe weather conditions, a supervisor may suspend routine patrols and calls until such time as weather does not impact officer safety. 8.37 Emergency Radio Traffic Emergency traffic may be called by any officer or dispatcher who feels that the air needs to be clear for safety reasons. The proper call is: “Dispatch/Unit #, clear the air for emergency traffic.” Once called, the dispatcher will direct all non-involved units to another frequency. Units who remain on the emergency channel will transmit radio traffic that is essential to the situation at hand. If emergency traffic is occurring on all SISD Police channels, all non-involved units will stay off the air. The supervisor and dispatcher will monitor the air and make a determination to resume normal radio traffic at the earliest possible opportunity. 8.38 Project Concern Hotline Program The objective of Project Concern is to collect information on persons that are engaged in criminal activity against the SISD, its students, or its employees. When a Project Concern call is received: 1. Fill out the project concern sheet and log book; 2. Refer the completed sheet to the Chief of Police. 8.39 Work Space/Office Security 1. Personnel will not loiter in office spaces/operational areas that they are not assigned to.

2. Personnel will not rummage or look through the desks of others. 3. Personnel working on confidential, juvenile, or criminal matters will not leave that material

unattended.

4. Personnel will not possess any office keys, unless issued to them by the Chief of Police.

5. Personnel will report to a supervisor, any unauthorized access or intrusions into work and office spaces.

6. The Chief of Police will set access to the dispatch area. Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from entering dispatch without permission. The senior dispatcher on duty is

responsible for enforcing this regulation. If entry to Dispatch area is made by any department personnel, department personnel is to sign in.

7. Personnel will not distract others in their workspaces.

8. Officers getting off shift will not interrupt, interfere with, or disrupt shift or other meetings in progress.

9. Electronic access doors will not be propped open by any means by any person. This includes using fire extinguishers, thumb tacks, and substances on the electronic strike plate.

10. Personnel who is issued electronic access cards will not attempt to use those cards to

enter areas for which they are not authorized. Electronic access cards will be kept secure at all times and will never be leant to another party or employee. Lost or damaged cards will be reported immediately.

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11. Personnel who forget to bring their access card to work will submit a memorandum

explaining the situation to a supervisor.

12. Electronic doors will remain closed at all times. 8.40 AUTHORIZED ACCESS TO DISPATCH OFFICE (OCC)

1. Access to the Dispatch Office will be limited to dispatchers on duty, supervisors, personnel involved in the service or repair of equipment, and patrol personnel specifically assigned by a supervisor to relieve a solo dispatcher for break. No one else is allowed in the dispatch office without authorization from the Chief of Police or his designee

2. The door to the dispatch office will remain closed and locked at all times.

3. Dispatchers assigned to the dispatch office will remain at their post during the entire shift

and will not leave the dispatch office without proper relief. The dispatcher will make arrangements with the supervisor on duty to relieve the dispatcher for break in the event the dispatcher is solo.

4. Dispatchers will limit personal telephone calls to personal emergency situations only.

5. Dispatchers will not tamper with, disconnect, or otherwise modify any equipment in the

dispatch office, including the telephones and the recorder, and will not allow any other person to do so without prior authorization from the Chief of Police.

8.41 OFFICER IN DISTRESS

1. When an officer is involved in a situation whereby his/her safety and/or his/her life is in danger, the officer will request help.

2. When a request for help is received, the dispatcher will control the air through emergency

traffic and officers will terminate less important duties and proceed to the location of the officer requesting help. There is no need for responding officers to clog the air to report that they are in route or on the scene. Once the situation is under control, the initial officer or the field supervisor will advise the dispatcher and other units responding to the scene.

8.42 HEADQUARTERS/DISPATCH IN DISTRESS When the headquarters building and/or dispatch is in distress, the same procedures as outlined above apply. 8.43 SCHOOL DISTRICT KEYS A school district key ring is issued to patrol officers at the beginning of his/her shift during intersession only, or when Police officers are assigned to patrol. Upon completion of the workday, that key ring is returned. School district key rings will not be taken home, left in vehicles or lockers, or loaned out to anyone. Personnel who lose district keys will immediately report the loss to a supervisor. 8.44 PATROL VEHICLE RIDERS 1. All persons transported or riding in a police vehicle must be connected to the police purpose. Normally, riders are prisoners. Prior to transporting any other person,

permission must be obtained from the shift supervisor or his/her superior.

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2. Dispatchers will not ride with a patrol officer unless cleared through the Chief of Police or his designee

3. Any person who, for other than reasons related to the police purpose, will sign a release prior to the ride.

4. Employees needing a ride home must have clearance through a supervisor. This action will

be confined to emergency situations. Repeated requests for rides by an employee will be reported to the Chief of Police via the supervisor.

8.45 DISPATCHER RESPONSIBILITY TO BE PRESENT AT THE COMMUNICATIONS CENTER a. Dispatchers have a distinct responsibility to remain in their work area. No dispatcher will leave the communications station for purposes other than to use the bathroom, take an

authorized break, complete an authorized assignment, or to go to lunch without first receiving permission to do so. At any time an emergency situation may come in through

a variety of sources. Additionally, dispatchers will not engage in any activity that distracts them from their primary duties and responsibilities.

b.. Replacements for absent dispatchers will be by qualified dispatchers, unless authorized by the Chief of Police or his designee 8.46 PATROL PROCEDURES a. All police and dispatch personnel assigned to a regularly scheduled shift will arrive at

headquarters no later than the start time for that shift. Shift supervisors will normally hold a shift meeting prior to the officers reporting to the field. Dispatchers will conduct a pass-down meeting with the off-going shift when possible or practical.

b. Officers and supervisors will proceed to their patrol vehicles to begin their work shifts no later than 5 minutes after the hour that begins their scheduled shift or when the field

supervisor directs. c.. After checking their vehicles as required by this manual, officers will immediately proceed

to their assigned areas. d. Officers will not leave their assigned areas, unless they are dispatched to a call outside

their area or are approved to do so by a supervisor. In the event that there are only two officers on the shift, those officers will divide the district into two halves and each officer will be assigned to patrol one of those halves. This section will only be in effect when Police Officers are in intersession or assigned to patrol.

e. Officers will not return to police headquarters during their shift unless directed to do so by

a supervisor or dispatcher, to address an immediate problem or an emergency. The nearest available unit will handle any call to police headquarters. The assigned officer will address the problem and then return to the officer’s assigned area in an expedient

manner. f.. All police personnel will report into the dispatcher their current location and activity during

routine patrol. Officers out on calls assigned by the dispatcher do not need to report their location while actually handling the call. Officers assigned by the Chief of Police or a

supervisor to special duties are exempt. g.. All activity by an officer will be logged in the police officer log sheet. The log will show a

continuous chain of activity. Logs will be completed as events occur and will be turned in

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at the end of each shift. Editorial comments on the log will not be permitted. 8.47 FIELD INTERVIEWS a.. The purpose of the field interview card is to document police contact with individuals who are found under suspicious circumstances or in unauthorized locations. b.. Field interviews are used as tools to help the field officer document and notify the Department of investigative contacts with individuals. For example; individuals found loitering near schools, individuals found on school campuses without a legitimate purpose, etc., should be questioned and their identity and circumstances of the incident recorded. The field interview may also be used to identify individuals who match a description of a wanted subject. It has varied uses, but most importantly, it establishes a record of a stop that could be used by the Department at a later time. The interview also has uses in intelligence gathering such as tracking an organized group, monitoring known offenders, and establishing crime trends and MO patterns. c. In all police contacts, extreme care must be taken to protect the rights of individuals, and appropriate warnings must be given if the individual is suspected of having committed a crime. The field interview card will not be used for individuals taken into custody or otherwise listed as a subject or involved party in a criminal complaint. Details of arrests and criminal complaints are recorded on the Department’s Complaint Report (number one report). d. All personnel must be totally familiar with the provisions set forth under Texas Penal Code 38.02 (Failure to Identify), Texas Penal Code 38.01, (1), (Definitions – Custody), the Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 15.22 (Arrest Definition), and all other applicable laws . and regulations regarding detaining and identifying individuals who may or may not be suspected of committing a crime. e. Positive identifications is defined as a valid driver’s license, state I.D., or other valid documents that show the subject’s picture or where the officer positively knows the subject. f. Students will be identified as such in the occupation block of the field interview card. g. Included with clothing worn at time of interview are any articles that the subject was carrying. h. If persons that accompanied subject were also documented on a field interview card, place the letters “(FI)” next to their name. i. Remarks. 1. Use this block of the field interview card to record any significant information not specified in any other section of the card.

2. Interviewing officers will strive to obtain any organized group information regarding the

subject and list it in this section. If the subject admits to a group affiliation list is as “self-admitted member of _________________.” The officer may also make a statement based on his/her prior experience with the subject such as “known member/associate of ______________.” Other information that the officer may obtain or observe can also be listed such as “location of stop is known hideout of _____________;” “persons with subject known members of _____________;” subject’s cap had graffiti Indicating affiliation with _________________;” etc.

3.. Officer’s will refrain from making loose statements such as “known gang member, dressed like

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a gangster, “ etc. Stated remarks will be based upon solid observations or information; not characterizations or stereotypes. j. Field interview cards will be turned in to the shift supervisor for review at the end of each shift. Officers are prohibited from maintaining their own field interview files. The cards are then routed to investigations for review, file, and analysis. 8.48 UNIT DESIGNATORS Identifying numbers will be issued at the discretion of the Department. 8.49 ELECTRONIC SURVEILLANCE All employees are not to engage in any form of electronic surveillance to include the tape recording of anyone including other employees. Electronic surveillance will be conducted in accordance with state law and will be approved by the Chief of Police. 8.50 COMPILING DOSSIERS Employees are not permitted to compile dossiers on or about, any persons. This does not preclude maintaining criminal and approved employee files. 8.52 SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS (SRO) 1. Purpose:

The Department has in effect a School Resource Officer Program that permanently stations an officer on an individual campus. These officers fall under the direct command of the shift supervisor or the Chief’s designee. SROs are selected for assignment by the Chief of Police and this assignment is not unlike any other assignment in the Department. The position is considered a patrol post and the Chief of Police may rotate officers in and out of that assignment based on the needs of the Department. All SRO personnel will adhere to the guidelines set forth under the SRO program. The patrol section is charged with assisting SRO officers as dictated by the guidelines of the program and the Chief of Police. An SRO is primarily responsible for the school he/she is assigned to. He/she shall proceed directly to that school and stay there for the entire shift. SROs desiring to leave their school will request permission from the shift supervisor.

2 Policy:

a. The SRO will act upon offenses committed in his/her presence and upon those criminal situations

which are brought to his/her attention. The SRO will initiate proper corrective actions for any on-site situations requiring attention such as, but not limited to:

1. Fights 2. Disorderly Conduct 3. Vandalism 4. Status Offenses 5. Narcotic Offenses 6. Theft 7. Weapon Violations 8. Accidents 9. Public Assists 10. Traffic Violations 11. Criminal Trespass

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b. The SRO is discouraged from providing transportation of any student who is custody, to either the Juvenile detention Center, or to the El Paso County jail. The SRO should summon the assistance of a patrol unit. All necessary reports are the responsibility of the SRO.

c. All evidence, such as narcotics, weapons etc. are the responsibility of the SRO and will be turned

in as such to the property office of the SISD PD.

d. Parent notification and Principal notification, when a student is taken into custody is the responsibility of the SRO.

e. Continuing investigation will be investigated by the assigned officer. The SRO may be called

upon to assist when necessary.

f. The SRO will interact with uniform patrol in order to share information and work together on matters of mutual concern, such as by not limited to:

1. Traffic hazards 2. Suspicious persons 3. Other ongoing problems

g. The SRO will perform preventive patrol for students enroute to and from school. Attention will be

directed to observation pertinent to the safety and well-being of the children and any other specific related problems. In order to facilitate this activity the SRO will report to his/her school zone, to conduct traffic control duties.

h. Conducting of an interview of an investigative nature and/or taking a statement from a student, is

to be done in the presence of the school principal or his/her designated representative. Ant statement taken at the school campus shall be in accordance with the “Loco Parentis” doctrine. If the offense is such that it results in the removal of a child from school, the parent or guardian shall be notified.

i. Students are by any means expressly forbidden to be encouraged to gain criminal information for

the SRO. No student is to be utilized as a communiqué for reporting to the officer on activities of other persons. This does not prevent a student from reporting, of his/her volition, any suspicious circumstances, to the SRO or any other official. The voluntary willingness to help curtail criminal conduct is exemplary of good citizenship and a responsible attitude.

j. The school may have access to information on a juvenile that a police officer may not. The SRO

may not purposely riffle through a student’s file to gain information whether for him/herself or for any other person not so entitled to the information.

k. The SRO will cooperate with the school policies in handling of law offenses as much as

practicable. Should there be a conflict between the practice of the school and any of the following documents, the document shall prevail. These documents include:

1. Texas Family Code 2. Code of Criminal Procedure 3. The Penal Code 4. Juvenile Court Guidelines for Handling Juvenile Offenders

l. The SRO will not be expected to function or act as a security person for the school. He/she is at

no time to be used as a threat toward a misbehaving student.

m. The SRO will not be used as a Truant Officer.

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n. School grounds will not be routinely patrolled, except to address a particular or potentially volatile problem. Most on-campus patrolling shall be required whenever free time permits.

o. In accordance with keeping informed of the community needs, the SRO will make every effort to

establish rapport and cooperation with the area patrol officers from the nearest police station.

p. Act as a liaison and resource between the Law Enforcement Community, other governmental agencies and the school, such as, but not limited to:

1. El Paso County Juvenile Court 2. Child Protective Services 3. Victim/Witness Program 4. Family Crisis facilities 5. Department of Human resources 6. Rape Crisis 7. County Attorney’s Office 8. Other Intervention or Counseling Services

q. At the discretion of the principal, participate in conferences, especially when potential delinquency

is a factor. The SRO does not assume the role and function of the school case worker: however, the SRO may have input into intervention and preventive strategies and community resources available. These conferences may involve staffing, case conferences, and disciplinary action.

r. Act as Police resource for students, parents, school staff and faculty.

s. The SRO should make every effort to be involved whether coordinating or as an advisor of school

safety programs at his assigned school or feeder schools.

t. The SRO should participate when requested and/or as need arises in counseling sessions, especially if juvenile delinquency is a factor.

u. The SRO shall maintain a records file of all reported crimes. Of all persons/students counseled

and of any incident reported to him/her that might not warrant a police report but which might warrant documentation.

v. Classroom or Presentation Evaluations are to be done periodically or at the request of the SRO

supervisor. Same are to be maintained by the SRO and turned in when requested by the SRO supervisor.

w. The SRO will conduct a minimum of twenty speaking engagements per month in a classroom.

x. Give presentations to feeder schools when requested.

y. Make occasional contact with the feeder schools for the purpose of establishing rapport and the

availability of the SRO.

z. Schedule addition speaking engagements at the discretion of the SRO I response to an invitation by individual classroom teachers related to: civics, constitutional law, search and seizure and criminal law.

aa. With the approval of the school principal or assistant principal, the SRO will schedule guest

speakers who have professional expertise in the areas of safety, physical, mental and social wellbeing of children.

bb. The SRO should maintain availability to all students in the school complex.

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cc. The SRO will be attired in the prescribed police uniform while on duty at his/her school. This is to include additional or over time events. Other clothing may be approved by the SRO supervisor in accordance with the SISD PD procedural manual.

dd. The SRO will perform his duties in accordance with the SISD year round education schedule.

During intercession, the SRO is encouraged to keep informal contact with the youth in his/her area, paying attention to areas conductive to youth gatherings such as parks.

3 Student Interactions

a. The SRO will make him/herself available, time permitting, to interact with the students in an

informal atmosphere during lunch periods. Student interaction is important to promote and reinforce the development of basic life skills and personal control and responsibility.

b. In order for the SRO to become involved in total school environment, he/she will attend some of

the target schools extracurricular activities. Every effort will be made to attend events at the feeder and high schools when requested or as the need arises.

4 Accountability to Principal

a. On a weekly basis, meet with the Principal. The purpose of this meeting is for briefing of possible problems, program or project progress, to make request or suggestions, etc. The main emphasis is to network with the principal and staff.

b. When SRO is going to leave the school campus, the SRO will get the permission of the

Sergeant/shift supervisor, and will notify the campus principal.

c. Attend staff and faculty meetings whenever possible. Offer constructive comments and insure you are seen as a positive team player.

d. Visit all feeder schools at least once a week.

5. Ultimate Program Goals

a. Identify a problem group with in the school and develop a program specifically designed to impact this group and the problems associated with them.

b. Develop and implement a student oriented program aimed at the entire student body which instills

friendship, self-esteem and cooperation and, if possible, incorporate the school staff and faculty.

c. Develop an overall teamwork relationship with the staff, faculty, parents and students by participating in as many activities and functions as possible.

6. Management

a. All SROs will be provided all forms by the immediate supervisor for uniformity. SROs will complete and submit all required paperwork no later than the 3rd of the following month.

b. The SRO will attend meetings as scheduled by the SRO supervisor or Chief of Police.

c. Due to the SROs participation in extra-curricular activities, the following is a list of activities which

will be recognized by the department for compensation for the time spent, Only if approved prior to the event by the supervisor or the Chief of Police. Any additional activities which might arise, must be submitted to the SRO supervisor/Chief for approval.

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o Athletic Events- Target school events and major events at feeder schools. No high school athletic events will be recognized for compensation.

o P.T.A. Meetings- all target school P.T.A. meetings, any high school feeder school P.T.A.

meetings, when requested to attend, or a need exists which would warrant attendance.

o Social Events- P.T.A. sponsored activities. SRO sponsored activities.

o Community Meetings 8.53 RACIAL PROFILING 1. Purpose

To establish procedural guidelines for the prevention of racial profiling in the Police Department of the Socorro Independent School District; and to protect our officers from unwarranted accusations of misconduct when they act within the dictates of the law. 2. Policy Statement

The Socorro Independent school District police Department prohibits racial profiling. No Socorro ISD Police Officer shall use racial profiling as the basis of a stop or detention.

3. Definitions

a. The term racial profiling means a law enforcement encounter initiated primarily on the basis of race, descent, ethnicity, economic status, religion, gender, sexual orientation or national origin rather than on the individuals behavior or on information identifying the individual as having engaged in criminal activity.

b. Race or ethnicity means a person of a particular descent, including Caucasian, African, Hispanic,

Asian, or Native American.

c. The term articulable suspicion includes probable cause or reasonable suspicion that on offense has been committed, is being committed, or is about to be committed by a specific person(s).

4. Policy

a. Racial profiling prohibited

1) SISD Police officers are absolutely prohibited in the utilization of race, descent, ethnicity,

economic status, religion, gender, or sexual orientation of a motorist or offender as an element in the stop or detention of any person.

2) SISD Police Officers must demonstrate probable cause for the detention of any person

b. Complaint process

5. Individuals who believe that the department or one of its officers has violated this policy may file a complaint to any officer, including the one who made the stop or detention.

a. The officer to whom the complaint is made will record the name, address, and phone number of the person making the complaint, and report this information to a supervisor prior to the end of the shift.

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b. In order for a complaint against a District Peace Officer to be considered by the head of the District Police Department, the complaint must be in writing and signed by the person who is making the complaint.

c. The information from the compliant shall be forwarded to the Officer designated to investigate

Internal Affairs incidents.

d. A copy of the complaint shall be given to the officer within 10 business days after it is filed.

e. The complaint should be submitted to the Chief of Police, who will respond within 10 business days of his receipt of the complaint, unless circumstances require more time to investigate, in which case the Chief of Police will notify the complainant of the date on which he or she will respond.

f. The Chief may schedule a meeting with the complainant and/or with any officer involved, in order

to discuss the matter.

g. Upon completing his investigation of the complaint, the Chief shall issue a decision of the matter, and, if appropriate, take appropriate action against any officer found to be in violation of this policy.

h. No person shall be discouraged, intimidated, or coerced from filing such a complaint, or

discriminated against because they have filed such a complaint.

i. Collection of Information and reports

1. The department shall collect information relating to traffic stops in which a citation is used and relating to arrests that results from those traffic stops, the information shall include:

(a) The race or ethnicity of the individual detained; and

(b) Whether a search was conducted, and, if so, whether the person detained consented to the search.

2. The Department shall have available an annual report of this information to the Board of Trustees. This report will be available not later than March 1, of each year and must contain the information compiled during the previous calendar year. This report shall include:

(a) A comparative analysis of the information compiled to:

(1) Determine the prevalence of racial profiling by peace officers employed by the agency; and

(2) Examine the disposition of traffic and pedestrian stops made by each officer

employed by the department, including searches that result from the stops; and

(b) Information relating to each complaint filed with the Department alleging that one of its peace officers has engaged in racial profiling.

The report may not contain identifying information about a peace officer who makes a

traffic or pedestrian stop or about an individual who is stopped or arrested by a peace officer.

j. Cameras and recording of law enforcement encounters.

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1. Upon adoption of this policy, the Department shall consider the feasibility of installing video cameras and voice-actuated microphone equipment in each of its law enforcement motor vehicles that is regularly used to make traffic stops.

2. The reporting requirement of this policy is inapplicable if, during the preceding school

year:

a. Every vehicle used by the Department to make traffic and pedestrian stops is equipped with video cameras and voice activated microphones: and

b. Every traffic and pedestrian stop made by an officer that is capable of being

recorded by such equipment.

3. If audio/video is utilized:

a. Tapes of stops/detention shall be retained for a period of time not less than 90 days from such detention.

b. If a complaint is received relevant to any stop/detention, the audio/video tapes

must be retained until final disposition of the complaint.

c. A copy of the audio/video tape shall be provided to any officer who is being investigated under this policy.

d. The officer tasked with the investigation will review the video and audio

documentation in a random manner so that a portion of the documentation of each officer is reviewed at least once during each year.

k. Public Education

The Department shall post this policy at each of its offices, at the district Administration Building, and at each campus in the District. Upon initial adoption of this policy, the Department shall hold a public education session, in which it will explain its complaint process to interested members of the public.

l. Non-Compliance

Appropriate corrective action is to be taken against any peace officer employed by SISD Police Department who, after an investigation, is shown to have engaged in racial profiling in violation of this policy which was adopted pursuant to Article 2.132, CCP.Officers who violate any provision of this policy shall be subject to appropriate corrective and/or disciplinary action

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CHAPTER NINE

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHER AGENCIES 9.00 INTER-AGENCY RELATIONS It is necessary that the Department establish a close working relationship with other law enforcement agencies, city and SISD departments and public service agencies. It is, therefore, the objective of the Department to provide cooperation and assistance necessary to maintain open and beneficial channels of communication between agencies. Every member of the Department holds significant responsibility in working toward these stated goals. Referrals to outside agencies will be coordinated through the shift supervisor, investigations, or the Chief of Police. Outside agencies will only be notified for matters falling within their jurisdiction or purview. Routine referrals to other agencies for the purpose of them assuming SISD cases are prohibited. Officers will strive to complete all cases that fall within the Department’s jurisdiction unless by their very nature, i.e. homicide, sexual assault, etc., outside assistance is necessary. 9.00.001 FEDERAL AGENCIES 1. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

a. The FBI is notified as soon as practical (on a 24-hour basis) by telephone, when any of the following offenses occur:

1) Bank robberies (banks, savings and loans associations and Federal Credit Unions); 2) Kidnappings – non-domestic; 3) Extortion; 4) Theft from inter-state shipments (railroads, trucks, air-crafts, buses); 5) Assaults on Federal officers; 6) Interstate transportation of stolen automobiles (when auto theft rings are suspected); 7) Any Federal crime which is not designated to another Federal agency.

2. Customs Border Protection (CBP)

a. Due to the unusual location of El Paso, there are several circumstances that necessitate that the Department works in conjunction with Customs Border Protection.

b. Smuggling Cases

1) Officers of this Department who observe or discover an act of smuggling take necessary

enforcement action; 2) If the offense is not a violation of the Texas Penal Code and an arrest is made, officers

immediately notify Customs Border Protection.

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c. International Bridge Running

1) International bridge running is a violation of the U. S. Code. Upon receiving information of an International Bridge runner connected with SISD jurisdiction, this Department makes an attempt to locate the vehicle. Upon locating a vehicle wanted for International Bridge running, officers stop and obtain the vehicle and any occupants of the vehicle. Officers then notify the dispatcher of the situation, request U. S. Customs and stand by until their arrival.

2) In the event that Customs Border Protection is unable to respond, officer take the following

enforcement action:

(a) Occupants of the vehicle are placed under arrest. (b) A wrecker is requested and the vehicle is towed to the International Bridge where the

offense occurred (Customs Border Protection is responsible for wrecker expenses). (c) Officers transport any occupants of the vehicle to the International Bridge where the

offense occurred, and turn them over to U. S. Customs officials.

d. EXCEPTIONS

The above-referenced procedures relating to U. S. Customs do not apply in situations involving persons who are “Wanted” by the FBI or when a Federal Warrant is outstanding (including previous Customs Border Protection violations).

3. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms

a. B.A.T.F. is notified as soon as practical (on a 24-hour basis) by telephone when any of the following offenses occur:

1) Possession of a machine gun, sawed off shotgun, sawed off rifle, silencer, or any explosive

or explosive device; 2) Arrest of a convicted felon in possession of a firearm; 3) Any firearm found to have the serial number obliterated or altered; 4) Possession of any distilled spirit without a Federal Tax Stamp; 5) Any reports of stolen shipments of tobacco; 6) Arsons where businesses are involved and the circumstances indicate that the arson was

committed for profit or by a suspected arson ring; or where a loss of life has occurred; 7) When any bombings or suspicious explosions occur.

4. Secret Service

a. The Secret Service is notified as soon as practical (on a 24-hour basis) by telephone when any of the following offenses occur:

1) Forgery of a government check, government bond or government security; 2) Theft of a government check, government bond or government security; 3) Counterfeiting;

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4) Threats to persons safeguarded by the Secret Service.

5. U. S. Marshal’s Office

a. The role of the United States Marshal’s Office is of concern to members of this Department in dealing with the apprehension and prosecution of criminals wanted on NCIC “Want” (hit) when the originating agency is the U. S. Marshal’s office. Officers will contact the U. S. Marshal’s Office on a 24-hour basis via the shift supervisor on any of the following:

1) NCIC hits where the originating agency is the U. S. Marshal’s office. This is determined by

the Teletype message. Officers will contact the U. S. Marshal’s Office for these arrests prior to booking;

2) Other Teletype messages will indicate the originating Federal Agency to be contacted.

Examples: DEA-DEA-ORI, FBI-FBI-ORI etc. These agencies should be contacted when their symbols are printed on the Teletype message;

3) Any apprehended Federal Escapee; 4) Any NCIC hit on a subject originating out of Washington D. C. These are considered to be

Federal Warrants in which the U. S. Marshal’s Office wishes to be contacted; 5) When “Detainers” are to be applied to a subject wanted for both State and Federal offenses

to ensure the subject does not bond out of the State charges before being served with the outstanding Federal Warrant as listed in NCIC;

6) When cleared by the officer’s immediate supervisor, and at the request of a U. S. Marshal,

officers will assist the U. S. Marshal’s Office with the serving of a Federal Warrant within the jurisdiction boundaries of this Department.

b. It not necessary for an officer to book a wanted subject under the Fugitive From Justice Act when

the originating agency is the U. S. Marshal’s Office. Officers may contact the U. S. Marshal’s Office for these arrests and the Marshal’s Office will take immediate custody of the prisoner for booking under Federal Laws.

6. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

a. All official police contacts with DEA are channeled through the shift supervisor. b. When possible, officers or sections planning narcotics special interest activity will coordinate with

other area narcotics enforcement agencies prior to establishment of such activities to preclude disruption of a narcotics investigation being conducted by DEA or other area law enforcement agencies.

7. Military Police

a. Officers do not initiate police action where the primary objective is directed toward discovering if U. S. Military personnel are absent without leave (AWOL). Police action that leads to AWOL arrests is not initiated where no crime related issues are involved or when no other issues of legitimate interest to the School District are present.

b. Officers assist Military Police in apprehending AWOL’S only at the request of Military Police when

they are on the scene. Officers are not dispatched to apprehend AWOLs unless the Military Police are on the scene.

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c. In the event an officer has arrested U. S. military Personnel for a violation of legitimate interest to SISD and, if circumstances warrant and upon approval of a superior, the officer may transport the subject to the Provost Marshall’s Office, Fort Bliss and turn him over to the Military Police, in lieu of Criminal Prosecution. This only pertains to Class “C” misdemeanors. All other arrests follow normal booking procedures. In the event a subject is released to the MPs, a complaint report is completed.

d. Officers attempt to locate and apprehend deserters and serious or dangerous military violators

when requested by the Military Police, regardless of whether Military Police are on the scene. e. When officers need assistance from the Military Police, they contact the Military Police at Fort

Bliss via the shift supervisor. Officers should keep in mind that the distinction between “AWOL” and “Deserter”. AWOL is strictly an administrative action by the military and officers have no jurisdiction or arrest powers for AWOL only. Deserter is a violation of federal law. Deserters are normally entered in NCIC. Officers have full jurisdiction and full arrest powers in dealing with deserters.

8. U. S. Postal Inspectors

a. The U. S. Postal Inspectors are notified as soon as practical (on a 24 hour basis) by telephone when any of the following offenses occur:

1) Theft of U.S. mail; 2) Burglary of postal facilities; 3) Burglary of self-service postal facilities.

b. Other offenses within the jurisdiction of the U. S. Postal Inspectors do not require immediate

notification. In such incidents the investigations section of this Department notifies the U. S. Postal Inspectors by providing them with a copy of the Complaint Report.

9.00.002 INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES 1. Mexican Law Enforcement Agencies

a. Members of this Department who need to communicate with any Mexican law enforcement

agency make such communication through the Juarez Liaison Office via the Chief of Police.

b. EXCEPTIONS

1) When officers need immediate assistance from a Mexican law enforcement agency. Officers contact the police dispatcher via the shift supervisor, who contacts the Mexican Law Enforcement Agency.

2) Examples of situations that might require immediate assistance are the apprehension of a

dangerous felon who crossed into Mexico or a disturbance on or about an International Bridge or border.

9.00.003 STATE AND LOCAL AGENCIES 1. Department of Public Safety

a. The Crime Laboratory is available and open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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b. All members of this Department respond and assist members of the Department of Public Safety when possible, at their request and when approved by the shift supervisor.

2. El Paso County Sheriff’s Department

a. Since SISD is located within El Paso County, the Department routinely interacts with the Sheriff’s Department in several matters on a regular basis. The county jail facilities, the medical examiner’s office and the records and identification section frequently work in close association with various Police Department personnel.

b. Officers respond to assist the Sheriff or Deputies anywhere in the School District, at their request,

after receiving clearance from the shift supervisor. c. Officers are reminded that commissioned officers of the Sheriff’s Department have authority and

jurisdiction to act within the SISD jurisdiction. 3. Jurisdictional Arson Investigators

a. The Jurisdictional Arson Investigation Unit is immediately notified by members of this department, on a 24 hour basis, when any fire related incident involving suspected arson or suspected firebombing occurs.

b. Upon discovering any fire-related incident where arson or firebombing is suspected, the officer

contacts the jurisdictional agency police dispatcher via SISD dispatch and the field supervisor, who in turn notifies the arson investigation unit having jurisdiction in the area in which the arson occurred.

c. All arson or firebombing cases are handled by the Fire Marshall having jurisdiction in which the

arson occurred. The direction that the investigation is to follow is the responsibility of that agency with SISD police personnel rendering any assistance requested.

d. Police personnel do not disturb nor handle any evidence at the scene of suspected arson or

firebombing without the authorization of the arson investigator. 4. Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission

a. The local office of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission works closely with and provides assistance to officers of the Department. They may be utilized in enforcing liquor or technical violations that occur in SISD jurisdiction.

b. Any violations observed and action taken by an officer should be noted in a complaint report and

forwarded to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. 5. El Paso Police Department The El Paso Police Department (EPPD) is the most widely used agency when this Department requires assistance. EPPD will not routinely be used to handle this Department’s calls. Supervisors will closely monitor the use of EPPD and ensure that Department officers strictly adhere to this policy. Whenever EPPD is called to assist this agency, the shift supervisor will notify the Chief of Police via an inter-office memorandum. The memorandum will include an explanation of why this agency could not handle the call. EPPD should only be used when situations occur that are out of the ordinary, i.e. homicide, manslaughter, deaths, etc. When EPPD is requested, the shift supervisor will be notified. The supervisor will decide what role District officers will take and what type of reports will be made.

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CHAPTER TEN

EQUIPMENT 10.00 EQUIPMENT Since equipment is essential in a modern police department as a means to accomplish the police mission, to assist in the performance of each member’s duties, to ensure safety, to expedite investigations and communication, and to promote efficiency, it is incumbent upon the Department to provide most of the equipment or to set standards for the purpose or use of equipment. It is the objective of the Department to publish procedures that guide the purchase, use, maintenance and storage of different equipment items. 10.00.001 RETURN OF DISTRICT PROPERTY When a member is suspended, resigns or is terminated or separated from the Department for any reason, all District property issued shall be returned to the Department. 10.01 RADIOS The Socorro ISD Police Department operates its two-way radio system. 1. The Dispatch Division of the Socorro ISD Police Department is established per order of the Chief of

Police and becomes a divisional unit under the organizational chart of the department. 2. The Dispatch Division operates under the authority of the Chief of Police and is directly subordinate to

the Chief of Police. All calls for Police Service, coming through the Dispatcher, are processed under this authority and are responded to, by the units of this Department, in accordance with Departmental Policies, procedures, rules and regulations.

3. The police radio is used solely for the communication of information that is necessary in the

performance of a police function. Unnecessary conversations, noises or keying of the microphones is subject to disciplinary action.

4. It is the officer’s responsibility to advise the dispatcher by means of the police radio when and for

what reason the Officer will be away from radio communications. 10.01.001 RADIO REPAIR 1. When a police radio is inoperative, the officer advises his immediate supervisor of the defect. If it

becomes necessary to have the radio repaired, the officer:

a. Completes radio work order form. b. If during business hours, takes the radio to the designated repair location as approved by a

supervisor through the Chief of Police. c. If during non-business hours, contacts a supervisor for guidance.

10.01.002 REPAIR ORDERS (GENERAL) No equipment will be sent out for repair without the notification of a supervisor. The supervisor is responsible for coordinating repairs through the Chief of Police

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10.01.002.1 ALLOCATION OF FUNDS No member of this department will commit the Department or District to the payment of any funds, monies, or any item of value unless authorized to do so by the Chief of Police 10.01.002.2 PROPERTY DISPOSAL All property will be disposed of in accordance with District policy. No employee is authorized to take any property from the Department or District, no matter what the value or condition. The fact that an item is going to be or may be considered to be disposed of (trash, etc.) does not give any employee permission to remove it from the District and Department inventory. 10.02 UNIFORMS Officers will provide their own leather gear, footwear, underclothing, and socks. All uniform and equipment items will conform to the standards set forth in this manual or by the Chief of Police. 1. Each employee is responsible for replacing, at his/her expense, any item issued by SISD that is lost

or irreparably damaged through carelessness or maliciousness. 2. Officers are responsible for alterations or replacement of uniform items, at their own expense, due to

weight gain or loss. The Department will replace all other uniform replacements due to normal wear and tear as approved by the Chief of Police. Officers will submit an Inter-Office memorandum, signed by his/her shift supervisor, approving replacement of items to the Department for replacement of uniform items.

3. Duty ammunition is issued to all officers. A maximum of 53 rounds of duty ammunition for officers

utilizing a semi-automatic pistol will be issued, officers carrying revolvers will be issued a maximum of 25. Only handguns and ammunition approved by the department are authorized for use either on or off duty.

4. All weapons will be approved by the Chief of Police. 5. Ammunition: a. No full-metal case ammunition; b. No armor-piercing, fragmenting, or incendiary ammunition; c. No wad-cutter or special target ammunition; 10.02.001 UNIFORM STANDARDS 1. Officers of this department are responsible for assuring compliance in wearing the official Socorro

ISD Police Department uniform, as prescribed in this manual or department regulation. All officers, regardless of their on-duty assignments will comply with regulations regarding the police uniform. The Chief of Police or his designate will prescribe the uniform or clothing assignment for a particular assignment. Individual police officers are prohibited from making this decision.

2. Officers assigned to duties where the uniform is not worn will comply with the department-approved dress code as it relates to civilian attire. Civilian attire will be modified on the basis of the duty assignment or event, while attending training, or other professional function. The following clothing items are prohibited: • Capris pants, halter tops, shorts, low-cut blouses, flip-flops or open-toe sandals, excessively-worn

or torn clothing items.

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3. No part of the uniform with the exception of underclothing, shoes, and the Sam Brown belt, under

certain circumstances, will be worn with civilian clothing unless authorized by the appropriate authority.

4. Uniforms will be clean, pressed, and always present a neat appearance. Shoes will be laced and

shined with the welts blackened. No frayed, torn, tattered, or soiled uniforms or equipment is authorized. Uniform belts, shoes, and equipment will be in good repair and absent of any scuffmarks.

5. No union or organization or religious insignia pins are authorized for wear on any department

uniform. Only those pins issued or approved will be worn as prescribed. 6. Bulletproof vests are issued for officer protection and safety. If ballistic body armor has been provided

by the Department through grants or funds allocated, the vest will be worn at all times while the officer is in full uniform and on duty. It is the responsibility of the officer to wear a vest. It is strongly encouraged that each officer wears a vest, in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, while on duty. When worn, the bulletproof vest will be secured in the factory carrier. No alterations to the vest or its carrier are authorized.

7. Male officers will report to work freshly shaven. Moustaches will be neat and trimmed. Beards,

handlebar moustaches, and sideburns extending below the earlobe are not authorized. Sideburns will not be flared or bushy and will end with a clean-shaven horizontal line.

8. The use of cologne and perfumes are discouraged for patrol officers who regularly engage in building

and suspect searches. Heavy use of cologne or perfume is always prohibited. 9. Fingernails will be cut to a conservative length (no longer than ¼ inch past the fingertip) and will be

free of dirt and grease. Nail polish is authorized for female officers only and will be of a conservative color that compliments the officer’s natural skin tone.

10. Hair will be neatly and conservatively cut and will present a neat and clean appearance. No trendy or

faddish styles or colors are authorized. Hair will not extend below the ears or collar and shall not fall below the eyebrows. Female officers may pin their hair to meet this requirement with pins and accouterments that blend with the hair color. Ponytails, pig tales, braids, and plaits are not authorized. Hair shall not interfere with the wearing of the issued police cap and shall not protrude from the front of the cap.

11. All employees will maintain acceptable hygiene standards. 12. Female officers may conservatively wear cosmetics that blend with their natural skin tone. Faddish or

exotic colors are not authorized. 13. Glasses and sunglasses will be conservative in design and style. 14. Jewelry is limited to a maximum of one ring per hand which are conservative in design. Necklaces

will be worn inside the uniform T-shirt. Bracelets are authorized, but must be conservative in design. Male officers are not authorized to wear earrings while in uniform or while working in civilian clothing. Female officers may wear one earring per earlobe. Female earrings will be the silver in color, or gold in color for supervisors, small, ball type. No loops or hanging earrings are authorized. Nose rings, mouth rings, etc. are not authorized. No jewelry will interfere with the use of any police equipment.

15. All officers will wear T-shirts that are black, dark blue or in color. All officers will wear socks, nylons

are not authorized. Socks when worn with low cut shoes will be black.

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16. A Sam Brown belt will be worn. Holsters will be in good repair and be of the type for the weapon being used. The use of retention holsters is strongly encouraged. The wearing of keys on the Sam Brown is discouraged. Handcuffs will be carried in a handcuff case.

17. Reflective tape or embroidered names are not authorized on the police cap. Only approved or issued

headgear is authorized. 18. Long sleeved shirts may be worn with open collar, clip on, dark blue tie, or with a dark blue/black

dickey at any time of the year. Department-approved embroidery is authorized on the tie or dickey. The Chief of Police or his designate may mandate ties, or dickeys for department functions. The only tie clip is the straight bar, either silver in color for patrol officers and gold in color for supervisors. Tie clips will be plain with no design

19. The wearing of sleeveless jackets or vests is authorized. Rain gear will be Department issued. If

Police Officers wear sleeveless jackets or vests, it will be of blue or black color. Security Officers and Attendance Officers are approved to wear black or tan colored.

20. Shoes and boots will be black in color with black laces. No faddish, exotic, or eccentric styles are

authorized. The use of steel-toed, oil/slip resistant shoes and boots are encouraged. Shoes and boots will be plain-toed, work type. Tennis shoes are not authorized.

21. Seniority stripes are issued to commissioned personnel who have served at least five years with this department. The stripes recognize the service and carry no special powers or privileges for the wearer. Personnel are required to wear the stripes. Stripes will be worn in a manner prescribed by the Chief of Police. Seniority stripes will be determined by the Officer’s commissioned date as a Peace Officer, not by years as a district employee.

22. Officers will wear insignias appropriate to their rank. Officers, who do not merit the wearing of rank

insignias, may not wear them on any part of their uniform. Officers who are not of appropriate rank may not possess paraphernalia that represents them as possessing any rank for which they are not entitled. This includes badges, business cards, patches, etc. Additionally, officers may only represent themselves using their current rank.

23. The Chief of Police may alter any of the above policies to suit the needs of the department or the

assignment. The Chief of Police may also set a specific uniform combination for Department functions or assignments.

24. Hoodies may be worn under Department uniform in extreme weather cases only. Only black or dark

blue hoodies will be authorized for Peace Officers and black or tan colored hoodies are authorized for Security Officers and Attendance Officers. Hoodies must be plain with no visible markings.

25. The Chief of Police, his designate, or a supervisor may conduct personnel and equipment inspections

to ensure compliance with directives. Inspections may be formal (parade) or informal. 26. No uniform item or equipment that is assigned to one employee may be given or lent to anyone

without permission of a supervisor. 27. All personal business cards will be approved by the Chief of Police or his designate. 10.02.002 COURT ATTIRE While attending court, personnel will both wear their uniform or a jacket and tie for males or business attire for females. No jeans, tennis shoes, sandals, pull-over shirts, or other casual attire are authorized.

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10.03 VEHICLES 1. The supervisor of a feeder pattern controls assignment of police vehicles within that division of the

Police Department. Officers will not switch assigned vehicles without a supervisor’s permission. The Chief of Police or Department Supervisor may make any vehicle assignment necessary to meet mission requirements. This includes reassigning a vehicle from one person to another.

2. Officers assigned a police vehicle are responsible for the inspection of their vehicle and it’s

equipment. All emergency equipment will be checked prior to taking the unit out into the field. A visual inspection of the entire prisoner compartment area will also be conducted. Any contraband or evidence found in the prisoner compartment will be immediately reported to a supervisor. Any defects or damage observed in the vehicle or equipment are brought to the attention of the officer’s immediate supervisor by means of an inter-office memorandum.

3. The necessary washing and cleaning of a police vehicle is the responsibility of the officers assigned

to the vehicle during a tour of duty. Vehicle washing will be done during off-peak hours. A supervisor will determine when vehicles are taken in for wash and where the washing will be done. Normally only one vehicle will be in for cleaning at one time. All vehicles will, at a minimum be cleaned once a week, inside and out. A supervisor may increase the frequency dependent upon conditions.

4. Employees operating or riding in Department vehicles shall wear safety belts as provided. The belts

shall be worn properly adjusted and securely fastened. Arrestees and other passengers shall be required to use available safety belts.

5. Unless it is impractical, an officer securely locks a vehicle when leaving it parked. When an officer in

the field has mechanical problems, the car is driven to the station only if the problems are minor enough to drive the car to the station without escalating the problem. If the problem is not minor, or if the vehicle is not operable for whatever reason, the officer contacts the shift supervisor who in turn contacts either the auto shop or the on-call Wrecker Service, whichever is appropriate.

6. Members of this Department, unless designated and authorized by the Chief of Police, do not take

any police vehicles to their homes. If authorized for take home use, the vehicle will only be used for District business.

7. Officers refuel and properly park police vehicles in their designated area at the end of their tour of

duty. Anyone who loses a gas key will immediately report the loss to a supervisor. Prior to using the master gas key, permission must first be obtained from the shift supervisor. The swapping of gas keys between units is prohibited.

8. Lubrication and general maintenance checks of police vehicles are the responsibility of the Garage

Maintenance personnel. Officers are responsible for filling the vehicle oil, transmission fluid, tires, and window cleaner as required. The oil and transmission levels will be checked at the beginning of each tour of duty. Officers are authorized to change flat tires.

9. Due to the potential for serious bodily injury or property damage, no officer will utilize a District vehicle

to jump-start or boost a dead battery on a citizen’s vehicle. Officers also will not attempt to unlock a vehicle using a “Slim Jim” or other device for the convenience of the citizen. This does not apply in emergency situations when the officer deems it necessary.

10. Private vehicles will not be pushed with the police vehicles unless they present a danger or traffic

hazard to other vehicles if left in the roadway. Only police vehicles equipped with push bumpers will be utilized and the private vehicle will only be pushed to the closest point out of the roadway where it no longer presents a hazard. A patrol log entry will be made any time a vehicle is used to push another.

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11. Personnel will not alter or repair any vehicle or its installed equipment. Repairs of vehicles will be managed by a supervisor. Personnel will not take any vehicle to any repair facility without first contacting a supervisor.

12. No personnel will possess a key to a vehicle for which he is not assigned. 13. The Department or the District is not responsible for any personal equipment left inside a District

vehicle. 14. Personnel who are involved in an accident, no matter how slight the damage is, will immediately

report the situation to dispatch. Officers will remain on the scene until a supervisor responds to conduct an investigation.

15. If available, video equipment shall be used on District Police units for safety purposes whenever the flashing lights on the unit are in use. Recordings shall be considered Law Enforcement records, shall remain in the custody of the Chief of Police and shall be maintained as required by the Department regulations manual and law, a parent or student who wishes to view a video recording in response to disciplinary action taken against the student may request such access under the procedures set out by law.

10.04 SISD POLICE SERVICES / WEAPONS POLICY It is the policy of Socorro Independent School District Police Services to identify the appropriate weapons that shall be carried by sworn personnel both on and off duty. Furthermore, the Socorro ISD Police Services shall identify the appropriate ammunition and qualification course to ensure proficient use of weapons.

A. DUTY WEAPONS:

1. The mandatory duty weapon for officers hired after July 1st, 2014 is a semi-automatic, double action only.

2. Officers who were hired prior to July 1st, 2014 are authorized to continue to carry their current

semi-automatic duty weapon system. Semi-automatic pistols may be single action, double action (DA), Double Action Only (DAO), safe action (SA), or a squeeze cock design (SC). The minimum barrel length for semi-automatic pistols is 3 ½ inches. Only the following calibers are authorized for duty use:

a) .9mm Parabellum. b) .40 Smith & Wesson. c) 45ACP. d) .357 caliber e) .357/38 special

3. Officers who elect to change their current duty weapon system must replace it with a semi-

automatic pistol in any caliber listed (Policy section A / 2 / a-d). After July 1st 2014, the .357/38 special handgun will no longer be approved for use as a duty weapon.

4. If an officer wishes to carry an on-duty weapon caliber not listed above, they must file a request letter with the Chief of Police stating the following;

a) Reason for the request to carry an on duty weapon other than listed

above. b) Specifications on weapon. c) Provide proof of qualification for the firearm.

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5. The Chief of Police has final approval of any weapon which may be carried by any officer while on duty. The decision in reference to the weapon is final and non-appealable.

B. OFF DUTY WEAPONS

1. The mandatory off- duty weapon for officers hired after July 1st, 2014 are any listed approved

semi-automatic double action only pistol listed (Policy section II / 3 / a-f).

2. Officers who were hired prior to July 1st, 2014 may continue to carry their current duty weapon system, but are subject to the provisions discussed (Policy section II / 3 /a-f).

3. Officers are authorized to carry either a double action revolver or a semi-automatic pistol in

one of the calibers indicated:

a) .380 ACP. b) .38 Special. c) 357 Magnum. d) 9mm Parabellum. e) .40 Smith and Wesson. f) .45 ACP.

4. Officers who carry a weapon while in an off duty status will utilize a holster that is safe,

secure and concealable.

5. Officers who carry a weapon while off duty must have their badge and Police identification card in their possession.

6. Off duty weapons must be inspected and approved by the armorer. The officer will qualify

with the weapon prior to being carried off duty.

C. SECONDARY WEAPONS:

1. Officers are authorized to carry one (1) pistol as a secondary weapon while on duty.

2. .380 caliber ACP is authorized for this purpose in addition to those calibers indicated (Policy section I / 2 / a-d) above.

3. Secondary weapons will be inspected and approved by the armorer. Officers will qualify with the weapon prior to carrying it for duty purposes. The serial number of the secondary weapon will be recorded and kept on file.

4. Officers who carry a secondary weapon while on duty will utilize a holster that is safe, secure and concealable.

D. SHOTGUNS

1. Officers who are not issued a shotgun by this office may carry a privately owned shotgun while on-duty. Personal shotguns must be a 12 gauge pump or semi-automatic. The weapon must have an operational safety mechanism and a pre-approved barrel length. Pre-approval is granted by the Chief of Police or his designee.

2. Personally owned shotguns will be inspected and approved by the armorer. Officers will

qualify with the weapon prior to the weapon being carried on duty.

3. Shotguns will be carried with the magazine tube fully loaded, the chamber empty and the safety in the safe position. When transferring vehicles/shotguns between car- partners,

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officers will inspect the shotgun to ensure serviceability, cleanliness and that no round is in the chamber.

4. The security, serviceability, and cleanliness of both issued and personally owned vehicles,

the weapon will be secured in an agency installed, locking shotgun rack. If a locking type rack is unavailable, the weapon will be secured in a manner that conceals it from view. No vehicle containing a shotgun will be left unlocked and unattended. Shotguns will not be left in Police vehicles while officers are in an off- duty status.

E. PATROL RIFLES

1. The purpose of the patrol rifle is to enhance the tactical capabilities of law enforcement

personnel by augmenting the service pistol and shotgun, as appropriate.

2. Prior to the purchase of a patrol rifle, its configuration and specifics must be approved by the Chief of Police or his designee.

3. Pending preapproval, the purchase of a patrol rifle will be made by officers wishing to carry

one. If at a later time, SISD Police Services purchases carbines, the issuance of the carbines is at the discretion of the Chief of Police or his designee.

4. SISD Police Chief will grant permission to carry a .223 carbine rifle to officers who complete all prerequisites.

5. Neither the Chief of Police, his designee, nor the Socorro ISD are responsible for any damages incurred due to deliberate misuse of the weapon by the owner.

6. Normally, patrol rifles will be deployed at a range of 100 yards or less. That range may be

extended, as deemed appropriate, depending upon the tactical situation, the nature of the threat and the terrain involved.

7. All new weapons will be inspected, test fired and zeroed by the armorer prior to being

deployed.

8. Officers must complete the specified training and qualification course with their assigned weapon prior to carrying it on duty.

9. Should an officer change weapons, he/she must qualify with the new carbine prior to using it.

10. Actual deployment of the patrol rifle will be consists of the following circumstances;

a.) Active shooter. b.) Subject with a gun. c.) Felony Traffic stops. d.) High-Risk situations.

11. The patrol rifle will not be deployed under the following circumstances;

a.) Peaceful assembly/demonstration. b.) Riots. c.) For the sole purpose of intimidation.

12. A round may be chambered if required by the tactical situation. However, once a round has

been chambered, the safety shall be placed in the “on” position and kept there until a conscious decision has been made to fire the weapon.

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13. Security, serviceability, and cleanliness of the patrol rifle is the responsibility of the officer to whom it is issued or has purchased the carbine. As a minimum, patrol rifles will be cleaned after firing or after exposure to inclement weather. While in the vehicle, the weapon, ammunition and all ancillary equipment will be stored in the trunk. No vehicle containing weapons will be left unlocked and unattended. When transferring vehicles/patrol rifles between car partners, deputies will inspect the patrol rifle to ensure serviceability, cleanliness, and that no round is in the chamber.

14. Officers may use privately owned rifles for duty purposes with the approval of the Chief of

Police or his designee. These weapons will be inspected and approved by the SISD Police Services Armorer. The officer must meet all established policy and procedures pertaining to qualification prior to carrying the weapon on duty. Use of privately owned weapons is at the discretion of the Chief of Police or his designee and may be revoked at any time.

F. AMMUNITION / AFTERMARKET ATTACHMENTS / REPAIRS

1. By purchasing a .223 carbine rifle, the officer acknowledges full responsibility for any

damages to the weapon.

2. The basic load of duty ammunition shall be a minimum of three (3) fully loaded 20 round magazines. No maximum amount of ammunition shall be established nor enforced.

3. Ammunition used in all carbines shall either be 55 grain full metal jacket or 55 grain soft tip. 4. The only ammunition authorized for all shotgun use is; #8 shot (for breaching), 00 buckshot

and rifled slugs.

5. Use of specialized ammunition such as (5.56 NATO) 60 grain, “hot loads”, breaching rounds, armor piercing, tracer, dragon’s breath, or any other non-basic loads are prohibited unless prior approval has been made by the Chief of Police or his designee. A signed letter must be on file, and a copy of the letter must be presented to the officer’s immediate Supervisor.

6. Use of optics, tactical lights, lasers or any other add-on items placed on carbine rifles or shotguns are at the sole discretion of the Chief of Police or his designee. Overly modified carbines are not allowed.

7. Personal owned carbine rifles or shotguns that malfunction or appear to have broken parts will not be used by the officer until all necessary repairs /replacements have been made.

8. SISD Chief of Police is solely responsible for granting or denying permission to use a carbine rifle. The Chief of Police, his designee, or the Socorro ISD will not be held accountable for any damages to personal rifles or additional attachments. Repairs are the sole responsibility of the owner of the carbine rifle.

G. INSPECTION AND REGISTRATION OF WEAPONS: 1. All firearms used for duty and off duty purposes will be inspected and approved by the

armorer prior to being carried. All approved weapons will be inspected at least once during the calendar year. This is required in order to insure that the weapon is serviceable and suitable for law enforcement purposes. A record will be maintained of all weapons that are submitted for inspection and registration.

2. The armorer will inspect handguns, shotguns, and patrol rifles annually. A record will be maintained of all weapons that are submitted for inspection and registration. That record will include the make, model, caliber, and serial number of each weapon.

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3. Weapons carried by officers must be safe and reliable. Therefore, only firearms produced or marketed by the approved manufacturers are authorized for duty and off duty use.

4. Modifications to weapons that affect their adherence to factory specifications are not allowed.

Safety and reliability are important; any modifications which change the weapon from its original design will be cause for rejection by the armorer.

5. Any weapon that is damaged or consistently malfunctions will be reported to the armorer. The

armorer will inspect the weapon to determine the extent of the damage and/or the cause of the malfunction. If the weapon is found to be unsafe or in need of repair it will be removed from service. Once repairs are made the armorer will inspect the weapon and return it to active service.

6. Repairs to privately owned weapons are the responsibility of the individual officer. Repairs

must be made through certified gunsmiths. In the event that the armorer can make minor repairs that are within his/her capability and if the parts are readily available, the repairs will be at no cost to the officer.

7. When a weapon is repaired by certified gunsmith, it will not be returned to active service until

the armorer has inspected it and verified its serviceability

H. QUALIFICATION AND TRAINING:

1. The frequency of qualifications and training with firearm and training aids are to be scheduled by SISD Police Services. Officers will be required to show proficiency in training and qualifications using both training aids and the weapons they are approved to carry.

2. If an officer fails their shooting qualifications, they will be required to take a shooting refresher course prior to requalifying. The scheduling of the refresher class and any cost incurred for requalification will be the responsibility of the individual officer.

3. If officer is unable to successfully pass the requalification, will be subject to disciplinary

action. If the officer fails to pass two consecutive proficiency tests, their inability to perform as a peace officer may lead to suspension or termination. Disciplinary action will be at the discretion of the Chief of Police or his designee.

4. Simulated firearms training will be scheduled on a regular basis for peace officers. Officers

scheduled for training will be required to attend, as long as circumstances permit. 5. The use of gas propelled and motor driven projective launchers are a major part of simulated

training and have been approved for use as training aids by SISD Police Services. Use of these training aids is a critical part of training. The use of training aids will help officers gauge their proficiency with a firearm and understanding how they will react under stressful situations.

6. Participation in simulated training exercises with gas propelled and motor driven training aids

are not a requirement for employment. Their use is strictly for training and are to be used by officers on a volunteer basis. Although, no officer will be compelled to participate in the exercises, they are required to stay throughout the duration exercise. All officers attending training will be required to wear appropriate clothing and protective equipment

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10.04.001 CHEMICAL WEAPONS Definition: Chemical weapons, include, but are not limited to, the following: mace and tear-gas, as well as chemical grenades and projectiles. No chemical weapon will be worn or used unless approved by the Chief of Police. 1. Procedure for Use

a. Chemical weapons are not used unnecessarily or excessively. b. Chemical weapons are used only after other reasonable efforts to control a violent person have

failed. c. In cases of riots or civil disorder, the authority to use chemical weapons is the discretion of the

supervisor in command of the operation. d. Chemical weapons are not used on children or on incapacitated persons, unless the Officer

determines that the chemical weapon is necessary due to exigent circumstances.

2. Procedures after Use

a. Subjects in custody to which chemical agents have been applied are accorded proper first aid treatment as soon as possible.

b. Cleaning the area affected with cold water, if necessary, is usually sufficient.

c. In cases where first aid treatment is not sufficient, emergency medical treatment is secured.

3. Reporting Procedure

a. Any officer discharging a chemical weapon reports the incident to his immediate supervisor as soon as possible.

b. The supervisor to whom this report is submitted designates which form is to be utilized and

forwards it through official channels without delay when deemed necessary.

c. All pertinent facts surrounding the use or discharge of a chemical weapon and the type of the first aid/and or medical treatment accorded are included in a Police report.

10.04.002 BATONS 1. The police baton is recognized as a formidable weapon for defense and counter attack. Officers of

this department while on their tour of duty may carry only approved police batons and impact weapons.

2. Due to the capability of batons and approved impact weapons, officers who injure any party with this

baton report such injury to a supervisor for documentation. 10.04.003 RIOT GEAR At times, officers find they must be prepared to confront large civil disturbances or riots. Keeping the safety of the officer in mind, the following weapons and accessories, when available, are issued to each officer when necessary:

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1. Riot control batons 2. Riot helmets with chinstraps 3. Vests 4. Shields 5. Any other special equipment that may be issued by a station or division. 10.04.004 Other Special Weapons Officers use all other special weapons available to the Department only after written permission is granted by the Chief of Police, or after a special order is issued by the Chief of Police. 10.04.006 Special Equipment 1. Requests for Use;

All requests for use of equipment not normally approved or issued by personnel is made through the chain of command. It is the responsibility of all supervisory personnel to make immediate disposition of such requests.

2. Maintenance

a. It is the responsibility on all personnel who are issued special equipment to see that such equipment is in good order, both mechanically and cosmetically.

3. Replacement

a. When an SISD owned equipment item is lost, stolen, or damaged to the point of being unserviceable, the concerned employee requests replacement or repair of the item.

b. The ownership of any SISD property never reverts to any individual without first following School

District procedures. 4. Technical Equipment

a. Storage and maintenance of technical equipment is designated and controlled by the Chief of Police.

b. Any officer or employee requiring the use of services of any such equipment does so through

official channels.

c. Supervisors authorizing the use or service of any special technical equipment are held responsible for seeing that a qualified, competent operator is assigned to its use.

10.05 DEPARTMENT ELECTRONIC MAIL SYSTEM 1. The Electronic Mail System is designed to facilitate the use of inter-departmental communication in a

paperless system. 2. Inherent in the system is the ability to send mail confidentially by the use of a password exclusive to

the individual.

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3. There is no right to privacy on the Department electronic mail system. 4. Officers should be aware that they will be held responsible for any mail originating from their

password, and therefore, should take all precautions to see that their password is not compromised. 5. The individual employee will be held accountable for any mail generated through their password

which is inappropriate or offensive, and the individual who is identified as the sender through their password may be subject to disciplinary action.

6. Electronic mail is not a replacement for written requests and other correspondence. 7. Each person on duty is responsible for checking his electronic mail daily. 10.06 CLEANLINESS Each individual employee is responsible for keeping his assigned equipment and department areas clean. Trash and waste will be deposited in the proper receptacle. 10.07 COPYING MACHINES 1. Department copying machines and equipment will be used for official business only. 2. Personnel are not authorized to reproduce personal material on any Department or District

equipment. The copy machine is intended to make small quantities of copies. Personnel desiring to run large jobs must first receive permission from a supervisor to do so. Large print jobs should be referred to the print shop via the Chief of Police.

3. Personnel who jam the copying machine or otherwise have any problems using the equipment will

immediately report the problem to a supervisor. Personnel who are unfamiliar with equipment operation or troubleshooting will refrain from trying to clear jams and other problems.

10.08 BULLETIN BOARDS 1. Department bulletin boards are the property of SISD and will not be used for personal use or the

posting of obscene or offensive material. The Chief of Police and the District regulates posts and items will not be placed or removed without first obtaining permission to do so.

2. Each person on duty is responsible for checking the bulletin boards on a daily basis. 3. No obscene or offensive material will be posted anywhere in the Department. 4. No person will remove any authorized posting without permission from the Chief of Police. 10.08.001 CHALKBOARD/STATUS BOARDS Department chalkboards and status boards are erected for Department use only. No personal, obscene, offensive, anonymous, or non-business related messages will be written. No items will be taped on walls or on the chalkboard without prior approval from the Chief of Police or his designate. 10.09 MAILBOXES Each person on duty is responsible for checking his district e-mail account on a daily basis.

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10.10 Electronic Equipment 1. To prevent damage, food and beverages will be kept away from all electronic equipment. 2. Unqualified personnel are prohibited from repairing or altering any electronic equipment. 3. Dispatchers will not eat or drink anything near any electronic equipment, microphones, computers,

keyboards, etc. If available, the dispatcher will be provided a relief to eat meals. When no qualified relief is available, and approved by a supervisor, dispatchers will eat away from the dispatch workstations and consoles.

10.11 COMPUTERS AND RELATED EQUIPMENT 1. All information stored on Department computers is the property of the Department. No personal work

or information will be introduced onto any Department computer. The release of any information from Department or District computers is prohibited unless directed from the Chief of Police. No student or employee information will be released unless authorized by the Chief of Police. Information revealed to an outside agency must be for a current or ongoing criminal investigation.

2. No personal disks, jump drives, software, files, etc. will be introduced into the Department’s computer

system without first obtaining permission from the Chief of Police or his designate. 3. No alterations will be made to any computer set-up, configuration, etc., without the permission of the

Chief of Police or his designate. 4. The Chief of Police or his designate will decide who has access and to what degree the access level is

to the Department’s computer system. 10.12 REFRIGERATORS, MICROWAVE OVENS AND COFFEE POTS Refrigerators, coffeepots, and microwave ovens may be placed in use for the comfort of employees. Only those devices approved by the Chief of Police will be used in any Department workspace. All devices will be cleaned after each use. No food or beverages will be left in any refrigerator after an employee’s shift.

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CHAPTER ELEVEN

INVESTIGATIONS 11.01 ARREST WARRANTS This procedure is established to ensure a uniform and practical means of obtaining, handling, and disposing of arrest warrants. 1. When an arrest warrant is obtained, the assigned investigator will make diligent, systematic and

continuous effort to locate and apprehend the suspect.

a. As soon as the warrant is obtained, the investigator will place the SISD case number in a conspicuous place on the warrant.

b. The investigator will continue to look for the suspect, even after the warrant has been turned into a secured area designated by the Chief of Police to house warrants.

2. An assigned investigating officer failing to apprehend the suspect by the end of the officer’s tour of

duty on the day the warrant was obtained will turn the warrant into the secured area designated by the Chief of Police to house warrants together with a “Warrant Information Sheet.” The Warrant Information Sheet contains all the information which is known by the investigating officer and includes information that the suspect is “Possibly Armed” or “Combative” when the suspect has a prior history of being armed or combative toward police.

3. Arrest warrants obtained by Patrol Officers, that are not executed, are turned into the secured area

designated by the Chief of Police to house warrants.. 4. When a subject, for whom there is an outstanding warrant, cannot be located within a reasonable

amount of time, the investigator sends his completed case to the appropriate prosecuting authority. Necessary supplementary reports are completed and sent to the administrative section, who then attaches the supplements to the working case.

5. When the District or County Attorney returns the case as declined the investigating officer will remove

the warrant from the secured area designated by the Chief of Police to house warrants.. The warrant will be cancelled and returned to the issuing judge. The investigating officer will complete necessary supplementary reports, and will then forward them to the administrative section.

When the case is returned by the District or County Attorney’s Office as being accepted for prosecution and re-filed, the investigating officer removes the warrant from the secured area designated by the Chief of Police to house warrants.. The warrant is cancelled and sent back to the issuing judge. The investigating officer who forwards them to the administrative section completes necessary supplementary reports. The District or County Attorney’s Office issues an indictment or capias for the subject and it is the responsibility of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office to make the NCIC/TCIC entry on the indictment or capias. This is not to imply that the investigating officer cannot check with the Sheriff’s Dept., to ensure that the entry has been made. 11.02 CASE CLEARANCE

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This Department hereby establishes a policy to clarify and standardize the clearance of criminal cases under investigation. Each case assigned to an investigator will be cleared or closed as defined below. All Divisions within the Department will adhere to the following classifications, definitions and procedures. CASE UNFOUNDED: 1. On occasion, the department will receive a complaint from a citizen which is found, through

investigation, to be false or baseless. If the investigation shows that no offense occurred nor was attempted, the reported offense shall be unfounded.

2. Recovery of stolen property, the small value of stolen property, the refusal of the victim to prosecute

or the failure to make an arrest does not justify the unfounded of a legitimate offense. Also, the findings of the coroner, court, jury or prosecutor do not unfound offenses or attempts at an offense that your investigation establishes to be legitimate.

3. The following are examples of unfounded cases:

a. A report of a burglary is received, but upon investigation it is determined that a man climbed through the window of his own home. He had locked himself out by mistake; a neighbor thought he was a burglar and called the police.

b. Darlene claims that Tom attempted to rape her in his automobile. Upon law enforcement contact with Tom, Darlene admits that she had exaggerated and that he did not attempt to rape her.

CASE CLEARED BY ARREST: 1. An offense is “Cleared by Arrest” or solved for crime reporting purposes when at least one person is:

c. Arrested;

d. Charged with the commission of the offense; and

e. Turned over to the court for prosecution. 2. The prosecution can follow arrest, court summons or Police notice. A clearance by arrest can be claimed when the offender is a person under 18 years of age and is cited to appear in juvenile court or before other juvenile authorities. This clearance can be taken even though no physical arrest is made. CASE PENDING INACTIVE

Used when the case remains open, but is not being actively investigated. Cases can only stay opened until the statute of limitations expires.

11.03 CASE DOCUMENTATION This procedure is established to ensure uniform guidelines to assist the Supervisor and investigator in the documentation and monitoring of follow-up investigations. 1. After a case is assigned to an investigator, it shall become the investigator’s responsibility to make

complete and accurate supplementary reports documenting any pertinent information obtained in the course of and as a result of the follow-up investigation. That responsibility does not end until the case is reassigned, by a Supervisor, to another investigator.

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a. Supplementary reports will be made and attached to the case’s soon as possible. Supplementary reports will also be made each time an investigator makes an unsuccessful attempt to contact a principle party in the case.

b. The assigned investigator shall make complete supplementary reports on all investigations assigned to him before taking annual leave.

2. In cases where it is necessary to notify the complainant or reporter of the disposition of a case, it will

be the investigator’s responsibility to do so either in person, by telephone, or in writing. Information regarding such notification should be included in the final supplementary report.

3. Supervisors will be responsible for all assigned cases on a weekly basis. On those cases in which

there is no further workable information, the Supervisor will ensure that a final disposition is made in an expeditious manner by the assigned investigator. Inactivated case should not remain in the possession of the investigator.

4. Supplements will be initiated when investigators open and close cases. All investigations will be

worked to some type of approved closure. 11.04 REPORT INFORMATION

The purpose of this procedural policy is to establish a system that safeguards against misuse of loss of confidential information.

1. When information is received, that information will be reduced to writing and disseminated to the

investigations division via the Chief of Police. The original copy will be retained with the original case. 2. In the event that it becomes necessary to transfer a report to another investigator, the transferring

supervisor will document, in writing, as to when and to whom the report was forwarded. 11.05 CASE ASSIGNMENT 1. The Chief of Police or his designate will review initial reports and refer cases for investigation. 2. Cases may either be assigned to the investigations division or referred back to patrol for

investigation. 3. The investigations division will monitor all cases no matter to who assigned to ensure that the cases

are investigated and brought to closure.

4. Patrol supervisors will also monitor cases assigned to their subordinates. 11.06 CASE PRESENTATION Sergeants and/or Investigators will prepare cases for presentation to prosecuting authorities. 11.07 SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS The Chief of Police may assign investigations that are not criminal cases, but are of interest to the District. The Chief of Police retains complete control over these cases. 11.08 INVESTIGATIONS OFFICE Any area assigned to investigative personnel is off limits to personnel not assigned to that section. 11.09 INVESTIGATOR CALL-OUT

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Investigators will be notified of all major crimes occurring in the District. Notifications to investigators will be effected through the appropriate supervisor. The supervisor will determine if an investigator will be notified when off-duty. The investigator will respond to the scene as directed by the notifying supervisor. 11.10 UNDERCOVER OPERATIONS From time to time, Department investigators are called upon to work in an undercover capacity. Field officers should be cognizant of this fact and be watchful that acknowledging the presence of an investigator in certain situations could jeopardize a case or the investigator’s safety. 11.11 EVIDENCE TRANSACTIONS The appropriate person will supplement all evidence transactions and analysis to the original case report. 11.12 WORKING CASE FILES Personnel assigned to investigations will not use the original case documents as working copies. The administrative section will file all originals. 11.13 CONFIDENTIALITY All investigations are confidential. Information will be disseminated on a need to know basis. 11.14 CONFIDENTIAL CASE REPORTS At certain times, reports may be classified and titled “confidential.” Use of this procedure will be minimized and will only be initiated as approved by the investigation section or the Chief of Police. LEVEL I CONFIDENTIAL REPORT Used in cases involving sensitive issues involving District employees. LEVEL II CONFIDENTIAL REPORT

Used in cases involving sensitive issues involving Department employees or District administrators.

GUIDELINES

Complainants, witnesses, and subjects will be listed on supplement reports. Narrative will be “Level I or II report initiated this date. (See supplement) Incident locations may also be listed on supplements. An appropriate case title will appear on the first supplement which also details the circumstances surrounding the report. The Chief of Police will be notified immediately on all Level II reports. This classification is not intended to cover-up anything from anyone. Its use is restricted to mostly administrative investigations or to situations so designated by the Chief of Police.

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11.15 INVESTIGATORS All Department investigators are responsible to the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police will make all case assignments to this section. When designated by the Chief of Police, investigative personnel will serve as Department supervisors and administrators. Patrol officers of shift supervisors will never assign cases to the investigation section. Requests for investigative support will be channeled through the shift supervisor to investigations. Patrol officers are prohibited from telling complainants when a case will be assigned to an investigator and when the investigator will be in contact with them for follow-up. Patrol officers will also never set an appointment for interview for the investigator without first contacting the investigation section.

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CHAPTER TWELVE COMMUNICATIONS / DISPATCH

INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared to serve as a guide for all personnel assigned to the Communications Section. It is the responsibility of all Communications personnel to read and familiarize themselves with its contents. This manual sets the guidelines for the proper performance of duties for the personnel in the section and compliance with these provisions assures that the professional standards expected of the Socorro Independent School District Police Department

12.01 PURPOSE OF COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 1. Provide service and support to line personnel and ensure officer safety. 2. Answer emergency and non-emergency incoming calls. 3. Refer callers to the appropriate section or agency. 4. Ensure the rapid response of emergency equipment and personnel. 5. Coordinate and assign field units. 6. Relay voice and digital messages between their field units and the public. 7. Query of law enforcement and criminal justice data banks. 8. Accelerate the flow of accurate and timely information to field units. In this role, the Communications Operator/Dispatcher is the key element in field unit control.

12.02 PURPOSE OF THE MANUAL This manual is provided as a guide to aid the systems operators in becoming more thoroughly familiar with equipment operations, the functions, and the capabilities of the system. Some sections in this manual are included for informational purposes to clarify the total picture of the communications process within the Socorro I.S.D. Police Communications Section. 12.03 MISSION STATEMENT & CODE OF ETHICS All Communications personnel will adhere to the Police Department’s Mission and the Communications Code of Ethics. 12.03.001 MISSION STATEMENT The Communications Division aligns and shares its core values with the Department and those of the School District. It is the mission of the Socorro ISD Police Department to provide services with integrity and dedication, to preserved life, to enforce the law, and to work in partnership with the Socorro Independent School District, the cities that border the district, and other law enforcement agencies in order to enhance the quality of education and life in our community. 12.03.002 CODE OF ETHICS As a Public Safety Tele-communicator, I am dedicated to serve the public; to safeguard life and property, to assist all public safety vehicles and personnel in the performance of their duties; assure that all rules and regulations which govern my position are not violated. I will maintain a calm attitude during times of stress and emergencies; develop self-control and be mindful of the welfare of others, regardless of race, creed, age, or religion. I will obey the laws of the land, rules,

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and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission and policies of the Socorro Independent School District. I will demonstrate professional excellence through leadership, cooperation, and dedication serving the public. Whatever confidential information I receive will be revealed only in the official performance of my duties. I will exhibit honesty and integrity through ethical behavior. I will not act selfishly or unofficially or let my personal feelings, friendships, prejudices or animosity influence my decisions. I will strive to achieve those objectives and ideals, which govern my profession, dedicating myself, to my chosen profession, Public Safety Telecommunications. 12.04 SECURITY MEASURES FOR THE COMMUNICATIONS CENTER The Socorro Independent School District Police Communications Center is a restricted area and only authorized personnel are allowed access. In order to minimize distractions, other department employees will only be granted access to conduct official business. Employees will not remain in the Communications Center once they have concluded their business. Nothing in this policy shall prohibit sworn department personnel from being in the Communications Center to learn through observation of the functions of the section, provided such observation status is approved by the employee's supervisor and such observation period has been scheduled with the Communications Supervisor. Employees in observation status shall in no way interfere with or actively participate in the dispatch process except at the expressed request and direct supervision of the Communications personnel. Other persons wishing to "visit" the Communications Center for a tour may do so with the consent of the Communications Supervisor or the Chief of Police. Such tours shall be limited to small numbers of persons and scheduled in advance with the Communications Supervisor so as not to interfere with the operations of the section. For security and safety reasons, prisoners will not accompany arresting officers into the Communications Center. All Communication Operators/Dispatchers employed with the Socorro I.S.D. Police Department will sign a Release of Information form that will be kept in their file permanently. 12.05 FCC PROCEDURES & REQUIREMENTS

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the federal agency that governs the operation of radio airwave transmissions/broadcasts in public safety. The Socorro I.S.D. Police Department radio police communications shall be operating in accordance with established FCC procedures and requirements. All radio traffic will be conducted in a professional manner without any exceptions. General Operating Requirements: FCC Rules, part 90, s 90.403 (a) states licensees of radio stations in the private land mobile radio services shall be directly responsible for the proper operation and use of each transmitter for which they are licensed. In this connection, licensees shall exercise such direction and control as it is necessary to assure that all authorized facilities are employed. Assigned frequencies can only be used for: 1. PERMISSIBLE PURPOSES - Transmissions are restricted to the minimum practicable transmission time and shall employ an efficient operating procedure designed to maximize the utilization of the frequency.

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2. PERMISSIBLE MANNER a. Any transmission related directly to the imminent safety of life or property. These are

afforded priority.

b. Communications directly related and necessary to those activities which make the license eligible for the station license held.

c. Civil Defense activities (Actual or simulated emergency, including drills, & tests).

3. PROHIBITED COMMUNICATIONS - Only such calls as are authorized by the Rules

governing stations in the Public Safety Radio Services may be transmitted. False calls, false or fraudulent distress signals, unnecessary and unidentified communications, obscene, indecent or profane language, and the transmission of unassigned call signs are specifically prohibited. Operators are primarily authorized to transmit communication directly related to public safety and the protection of life and property and to official public safety activities.

4. PERSONS WITH AUTHORITY

a. In carrying out their responsibilities under S90.403 (a), licensees shall be bound by the provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 as amended, and by the rules and written or oral agreements or otherwise, relieve themselves of duty or obligation imposed upon them by law as licensees.

b. Each licensee shall restrict all transmissions to the mini practicable transmission time and shall employ an efficient operation procedure designated to maximize the utilization spectrum.

c. Communications involving the imminent safety-of-life or property (emergency traffic) is to be afforded priority by all field & communications personnel and shall take reasonable precautions to avoid causing harmful interference. This includes monitoring the transmitting frequency for communications in progress and such other measures as may be necessary to minimize the potential for causing interference.

5. POINTS OF COMMUNICATIONS – All base stations are supposed to be licensed by the

FCC. The FCC states that a base station is not supposed to communicate with another base station. A phone should be used if one is available at either location. An exception is authorized to a Public Service Agency as secondary communications to allow base to base communications if:

a. The phones are busy or down; b. The information is of immediate interest to a field unit.

6. SECRECY/PRIVACY OF WIRE AND RADIO COMMUNICATIONS:

a. Authorized channels of message transmission. We can only have as many channels as authorized and approved by FCC.

b. Prohibited against using intercepted communications for benefit, such as wire- tap. Such

practices are unauthorized unless there is a court order.

c. $10,000.00 or more per day can be fined for violation of any FCC Rule or regulations

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d.

12.06 DISPATCHER LIABILITIES 1. Send the Officer. You will never get into trouble for sending a unit, but you may get in trouble for NOT sending them. 2. Listen. You may think you know the type of call you have on the line, but one or two words may change the complexion of the entire situation. 3. Do not be afraid to interrupt the caller. If your caller won't get to the point, the efficiency of our Emergency Service may demand that you get to the heart of the matter quickly. 4. The people who call in repossessions are doing us a favor. Their reports help the Department eliminate a lot of unnecessary auto theft reports. 5. On any incident that occurs on a highway or freeway, always get the direction of travel. 6. Pay attention to your own discipline, and do not be concerned about another operator taking fewer calls or otherwise not working productively. The Supervisor may have corrected them without you knowing about it. 7. Listen closely to the choice of words used by others around you. Adopt the good ones. This may help in obtaining the information from callers. 8. Remember that most people you will be talking with are under a great dealt of stress, and the information will quite likely be inaccurate, exaggerated, etc. Take the extra time to double check the vital information. 9. Make the information on the radio card read logically and in order. It helps the dispatcher if he doesn't have to untangle your summary of the call first. 10. Look for reasons to send the unit rather than reasons for not sending them. 11. Find out why things are done the way they are. Don't be afraid to ask your Supervisor questions. 12. If a caller is mad or hysterical and talking very fast, but won't tell you where the unit is needed, try interrupting first. If that doesn't work, try silence. When the caller begins to wonder if you are still there or not, then is the time to ask for the information you need. Screaming seldom helps. 13. Listen for inconsistencies that may be tip-offs to a prank call or an ambush. One way to help expose this type of situation is to ask the caller to repeat the phone number sometime after it was first given to you. The caller may not be able to give the same number again. 14. Don't be afraid to ask the caller to repeat the conversation if you did not understand the location or other vital information. 15. Our division is a service organization. Don't forget to serve. 16. Drunks and the emotionally disturbed or mentally handicapped are frequent victims of crimes of violence and accidents. Don't hesitate to send the unit when they call for help. 17. Don't tell the caller what action the Officer will take when he arrives at the scene. This is like a doctor making a diagnosis by phone. 18. Don't respond to the abuse given to you on the phone. Verbal abuse is one of the unpleasant

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experiences a public servant has to face in the performance of their duty. Simply proceed with a calm professional voice and do not take the abuse as a personal attack. Do not hang up on a caller. If this must be done, let the Supervisor be the one to do it. 19. When time permits, take the extra time to help the citizen to the fullest extent of your ability. This is not always practical or desirable due to the large number of calls received at peak call periods, but it can be very rewarding to you when you can put this suggestion into practice. 20. If you are not on the phone with a caller, keep as quiet as possible. Another operator may be busy and having a difficult time hearing their caller. 21. Answer promptly. Treat each call as an emergency. Place yourself in the position of the caller who may be ill or suffering from intense fear or panic. Every ring of the phone for that person seems like an eternity. 22. Observe telephone courtesy. A calm, competent, decisive voice that is courteous will not antagonize the caller further. 23. Take all information. Write it down, never leave anything to memory. 24. Make sure your information is correct. Never give incorrect information, never guess, and when necessary refer and/or transfer to the appropriate person or agency as quickly and effectively as possible. 25. Transfer calls only when necessary. Advise the caller what you are going to do so they will not think they are being cut off or being given the run around. 26. Terminate all calls positively and courteously. 12.07 DISPATCH/COMMUNICATIONS

12.07.001 DEFINITIONS

9-1-1. A single emergency telephone number which provides access to the public safety services in the community, region, and ultimately, nation. To avoid confusion with the standard telephone keypad, 9- 1-1 should always be pronounced "nine-one-one" rather than "nine-eleven." ALI. An acronym for Automatic Location Identifier. A system that identifies the location where a call is being placed from. Normally associated with Enhanced 9-1-1 systems. Alternate Base Station. A strategically located radio station designed to operate when the primary Base Station is inoperative or incapacitated. ANI. An acronym for Automatic Number Identifier. A system that identifies the phone number being used to call a PSAP. Normally associated with Enhanced 9-1-1 systems. Antenna. A device which permits the transfer of electrical energy unto space; antennae or antennas in plural; aerial is an obsolete term. Base Station. A radio station that is a complete assemblage of antennas, receivers, and transmitters for radio transmission and reception. Primary. Basic 9-1-1 System. A telephone system which automatically connects a person dialing the digits "9-1-1" to an established PSAP through normal telephone service facilities. Generally, Basic 9-1-1 connects all calls from a given central office to the same PSAP, regardless of jurisdictional boundaries. ANI and ALI are not provided.

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CAD. An acronym for Computer Aided Dispatch; i.e., a computer system designed to aid tele-communicators in routine operations by providing rapid access to operational and historical data, to support both dispatcher as well as operational analysis. Channel. A range of frequencies of sufficient width for a single radio transmission. Command Post. A field station in a given place that is used for strategic planning and operations control. Command posts are temporary in nature and are used to control specific events or emergencies. Communicator. Dedicated personnel associated with a communications center or dispatch center; includes operators, supervisors, complaint specialists, call-takers, dispatchers, or other specialists. Dispatcher. A communicator who is assigned the duty of sending and receiving messages to and from the field units. Control Console. A desk-mounted enclosed panel which operates a number of controls used to operate a base station. FCC. Federal Communications Commission. The U.S. Government agency that regulates radio communications. Frequency. The number of complete cycles per second of alternating current or radio waves; usually measured in Hertz, Kilohertz, Megahertz, or Gigahertz. Hand-held Radio. A complete transmit/receive unit designed for personal use and portability; "walkie-talkie" is an obsolete term. Mobile Radio. A complete transmit/receive unit designed for installation in a vehicle. OCC. Abbreviation for Operations Control Center. The physical location at the Socorro ISD Headquarters building where calls are taken, police units are dispatched, alarms are monitored, and information is processed PSAP. Public Safety Answering Point; usually associated with 9-1-1 service. Also a location which answers 9-1-1 calls. Radio Channel. A band of frequencies having sufficient width for radio communications; channel width depends on the type of modulation (i.e., AM, FM) and the FCC standards for the assigned frequency. Repeater. Radio stations that automatically rebroadcast radio signals that are received. RP. Acronym for reporting party. The person who initiates a call for service. Squelch. An electronic circuit that quiets a receiver when no signal is present. SSAP. Secondary Service Answering Point; A location to which 9-1-1 calls are transferred from a PSAP. Normally, the response agency responsible for service the call. Transmitter. The term applied to the equipment that is used for generating and amplifying an "rf" carrier signal, modulating this carrier signal with intelligence, and then radiating the modulated signal into space. UHF. (Ultra-High Frequency.) Officially a section of the radio frequency spectrum from 300-3,000 megahertz; most often used to designate systems operations in the 406-512 MHz range.

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12.08 PURPOSE

Police communications provide the following: 1. The means for expeditious transmission of routine and emergency instructions between police

headquarters, posts, and patrols. 2. The integration and coordination of police functions. 3. The efficient and economical use of police forces. 4. The expeditious transmission of requests for assistance to outside sources in the event of an emergency

beyond the capability of the police force to control. 5. The use of the "10" code or other suitable and uniform radio voice communications systems. For purposes of this guide, police communications include: 1. All telephone systems (local and commercial) and all radio systems (hand-held, mobile, base, and

alternate) which can be used by the Police Department for the purpose of providing rapid and reliable 2-way voice communications.

12.09 ORGANIZATION 1. The communications section is a distinct division within the Police Department. 2. Communications Supervisor. The Communication Supervisor has the overall responsibility for the smooth operation of the communications section. The Communications Supervisor reports directly to the Chief of Police on all matters related to police communications. Duties include, but are not limited to:

a. Supervision of communications section personnel.

b. Coordination of personnel work schedules.

c. Short and long range planning.

d. Communications budget management.

e. Communications training and personnel development.

f. Personnel and system evaluation.

g. Enforcement of policies, procedures, and regulations.

h. Security of system and Operations Control Center (OCC).

i. Statistical data compilation and analysis.

j. Management of forms and reports.

k. Report writing.

l. Management of work space housekeeping and cleanliness.

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m. Overall operational management of local National Crime Information Computer and Texas Crime Information Computer (NCIC/TCIC) system operations.

3. Senior Dispatcher. The Senior Dispatcher has the responsibility for the current shift. The Senior

Dispatcher reports directly to the Communications Supervisor. Must be qualified and maintain qualifications in accordance this guide. Duties include, but are not limited to:

a. Supervision of shift communicators. b. Enforcement of department policies, procedures, and regulations. c. Resolution of technical questions or problems. d. Report writing and report review. e. Supervision of shift housekeeping and cleanliness responsibilities. f. Other duties as assigned. 4. Dispatcher. The person responsible for dispatching police calls for service to field units. Must be

qualified and maintain qualifications in accordance with this guide. Duties include, but are not limited to:

a. May be required to perform the duties of communications supervisor, senior communicator, and call taker concurrently.

b. Receives, transmits, and processes radio and telephone calls.

c. Monitors closed circuit television and alarm system.

d. Prepares, maintains, and processes forms, reports, and logs.

e. Liaison with other government, police, and emergency service agencies.

f. Issues and accounts for district keys and equipment.

g. Operates and maintains various electronic and office equipment.

h. Other duties as assigned.

5. Call Taker. The person responsible for receiving information and translating it into a police call for

service. Must be qualified and maintain qualifications in accordance with this guide. Duties include, but are not limited to:

a. May be required to perform the duties of communications supervisor, senior communicator, and call

taker concurrently. b. Monitors closed circuit television and alarm system. c. Prepares, maintains, and processes forms, reports, and logs. d. Liaison with other government, police, and emergency service agencies. e. Issues and accounts for district keys and equipment. f. Operates and maintains various electronic and office equipment.

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g. Other duties as assigned.

12.10 TRAINING Communicators fall under the Department Training Coordinator and Department regulations regarding training. As with police officers, communicators must maintain their qualifications and licensing as a condition of employment. Communicators who lose any qualification will report the loss to the Chief of Police. Communicators may be tested as determined by State agencies and the Department as desired. 12.11 SCHEDULING 1. The Chief of Police or his designate will determine schedules for the communications/dispatch

section of the Department. 2. Although administered as a separate division, communicators, when on duty, are considered a part of the

overall shift. The person in charge of the on-duty communicator, whether they are the communications supervisor or the senior communicator, will work closely with the field supervisor to ensure continuity of field operations. In all cases involving the dispatching of field units or the prioritization of calls for service, the communicator will be subordinate to the field supervisor.

12.12 SHIFT ASSIGNMENTS AND DUTY HOURS 1. Communicators will report to work as dictated by their assigned work schedules. They will report for duty

by clocking in and reporting to the field supervisor. Planned and unplanned absences will be requested or reported in accordance with applicable department and district policy.

2. Schedules and duty hours will be as approved by the Chief of Police and Communication Supervisor. Changes or additions to schedules will only be authorized by the Chief of Police or Communication Supervisor. The department normally maintains a three-shift work schedule; however additional shifts may be established based upon the needs of the department. Rotation of personnel throughout the shifts will also be based upon the needs of the department as approved by the Chief of Police.

3. The lunch periods may be changed at the discretion of the senior communicator, but when changed, will

not negatively impact any field operation. Lunch may be taken in or out of police headquarters and will never be taken inside the OCC unless specifically cleared by the shift supervisor. No food is permitted to be consumed inside of the OCC because of the sensitive electronic equipment installed. Drinks, in a suitable spill-proof container, may be consumed, but may never be placed near any piece of electronic equipment.

4. If a communicator is assigned to a shift alone (solo), lunch and breaks may be taken only when properly

relieved by another qualified communicator or as a supervisor determines. In the event of conflicts due to operations, the operations will take priority. If the communicator will most likely miss his or her lunch period, a supervisor will be notified.

5. Personal breaks may be taken depending on operational tempo and with a proper relief by a qualified

communicator or as a supervisor determines. Breaks will be kept to a reasonable duration and will not interfere with any police operation. If a communicator is assigned a solo shift and no relief is available only emergency breaks are authorized. Emergency breaks will be kept to a minimum, reasonable time and the communicator must keep a portable radio tuned to the police channel with him or her at all times.

12.13 SHIFT CHANGE AND PASS-DOWN 1. After clocking in, communications personnel will meet with the out-going dispatcher. The out-going

dispatcher will quickly brief the communicators on planned field operations, unit assignments, department plans and pass-down, and any special assignments.

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2. The on-coming communicators will meet with the off-going section to receive information about current and past activities. The off-going section will prepare an informal brief prior to getting relieved that includes, but not limited to the following information:

a. Alarm system status. b. Special operations and assignments. c. Active units and situations. d. Department keys. e. Previous, significant incidents and upcoming events. f. Equipment that is in a "down" status or is having problems and is awaiting repair. g. Current and future activities in the district and department. h. Logs, forms, and reports.

2. Administrative and operations pass-down from the Chief or other supervisors. 3. Any other information deemed appropriate for the smooth operation of the communications division. 4. Once the pass-down is complete the off-going shift may be relieved. It is the responsibility of the on-

coming section to ensure the right information is received. Once the duty is assumed, the current shift is responsible for its condition. If the on-coming section is not satisfied with the pass-down brief and it cannot be resolved, a supervisor must be notified. Personnel will not leave until properly relieved by a qualified communicator or as authorized by the shift supervisor.

5. Upon assuming the duty, communicators will open all appropriate logs and log on to the alarm system for

the completion of assigned duties. 12.14 CALL TAKING PROCEDURES 1. Incoming calls are the start of the police and emergency response process and therefore will be given

the appropriate priority. Communicators taking incoming calls must be forthright, assertive, and tactful with the caller to ensure the right information is received the first time and the appropriate response is initiated. Call-taker actions are the pivot point in public perception about the agency and the allocation of police resources. Above all, their actions are the conduit for public safety response efforts.

2. For all intents and purposes, the OCC is considered a PSAP. Although not enhanced at this time,

information is processed and disseminated like all other agencies that are responsible for public safety. All phone lines to the OCC are considered emergency systems and must remain free of unnecessary and superfluous traffic. The communicator handling phone traffic has the ultimate responsibility of keeping the lines clear and must report abuses to the appropriate supervisor.

3. Non-emergency, personal calls on the OCC lines are prohibited. Communicators will not initiate this type

of call from emergency lines under any circumstances. They may be made while the communicator is on an authorized break or when properly relieved by another qualified communicator. No phone in dispatch will be used for this purpose. Calls of this type will be made in the break-room. Incoming calls of a personal nature will be disconnected by the communicator and handled on an authorized break. Communicators will never put theirs or another's non-emergency, personal business ahead of SISD operations while on duty.

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4. The OCC is the hub of the district's police and public safety effort. Therefore only official communications traffic is authorized. The use of personal radios is authorized only if the unit is turned to a very low volume and does not interfere or detract from the communicator's ability to do his or her job. The use of stereo headphones connected to any personal device is prohibited. Televisions are also prohibited. Personal reading material such as books, newspapers, etc. are prohibited during the hours when closed circuit television monitors are effective or anytime they interfere with operations. Newspapers will never be laid on the main dispatch console.

6. The OCC is a restricted area and only authorized communications personnel and supervisors are

permitted to enter. It is the duty of the senior communicator and all supervisors on duty to enforce this regulation. The sensitive information processed in the center should not be revealed to the public and outside visitors are not permitted unless approved by a supervisor. The Department clerk will normally handle routine customer service at the clerk’s station. If the clerk is unavailable for a valid, authorized reason, communicators will handle customer service matters given an appropriate priority. Non-emergency, customer service matters will never interfere with any police operation.

7. Technical difficulties with telephone or other equipment related to the processing of communications will be reported immediately. Additionally, the on-duty field supervisor and communications supervisor when on duty will be advised of the situation and given updates when appropriate. It is also the communicator's responsibility to report any diminished capacity that he or she may have that could affect the performance of their job. Medication, illness, or personal situations that impact or may impact operations must be reported to the appropriate supervisor immediately. It is also the duty of all other employees to report another whom they feel is incapacitated to the point that their duties are affected.

12.15 INCOMING CALLS 1. All emergency line phone calls to the OCC will be answered as follows: "Socorro ISD Police. Operator (Last Name). ‘How can we help you?” 2. If the caller states that it is not an emergency, the call may be prioritized as the situation dictates. If the

call taker is busy with situations of a higher priority, the call may be placed on hold. Calls will not be placed on hold for any longer than necessary to deal with traffic of higher classification. If possible, the call should be transferred to another qualified communicator or to other support or office personnel when necessary. It is the policy of the Socorro ISD Police Department that all calls will be answered in a timely fashion.

6. If the caller states that the call is of an emergency nature, the communicator will take steps to

determine the nature of the call and assign it a priority as appropriate. If it is determined that the call is not an emergency, the call may be processed as detailed above. Emergency calls will also be prioritized so that the most serious receive the most immediate attention. If an overflow of emergency calls are received at the same time, communicators may defer any number them to the El Paso Police Department when approved by a supervisor. Deferred calls and the reason they were deferred will be annotated on the dispatcher Log.

12.16 RECEIVING INFORMATION

It is the call taker's responsibility to get all of the necessary information needed to process, prioritize, and dispatch the call. All communicators will strive to get as much information as they can and relay that information to officers in the field. All callers will be treated courteously and fairly. The burden of maintaining effective communications rests with the call taker. There is no room in police operations for rudeness, personality conflicts, or combative behavior. If the call taker feels that his or her rights have been violated or that they have been treated unfairly, they should report the matter to their supervisor when an opportunity exists. They will never argue with a caller even if that caller is another member of the Department.

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12.17 CALLS NOT REQUIRING A POLICE RESPONSE 1. Incoming calls not considered a request for service should be made to the Police Department's

administrative numbers. If the call is made to the OCC it should, if practical, be transferred to the appropriate party or to the clerk's station. The clerk is charged with the responsibility of getting the call to the appropriate party or to record a message. If the situation dictates, the call taker may politely inform the caller of the administrative number and request they call back. If the clerk is not available, the communicator will record an appropriate message and forward it to the concerned party. All messages will have a name, date, time, and brief message.

2. Calls requiring police action, but not a police response will be recorded on the dispatch and routed to

appropriate personnel for a "phone report." Appropriate personnel includes office staff who are commissioned peace officers, security personnel who are commissioned peace officers, investigators, field supervisors who make themselves available, or field officers with permission of the appropriate supervisor. Personnel assigned calls of this type will contact the RP as soon as practical to receive the information. Once the report is received, the assigned officer will clear the call through dispatch who will log the action taken.

3. The officer who receives an assignment to take a phone report has the responsibility for ensuring the call is

answered. They will not reassign the call to another officer unless cleared through the field supervisor and dispatch. Officers responsible for phone reports will clear the call as soon as practical before the end of their shift.

12.16 CALLS REQUIRING A POLICE RESPONSE 1. As with all action flowing through the OCC, calls requiring a police response will be prioritized in the order

of seriousness. The following codes dictate the response priority for the Socorro ISD Police Department: a. CODE 3. Used for the most immediate or highest priority calls. Calls assigned this code will have

priority over all other calls for service. The officer or officers assigned to handle this call will immediately respond and take appropriate action. Officers shall proceed directly to the call, may exceed the posted speed limit by up to 15 MPH if safety permits, and may disregard traffic regulations if the maneuver can be accomplished safely. Whenever the officer is in disregard of traffic laws, the vehicle's emergency equipment (lights and siren) must be activated. This code is reserved for crimes or emergencies in progress that may have an immediate impact or threat of impact on life. Calls assigned this code may not be "stacked" or otherwise held for an available officer. If an SISD officer cannot respond immediately, or if his or her estimated response time is considered too long, the call may be deferred to EPPD as authorized by a supervisor. EPPD may also be summoned to assist at the supervisor’s discretion. If deferred to EPPD, an SISD officer or officer(s) should still be assigned the call; however the response code should be evaluated to the extent that CODE 3 may not be reasonable. If EPPD is on the scene and the situation is under control, the call may be downgraded. It may not be downgraded below CODE 1 however.

b. CODE 2. Calls assigned this code will have priority over all other calls with the exception of those

assigned a CODE 3 response. The officer or officers assigned to handle this call will immediately respond and take appropriate action. Officers shall proceed directly to the call, may exceed the posted speed limit by up to 10 MPH if safety permits, and may disregard traffic regulations if the maneuver can be accomplished safely. Whenever the officer is in disregard of traffic laws, the vehicle's emergency equipment (lights and siren) must be activated. This code is reserved for crimes or emergencies in progress that may impact the safety of others or could result in significant property damage or loss. Calls assigned this code may not be "stacked" or otherwise held for an available officer. If an SISD officer cannot respond immediately, or if his or her estimated response time is considered too long, the call may be deferred to an Outside Agency at the discretion of a supervisor. An Outside Agency may also be summoned to assist at the supervisor’s discretion. If deferred to an Outside Agency, an SISD officer or officer(s) should still be assigned the call; however the response code should be evaluated to the extent

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that CODE 2 may not be reasonable. If an Outside Agency is on the scene and the situation is under control, the call may be downgraded. It may not be downgraded below CODE 1 however.

c. CODE 1. Calls assigned this code will have priority over all other calls with the exception of those

assigned CODE 3 and CODE 2. The officer or officers assigned to handle a CODE 1 call will immediately respond and take appropriate action. Officers shall proceed directly to the call and will observe all traffic regulations. This code is reserved for property crimes, routine alarms, and information calls.

d. PRIORITY 4. Assigned to calls for the receipt of information on "cold crimes" where an immediate

response is considered unnecessary. Officers assigned will complete the assignment within two hours. Stacking is authorized until a unit is free to respond.

e. PRIORITY 5. Assigned to calls for the receipt of information on cold crimes where an immediate

response is considered unnecessary. Officers assigned will complete the assignment prior to ending their shift. Stacking is authorized until a unit is free to respond. Reports or the receipt of information may be taken over the phone by a peace officer as described above.

NOTE: The code assigned dictates a recommended handling priority only. It is the responding officer's responsibility to evaluate traffic, weather, time of day, etc. while enacting his or her response. In accordance with state law and this and other local procedures, it is the individual officer's responsibility to ensure safety in the response.

12.17 TAKING THE CALL Upon answering the call as described above, the call taker will initiate a dispatch log entry and systematically record the necessary information to dispatch a police unit. In some cases the caller will be held on the phone until the police arrive. In all cases the caller will be kept on the line for as long as it takes to get the correct information needed to dispatch a police unit. In other cases, callers may have to be called back to get the required information. It is the distinct responsibility of the communicator who answers the phone to get the right information for further transfer to a dispatcher and/or field unit.

a. AN IRATE CALLERS DEMANDING TO SEE/SPEAK TO A SUPERVISOR OR CHIEF

If the caller is irate, attempt to calm them down and if possible find out what the problem is and see if you can help. If the party continues in his/her desires to speak to a Supervisor, refer them to the Field Supervisor, Communications Supervisor, or the on duty Shift Supervisor.

b. OBNOXIOUS CALLERS Quite regularly calls will be received that are obnoxious. These calls shall be handled in a professional manner, never allowing your personal emotions to interfere. If the caller persists in their obnoxious attitude, the call should be transferred to a Field Supervisor, Communications Supervisor, or on duty Shift Supervisor. At no time are you bound to take abuse from callers by them using abusive language. Explain to them that you cannot help them unless they calm down and quit using abusive language. If they continue, advise them you are disconnecting and

discontinue the call by hanging up, provided that their emergency does not pertain to preserving life or property.

c. HIGH RISK CALLS

There is a considerable amount of deaths and injuries to officers involved in life threatening situations such as family violence, large fights or a simple traffic stop. Communications Operators should be aware that there is always a weapon involved the officer’s weapon. The operator who receives these types of calls should gather all pertinent information. Keep the reporter on the telephone throughout the incident unless safety becomes a factor for the caller to

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remain on the line. In most cases, the reporter can be of better service by our direct contact on the phone. In such calls, the calm reassuring directions from operators can go a long way to solicit additional information or pave the way for better contact for field units once they meet with the reporter.

1. The following is a list of questions that should always be asked to aid in judging the call to determine whether an emergency or non-emergency response is required:

• Location of occurrence? • What is happening NOW? (In progress or just occurred) • What has already happened? • Does anyone need an ambulance or fire department? • Are there any weapons involved? (If so, type of weapon/s?) • Is anyone in danger? What type of danger? • Are there any injuries? What type of injuries? • Description of the suspect(s)? • Direction, mode of travel? • If a vehicle is involved, description of vehicle? • Any miscellaneous information?

2. The operator shall give detailed pre-arrival instructions to the officer when the operator

determines the instructions will minimize potential liability, save lives, and/or assist first responders.

Situations may include:

• If there is a fire • If weapons are involved • If anyone is in danger • If there are injuries • Other such circumstances to prepare the arriving deputy

3. In most high risk calls, the field units will secure the location and then request that the

operator call the reporter and request that they step outside and meet the officer. In other cases it may be at the request of the officer to have the reporter remain inside the residence/business until it is either safe for them to go outside, to meet with the officer, or for the officer to go in and speak to the reporter. After the call has been determined to be an emergency or non-emergency situation, the dispatcher shall advise the reporter of the response that will be made. If it is out of our jurisdiction, or cannot be handled by our department, the dispatcher should make every attempt to refer that person to the proper service or agency that can help.

d. INTOXICATED CALLERS

Many times we will receive a call from a person who has been drinking heavily. The key word on these calls is patience. Even though the person calling may be intoxicated, the person may legitimately need our assistance. In order to prevent any liabilities, we will provide that service if

the situation demands.

e. MENTALLY IMPAIRED or UNDER THE INFLUENCE CALLERS Communications Operators will at times receive calls from individuals that may have a mental illness. Employees shall follow the procedures to assure the safety of the Officer and the person or persons at the residence of occurrence.

� Does this person have a weapon? � Where is this person at this time?

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� Can the caller see the subject? � Have they locked themselves in a room? � Are they violent? � Are they on any medications? � Have they been diagnosed with an illness? � Are they under a doctor’s care? � Have they injured themselves or anyone else?

f. In-Progress Calls:

These are incidents that are occurring at the same time the caller is speaking to the 911 Communications Operator. These types of calls have the highest priority because there is usually a threat to life or loss of property involved. Using Tactical Dispatching techniques, the Communications Operator will determine the number of units to be dispatched. The Communications Operator will send the district unit and the corresponding backup unit. If no corresponding backup unit is available, then the adjacent district’s unit will be sent to the call. If all units are busy on other emergency calls the corresponding field supervisor will be immediately notified.

The Communications Operator will keep updating the responding units with information being provided by the caller as the incident continues. The responding units will be provided with all pertinent information on the call so that the officer can plan his approach and attempt to safely effect a lawful arrest or defuse the situation.

g. Calls that just Occurred:

Just occurred calls are incidents that occurred 1 to 5 minutes before the caller dialed 911. These types of calls have a higher priority than not-in-progress calls. There is a chance that the subject involved may return or is still in the area and has a chance of being apprehended. Using Tactical Dispatching techniques the Communications Operator will determine the number of units to be dispatched. The Communications Operator will send the district unit and the corresponding backup unit. If no corresponding backup unit is available then the adjacent district’s unit will be sent as a backup unit. If all units are busy on other emergency calls the corresponding field supervisor will be notified immediately. The responding units will be provided with all pertinent information on the call so that the officer can plan his approach, attempt to locate any suspects, and attempt to safely affect a lawful arrest.

h. Not-In-Progress Calls:

Not-in-progress calls are incidents that have already occurred. These calls are lower in priority than in-progress calls. This does not mean that these calls are not of any importance. All calls have their order of priority. The dispatcher designates in which order the calls will be dispatched. These types of calls also have their own Tactical Dispatching techniques. The Communications Operator will dispatch the appropriate district unit to handle the call. The Communications Operator will provide the officer with all the pertinent information from the call so that the officer can handle the call appropriately. The Communications Operator must keep in mind that not-in-progress calls can change at a moment’s notice and turn into in-progress calls. The Operator must then use the appropriate Tactical Dispatching technique for the appropriate call type.

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i. EMERGENCY TRAFFIC

At certain times it may be necessary for the frequency to be cleared for police emergencies. Emergencies may include pursuits, crimes in progress, large fights or any other incident that may place an officer in any kind of danger. This clearing of the frequency is call “emergency traffic.” Any officer or communications personnel may request emergency traffic. The following procedures will be followed while on emergency traffic.

1. When a unit arrives on scene, communications personnel will transmit, "ALL UNITS’ EMERGENCY TRAFFIC ONLY".

2. While on emergency traffic, the emergency call will be handled on the original

frequency. All units not involved on the emergency call are asked to keep the frequency clear of all traffic. Should another unit call out on the frequency, communications personnel will advise that unit that we are on emergency traffic only.

3. Should other units come upon another emergency type situation, those units will also

be allowed to transmit on the same channel. If another call comes into the communications center and it is of a serious nature where units need to be dispatched immediately, the communications personnel will be allowed to transmit on the radio. Communications personnel will inform all units over the frequency that the emergency traffic is for those units as well.

4. Once the situation has been diffused, an officer involved in the emergency will advise

communications personnel to resume normal traffic. Communications personnel will then advise "ALL UNITS RESUME NORMAL TRAFFIC."

If there is a second emergency call in which different officers were included in the first emergency traffic, communications personnel should not resume normal traffic. Communications personnel will advise over the air, “ALL UNITS CONTINUE EMERGENCY TRAFFIC” and specify for which units. Normal traffic will not resume until all units involved in this emergency notify the communications center that an emergency no longer exists.

j. DETERMINING NATURE OF CALLS

The following are common 911 calls that we receive including the definition and example:

1. Criminal Mischief: someone intentionally damages property of another.

� A person comes up to your vehicle and scratches it or throws a rock at the window and damages it.

� A person driving a car intentionally knocks down a mailbox. � A person throws eggs at a vehicle or house.

2. Criminal Trespass: a person commits an offense if he enters or remains on or in property, including an aircraft or other vehicle, of another without effective consent or he enters or remains in a building of another without effective consent and he

� had notice that the entry was forbidden � he received notice to depart but failed to do so.

� The owner of a property told this person to leave and he is refusing to leave. � The clerk at the Good Time Store calls and says that the subject that had

been told not to return to the store has returned and is inside the store.

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3. Family Violence: when family members are arguing or hitting each other.

� A person who is arguing with his mother, father or spouse. � A person who is assaulting a member of the family or member of the same household.

4. Theft: a person commits an offense if he unlawfully appropriates property with intent to deprive the owner of property.

� A person who was invited into a house takes something from the bedroom without permission from the owner.

� A person walks into a yard and takes a lawnmower. � A person walks into a store and takes a beer without paying for it.

5. Civil Problem: a dispute or disagreement over money or a tangible item between two parties.

� A person wants to evict someone that has not paid the rent in two months. � A person took their car to a mechanic and the mechanic did a poor job. � A person calls to report that a ten-year-old child does not want to go to school.

6. Arson: a person starts a fire or causes an explosion with intent to destroy or damage property without permission of the owner.

� A person threw a can of gas at the house and started a fire. � A person threw a match into a barn full of hay. � A person causes a vehicle to burn.

7. Burglary of Vehicle: a person breaks into or enters a vehicle or any part of a vehicle with intent to commit any felony or theft without the effective consent of the owner.

� A person breaks the window of a car and takes a purse. � A person enters an unlocked car and takes the stereo. � A person reaches into the bed of a pick-up truck and takes a toolbox.

8. Assault: a person intentionally, recklessly, or knowingly causes bodily injury to another or cause physical contact with another when the person knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative.

� A person calls and says that someone punched him in the stomach. � A person calls and says that someone just touched them in a provocative

manner. � A person calls and says that someone just slammed him up against the wall and caused them to hit their head.

9. Aggravated Assault: a person commits assault and the person causes serious bodily injury to another or uses or exhibits a deadly weapon during the commission of the assault.

� A person calls and says that someone just hit him with a baseball bat.

� A person calls and says that someone just shot him in the leg intentionally. � A person calls and says that someone just assaulted him and the subject took out a knife and tried to stab the reporter.

10. Sexual Assault: a person commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly causes penetration of another person by any means without that person’s consent.

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11. Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA): a vehicle that is on a public roadway or parking lot

comes in contact with another vehicle, pedestrian, or an inanimate object. It can result in injuries or no injuries.

12. Runaways: a person under the age of 18 that leaves home without permission of the

parents. Parents are responsible for children until their 18th birthday, after that date they may leave home without having to ask for permission.

13. Missing Persons: a person of any age that can’t be located who may be disabled or

endangered, or may be missing due to being kidnapped or a victim of a catastrophe. 12.18 GETTING THE RIGHT INFORMATION As a professional tele-communicator, call takers will strive to get the right information at the onset of a call for police service and assistance. Unnecessary delays caused by failing to ask the right questions the first time are a waste of time and resources. The crux of effective police communications is to get all the information, as quickly and efficiently as possible to assist the agency and the responding units in effectively dealing with the situation. Paramount in all information processing is officer safety. The field officer must be informed of all actual, perceived, or possible hazards no matter how remote the communicator or caller may think they may be. 12.19 SYSTEMATIC INFORMATION COLLECTION Getting the information quickly and efficiently is a skill required by all personnel involved in police work. The call taker however has the initial and primary responsibility for getting the information from the person calling in for assistance. The following is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions that a call taker will ask. NOTE: The list is not necessarily in order or all-inclusive for every situation.

Is this an emergency?

Is this happening now?

Is anyone hurt? Who is the injured party? What is the parties Sex, race, age, date of birth, nature of injury/illness.

What is the exact address, intersection, or pinpoint location of occurrence where the unit should respond

to?

Is this the school, portable, outbuilding, grounds, parking lot, or house, apartment, mobile home, etc. near the school?

What is the room number, building number/letter, apartment # or trailer lot #?

What is the RP's name?

What is the RP's address?

What is the RP's Phone #?

Can you define the exact location of occurrence?

Are there any weapons?

What type of weapons?

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Are weapons being displayed?

Where is the subject carrying the weapon?

Is there a vehicle involved or a method of travel?

Do you have a vehicle description?

What is the color, year, make, model, body style, license number, license state (CYMBLS), or what is the color, old/new model, small/large, state license plates?

Is the vehicle or subject(s) still at the scene?

What is the direction of travel? (Example: traveling westbound on Alameda towards Paisano.)

Do you have a subject description? Subject info: (Top to bottom.) Name, date of birth, race, sex, height, weight, hair, eyes, glasses. What was the suspect last seen wearing: hat, coat, shirt, pants, and shoes?

What was subject carrying? A purse, bag, weapon, etc. 12.20 FILLING-OUT THE DISPATCH LOG The log will be legibly filled-out in black ink only. Once completed it becomes a permanent police department record. DATE: Fill in today's date. (MM-DD-YR) TIME REC'D: Fill in the time the log was opened SHIFT # DISPATCHER(S): Fill in the last name of the communicators on duty. SCHOOL OR LOCATION: Example: “SOCORRO HS,” “MONTANA AND TURF,” etc.

SOURCE: Fill in the full name and call back information of the caller/reporter; i.e. “John Jones – 555-5555;” “John Jones – 555-5555 – 309 MAIN ST.”

TYPE OF CALL: Fill in the call type. The following is a list of approved call type abbreviations, their recommend priority, and recommended secondary notifications:

NOTE: Some calls will require the call taker to prepare a "Hot Spot". Details regarding this subject will be covered later in this guide.

CODE INCIDENT RESPONSE CODE SISD PD NOTIFICATION 911 911ABU 911 ABUSE 1 911COI 911 COIN PHONE 1 911HUP 911 HANG-UP 1 SILENT 911 SILENT 1 UNKPRO UNKNOWN PROBLEM 1

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ACCIDENTS ACC INFORMATION 1 ACCH ACCIDENT - HAZARD 2 Y (If city jurisdiction) ACC83 ACCIDENT - HIT & RUN 1 HOTSPOT ACC85 ACCIDENT - INFORMATION 1 ACCA ACCIDENT - AGGRAVATED 2 Y ACCCH ACCIDENT - CHEMICAL SPILL 2 Y SUPVR/CHIEF ACCI ACCIDENT - INJURY 2 Y(EMS) ACCIA ACCIDENT - INJURY/AGGRAV 2 Y(EMS) ACCI83 ACCIDENT - HIT & RUN/AGGR 2 Y HOTSPOT ACCICH ACCIDENT - INJURY/CHEMICA 2 Y(EMS) ACCUNK ACCIDENT - UNKNOWN INJUR 2 AIRCRA AIRCRAFT CRASH 3 Y(EMS) SUPVR/CHIEF INDUS INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENT - INJ 2 Y (EMS) INDUS INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENT - UNK 2 Y (EMS) INJPTY INJURED PARTY 2 Y (EMS) ADMINISTRATIVE CALL GO TO A-1 B-1 OCC 1 A-2 B-1 Headquarters 1 A-5 B-5 Chief's Office 1 A-10 B-10 Radio Shop 1 A-13 B-13 Vehicle Maintenance 1 ALARMS 48AUD AUDIBLE 48 IN AREA 1 Y (IF CITY JURISDICTION) 48INTS 48 INTRUSION SCHOOL 1 48INTH 48 INTRUSION HABITATION 1 ANIMALS ANIBIT ANIMAL BITE 1 Y (A/C) ANIVIC VICIOUS ANIMAL 1 Y (A/C) CRU85 CRUELTY INFORMATION 1 Y (A/C) CRUEL CRUELTY IN PROGRESS 1 Y (A/C) ARSON ARSO85 ARSON INFORMATION 1 Y (EPPD) ARSOI ARSON IN PROGRESS 2 Y (EPPD/EPFD) SUPVR ARSJO ARSON JUST OCCURRED 2 Y (EPPD/EPFD) SUPVR

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ASSAULTS ASLA85 AGG. ASSAULT INFORMATI 1 ASLAI AGG. ASSAULT IN PROGRES 2 ASLAJO AGG. ASSAULT JUST OCCUR 2 ASL85 ASSAULT INFORMATION 1 ASLI ASSAULT IN PROGRESS 2 ASLJO ASSAULT JUST OCCURRED 1 SHOOT SHOOTING 3 Y(EMS) HTSPT/SPVR/CHIEF SHOTS SHOTS FIRED 2 HOTSPOT/SPVR STAB STABBING 2 Y(EMS) SUPVR/CHIEF ASSISTANCE EMS ASSIST EMS 1 FD ASSIST FIRE 1 PD ASSIST PD 1 SO ASSIST SO 1 AOA ASSIST OTHER AGENCY 1 AO ASSIST OFFICER 1 PAR ASSIST PARTY/CITIZEN 1 BURGLARY ABUH85 ATT BURG HAB INFOR 1 ABUHJO ATT BURG HAB J/O 1 BURH85 BURG HAB INFO 1 BURHI BURG HAB IP 2 HOTSPOT BURHJO BURG HAB J/O 1 HOTSPOT BURS85 BURG STORAGE INFO 1 BURSI BURG STORAGE IP 2 HOTSPOT BURSJO BURG STORAGE J/O 1 HOTSPOT BURV85 BURG VEHICLE INFO 1 BURVI BURG VEHICLE IP 2 HOTSPOT BURVJO BURG VEHICLE J/O 1 HOTSPOT BURE85 BURG SCHOOL BLDG INFO 1 BUREI BURG SCHOOL IP 2 HOTSPOT BUREJO BURG SCHOOL J/O 2 HOTSPOT CHILDREN/ELDERLY CLKVEH CHILD LOCKED IN VEHICLE 1 CLIVEH CHILD LEFT IN VEHICLE 1 CUSDIS CUSTODY DISPUTE 1 ENCH85 ENDANGERED CHILD INFO 1

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ENCHI ENDANGERED CHILD IP 2 FOUNDS FOUND SUBJECT 1 HARRUN HARBOR RUN AWAY 1 INJC85 INJURY TO A CHILD INFO 1 INJCI INJURY TO A CHILD IP 3 Y(EMS) HOTSPOT INJCJO INJURY TO A CHILD JO 2 Y(EMS) HOTSPOT INJE85 INJURY TO ELDERLY INFO 1 INJEI INJURY ELDERLY IP 2 Y(EMS) HOTSPOT INJEJO INJURY ELDERLY J/O 2 Y(EMS) HOTSPOT PKRUN PICK-UP RUNAWAY 1 RUN85 RUNAWAY INFO 1 SEXCAI AGG SEX ABUSE CHILD IP 3 HTSPT/SUPV/CHIEF CIVIL CIVP85 CIVIL PROBLEM INFO 1 S12 CIVIL PROBLEM 1 MUNI MUNICIPAL ORDNANCE 1 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/TRESPASSING CRM85 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF INFO 4/5 CRIMI CRIMINAL MISCHIEF IP 1 HOTSPOT CRMJO CRIMINAL MISCHIEF J/O 1 HOTSPOT CRT85 CRIMINAL TRESPASS INFO 1 CRTI CRIMINAL TRESPASS IP 1 CRTJO CRIMINAL TRESPASS J/O 1 DEATH 65HOM HOMICIDE 3 Y(EMS) HTSPT/SUPV/CHIEF 65UNA DEATH/UNATTENDED 1 Y(EMS) SUPV/CHIEF 6585 INFORMATION ON DEATH 1 SUPV FAMILY RELATED 5885 FAMILY DISTURBANCE INFO 1 58ASAI 58 ASSAULT IP WEAP 3 HOTSPOT 58ASJO 58 ASSAULT J/O 1 58ASLI 58 ASSAULT IP 2 58CRIMI 58 CRIMINAL MISCH IP 2 58DIST 58 DISTURBANCE 1 CUSDIS CUSTODY DISPUTE 1 HARRAS PHONE/WRITTEN HARRASM 1 TERR85 TERRORISTIC THREAT 1

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FIGHTS/DISTURBANCE DDIST DRUNK DISTURBING 1 DDISTA DRUNK DISTURBING AGG 2 FIGHT FIGHT 2 FIGHTW FIGHT WEAPON 3 NOIS NOISE DISTURBANCE 1 RIOT RIOT 3 SDIST SUBJECT DISTURBING 1 SDISTA SUBJECT DISTURBING AGG 2 VEHDIS VEHICLE DISTURBING 1 FOUND/RECOVERED ABDPRO ABANDONED PROPERTY 4 ABDVEH ABANDONED VEHICLE 4 EXPLI EXPLOSIVES LIVE 2 HOLD HOLDING SUBJECT 1 NARABD ABANDONED NARCOTICS 4 PKUPWA PICK-UP WANTED SUBJECT 1 RCVPRO RECOVERED PROPERTY 4 RCVSTV RECOVER STOLEN VEHICLE 1 FORGERY/CREDIT CARD ABUSE CRE85 CREDIT CARD ABUSE INFO 1 CREI CREDIT CARD ABUSE IP 1 CREJO CREDIT CARD ABUSE J/O 1 FORG85 FORGERY INFOR 1 FORGI FORGERY IP 1 FORGJO FORGERY J/O 1 FRAVE FRAUD MVI/LICENSE 1 HAZARDS 911F CHEMICAL HAZARD 2 Y(EPFD) SUPV SIG5 BOMB THREAT 2 Y(EPFD) SUPV SIG6 EXPLOSION 3 Y(EPFD) SUPV/CHIEF SIG6C EXPLOSION CHEMICAL 3 Y(EPFD) SUPV/CHIEF S84 VEHICLE BLOCKING 1 TH TRAFFIC HAZARD 1 96TRF TRAFFIC CONTROL 1 KIDNAPPING KID85 KIDNAPPING INFO 1 KIDA85 AGG KIDNAPPING INFO 1 KIDAIW AGG KIDNAPPING IP WEAP 3 HTSPT/SUPV KIDAJO AGG KIDNAPPING J/O 2 HTSPT/SUPV

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KIDNAPJO KIDNAPPING J/O 2 HTSPT/SUPV FALSE FALSE IMPRISONMENT 2 MISCELLANEOUS ESC ESCAPE 1 HTSPT/SUPV FRWRKS FIREWORKS 1 ILLPAR ILLEGAL PARKING 4 NOTIF NOTIFICATION 1 PCO PROTECTIVE CUST ORDER 1 WELFCK WELFARE CHECK 1 WTRWA WATER WASTE 4/5 ILLDUM ILLEGAL DUMPING 4/5 INFO INFORMATION 4/5 MISSING PERSONS MNP85 MISSING PERSON INFO 1 MNPE MISSING PERS ENDANGERD 1 NARCOTICS NARABD ABANDONED NARCOTICS 4 NARC84 NARCOTIC ACTIVITY INFO 4 NARCDI NARCOTICS DEAL IP 1 HOTSPOT NARCUI NARCOTIC USE IP 1 NARPOS NARCOTIC POSSESSION 1 OD OVERDOSE 3 Y(EMS)/SUPV OD85 OVERDOSE INFO 1 POLICE BOOT BOOTING VEHICLE 4 CK CHECKING CKS CHECKING SUBJECT FU FOLLOW-UP IMPD IMPERSONATING POLICE 1 IMPD85 IMPERSONATING POLICE INF 1 TRAFIC TRAFFIC STOP THREATS 1 ROBBERY ROB85 ROBBERY INFO 1 ROBI ROBBERY IP 2 HTSPT/SUPV ROBJO ROBBERY J/O 2 HTSPT/SUPV ROBA85 ROBBERY AGG INFO 1 ROBAIW ROBBERY AGG IP WEAP 3 HTSPT/SUPV

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ROBAJO ROBBERY AGG J/O 2 HTSPT/SUPV SEX OFFENSES SEXCAI AGG SEX IP CHILD 3 HTSPT/SUPV SEX85 SEX ASSAULT INFO 1 SEXA SEX AGG INFO 1 SEXAI SEX AGG ASSAULT IP 3 HTSPT/SUPV SEXAIW SEX AGG ASSAULT IP WEAP 3 HTSPT/SUPV SEXAJO SEX AGG J/O 2 HTSPT/SUPV SEXI SEX ASLT IP 3 HTSPT/SUPV SEXJO SEX ASLT J/O 2 HTSPT/SUPV INEX85 INDECENT EXPOSURE INFO 1 INEXI INDECENT EXPOSURE IP 2 HTSPT/SUPV INESJO INDECENT EXPOSURE J/O 1 HOTSPOT PROS PROSTITUTION 1 PUBLEW PUBLIC LEWDNESS 1 SUICIDE/SUBJECT DOWN SDOWN SUBJECT DOWN 2 SDOWNW SUBJECT DOWN WHEEL 2 DDOWN DRUNK DOWN 1 SUICI SUICIDE IP 3 Y(EMS) SUPV SUICIW SUICIDE IP WEAPON 3 Y(EMS) SUPV SUIC85 SUICIDE INFO 1 STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT/SCHOOL OFFENSES SCPG RECOVERED PAGER 4 SCWEP RECOVERED WEAPON 1 SCCON RECOVERED CONTRABAND 4 SCDOG DOG ON CAMPUS 1 Y(A/C) SCALC POSSESSION OF ALCOHOL 4 SCOC STUDENT OUT OF CONTROL 1 SCOCAG STUDENT OUT OF CONTROL (AGGRAVATED) 2 SCTRI TRUANT INFO 4/5 SCTRP TRUANCY IN PROGRESS 1 SCLS STUDENT LEFT SCHOOL 1 HTSPT/SUPV SCTOB POSSESSION OF TOBACCO 1/4/5 SCINTX INTOXICATED STUDENT 1 SCUNK ASSIST SCHOOL - UNK PROB 1 SCCC CROWD CONTROL SCMON MONITOR SCHOOL

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SUSPICIOUS PERSON/PROWLER PROWL PROWLER 1 SGUN SUBJECT WITH GUN 2 HTSPT/SUPV SKNIFE SUBJECT WITH KNIFE 2 HTSPT/SUPV SUSPSU SUSPICIOUS SUBJECT 1 SUSPV SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE 1 THEFT ATFV85 ATT THEFT VEH INFO 1/4/5 ATFVJO ATT TFTVEH J/O 1/4/5 HOTSPOT TFT85 THEFT INFO 1/4/5 TFTI THEFT IP 2 HOTSPOT TFTJO THEFT J/O 1 HOTSPOT TFTV85 THEFT VEHICLE INFO 1/4/5 HOTSPOT TFTVI THEFT VEH IP 2 HOTSPOT TFTVJO THEFT VEHICLE J/O 1 HOTSPOT UUMV UNAUTH USE MVH 1/4/5 UNIT: List all responding units. Designate one unit as primary; i.e. “P-340.” REC.OUT: Note the time each unit was dispatched. TIME ARR.: List the time each unit arrived. DISPOSITION: Annotated all known information about the call. Example: RP, coach, advised that a h/m juv subject, 5’5”/160, blk hair, red t-shirt/ blue jeans, sneakers, Suspect threw a large rock thru gym window. Suspect L/S running south into quad area. RP is standing by in gym. The following are approved clearance codes for the Department: Report (RPT) Advised (ADV) Released (REL) Unable to Locate (UTL) Checked O.K. (COK) Jail/JPD (10-15)

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No Contact (NC) Citation (CIT) Assisted (AST) Security Report (SRPT) Field Interview (FI) No report (NRPT) ALARM DISPOSITION: Standard clearances for alarm calls are: Human Error (HER) Weather (WTHR) Unknown (UNK) Mechanical (MECH) 12.20 MAKE CONTACT? Indicate on the dispatcher log and inform the officer if the caller wishes to be contacted by police or not. Normally calls will be made by district employees who wish to give information to the police. Therefore, the question "Do you wish to speak to an officer" is not applicable in most situations. If a citizen calls for assistance however, this question may be of pertinent value. It is the policy of the Socorro ISD Police department to not contact citizen callers or RP's who do not desire to see the police. 12.21 VEHICLE DESCRIPTIONS 1. Where appropriate, the call taker will ask if there is/are any vehicle(s) involved in an incident and get as

much information as possible to describe it. If there is more than one vehicle involved, the call taker will put vehicle #1, #2, etc. and then describe each vehicle.

The "CYMBLS" method will be used to get the right information about vehicles: "C" color "Y" year "M" make - "M" model "B" body Style "L" license "S" state (License)

2. Indicate body style. 2 door (2dr), 4 door (4dr), station wagon (SW), pick-up truck (PU), truck (TRK),

semi-truck (semi). Other required information is:

VYR: Vehicle year. VMA: Vehicle make. VMO: Vehicle model. VCO: Vehicle color. NOTE: Use only the abbreviations listed in Illustration 5. LIC: License plate number. LIST: License state.

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IDENTIFYING MARKS: Which will indicate any unusual characteristics concerning the vehicle. Example: "Damage - Right front." "Vinyl roof." "Loud muffler." "Dark, tinted windows." 3. DIRECTION OF TRAVEL: If the vehicle or subject is leaving or has left the scene, an attempt will be

made to get the vehicles last known direction of travel. Example: "North on Airport RD." "Left from main parking lot." "Woods - north of school, on foot." "Unknown"

4. OCCUPANT/SUSP # 1/# 2: It is the duty of all call taking communicators to get as much information as

possible regarding the occupants of suspect vehicles and suspects or subjects involved in a crime. This applies to all calls for service, no matter what the priority is. Descriptions will start from the top and work all the way down. If a weapon is indicated, get an accurate description.

If necessary, write a brief remark regarding the occupants or suspects. Example: "Cholo type." "Limp - left leg." "Green purse." "Tattoo - left forearm."

12.22 MISCELLANEOUS/CALL ACTIONS. The call taker will list any other pertinent information that does not fit into any of the categories/blocks listed above. Example:

• "Campus security will be holding subject."

• "Subject has the weapon in left front pants pocket."

• "Subject threw a green bag into the desert north of school."

• "Subject stated he would be back with a gun."

• "Subjects brandished shotgun and demanded RP's purse."

• "RP discovered missing school property."

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• "Subject attempted to run-down RP as he was leaving."

• "Gunfire heard in background."

• "Suspect hiding in dumpster - northeast corner staff parking lot."

• "SISD P/D #777 notified - 0812, EMS responding."

• "Multiple parties injured."

12.23 SOCORRO ISD POLICE STANDARD ABBREVIATIONS

RACE: I American Indian or Alaskan Native B Black A Asian or Pacific Islander W White U Unknown (all other non-whites) EYE COLOR: BLK Black HAZ Hazel BLU Blue MAR Maroon BRO Brown PNK Pink GRY Gray MUI Multicolored GRN Green XXX Unknown HAIR COLOR: BLK Black GRY Gray or partially gray BLN Blonde or Strawberry RED Red or Auburn BRO Brown WHI White XXX Unknown or completely bald SDY Sandy SKIN TONE: ALB Albino MED Medium BLK Black MBR Medium Brown DRK Dark OLV Olive DBR Dark brown RUD Ruddy FAR Fair SAL Sallow LGT Light YEL Yellow LBR Light Brown XXX Unknown VEHICLES: BLK Black BRO Brown YEL Yellow GRN Green GRY Gray MAR Maroon RED Red ORN Orange PRI Primer (Give color) 2TN Two tone (give color top first - WHI/BLK white over black) DRK Dark LGT Light PNK Pink BUR Burgundy

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12.24 DISPATCHING PROCEDURES

12.24.001 GENERAL The police dispatcher is the central figure in most initial police actions. Getting the right information to the field officer the first time is paramount in all calls for service. All dispatchers are to become familiar with this guide and develop a style of communicating that is uniform with the policies and procedures as set forth herein. 12.24.002 FCC 1. The Federal Communications Commission is the agency that regulates radio stations and station

licenses. The SISD is the holder of an FCC license and must abide by federal law governing station operation. All radio users will adhere to the following policy:

a. Prohibited communications:

1) Program material related to broadcasting; 2) False calls; 3) False/fraudulent distress signals; 4) Unnecessary/unidentified communications; 5) Obscene, indecent, or profane language; 6) Transmission of unassigned call signals.

2. All radio transmissions will be related to official duty and will be in English. No superfluous transmissions

are authorized. Non-essential communication between the dispatcher and field units will be conducted via telephone. This includes the transfer of non-emergency messages for officers to call someone. The dispatcher will normally not be asked to make a call (public service) for a field unit that is not directly related to a police action. Dispatchers and call takers must remain clear of unnecessary traffic to properly perform their duties as outlined in this guide.

a. Unacceptable messages:

1) Unprofessional, derogatory remarks; 2) Microphone clicking; 3) The use of names, nicknames instead of unit numbers.

12.24.003 RADIO ETIQUETTE 1. The police dispatcher has the primary responsibility for managing and regulating on-air radio traffic for

the entire police department. Dependent upon the time of day, number of units in the field, or the volume and nature of calls, this task can become hectic and stressful for all radio users. All personnel utilizing the police frequency will be courteous and tactful when dealing with one another on the air. Transmissions will be brief and to the point. Personnel desiring to transmit will wait for a break in traffic to send their message unless the traffic is of an emergency nature. Other users will allow for the other party to transmit a response if applicable. Politeness goes unspoken, therefore the transmission of "thank you,

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please, your welcome, sir, ma’am etc., are unnecessary. All users must be mindful that at any moment emergency radio traffic may be necessary. Keeping the air clear is the job of all personnel.

2. Principles to remember:

a) Be brief and concise. Do not ramble;

b) Use standard terminology;

c) Choose words carefully;

d) Pronounce words distinctly and slowly;

e) Keep voice emotionless;

f) Speak in a normal volume;

g) Be impersonal;

h) Use phonetic alphabet. 3. The following lists some of the common phrases that transmit poorly over the air: POOR PREFERRED Yes Affirmative No Negative Want Desire Can't Unable Buy Purchase Get Obtain Send Forward Wait Stand-by Do you want Advise if... Find out Ascertain Call and see Check 4. Other problem areas regarding transmission are: Rate too fast Dialect Objects in mouth Voice trails off Excessive transmission Pitch too low

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Too loud Anger in voice Hesitant - indecisive Phrasing Poor articulation Poor mike technique Pitch too high Too far away from mike/shouting Rate too slow Too weak Monotone Vocalized pauses (umm, duh...) Poor voice quality Poor pronunciation Overemphasis 12.24.004 TRANSMISSIONS 1. All radio transmissions will be accomplished in the "from - to" format. The transmitting unit will identify

itself and then identify the receiving unit or station. Example:

• "Dispatcher to Unit 340." • "340 to Dispatcher." • "340 to 303."

2. Units receiving transmissions from the dispatcher will answer with their unit number and location:

• "340, Socorro High School." • "340, Alameda and Moon." • "340, I-10 West at marker 32." • "340, Route 54 North at Montana."

3. The Dispatcher will acknowledge a field unit by repeating the units call sign. 4. After the message is sent, the field unit will acknowledge receipt by transmitting their unit number "10-4"

or "enroute." The dispatcher will acknowledge receipt by repeating "10-4" and the time. "10-4 at 15:02."

12.24.005 DISPATCHING A CALL 1. The dispatcher will complete the dispatch log and relay the information to the field unit using the format

set forth below. It is critical that dispatchers follow the established format to maintain uniformity and to allow field units to copy the information in a routine manner.

2. The unit assigned to a district will normally be assigned to the call. If not available however, the next

closest unit will be assigned. Dispatchers should give consideration to a unit assigned to the same geographical area when making this determination (i.e. west, central, northeast).

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3. The field unit will clear the call as follows:

• UNIT: 340 to Dispatcher • DISP: 340 • UNIT: 340, 10-8, Report • DISP: 10-4 at 15:29

or:

• UNIT: 340 to Dispatcher • DISP: 340 • UNIT: 340, 10-8, Advised, • DISP: 10-4 at 15:29

12.24.006 CHANGING A CALL TYPE At times, the officer may determine that the call is of a different type than that which was originally dispatched. If so, the officer will reclassify the call when it is cleared and the dispatcher will annotate the change on the dispatcher log in the disposition section. The dispatcher will write: ”Re-class - ROBJO. Example transmission:

• UNIT: 340 to Dispatcher • DISP: 340 • UNIT: Reclassify my case to Burglary of Vehicle. 10-8, Report • DISP: 10-4 at 0220

12.24.007 MISCELLANEOUS/CALL ACTIONS 1. The dispatcher will list any other pertinent information that does not fit into any of the categories/blocks

listed above and/or actions of the field unit regarding the call. Example:

• "340, 10-15, (1) H, Juv, M, START: 35,098/2249. END: 35,107/2303" • "EPPD assumed jurisdiction - 1308" • "EMS requested at 0812. Unit arrived 0827. Transported (1) W, F Adult to Thomason at 0845" • "340 to Thomason at 0911"

12.24.008 TRANSMITTING THE CALL 1. The dispatcher has the authority to dispatch any field unit to a call for service. Supervisors and

investigators will only be dispatched when they make themselves available. 2. Prior to dispatching a unit, the dispatcher must first take into account the unit's status. If the unit is

already on a call, is on a planned patrol or officer initiated investigation, special assignment, or otherwise in a busy status, the unit should not be dispatched. If the unit is busy, the dispatcher may check with the unit for an estimated clearance time. If the unit can clear, the dispatcher may assign the call. Calls will be dispatched to the unit assigned in the district where the call is taking place. If the district unit is busy and the call cannot be stacked, the nearest unit available will be assigned the call. If an officer is signed out or reports he/she otherwise as busy, a supervisor may be called upon by the dispatcher to clear the status. The supervisor will make a decision as to whether the officer is available to take a call.

3. Emergency situations (Code 3 and Code 2) calls will be given priority by all dispatcher and police

personnel. If a unit can clear a lower priority call, it will do so and respond. Dispatchers and field supervisors will work together to ensure calls are answered appropriately. Field units will not question

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dispatcher authority. The field supervisor will assist the dispatcher in sorting out the units and setting priorities.

4. Units who are close to a call for service may advise the dispatcher that they are clear to respond. The

dispatcher will make an appropriate decision if given this situation. Again, it is the duty of the dispatcher and field supervisor to ensure district priorities are met. Units not assigned a call or to assist on a call will remain in their respective district. Any requests for assistance from a unit at the scene of a call will be routed through the dispatcher. The dispatcher will send an available unit, if available.

5. Calls for service will be broadcast in a uniform manner in the prescribed format using the information

recorded on the dispatcher log. Deviations are not authorized. The format is as follows:

• Unit identification;

• Nature of call;

• Location;

• Contact and RP information;

• Miscellaneous/weapons information;

• Vehicle/suspect information;

• Response code. SAMPLE:

• DISP: Dispatcher to unit 361. • UNIT: 361, Irvin High School. • DISP: Unit 361. Fight in progress, Magoffin Middle School, Behind Gym. Assistant Principal

Smith reported 20 - 30 juvenile fighting each other. • Unknown weapons, vehicle, or subject description. • Code 2 • UNIT: 10-4, enroute. • DISP: 11:33

SAMPLE:

• DISP: Dispatcher to unit 350. • UNIT: 350, Paisano and Gateway North. • DISP: Unit 350. Information on an assault that occurred yesterday's date, Austin High School. • See Mr. Jones, a PE coach Austin High School in room 104. • RP stated he was assaulted by a male, juvenile student in the boy's locker room.

Code 1.

SAMPLE: DISP: Unit 340. Burglary of Auto in progress, Hernando Middle School, staff parking lot. RP advised that a male subject smashed the left driver's side door of a gray 1994 Ford Escort, Texas license KK1-RT7, and is removing the car stereo. Subject is described as a male, white, approximately 20 - 25 years of age with long, shoulder length, blonde hair. Subject is wearing a green army jacket, blue jeans, and white tennis shoes. Subject has a metal pipe he used to smash window. RP refused contact.

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Code 2.

SAMPLE:

DISP: Unit 360, Man with a Gun, Henderson Middle School, teacher's lounge.RP, Principal Brown advised that a subject entered the school with a gun and brandished it at the campus patrol. Subject has locked himself in the teacher's lounge and has stated he will shoot anyone who enters.Subject is a male, Hispanic, juvenile named Julio Martinez, 15 years of age, 6'1" tall, 300 pounds, dark hair, brown eyes, wearing a green ball cap, a Dallas Cowboy's jacket, white pants, and black combat boots. Weapon is described as a black, sawed-off shotgun with brown stock. No further description.

Code 3. SAMPLE: DISP: Unit 341, Signal 48, Alamo Elementary School, new building. Received 2 readings, no activity reported in area.

Code 1. SAMPLE: DISP: Unit 351, Information – Criminal Mischief, Irvin High School, handball courts. RP, head custodian Lopez discovered graffiti written in black spray paint. Unknown date, unknown suspects. RP can be contacted at his quarters.

Priority 5. SAMPLE: DISP: Unit 340, Criminal Mischief in progress, Hart Elementary. RP, Mr. John White, who lives across the street at 6202 Green Ave, Apartment #2, stated he saw a subject smashing-out windows with a baseball bat in front of the school near the main entrance. Subject is described as a black female, 40 - 50 years of age, 5'5" tall', 360 lbs., wearing a pink, full length party gown. Subject appears to be intoxicated and is screaming something about a man named Jim.Subject's vehicle is a green, 4 door, station wagon, unknown, Texas license plate, with tinted windows, chrome wheels, and a missing left tail light. Vehicle is parked in the staff parking lot near the building.Subject is carrying a 2 1/2' long, gray, aluminum baseball bat with a black handle. Reporter wants no contact. No alarm readings received from school.

Code 2.

12.24.009 BACK-UP UNITS/OTHER AGENCY ASSISTANCE 1. It is policy that calls for service will be handled by a Socorro ISD police unit. At times however,

assistance from other agencies may be required. If the field unit requests outside assistance, his or her decision should not be questioned over the air. A supervisor will make the final decision on call-out of other agencies.

2. When calling for assistance from another police agency, the communicator transmitting the request must

be prepared to answer the other agency’s questions. The call taker on the other end will normally require the same information obtained at the beginning of the call. Information will be released to the assisting agency as they request. Once contacted, outside agency referrals will be annotated on the dispatch log.

3. Calling EMS. When EMS is being requested, the SISD communicator will obtain and relay the following

four key elements along with location:

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• Patient problem or type of incident;

• Approximate age of patient;

• Sex and race of patient;

• Conscious: yes/no (or alert)?;

• Breathing: yes/no (or difficulty)?

12.24.010 RECEIVING INFORMATION FROM FIELD UNITS A large portion of the dispatcher's duties is communicating with officers in the field. Along with dispatching units to calls, dispatchers will also relay, receive, and process in formation to and from the field. Warrant/stolen checks, license checks, as well as other checks will come to the dispatcher in the form of requests from field officers. 12.24.011 RECORDING OFFICER ACTIVITY When an officer calls out an activity to the dispatcher over the radio or telephone, that information will be recorded in the dispatch log. Example: Checking subjects, vehicles, buildings, etc. The officer will give description information that will also be recorded in the dispatcher log. 12.24.012 OFFICER SAFETY/STATUS CHECKS Dispatchers may at any time check with an officer for his safety and status. Negative contact with officers in this situation will be reported to a supervisor. A supervisor may authorize other units to check on an officer any time there is a question on his/her status or safety. 12.24.013 DISPATCH RECOMMENDATIONS PROHIBITED

• Dispatchers are prohibited from giving the following:

• Medical Advice. Medical problems will be referred to EMS.

• Unrealistic Promises

• Information or direction that places callers at risk

• An exact or estimated time that an officer will arrive

• Legal advice

• Recommendations regarding lawyers, doctors, commercial enterprises, etc.

• An overview of what the officer will do when he gets there

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12.24.014 SPOT AND HOT-SPOT BROADCASTS 1. Spot and hot spot broadcasts are the same. The only exceptions are who originates them and who

broadcasts them. These type broadcasts are put out so that all officers can be on the look-out for certain individuals or vehicles.

2. Hot-spot broadcasts are originated at dispatch after they receive information from the caller. Field

units at the scene of an incident originate spot broadcasts. Dispatchers will annotate in the dispatcher log whenever either of the two is broadcast.

3. Prior to broadcasting a spot broadcast, officers will first request clearance from the dispatcher to do

so. Unit 340 to Dispatch Unit 340 Request SPOT 10-4 4. Broadcasts will contain any areas where special attention should be paid, information about the

incident, and any information about the subject’s or vehicles that are being sought. Example:

Unit 340 to Dispatch Unit 340 Request SPOT 10-4 Unit 340 to all units; special attention west area district Be on the look-out for a 1978 Chevy Impala, black over brown with chrome wheels, Texas license Nora-

Paul-George-3-8-2 Vehicle has two occupants. Subject #1 is a black male, 5/5” tall/130 pounds, wearing a green tank top, gray sweat pants and sandals. Subject #2 is a white male, 5/0” tall, 170 pounds, no other description. Vehicle last seen heading southbound on Redd Rd. from Hernando Middle School at a high rate of

speed. Subjects are wanted in connection with robbery just occurred in girl’s restroom at Hernando. Subject #1 armed with a 10” chrome hunting knife. Unknown weapons subject #2. Subjects should be in possession of a green book-bag and a diamond necklace. Use caution. If located – hold for unit 340. Unit 340 clear. There is no need for field units to acknowledge the broadcast. Dispatchers may also repeat the broadcast as updated or necessary. Units may also update the broadcast as information dictates. 12.25 CHANNEL MANAGEMENT/EMERGENCY TRAFFIC Channel management is normally left up to the dispatcher on duty. Dispatchers may refer units to other frequency dependent upon radio problems or the type of information being broadcast. The field supervisor however, has final authority over which channel(s) to be used for a particular shift or assignment.

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12.26 BOMB THREATS/UNIQUE TRANSMISSIONS 1. No unit will broadcast within 300 yards of an area where a bomb threat has been made. Officers will

advise that they will be unavailable until further notice. The use of cellular telephones or telephones at the location is prohibited until the area has been cleared.

2. In bomb threat or other situations where a school or other facility may have to be evacuated, it is up

to the senior administrator or person in charge at that location to make the determination in this area. Dispatchers will never recommend evacuation. Officers at the scene will only make the determination in the event that severe or actual circumstances exist.

3. Whenever a dispatcher receives a bomb threat, the following procedures apply:

a. Attempt to keep the caller on the line.

b. Initiate a bomb threat checklist form.

c. Attempt to ascertain when the bomb is set to go off, the location of the bomb, type and description of the bomb, the name of the caller, and any other information such as the callers, age, sex, accent and discernable background noises.

d. Upon completion of the call, notify the administrator of the target facility and dispatch a unit.

4. Officers at the scene will communicate directly with the person in charge of the facility. They should

ascertain what the person’s intentions are concerning evacuation, search, and assistance desired. Officers will assist in whatever is necessary to keep the situation under control and returning the facility to a normal condition.

5. Upon discovery of a suspect device, no person shall disturb it. Notification will be made to dispatch

who will request assistance from the appropriate agency. 6. Officers will never make statements such as “the area is clear” or “there is no bomb.” The

administrator will be advised of the results of any officer assistance and will make their own decisions as appropriate.

12.27 COMMAND POST OPERATIONS, DISASTER MANAGEMENT, AND BACK-UP

COMMUNICATIONS 1. When necessary, a field supervisor may establish a command post to centralize communications,

information and activity. Upon setting-up a command post, the supervisor will retain control until properly relieved. He/She will advise dispatch of where the command post is and the dispatcher will direct concerned personnel to that location.

3. Command posts may serve as:

a. Management centers for critical incidents, accidents, disasters, special events, etc.;

b. Central points for the dissemination of information to police, District, and other agency officials, parents and to the press;

c. Liaison and intelligence points; d. Embarkation points for special operation teams; e. Communication points for hostage negotiators;

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f. Isolated places for interviews and interrogations; 3. Supervisors may man the command post with officers or dispatchers as desired. 4. All requests to use District facilities in the event of disasters or emergencies will be routed to the Chief

of Police. 5. All dispatchers will maintain familiarity with back-up communications equipment. 12.28 ALARM MANAGEMENT AND EQUIPMENT 1. All dispatchers will become familiar with alarm system operation and troubleshooting. 2. Personnel assigned to alarm monitoring will always be cognizant of alarm status and system

enunciations. 3. Personnel will sign on and off the alarm system at the beginning and end of their shift. 4. No alarm will be disabled unnecessarily. Those alarms that have been disabled at the dispatch level

will be brought back on line as soon as possible. 5. Alarm system passwords and pass codes carry the highest security classification. Dispatchers are

prohibited from giving unauthorized personnel access to any alarm system management system.

6. Trouble with alarm systems will be immediately reported to the proper repairman. 7. Alarms that continually ring false will be reported immediately. Continued problems with system

operation will be reported to the Chief of Police. 12.29 CCTV AND MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT 1. All dispatchers will familiarize themselves with all equipment associated with police, security, and

administrative operations. 2. CCTV cameras will be monitored whenever they are effective. Cameras will be set to pan unless

being used to look at a specific event. 12.30 NOTIFICATION OF OCCURRENCES Dispatchers will notify a shift supervisor whenever problems or situations arise that they are unsure about or cannot handle. Supervisors and the Chief of Police will be notified in accordance with the procedures set forth earlier in this manual. 12.31 SPECIFIC DUTIES PER SHIFT The dispatch supervisor or other cognizant supervisor may set specific duties per shift. 12.32 FORMS, LOGS, AND REPORTS 1. Dispatchers shall ensure that they have the proper forms, logs, and reports at the beginning of their

shift. All completed records are property of the Socorro Independent School District and will be considered confidential. Unauthorized duplication or release of any record is strictly prohibited. All

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paperwork will be completed prior to ending the shift and will be neat, accurate, and legible. All forms and reports will be completed in black ink.

2. All case numbers will be immediately recorded in the Department’s criminal case log. Only approved

abbreviations will be used. Voided case numbers will be reported to a shift supervisor. 12.33 DAILY INCIDENT REVIEW SHEET Each dispatcher will complete a Daily Incident Review shift prior to ending duty. All review sheets will be forwarded with completed dispatcher logs to the Department’s clerk. 12.34 DEALING WITH THE MEDIA No member of the Department may release any information to the media without proper authorizations. All requests for information should be referred to the Chief of Police or to the appropriate District official. 12.35 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENTS All incidents involving suspected hazardous materials will be reported to the El Paso Fire Department and to the shift supervisor. When handling calls regarding hazardous materials, communicators will attempt to get information on the exact substance involved in the incident. 12.36 NCIC/TCIC – OTHER RECORDS CHECKS

1. All communicators will maintain proficiency and compliance with the NCIC/TCIC and Department regulations and system operations.

2. Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from accessing the NCIC/TCIC system.

3. Record checks may be made by field officers who will be specific as to which system is to be

checked. Requests may be made for NCIC/TCIC, local police records checks, school records checks, trespass warning files, etc.

4. Dispatchers will complete the checks as requested and confirm any information as necessary.

No Department information system may ever be used for unauthorized checks.

12.37 EMERGENCY SITUATIONS When an emergency situation arises, the Dispatcher immediately clears the air of unnecessary radio traffic and immediately focuses on the emergency. If the situation is going to be lengthy, units involved will remain on the same channel and all other units not involved will be directed to switch to another frequency. The shift supervisor determines which frequency will be utilized, taking into consideration several factors (traffic load, etc.). When the emergency situation has been resolved, communications resumes normal traffic and returns all units to their assigned frequency, if the units were moved. In addition, a field supervisor may request a frequency under any circumstances the supervisor deems to be an emergency, such as, but not limited to; a parade, traffic control, etc. 12.38 CONTINGENCY BROADCASTING The Dispatcher has, in the past, experienced certain power outages, and radio failures for a variety of reasons. In keeping with this occurrence as may happen, officers are instructed to adhere to the below in the event of such an outage:

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1. Phone communications to determine wherein might be the problem, i.e. the officer’s radio or a difficulty originating with the Dispatcher. (If the problem is with one channel, field units affected are switched to another channel).

2. If, however, radio-broadcasting abilities have been curtailed, each unit, when phoning

communications, is advised to go back to headquarters. If all radio communications are out and with the field units at their stations, the dispatcher notifies the shift supervisor of emergency or priority calls and thereby still provides emergency service and eliminates confusion.

12.39 RADIO TRANSMISSIONS 1. The Police Department adheres to all Federal Rules and Regulations governing radio

communications. The Dispatcher is responsible for maintaining control. 2. Units will identify themselves by their respective call signs and whether they are full crew or solo units

at the beginning of each shift. Units receiving or originating a call respond with their complete radio district number and location.

3. Word transmissions are used in all cases and are kept to an absolute minimum. 4. When an emergency call is in progress, radio transmissions are held to a minimum until the

emergency has been cleared. 5. Officers assigned to radio units are responsible for maintaining contact with Dispatcher during their

entire tour of duty and will keep the dispatcher advised of their status, i.e. 10-10, 10-7, 10-97, 10-8. 6. When exiting the vehicle, officers notify the Dispatcher of the location, telephone number, the district

and type of assignment. 7. Patrol units do not leave their assigned districts unless permission had been received from the field

supervisor. 8. Except in cases of absolute necessity, officers refrain from asking the Dispatcher for phone numbers,

street locations, business, phone number of other officers, etc. 9. Officers will only make Computer Resource Request, i.e., T.C.I.C., N.C.I.C., through the dispatcher

when they are in the field. 10. Dispatchers do not make decisions on Field Operations or specific incidents. If field supervisors are

not available, such requests are referred to other officers or supervisors in respective Divisions. 11. Units voluntarily responding to any incident first notify the Dispatcher of their location and intention.

The first unit arriving at any incident explains the situation briefly to the Dispatcher as soon as practicable.

12. In case of emergency, proper Radio Procedure might be temporarily disregarded. 12.40 MISCELLANEOUS 1. The development and assignment of all radio call signs is the responsibility of the Dispatcher and any

changes in radio call signs should be coordinated through the Dispatcher. 2. Dispatcher personnel are not responsible for giving out officer’s home telephone numbers and/or

addresses to other officers who phone in asking for that information. Any officer requesting that information should phone the respective Division or patrol desk for which the officer works.

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3. The dispatcher maintains a multi-channel device for the recording or transcribed on a Master Tape

and are kept on file for a period of 90 days, after which the tape is erased and placed back on inventory to be used again.

4. Requests for reproductions or recordings from the master tape are accepted under the following

situations:

a. An Administrative Order from the Office of the Chief of Police and any member of his staff. b. Investigative purposes, criminal or civil, where the investigating party is employed by the City of

El Paso and is conducting a legitimate investigation on behalf of the department and/or City. c. Under a judicial order, usually through a subpoena, and it is clearly stated that a “copy” or

“reproduction” of the tape is required. The District’s Legal Advisor is consulted before releasing any such reproductions.

d. Training purposes, when such requests are cleared through the Chief of Police.

5. All requests for the reproduction of recordings from master tapes are forwarded to the Chief of Police

for approval. 6. Persons requesting a reproduction from the master tape supplies the Dispatcher with a blank

cassette tape that may be used on the Division’s recorder. Under circumstances the Division may supply the blank cassette tape; however, the requester is advised to return the tape after it is no longer needed, or to supply the Division with a new tape as soon as possible.

7. Requests for reproductions are made by written memorandum, under normal circumstances. Such

written requests include the requester’s name and ID number, assigned division, date of request, reason for request, time and date of incident, location of incident (if known) and the type of the station recording to be reproduced, i. e. telephone conversation and/or radio dispatch.

12.40 DICTION, PHRASING – RADIO COMMUNICATIONS Successful communication of information is accomplished by using standard methods, terms and by careful attention to details. The following is a list of some of the most important principles: 1. Be brief and concise;

2. Use standard terminology or established codes; 3. Choose words carefully; avoid unprofessional and informal language; 4. Pronounce words distinctly and slowly; 5. Keep your voice as emotionless as possible, regardless of the situation. Emotion tends to distort the

voice and makes it more difficult to understand. A person transmitting in an excited manner tends to create a similar response from those people receiving the transmission;

6. Keep the microphone close to your lips and speak in a normal volume; 7. Be impersonal. Do not use the name of the person to whom you are speaking, and do not use “I” to

refer to you. Refer to individuals by their assigned designator. Public Safety radio stations are not licensed for person to person communications. Personal messages are a violation of FCC Regulations;

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8. Similar sounding, confusing or unusual words should be spelled letter by letter using the phonetic

alphabet. All series of letters, such as vehicle license plates, should be given phonetically. 12.41 PHONETIC ALPHABET The Department uses the following phonetic alphabet: A ADAM J JOHN S SAM B BOY K KING T TOM C CHARLES L LINCOLN U UNION D DAVID M MARY V VICTOR E EDWARD N NORA W WILLIAM F FRANK O OCEAN X XRAY G GEORGE P PAUL Y YOUNG H HENRY Q QUEEN Z ZEBRA I IDA R ROBERT 12.42 SPECIAL CODES FOR RADIO COMMUNICATIONS The following Ten Codes are used by the Socorro ISD Police Department: 10-1 SIGNAL WEAK/POOR 10-2 SIGNAL GOOD/CLEAR 10-4 AFFIRMATIVE/UNDERSTOOD 10-5 RELAY MESSAGE 10-6 BUSY – UNLESS URGENT (SPECIFY IF FACILITIES BREAK) 10-7 OUT OF SERVICE OR LUNCH BREAK 10-8 IN SERVICE/AVAILABLE 10-9 REPEAT TRANSMISSION (SAY AGAIN) 10-10 COFFEE OR BEVERAGE BREAK – SUBJECT TO CALL 10-14 CONVOY OR ESCORT 10-15 PRISONER IN CUSTODY, ARREST 10-16 PRISONER TRANSPORT 10-17 PICK UP PAPER AT ______, MAIL RUN, PAPERWORK/FORMS 10-20 LOCATION 10-22

CANCEL LAST ASSIGNMENT, DISREGARD/CANCEL

10-24 TROUBLE AT STATION

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10-25 MEET OFFICER AT ____________________

10-27 SUBJECT/VEHICLE WANTED INFORMATION 10-28 REGISTRATION/OWNER INFORMATION CHECK 10-29 RECORDS CHECK (WANTED OR STOLEN) 10-30 DOES NOT CONFORM TO RULES/REGULATIONS 10-42

OFFICER’S HOME LOCATION

10-49 TRANSPORTING CIVILIAN 10-97 10-98 10-99

ON SCENE WANTED SUBJECT (MISDEMEANOR) WANTED SUBJECT (CRIMINAL WARRANT)

12.43 SIGNAL CODES SIGNAL 5 BOMB THREAT SIGNAL 6 EXPLOSION SIGNAL 10/ Code 10 CAUTION SIGNAL 12 CIVIL PROBLEM SIGNAL 37 TRAFFIC STOP SIGNAL 48 BURGLAR ALARM SIGNAL 58 FAMILY FIGHT/VIOLENCE SIGNAL 65 DEAD BODY SIGNAL 81 MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT SIGNAL 83 HIT AND RUN SIGNAL 85 INFORMATION SIGNAL 88 DRUNK DRIVER SIGNAL 90 INTOXICATED SUBJECT SIGNAL 96 TRAFFIC /CROWD CONTROL

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12.44 ABLE/BAKER CODES A CALL A-1 COMMUNICATIONS/DISPATCH A-2 HEADQUARTERS A-3 SUPERVISOR A-4 CHIEF A-5 INVESTIGATIONS B GO TO B-1 COMMUNICATIONS/DISPATCH B-2 HEADQUARTERS B-11 Court B-13 / Transportation 12.45 RADIO CALL RESPONSE 1. All officers who are equipped with radio transceivers, while performing field operations and carried as

in-service by police dispatcher, will be held accountable for the prompt response to any call directed to them.

2. At the start of the shift, each field unit will identify itself by its respective unit designation and advise if

it is a full crew of a solo unit. The officer will also advise of the district assigned or that will be worked. At the completion of the shift, the unit will advise the dispatcher that it has completed its tour of duty.

3. All field units will continue to keep the dispatcher advised of their status throughout the tour of duty.

This shall include coffee breaks, lunch, visits to headquarters, etc. 4. Should a field unit fail to respond to a transmission, the dispatcher shall try to make contact for a

minimum of three times over a three-minute period. If still no contact, the dispatcher shall notify the shift supervisor of the situation.

5. Should a pattern develop, the dispatcher shall, in writing through the chain of command, notify the

officer’s supervisor of the problem. In the notification, dates and times will be recorded.

Each Section or Division that is subject to call outs or has personnel on stand-by shall provide the Dispatch Section a current roster of the personnel affected. The Section affected will keep the roster current.

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CHAPTER THIRTEEN

POLICE JURISDICTION Purpose: This policy establishes guidelines for Departmental Jurisdiction for Socorro Independent School District Police Officers.

13.01 References:

A. Section 37.081 of the Texas Education Code

B. Chapters 14 & 15 Code of Criminal Procedure

13.02 Definition: District Property – Property owned, leased, rented or otherwise under the control of the district, including bus stops, District vehicles and school crossing zones. 13.03 Policy Statement:

A. The district employs Peace Officers for the purpose of providing a safe environment for

the students and employees and to protect district property. It is not the intent of these procedures to promote the enforcement of laws off District property when they do not affect the public safety or welfare of students or employees of the District or the protection of District property.

B. Therefore, responses by a Socorro Independent School District Police Officer to incidents

that occur off District property does not involve public safety or welfare of students and employees of the District or the protection of District property:

1. shall be done with the cooperation of the appropriate Law Enforcement agency, and 2. The Officer will notify a Socorro Independent School District Police Department

supervisor immediately. 13.06 Jurisdiction:

A. The Socorro Independent School District Police Department jurisdiction includes all

territory within the boundaries of the School District.

B. All properties real and personal, outside the boundaries of the District that is owned leased or rented but otherwise under the control of the District.

C. District officers will have the primary responsibility for law enforcement on District property.

13.05 Procedure Statement:

A. SISD Police will enforce, investigate, and prevent violations of all laws, including district

policies, municipal ordinances, county ordinances and state laws while on district property or when the violation involves public safety or welfare of students, employees or other person or district property within their jurisdiction.

B. SISD Police may enforce all laws, including municipal ordinances, County ordinances and state laws anywhere within the territorial boundaries of the district when the offense is committed in the officer’s presence or within his view.

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C. The Socorro Independent School District Police Department may join with other police agencies in fighting crime off District property that involve mutual aid, public safety, or welfare of students and employees and District property. These activities must be approved by the Chief of Police.

13.06 Police Activity By Officer Outside Their Jurisdiction:

Any police activity by Socorro Independent School District Police Officers outside their jurisdiction will be in compliance with Chapters 14 and 15 Code of Criminal Procedures

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF, OF RECEIPT OF, AND COMPLIANCE WITH, STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES...

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