POLICE DEPARTMENT SUPPLEMENTAL MANUAL: VOLUNTEERS INPOLICE ... · MPD VOLUNTEERS IN POLICE SERVICE...

CITY OFMESA

Great People, Quality Service!

POLICE DEPARTMENTSUPPLEMENTAL MANUAL:

VOLUNTEERS IN POLICESERVICE

George GasconChief of Police

MANUAL DISCLAIMER

These orders are intended for internaluse only and do not enlarge a member'scivil or criminal liability in any way. Theyshould not be construed as the creationof a higher standard of safety or care in

an evidentiary sense, with respect tothird party claims. Violations of these

orders, if proven, can only form thebasis of a complaint by this Department,

and then only in a non-judicialadministrative setting.

MPD VOLUNTEERS IN POLICESERVICE MANUAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

100 ORGANIZATION & ADMINSTRATION

110 Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) Administration120 Eligibility, Training & Selection

200 PERSONNEL FUNCTIONS

210 Volunteer Rights &Authority220 Inspections, Transfers, Leaves of Absence &Dismissal230 Rules & Regulations240 Confidentiality250 Identification, Uniforms & Equipment260 Awards & Recognition

300 PERSONNEL FUNCTIONS

310 Safety Regulations320 Insurance

Date Revised: 08/22106

VIPS 110Mesa Police Volunteers Subject:

In Police Service Volunteers in Police ServiceManual (VIPS) Administration

Approved:

Chief Georae GasconEffeclive: Chapter: Page:

May 20,2007 Ornanization &Administration 1

Mission Statement

Introduction

History

The mission of the Mesa Police DepartmentVolunteers in Police Service (VIPS) Program is tosupport members in providing police service andto promote community partnership.

• Volunteers within the Mesa Police Departmenthave the opportunity to contribute to theoverall quality of service to the community. Itis important to be aware of the image of thedepartment when contacting the public, Thecitizens of our community have a right toexpect only the best from their police force.

• To accomplish this, sworn personnel, civilianstaff members, and police volunteers mustwork together in a team effort to uphold thehigh standards of the police profession. Bydoing so, our Department will continue tomaintain its reputation of competence,credibility, and trust among the community.

• This supplemental manual explains VIPSprogram guidelines and information pertinentto volunteer participants. As a policedepartment representative, volunteers areasked to make a commitment to providingtheir best service to the Department and thecommunity. This manual serves as areference to accomplish the task.

Volunteers have been active in the Mesa PoliceDepartment for many years. However, thevolunteers were few in number, the job positionswere limited, and there wasn't a structuredprogram or Coordinator. It was decided that avolunteer program should be organized to moreeffectively utilize volunteers within the policedepartment The organized program becameknown as Volunteers in Police Service or VIPS.

05/20/07 VIPS 110 1Volunteers in Police Service(VIPS) Administration

The Mesa Police Department conductedintensive research on existing volunteerprograms before developing the VIPS Program.

2

Mesa Police DepartmentMission

VIPS Chain-of-Command

Three sheriff agencies, one county police agency,and three police departments throughout threestates were contacted. Information garneredfrom these agencies, various reference materials,and in-house suggestions were used to plan andimplement the current program.Volunteers are an important asset to the MesaPolice Department Today, there are volunteerpositions in all divisions of the Department andthe VIPS Program is growing continually.

The responsibility of the Mesa Police Departmentis to improve the quality of life in Mesa by workingtogether with all citizens to preserve life, maintainhuman rights, protect property, and promotepublic safety. To accomplish this mission, allmembers and volunteers:• Respond quickly and professionally to all calls

for police service;• Provide police service, with an emphasis on

teamwork and mutual respect; and• Participate in the operation of the Department

and its interaction with the community.

The following chain-of-command app lies to allvolunteers in matters related to ~jg[ii!Jle:fiQffi?jf.~'·""<"';'$',,:,~,·;;d;':'1C.·.,.;:rr!1

i$.I.JQe[Ycl§.I.On;• Chief of Police.• @ttice))of)$'U; "OitiS'§rvlt5es;!UilfeCrbifl.=.•_"="_.J~fL.•_"_-•..._.~.~~._." __,• Division Commander.• Lieutenant• S'?i'rggan~• Assigned area supervisor.• Volunteer.

05/20/07

VIPS Coordinator

VIPS 1101 Volunteers in Police Service(VIPS) Administration

The VIPS Coordinator is responsible forrecruiting, interviewing, conducting backgroundinvestigations, conducting orientation training,J?[~pIQgl and evaluating volunteers.

Volunteers are first responsible to their assignedarea supervisor.• Direct questions concerning job duties,

schedule, or work procedures to the area

~;;;,~l;Iffi:~fe~~u-'erv,sor isnot:avaTIabre -fOiiow".... '.' '.' _.' ~.' ". p .~..... ~c ..... r.c , •••• ' ..•J. ..~'......the chairi:btcommahd f6r:ftinctibnal~~it~il!l~id._nJ· .... "-"-~-"--"

• If a conflict exists with the area supervisor,tFii3t'canhotbe"resolliecf'wHhinfhatcfi8:ffi:ol~diTIl:B~6~, '~~iitactthe'Vi'PS"Co'ordinaiOr:"

•••

3


In Police Service Eligibility, Training &SelectionManual

Approved:

Chief Georae GasconEffective: Chapler: Page:

Mav 20,2007 Oraanization &Administration 1

Eligibi1ity To be eligible to participate in the MPD VIPSProgram, citizens will:• Be a high school graduate or have a GED or

equivalent, when necessary for theassignment

• Have a valid driver's license or identificationcard.

• Be at least 18 years of age. (Somedepartment assignments may require aminimum age of 21 years.)

• Submit to background investigation.• Complete a polygraph examination.• Complete a drug screening.• Be approved for selection by the Hiring

Review Board.• Eligibility for selection as a VIPS does not

necessarily indicate eligibility for a paidposition with the Mesa Police Department

Training &Selection • Volunteers complete orientation training withinthree months of selection date. The trainingincludes the following areas:• Security Briefing• Records Section• Holding Facility• Telecommunications• Patrol Ride-along

• Only the VIPS Coordinator can waive theorientation training for a volunteer.

• Volunteers are interviewed by an areasupervisor for possible unit assignment,during the selection process.• Unit Commander must approve selection

of volunteer to assignment and completerlMPD form # 395, VOLUNTEERPLACEMENT AUTHORIZATION.

• Once selected for an assignment, thevolunteer reports to their area supervisorfor duties and any specialized training.

0+

05/20/07 VIPS 120 1Eligibility, Training & Selection 2

Hepatitis B InoculationProgram

• Supervisors provide volunteers with anyequipment (phone, radio, computer, etc.)needed to complete their assignments.

• Volunteers complete a minimum of 8 hours ofservice a month to be considered an active

il1Ii1t«1\.~,Volunteers assigned to areas where they may bein direct or indirect contact with the public and/orproperty are contacted in writing by the VIPSCoordinator informing them of the Hepatitis BInoculation Program.• The volunteer signs up to participate in the

program or signs a waiver of participation tobe kept in their permanent files.

• At-risk volunteers who waive participation canbe included in the program at any time byrequesting participation through the VIPSCoordinator.

• In addition to the written notice, volunteers areprovided a copy of the MPD Health HazardIncidents (Field Orders 560 - 564) andinformation on the contact health careprovider.

•••


In Police Service Volunteer Rights & AuthorityManual

Approved:

Chief Georae GasconEffective: Chapter: Page:

Mav 20,2007 Personnel Functions 1

General Guidelines Volunteers are a valuable resource to PoliceDepartment and deserve to be recognized. Allvolunteers have the right to be:• Assigned to tasks that are suitable to their

experience, education, and abilities.• Trained properly for assigned duties and

assumed responsibilities.• Treated with respect• Involved in a positive Mesa Police Department

experience.

Authority VIPS are non-commissioned citizen volunteersand do not have peace officer authority in theperformance of their duties. When working in anofficial capacity, DO NOT:• Chase, stop, detain, or question anyone

regarding a police incident• Represent yourself as a police officer.• Wear or display any badge, shield, patch or

item bearing the word "police" not authorizedfor wear by a department supervisor or theVIPS coordinator.

If you witness a crime in progress; remain calmand contact Communications as soon as possibleto report the incident• Inform the VIPS Coordinator of any incident

observed and, if possible, the disposition ofthe case.

•••


In Police Service Inspections, Transfers, LeavesManual

of Absence & DismissalsApproved:


Mav20,2007 Personnel Functions 1

Time Sheets Volunteers complete time sheets and turn them into their area supervisor no later than the 5th dayof the following month.• Hours are rounded to 15 minutes.• Submit separate time sheets to each area for

work in more mii6 one assignment• Supervisors sign the time sheet and forward it

to the VIPS Coordinator.

Evaluations & Files • Volunteers are asked to complete an annualevaluation form to provide feedback on theVIPS Program. The purpose of the form is toimprove the VIPS Program. Honestparticipation in the evaluation process assistswith continuous quality improvement in theprogram.

• Supervisors of volunteers are asked tocomplete an annual assessment form. Thepurpose of this form is to ensure appropriatevolunteer placement and that specific needsare met within the Department It alsoprovides a record of volunteer service, anappraisal of the volunteers' performance, andidentifies strengths and weaknessesconcerning volunteer positions.

• Upon leaving the VIPS Program, volunteersare asked to complete an "Exit Report" to beused as a tool for directing changes to theprogram and volunteer assignments.

• The VIPS Coordinator maintains a file oneach volunteer. This file includes thevolunteer's photo, training, letters ofrecommendation, record of hours served, andperformance documentation.

• The Hiring Unit keeps a confidential fileconsisting of the VIPS application, polygraph,background information and fingerprint card.

-+

05!20107 VIPS 220 !Inspections, Transfers, Leaves ofAbsence & Dismissals

2

• Supervisors are encouraged to keepindividual workstation files on VIPS assignedto them.

• Supervisors forward training records andperformance documentation to the VIPSCoordinator upon completion of a volunteerassignment.

Transfer Requests If a volunteer finds himself in a position he is notcomfortable with, or has other problems inserving in an assigned job position, or would liketo try a new assignment, the volunteer contactsthe VIPS Coordinator.• Volunteers are encouraged to work in a

variety of positions and learn as much aboutthe Police Department as possible by workingin different areas.

• The only stipulation in transferring for thisreason is that the volunteer remain in each

assigned p~si~i~nf~r ..~.~iDim~~.~ft.hree

~jlir~~1'il~r~~~~i~t~jii~jf~lf~~hisrestriction is due to the time it takes forimmediate supervisors to train each volunteer.

• The VIPS Coordinator approves all transfers.Supervisors contact the VIPS Coordinatorprior to transferring the volunteer.

When working on a specially assigned project, ora detailed short-term project, volunteers areasked to commit to completion of this project.• Usually these projects last less than six

months.• A project assignment also nullifies the three-

month commitment minimum if the project iscompleted in less than three months.

• During the assignment, volunteers can beassigned to different area supervisors.

Self-initiated transfers:• Make an appointment with the VIPS

Coordinator.• Notify their area supervisor of the transfer.• Be interviewed by the VIPS Coordinator.• Be interviewed by the next supervisor.

0+

OS/20/07 VIPS 220 /Inspections, Transfers, Leaves ofAbsence & Dismissals

3

Leaves of Absence

Dismissals

o Volunteers can request a leave of absence forup to six months.

o Volunteers on leave of absence for more thansix months are automatically terminated fromthe VIPS Program and are required toreapply, unless special circumstances existand are approved by the VolunteerCoordinator.

The Mesa Police Department reserves the rightto dismiss a person from the Volunteers In PoliceService Program for any reason deemedappropriate by the Chief of Police or hisdesignee.o The VIPS Coordinator is responsible for

managing volunteer dismissals. Supervisorsimmediately notify the VIPS Coordinator ofany volunteer action or circumstance theybelieve are grounds for termination ofvolunteer service.

Actions resulting in immediate dismissal from theVIPS Program include, but are not limited to:o Omitting or falsifying information during the

VIPS selection process.o Misusing the VIPS identification badge or City

of Mesa equipmento Releasing secure information to unauthorized

personnel or the public.o Involvement in the commission of a crime

(misdemeanor or felony) at any time during avolunteer's tenure. .

o Involvement in conduct unbecoming amember of the Mesa Police Department

o Poor performance.o Poor attendance.o Unwillingness to follow policies/procedures or

accept directions .

•••


In Police Service Rules & RegulationsManual

Approved:

Chief George GasconEffective: Chapter: Page:

May 20,2007 Personnel Functions 1

General Guidelines • Adhere to assigned schedules as arrangedwith area supervisors,y)'Dgs.§ in case ofillness.

• Attend orientation and training sessions asscheduled, and undertake continuingeducation when provided by the Department

• Respect the function of the Department's staffand contribute fully to maintaining a smoothworking relationship between staff andvolunteers.

• Carry out assignments in good spirit and seekthe assistance of area supervisor or the VIPSCoordinator when necessary.

• Wear provlded photo ID badge at all times,while functioning as a volunteer.

• Consult with supervisor before assuming anynew responsibilities affecting assignmentsand duties performed for the Department

• Respect and accept the Department's right todismiss any volunteer.

• Exercise caution when acting on theDepartment's behalf.

• Take one fifteen-minute break per four-hourshift as scheduled with the area supervisor.

• Do not report for duty or be on duty whileunder the influence of alcohol or drugs. Theodor of an alcoholic beverage is consideredpresumptive evidence for dismissal fromservice.

• Discuss rescheduling arrangements with thearea supervisor when taking medication thatmay cause drowsiness or which in any waymay hamper the normal work assignment.

• Do not have relatives or friends accompanyon ride-alongs while performing volunteerduties without first obtaining permission fromthe VIPS Coordinator or the area supervisor.

05/20/07

Tax Deductions

VIPS 2301 Rules & Regulations

Direct any questions concerning expenses thatare tax deductible to an IRS office (in Phoenix,602-257-1233) .

•••

2


In Police Service Confidential ityManual

Approved:


Mav 20,2007 Personnel Functions 1

General Guidelines "Any person who releases or procures therelease of information held by the criminalidentification section...is guilty of amisdemeanor." -Arlzona Department of PublicSafety Criminal Identification SectionAdministrative Rules and Regulations.• The release of criminal information to the

public is a FELONY.• Any and all information pertaining to police

records, or other clearance level materialsmust be kept strictly confidential. Anyone inviolation of this provision will not only beterminated, but may also be prosecuted.

All volunteers complete a Security Awarenessbriefing conducted by the Department's SystemsSecurity Officer or his designee.• If volunteers are going to access the ACJIS

Network as part of their job duties, thevolunteer's area supervisor notifies the VIPSCoordinator to schedule a TOC test

• The VIPS Coordinator notifies volunteerswhen re-certification is required .

•••

VIPS 250Mesa Police Volunteers SUbject:

In Police Service Identification, Uniforms &Manual

EquipmentApproved:



Volunteer Identification Volunteers are issued an identification badge.• All volunteers are required to display their

VIPS identification while on duty or in aDepartment facility.

• VIPS pick up a visitors badge at the front deskbefore reporting to work in the event theirissued badge is not readily available.

The VIPS badge is not to be used for generalidentification purposes, such as check cashingprivileges, or to gain favorable treatment orgratuities.• Any violation of this provision, or any misuse

of the VIPS badge, is grounds for dismissalfrom the VIPS Program.

• Immediately notify the VIPS Coordinator if theidentification badge is lost or misplaced.

Appearance • Maintain a professional appearance in theperformance of duties. Clothing is to be neat,clean and well groomed.

• Hairstyles, mustaches and/or beards are to beneat, clean, properly trimmed, and maintainedin an acceptable manner.

Uniforms • Uniforms are not required nor are they issuedto volunteers assigned to most areas in thedepartment.

• The VIPS coordinator and area supervisorsaddress exceptions to this order.

• Appropriate clothing with department insigniasis authorized by the program coordinator tomeet the needs of the department.

Department Equipment • Department equipment is issued or allowedUse for use at the discretion of the area

supervisor.

~

05/20/07 VIPS 250 1Identification, Uniforms & Equipment 2

• Volunteers receive appropriate training theproper use of any issued equipment from theirarea supervisors or designated personnel.

• Any damage, loss, misuse, or recklesshandling of equipment is investigated by thevolunteer's immediate supervisor.

• Upon resignation or termination from the VIPSProgram, any equipment including uniform,keys, ID badge, etc. is turned in to theimmediate area supervisor or the VIPSCoordinator.

I ',> ""<,• '," " ,""" "': VEt- : USE ,; '" ,/:,' "" ,'" ,"; .' ','City Vehicles • Access may be provided to City vehicles,

which display the City seal. However, due totheir demand, there is no guarantee that thesecars are always available for use.

• Unmarked police vehicles designed forcooperative use may also be availablethrough the volunteer's area supervisor.

Personal Vehicles

Accidents

Parking

• Personal vehicles can be used for Citybusiness provided you possess a valid driver'slicense and carry insurance. You areencouraged to keep track of mileage, which istax deductible (see VIPS Manual Order 230 Rules &Regulations).

• Volunteers required to use personal vehiclesfor Handicapped Parking Enforcement receivemileage reimbursement through the City ofMesa.

• Report any accident, including privateproperty accidents, involving any vehiclebeing used for city business to the PoliceDepartment.

• The volunteers' own insurance will cover anyaccident damages involving personalvehicles,

Park in designated areas only.

•••


In Police Service Awards & RecognitionManual

Approved:



General Guidelines VIPS members are important to the Mesa PoliceDepartment and to the City of Mesa.

An annual Volunteer Recognition Program isplanned to recognize volunteers for their servicecontributions.• Recognition is given for hours of service to the

department and for special service to thedepartment

Area supervisors are encouraged to acknowledgetheir volunteers for their service by providingtraining, feedback, and recognition on a continualbasis.

•••


In Police Service Safety RegulationsManual

Approved:


May 20,2007 Safety 1

General Guidelines DO NOT, under any circumstances, take anyenforcement action. CALL FOR A SWORNOFFICER.

Excluding the below listed exceptions, noform of weapon can ever be carried or employedwhile acting as a Volunteer in Police Service:• Animal Control Unit Volunteers may carry

Capstun, only in the performance of theirduties with the Mesa Police Department, uponsuccessful completion of department trainingand with approval of the current trainingofficer and the area supervisor.

• Range Unit Volunteers may carry/employfirearms and ammunition while performingduties under the approval and authorization ofthe Rangemaster.

Volunteers shall never knowingly enter ahazardous situation. CALL FOR A SWORNOFFICER.

•••


In Police Service InsuranceManual

Approved:

Chief Georqe GasconEffective: Chapter: Page:

Mav 20,2007 Safety 1

General Guidelines VIPS members are covered by both Worker'sCompensation and Automobile Liability Insurancefor anyon-duty accident.• If unemployed or retired, only your medical

expenses are covered as a result of an onduty accident.

• If you are currently employed, wagecompensation loss of wages resulting from aninjury incurred while on duty, as a VIPS areaddressed on a case-by-case basis.

Volunteers are encouraged to read the postednotices regarding Worker's Compensation onvarious bulletin boards located in departmentfacilities.• If not accepting the provisions of the Worker's

Compensation Law, notify the VIPSCoordinator immediately to sign an authorizedwaiver.

• Direct any questions concerning insurancecoverage to the VIPS Coordinator.

•••

POLICE DEPARTMENT SUPPLEMENTAL MANUAL: VOLUNTEERS INPOLICE ... · MPD VOLUNTEERS IN POLICE SERVICE...

Documents

Transcript of POLICE DEPARTMENT SUPPLEMENTAL MANUAL: VOLUNTEERS INPOLICE ... · MPD VOLUNTEERS IN POLICE SERVICE...