At the scene of any crime, accident or other
police incident, the ranking officer present shall assume command
and direction of police personnel to assure the most orderly and efficient
accomplishment of the police task. When two or more officers of the
same rank are present and one of these is assigned to the investigative
detail that will follow up the investigation, that ranking officer
will be in charge. This provision coordinates the efforts of the several
subordinate members who may be assigned to the incident: therefore,
it is incumbent upon the ranking officer assuming such control to
become acquainted with the facts and ensure that appropriate action
is being taken or is initiated.
The first member to arrive at the scene of a
crime or other police incident is responsible for the following actions
as they may apply to the situation:
The members officially assigned to perform the preliminary or other investigation of an alleged crime or other incidents are responsible for the duties of § 47-89 and the completion of the preliminary or other investigation as directed. This shall include securing statements and other information which will aid in the successful completion of the investigation, the locating, collecting and preserving of physical evidence and the identifying, locating and apprehending of the offender.
Except when impractical or where the identify
is obvious, officers shall identify themselves by displaying the official
badge or identification card before taking police action.
Unauthorized persons, including members of the
press, shall be excluded from crime scenes. Information shall be given
to the press by the Chief of Police or members designated by him.
A.
Members and employees shall not reveal any confidential
business of the Department. They shall not impart confidential information
to anyone except those for whom it is intended or as directed by their
commanding officer.
B.
Members shall not make known to any person any Department
order which they may receive, unless so required by the nature of
the order.
C.
Contents of any Department record or report filed
in the Police Department shall not be exhibited or divulged to any
person other than a duly authorized police officer, except on approval
of the Chief of Police or under due process of law or as permitted
under Department regulations.
A.
Members and employees shall not interfere with the
proper administration of criminal justice.
B.
Members and employees shall neither attempt to interrupt
the legal process, except where a manifest injustice might otherwise
occur, nor participate in or be concerned with any activity which
might interfere with the process of law.
C.
Members and employees shall not attempt to have any
traffic summons or notice to appear reduced, voided or stricken from
the calendar. Any member or employee having knowledge of such action
and failing to inform his superior officer thereof shall be subject
to disciplinary action.