Township of Crescent, PA Chapter 154 Police Department

[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of Commissioners of the Township of Crescent 5-11-2022 by Ord. No. 586.[1] Amendments noted where applicable.]

[1] Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed former Ch. 154, Police Department, Ord. No. 297, passed 1-29-1969, as amended.

§ 154.01 Definitions.

The following words and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section except where the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning:

CHIEF OF POLICE

The police officer designated by the Board to be the chief officer of the Police Department established by this chapter.

DEPUTY CHIEF OF POLICE

The police officer designated by the Board of Commissioners to be in charge of the Police Department in the absence of the Chief of Police.

FULL-TIME POLICE OFFICER

A natural person employed by the Township on an annual salary as a police officer, whose principal occupation is that of police officer of the Township, and who devotes not less than 44 hours in each week to the performance of his duties as such.

PART-TIME POLICE OFFICER

A natural person, employed on an hourly basis by the Township, for the performance of the duties of a police officer for not more than 60 hours per week.

POLICE OFFICER

Unless modified by the term "full-time" or the term "part-time," shall mean any natural person employed by the Township as a police officer, whether full-time or part-time.

PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE

The Public Safety Committee of the Board.

§ 154.02 Township police force, establishment.

There is hereby established a Township Police Department or police force which, until otherwise provided by further resolution, shall consist of not less than one nor more than eight full-time police officers and such additional part-time police officers as the Board, by resolution, shall from time to time employ to assist the full-time police officers in the maintenance of law and order within the Township.

§ 154.03 Full-time police officers, number.

The number of full-time police officers employed by the Township pursuant to the authority and subject to the limitations of this chapter shall be fixed by resolution of the Board.

§ 154.04 Chief of Police, designation.

The resolution fixing the number of full-time police officers shall, if two such police officers are employed, designate one of them as Chief of Police and the other as patrol officer, provided that in the absence or illness of the police officer so designated as Chief of Police the other of such police officers shall perform all of the duties of Chief of Police. Should only one full-time police officer be employed pursuant to such resolution then such officer shall be designated as Chief of Police.

§ 154.05 Chief of Police, duties.

A. The full-time police officer designated as Chief of Police shall be in full charge of the police force hereby established, and all other police officers, both full-time and part-time, shall be subject to the Chief's command and direction and shall do and perform their duties at the times and in the manner so directed; subject, however, to the provisions of this chapter and to such rules and regulations as shall from time to time be adopted by resolution of the Board for the governance of such Police Department.

B. In the performance of police protection services in the Township, the Chief of Police shall take into account that the Township is a member of the Char-West COG Police Mutual Aid Agreement.

§ 154.06 Rules and regulations, administration.

All rules and regulations adopted by the Board for the governance of such police force shall be administered by the Public Safety Committee which is hereby charged with the duty and responsibility of enforcing and executing such rules and regulations.

§ 154.07 Public Safety Committee.

The Chief of Police shall report directly to the Chair of the Public Safety Committee and shall diligently perform all duties assigned to him by said Chair. All requests for the purchase of equipment, suggestions for amendment of or supplement to the rules and regulations governing the operation of the police force, and all other matters relating to the operation of the police force shall be directed by the Chief of Police.

§ 154.08 Compensation of police officers.

The Board, at the time of adopting its annual budget ordinance, shall by ordinance or resolution fix and determine the compensation of all police officers for the ensuing year.

§ 154.09 Loyalty oath.

Before entering upon their duties hereunder, all police officers shall take and subscribe to the oath of loyalty prescribed by the Pennsylvania Loyalty Act.

§ 154.10 Powers of police officers.

All such police officers shall have and exercise all of the powers and authority vested in police officers by the several provisions of Article XIV of the First Class Township Code as amended and as the same may be hereafter amended, but subject to all of the limitations and restrictions contained therein.

§ 154.11 Board powers.

Except as otherwise provided by law or by other provision or provisions of this chapter, the Board may by motion exercise all of the powers vested in it by said Article XIV of the First Class Township Code relating to the organization and operation of the Township police force.

§ 154.12 Police officers' education and training.

The Board hereby certifies, pursuant to Act 120 of 1974, that it will adhere to the standards for training established by the Commission.

§ 154.13 Police policy rules and regulations.

A. Code of ethics. The Code of Ethics for all police officers of the Township shall be as follows:

1. As a law enforcement officer, my duty is to serve all persons; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception; the weak against oppression and intimidation; the peaceful against violence or disorder, and to respect the Constitutional rights of all men to liberty, equality, and justice.

2. I will keep my private life unsullied as an example to all; maintain courageous calm in the face of danger, scorn or ridicule; develop self-restraint, be constantly mindful of the welfare of others and honest in thought and deed in both my personal and official life. I will be exemplary in obeying the laws of the land and the regulations of the Department. Whatever I see or hear of a confidential nature or that is confided to me in my official capacity, will be kept secret, unless revelation is necessary in the performance of duty.

3. I will never permit personal feelings, prejudices, animosity or friendship to influence my decisions. With no compromise for the crime and with relentless prosecution of criminals, I will enforce the laws courteously and appropriately without fear or favor, malice or ill will, never employing unnecessary force or violence and never accepting gratuities.

4. I recognize the badge as a symbol of public faith, and I accept it as a public trust to be held as long as I am true to achieve these objectives and ideals, dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession: law enforcement.

B. Job description: Chief of Police.

1. General definition. This is administrative work directing and coordinating a municipal program of public safety. The employee is responsible for directing and coordinating with the Township Police Department. Supervision is exercised over the department responsible for the execution of assigned duties. General direction is received from the Township Commissioners through conferences and policy direction, and the work is reviewed for achievement of desired objectives. The Chair of the Public Safety Committee directs the overall police functions.

2. Typical examples of work.

(a) Plans, organizes and administers a public safety program; directs the program and activities of the Police Department.

(b) Reviews the work of technical and professional personnel involved in the various programs.

(c) Confers with the staff to formulate and develop plans and programs especially in the area of crime control, traffic control and community relations.

(d) Establishes broad policies for the Department and reviews work for conformance with policies.

(e) Notifies officers of court hearings.

(f) Exercises control of expenditures of the Department.

(g) Prepares work schedules each week.

(h) Meets with public and private community agencies to explain the programs of the Police Department and to obtain community cooperation for public safety activities.

(i) Completes all required reports.

(j) Performs other related work as required.

(k) Attends regularly scheduled meetings of the Township Commissioners and Police Department.

3. Required knowledge, skills and abilities.

(a) Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.

(b) Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of police administration.

(c) Ability to exercise effective administrative supervision over a technical and professional staff.

(d) Ability to quickly evaluate problem areas and to take decisive action.

(e) Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other administrative officials and the public.

C. Job description: Deputy Chief of Police.

1. General summary. The Deputy Chief of Police is a staff management and administrative level position working under the direct supervision of the Chief of Police and directing the various functions of the Police Department.

2. Essential duties and responsibilities. The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

(a) Shall be under the direct command of the Chief of Police and is second in command on the Departmental organizational chart.

(b) Must be able to safely perform all the essential duties and responsibilities as outlined in the patrol officer job description and all subordinate ranks, including Sergeant.

(c) Supervises the work of subordinate officers and coordinates the operational activities of the Department.

(d) Develops and coordinates in-service and mandatory training program for sworn and nonsworn personnel.

(e) Supervises internal investigations of alleged acts of misconduct as directed by the Chief.

(f) Researches, compiles and prepares narrative and statistical reports.

(g) Responds to and prepares various business correspondences.

(h) Reviews citizen complaints and makes recommendations to the Chief for appropriate course of action.

(i) Develops, prepares and implements operational work procedures.

(j) Maintains time and attendance and other personnel records.

(k) Conducts inspections of officers in the field.

(l) Performs other related duties as required.

(m) Adheres to assigned work schedule as outlined in the Department and Township attendance policies and procedures; ensures all behaviors comply with the Crescent Township Personnel Rules and Regulations.

3. Other job functions:

(a) Assumes command in the absence of the Chief of Police.

(b) Prepares and monitors the departmental budget.

(c) Shall keep the Chief of Police fully informed on all matters pertaining to the operation of the Police Department.

(d) Assists in details involved in supervising subordinate officers engaged in the investigation of various crimes.

(e) Shall be empowered to make emergency departmental decisions necessary for the smooth operation of the Police Department in the event the Chief of Police is not available to make such decisions.

(f) Shall set an example to subordinate officers at all times and shall enforce all policies, procedures, rules and regulations.

(g) Assist the Chief of Police in the formation of and changes to the Policy Manual.

(h) Responsible for the dissemination of updated policies and procedures for the inclusion in the officer's Policy Manual.

(i) Adjust work schedule to assure that sufficient workforce exists to cover all work shifts and assignments.

(j) Reviews, corrects and approves police reports, affidavits and criminal complaints submitted by subordinate officers.

(k) Shall evaluate and report on job performance of lower ranking police officers.

(l) Speaks before the public on police functions and services.

(m) When working in the absence of a patrol officer or Sergeant, the Deputy Chief shall assume all of the duties and responsibilities of a patrol officer or Sergeant in addition to the Deputy Chief's duties.

(n) Performs other related duties, including special projects as requested.

(o) Maintains any mandated certifications, such as firearm qualification, first aid/CPR AED, mandatory training, etc. Organize other programs or training as deemed necessary.

4. Knowledge of:

(a) Township ordinances, federal, and state statutes.

(b) General order/code of conduct.

(c) Open Records Act.

(d) Standard operating procedures.

(e) Supervisory principles and methods.

(f) Arrest and defense techniques/methods.

(g) Criminal investigation techniques.

(h) Arrest search and seizure laws.

(i) Police identification operation and procedures.

(j) Computer operations.

5. Skill in:

(a) Communicating both in written and verbal form.

(b) Usage of pistol, patrol rifle, baton and Taser.

(c) Arrest, search and seizure techniques.

(d) Operation of police mobile data terminal, radio, and computer.

6. Ability to:

(a) Coordinate unit operational criteria and schedule necessary manpower.

(b) Prepare clear and concise reports.

(c) Review case files.

(d) Arrest and search warrants.

(e) Conduct interrogations.

(f) Interact and communicate with others in an assertive manner.

(g) Evaluate information of an uncertain or conflicting nature and make appropriate decision with regards to the law.

(h) Solve problems when all necessary facts are not given.

(i) Remain calm and work fast in emotionally stressful or emergency conditions.

(j) Establish and maintain a positive working relationship with fellow employees and the community.

(k) Use the Crescent Township Police Department uniform and protective equipment.

(l) Safely operate police motor vehicles.

(m) Enforce Township, state, and federal laws.

(n) Pursue and subdue violent individuals.

(o) Conduct arrests and investigations.

(p) Transverse uneven terrain.

7. Minimum job requirements:

(a) High school diploma or GED.

(b) Must successfully complete training curriculum as specified in the Municipal Police Officer Education and Training Commission regulations.

(c) Valid Pennsylvania driver's license.

(d) At least one year of experience as a full-time police officer.

8. Physical demands. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

D. Job description: Sergeant.

1. General summary. Under general direction of the Deputy Chief, directly supervise and coordinate the daily operational activities of the Police Department.

2. Essential duties and responsibilities. The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

(a) Must be able to safely perform all the essential duties and responsibilities as required for the police officer and all subordinate ranks.

(b) Shall supervise the handling of routine police calls and assist officers in proper handling of those calls.

(c) Observe assigned police officers in the performance of their duties; review police reports submitted by subordinate officers and provide guidance where needed.

(d) Notify superior of major crimes and/or disturbances and assume command until superior officer arrives.

(e) Review reports, case files, warrants, search warrants, supplements, etc.

(f) Assign and/or participate in the investigations of criminal cases.

(g) Assist in prosecution of suspects by making arrests, preparing reports and testifying in court.

(h) Conduct internal investigations of criminal cases if directed by the Chief of Police and/or Deputy Chief.

(i) Compile, prepare and submit reports.

(j) Train subordinate officers.

(k) Respond to citizen complaints and inquiries.

(l) Perform other related duties as required.

(m) Adhere to assigned work schedule as outlined in the Department and Township attendance policies and procedures; ensure all behaviors comply with the Crescent Township Personnel Rules and Regulations.

(n) Shall report all cases of misconduct related to personnel on the Sergeant's shift to a superior officer.

(o) Shall evaluate and report on job performance of police officers on Sergeant's shift.

(p) When not performing supervisory duties, the Sergeant is expected to self-initiate and assist in patrol duties by handling calls for service, making arrests, investigating crimes, etc.

(q) May be required to temporarily assume the duties, activities and tasks of a superior officer.

3. Other job functions.

(a) Assume command of an assigned shift in the absence of Deputy Chief or Chief of Police.

(b) Attend meetings and/or seminars.

(c) Make arrest of individuals who violate the law and/or ordinance.

(d) Respond to calls for assistance and provide necessary police protection.

(e) Conduct searches and collect physical evidence.

(f) Perform other related duties, including special projects as requested.

(g) Maintain any mandated certifications, such as firearm qualification, first aid/CPR AED, mandatory training, etc. Organize other programs or training as deemed necessary.

4. Knowledge, skills and abilities.

(a) Knowledge of Township ordinances, federal, state and city laws and statutes.

(b) General order/code of conduct.

(c) Open Records Act.

(d) Standard operating procedures.

(e) Supervisory principles and methods.

(f) Arrest and defense techniques/methods.

(g) Criminal investigation techniques.

(h) Arrest, search and seizure laws.

(i) Police identification operation and procedures and computer relative to dispatching functions.

5. Skill in:

(a) Oral and written communication.

(b) Usage of pistol, shotgun, patrol rifle, baton and Taser.

(c) Arrest, search and seizure techniques.

(d) Operation of police mobile data terminal, radio, and computer.

6. Ability to:

(a) Coordinate operational criteria and schedule the necessary officers.

(b) Prepare clear and concise reports.

(c) Review case files.

(d) Arrest and search warrants.

(e) Conduct interrogations.

(f) Interact and communicate with others in an assertive manner.

(g) Evaluate information of an uncertain or conflicting nature and make appropriate decision with regards to the law.

(h) Solve problems when all necessary facts are not given.

(i) Remain calm and work fast in emotionally stressful or emergency conditions.

(j) Establish and maintain a positive working relationship with fellow employees and community.

(k) Use the Crescent Township Police Department uniform and protective equipment.

(l) Safety operate police motor vehicles.

(m) Enforce Township, state, and federal laws.

(n) Pursue and subdue violent individuals.

(o) Conduct arrests and investigations.

(p) Transverse uneven terrain.

7. Minimum job requirements.

(a) High school diploma or GED.

(b) One year of continuous service as a full-time police officer. Must successfully complete training curriculum as specified in the Municipal Police Officer Education and Training Commission regulations.

(c) Valid Pennsylvania driver's license.

8. Physical demands. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

E. Job description: patrol officer.

1. General definition. Under general direction performs law enforcement and crime prevention duties that ensure citizen safety, protection of life and property, and compliance with local, state and federal laws.

2. Essential duties and responsibilities. The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

(a) Patrols an assigned area via foot or auto to ensure law compliance and to investigate suspicious activities, individuals or conditions.

(b) Performs arrests of individuals who violate the law and/or ordinance.

(c) Subdues violent individuals.

(d) Enforces local, state, and federal laws.

(e) Responds to calls for assistance and provides necessary police protection.

(f) Issues traffic citation(s) or warning(s) to individuals violating traffic laws.

(g) Investigates traffic accidents and directs traffic.

(h) Conducts preliminary investigation of crimes and crime scenes to uncover and document relevant evidence and/or testimony, and make immediate arrest(s) when required.

(i) Conducts searches according to due process procedure and collects physical evidence.

(j) Interacts with community to establish rapport.

(k) Performs other related duties as required.

(l) Adheres to assigned work schedule as outlined in the Department and Township attendance policies and procedures; ensures all behaviors comply with the Crescent Township Personnel Rules and Regulations.

(m) Use self-directed time in an efficient manner by self-initiating work.

(n) Obtains all available information that might assist in the detection and apprehension of an offender.

3. Other job functions.

(a) Conducts follow-up investigations.

(b) Compiles and prepares reports.

(c) Processes prisoners into jail facility.

(d) Prepares cases for court and provides testimony.

(e) Prepares property, auto, and supplies records.

(f) Attends training seminars.

(g) Performs other related duties, including special projects as requested.

(h) Maintains any mandated certifications, such as firearm qualification, first aid/CPR AED, mandatory training, etc. Organize other programs or training as deemed necessary.

4. Knowledge of:

(a) Township ordinances, federal, state statutes.

(b) Approved practice, principle and procedure of police work.

(c) Weapons and equipment maintenance.

5. Skill in communicating both in written and verbal form.

6. Ability to:

(a) Follow law enforcement rules and procedures.

(b) Memorize and retain information.

(c) Interact and communicate with others in an assertive manner.

(d) Evaluate information of an uncertain or conflicting nature and make appropriate decisions with regards to the law.

(e) Solve problems when all necessary facts are not given.

(f) Remain calm and work fast in emotionally stressful or emergency conditions.

(g) Establish and maintain a positive working relationship with fellow employees and the community.

(h) Use the Crescent Township Police Department uniform and protective equipment.

(i) Safely operate police motor vehicles.

(j) Enforce local, state, and federal laws.

(k) Pursue and subdue violent individuals.

(l) Conduct arrests and investigations.

(m) Transverse uneven terrain.

7. Minimum job requirements.

(a) High school diploma or GED.

(b) Must successfully complete training curriculum as specified in the Municipal Police Officer Education and Training Commission regulations.

(c) Valid Pennsylvania driver's license.

8. Physical demands. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

F. Rules and regulations: police officer.

1. A police officer shall be responsible for the efficient performance of the officer's duties in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Department.

2. The officer shall exercise authority consistent with obligations imposed by his oath of office and be accountable to the officer's superior officers, promptly obeying all legitimate orders.

3. The officer shall maintain harmonious relationships with the officer's associates by courteous and considerate demeanor, guarding himself against envy, jealousy, or other unfriendly feelings, and refraining from all unfriendly communications to their discredit.

4. The officer shall communicate to the officer's superiors and to the officer's coworkers all information he may obtain which is pertinent to the achievement of service program objectives.

5. The officer shall coordinate the officer's efforts with those of other members of the Police Department, or other Department segments so that their teamwork may ensure continuity of purpose and maximum achievement of service program objectives.

6. The officer shall be subject to recall at any time in case of special needs or emergencies. Ordinarily, the officer's hours of duty will be established by the Chief of Police and/or the Deputy Chief.

7. The officer shall familiarize himself with administrative policy and execute the service program within the officer's area of responsibility providing for:

(a) Prevention and suppression of crime.

(b) Protection of life and property.

(c) Apprehension and prosecution of offenders.

(d) Preservation of the peace.

(e) Enforcement of regulatory measures.

8. The officer shall conduct himself in accordance with high ethical standards, both on and off the job.

9. The officer shall become familiar with advanced techniques and ideas designed to improve police performance.

10. The officer shall assist in the Department's program for:

(a) Improving efficiency and cooperation in areas of common responsibility.

(b) Advancing the public relations program for promoting public confidence and support.

(c) Proper and economical use of the Department's property and equipment.

11. The officer shall record in a notebook all pertinent information necessary for the proper execution of the officer's duties.

12. The officer shall record the officer's activity during the officer's tour of duty in the prescribed manner.

13. The officer shall supervise and inspect all public licensed places within the Township and enforce the laws, ordinances and regulations concerning their operations.

14. The officer shall devote the maximum possible time to the performance of the officer's basic duties, remaining parked or in the office only when necessary.

15. Before beginning the officer's tour of duty, the officer shall inspect the vehicle assigned for the officer's use and report any damage or deficiency.

16. During the officer's tour of duty, the officer shall use the vehicle assigned to him in the most safe and economical manner, avoiding hazardous, careless or pointless operation.

17. The officer shall promptly report, on prescribed forms, all accidents involving the vehicle assigned to the officer's use.

18. The officer shall maintain the officer's arms and equipment in a functional, presentable condition, promptly correcting and reporting defects to the officer's supervisor.

19. The officer shall make reports of crimes, vehicular accidents and incidents in conformity with the procedure for their accurate and complete preparation.

20. The officer shall receive, serve and prepare return on citations, warrants and documents, providing information to enable subsequent service if unable to serve.

21. The officer shall exert effort to satisfy the needs of citizens requesting service, assistance or information and courteously explain any instance where jurisdiction does not lie with the Police Department, suggesting procedures to be followed.

22. The officer shall ensure the civil treatment and the observance of rights of all persons coming into the scope of the officer's authority.

23. The officer shall be accountable for securing, receipting and proper transporting of all evidence and property coming into the officer's custody.

24. The officer shall be diligent in the officer's efforts to discover and suppress illicit traffic in liquor, gambling, narcotics and prostitution, reporting such activities to the officer's superiors when discovered.

25. The officer shall enforce traffic laws and ordinances and relieve conditions interfering with the safe and expeditious movement of vehicles and pedestrians.

26. When directing the movement of vehicular traffic, the officer shall take a conspicuous and safe position, making the officer's signals clear and positive.

27. The officer shall be sensitive to the conduct of juveniles and the existence of hazards affecting them, particularly in the delinquency control effort.

28. The officer shall be alert to group tensions of all kinds, notifying the officer's superiors and preventing disorder.

29. The officer shall be alert to the conditions tending to cause crime; take preventive action and notify the officer's superiors. The officer shall inform the public of conditions they can correct to prevent crime.

30. The officer shall determine the security of business places after the normal working hours. The officer shall inspect buildings reported unoccupied to see that they are secured. If any evidence of tampering or entry is found, the officer shall immediately summon aid to search the premises and apprehend the trespasser.

31. The officer shall examine any person whom he reasonably believes to be engaged in unlawful activities, request the reason for the officer's presence and record the officer's identity. If he receives unsatisfactory answers, is refused an answer, or is met with resistance not warranted by the inquiry, the officer shall make an arrest, provided that there be legal basis therefor.

32. The officer shall note and record the license plates and descriptions of vehicles seen under questionable circumstances and make an investigation.

33. The officer shall familiarize himself with the officer's area of assignment and conduct a diligent patrol, accentuating prevention or giving particular attention to locations most susceptible to the occurrence of crime.

34. The officer shall confine the officer's patrol efforts to the officer's area of assignment. If required to leave for any reason, the officer shall notify the station of any prolonged interruption to patrol activity. If required to leave the officer shall notify the station at the time he leaves, or if this is impractical, as soon as possible.

35. Upon discovery of crime, the officer shall move promptly to apprehend the offender, either through individual effort or by full utilization of Department resources. When pursuit or apprehension is not feasible, the officer shall make a thorough investigation and speedily relay information to other units or agencies to enlist their aid.

36. The officer shall conduct a thorough investigation of all offenses. The officer shall collect evidence and record data which will aid in identification, apprehension and prosecution of offenders and the recovery of property.

37. Any failure to detect crime, cope with traffic conditions or prevent repetition of disorder by all possible appropriate action within the officer's area of assignment shall be prima facie evidence of negligence.

38. The officer shall be alert to the Township responsibilities to keep public highways, streets, avenues, alleys, sidewalks, public grounds and bridges open and free from nuisance.

39. The officer shall provide prompt and adequate assistance to all sick, injured or destitute persons.

40. The officer shall note conditions which adversely affect the appearance, safety and health of the Township, enforcing applicable laws, ordinances and regulations and/or make referrals to agents having primary responsibility.

41. When detailed at the location of an assemblage of people, the officer shall be alert to prevent disorder, damage to property or injury to persons.

42. The officer shall direct the officer's attention to the control of the assemblage and shall prevent interference with the functions of official agencies or the progression of the event which provided the attraction.

43. When in uniform the officer shall assist in the movement of vehicles operating under emergency conditions.

44. The officer shall intelligently and thoroughly investigate each case assigned to him, initiating the investigation by prompt contact with the complainant.

45. The officer shall use every legal means at the officer's disposal to detect and solve crime and prosecute offenders, thoroughly investigating all information received from any source.

46. The officer shall study and apply sound investigative techniques and improve the officer's effectiveness by attention to:

(a) Use of records and reports.

(b) Conduct and interviews.

(c) Cultivation of informants.

(d) Proper collection, identification, analysis, preservation and presentation of evidence.

47. The officer shall keep detailed records of the officer's investigations and promptly execute all other reports required by policy of the Department.

48. The officer shall prepare all cases assigned to him in such a way to ensure the best possible presentation of the facts to the court.

49. The officer shall learn the rules of evidence and court procedure and develop skills which will enable him to be an effective witness.

50. The officer shall serve all legal papers assigned to him and execute required returns.

51. The officer shall actively cooperate with Township and county attorneys to prepare cases for trial.

52. The officer shall perform other duties as need dictates.

53. A member should become familiar with all federal and state criminal laws, state vehicle code and all local Township ordinances and bring to justice all persons who violate such laws and/or ordinances.

G. Rules of conduct.

1. Violation of rules. Officers shall not commit any acts or omit any acts which constitute a violation of any of the rules, regulations, directives, orders or policies of the Department, whether stated in this section or elsewhere. Ignorance of the rules, regulations, directives, orders, or policies shall not be considered as a justification for any such violations. Officers shall be responsible for their own acts, and they shall not shift to others the burden of responsibility for executing or failing to execute a lawful order or police duty.

2. Unbecoming conduct. Officers shall conduct themselves at all times, both on and off duty, in such a manner as to reflect most favorably on the Department. Conduct unbecoming an officer shall include that which tends to bring the Department into disrepute or reflects discredit upon the officer as a member of the Department, or that which tends to impair the operation and efficiency of the Department or officer.

3. Immoral conduct. Officers shall maintain a level of moral conduct in their personal and business affairs which is in keeping with the highest standards of the law enforcement profession. Officers shall not participate in any incident involving moral actions which tend to impair their ability to perform as law enforcement officers or causes the Department to be brought into disrepute.

4. Conformance to laws.

(a) Officers shall obey all laws of the United States, of this state and of the local jurisdiction.

(b) An indictment or information filed against an officer or a conviction of the violation of any law shall be cause for disciplinary action.

5. Seeking or accepting gifts, gratuities, bribes or rewards. It is improper for officers to solicit or accept from any person, business, organization any valuable gift for the benefit of the officers of the Department, if it may reasonably be inferred that the person, business, or organization seeks to influence action of an official nature or seeks to affect the performance or nonperformance of an official duty. For the purposes of this rule, the word "gift" shall include money, tangible or intangible personal property, loan, promise, service, or entertainment.

6. Visiting prohibited establishments. Officers shall not knowingly visit, enter or frequent a house of prostitution, gambling house, or establishment wherein the laws of the United States, the state, or the local jurisdiction are regularly violated except in the performance of duty or while acting under proper and specific orders from a superior officer.

7. Associations. Officers shall avoid regular or continuous associations or dealings with persons whom they know, or should know, are racketeers, sexual offenders, gamblers, suspected felons, persons under criminal investigation or indictment, or who have a reputation in the community for present involvement in felonious or criminal behavior, except as necessary to the performance of official duties, or where unavoidable because of other personal relationships of the officers.

8. Gambling. Officers shall not engage or participate in any form of illegal gambling at any time, except in the performance of duty and while acting under proper and specific orders from a superior officer.

9. Use of drugs. Officers shall not use any controlled substances, narcotics, or hallucinogens except when prescribed in the treatment of officers by a physician or dentist. When controlled substances, narcotics, or hallucinogens are prescribed, officers shall notify their superior officer.

10. Alcoholic beverage in police installations. Officers shall not bring into or store alcoholic beverages in any police facility or vehicle except alcoholic beverages which are held as evidence.

11. Use of alcohol on duty. Officers shall not drink intoxicating beverages while in uniform except in the performance of official duties. Officers shall not appear for duty, or be on duty, while under the influence of intoxicants to any degree whatsoever, or have an odor of intoxicants on their breath.

12. Insubordination. Officers shall promptly obey any lawful orders of a superior officer. This will include orders relayed from a superior officer by an officer of the same or lesser rank.

13. Conflicting or illegal orders. Officers who are given an otherwise proper order which is in conflict with a previous order, regulation, directive or manual, shall respectfully inform the superior officer issuing the order of the conflict. If the superior officer issuing the order does not alter or retract the conflicting order, the order shall stand. Under these circumstances, the responsibility shall be upon the superior officer. Officers shall obey the conflicting order and shall not be held responsible for disobedience of the order previously issued. Officers shall not obey any order which they reasonably believe would require them to commit any illegal act. If in doubt as to the legality of the order, officers shall request the issuing officer to clarify the order or confer with higher authority.

14. Public appearances and statements. Officers shall not publicly criticize or ridicule the Department, its policies, or other officers by speech, writing, or other expression, where such speech, writing, or other expression is defamatory, obscene, unlawful, tends to undermine the effectiveness of the Department, interferes with the maintenance of discipline, or is made with reckless disregard for truth or falsity. Officers shall not address public gatherings, appear on radio or television, prepare any articles for publication, act as correspondents to a newspaper, release or divulge investigative information, or any other matters of the Department while holding themselves out as having an official capacity in such matters without official sanction or proper authority. Officers may lecture on police or other related subjects only with the prior approval of the Chief.

15. Abuse of position. Officers are prohibited from using their official position, official identification cards or badges:

(a) For personal or financial gain.

(b) For obtaining privileges not otherwise available to them except in performance of duty.

(c) For avoiding consequences of illegal acts.

16. Endorsements and referrals. Officers shall not 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 an attorney, ambulance or towing service, bondsperson, mortician, etc.). In the case of ambulance or towing service, when such service is necessary and the person needing the service is unable or unwilling to procure it or requests assistance, officers shall proceed in accordance with established departmental procedures.

17. Identification. Officers shall carry their badges and identification cards on their person at all times, except when impractical or dangerous to their safety or to an investigation. They shall furnish their name and badge number to any person requesting that information except when the withholding of such information is necessary for the performance of police duties, or is authorized by proper authorities.

18. Citizen complaints. Officers shall courteously and promptly accept and record in writing any complaint made by a citizen against any officer or any Department policy or procedure. Officers may attempt to resolve the complaint, but shall never attempt to dissuade any citizen from lodging a complaint against any officer or Department policy or procedure. Officers shall immediately notify their superior officer of a complaint as required by Department procedures.

19. Courtesy. Officers shall be courteous to the public. Officers shall be tactful in the performance of their duties, shall control their tempers, and exercise the utmost patience and discretion and shall not engage in argumentative discussions even in the face of extreme provocation. In the performance of their duties, officers shall not use coarse, violent, profane, or insolent language or gestures, and shall not express any prejudice concerning race, religion, politics, national origin, lifestyle or similar personal characteristics.

20. Requests for assistance. When any person applies for assistance or advice, or makes complaints or reports, either by telephone or in person, all pertinent information will be obtained in an official and courteous manner, and will be properly and judiciously acted upon consistent with established departmental procedures.

21. Reporting for duty. Officers shall report for duty at the time and place required by assignment or orders and shall be physically and mentally fit to perform their duties. They shall be properly equipped and cognizant of information required for the proper performance of duty so that they may immediately assume their duties.

22. Sleeping on duty. Officers shall remain awake on duty. If unable to do so, they shall so report to their superior officers, who shall determine the proper course of action.

23. Meals. Officers shall be permitted to suspend patrol or other assigned activity, subject to immediate call at all times, for the purpose of having meals during their tours of duty, but only for such period of time as established by departmental procedures.

24. Neglect of duty. Officers shall not read, play games, watch television or movies or otherwise engage in entertainment while on duty, except as may be required in the performance of duty. They shall not engage in any activities or personal business which would cause them to neglect or be inattentive to duty.

25. Telephone. Officers shall maintain a telephone, whether landline or mobile, where they may be reached in case of emergency for call outs, etc. Each officer shall provide the officer's telephone number to the Chief, Township Manager/Secretary and to such other persons as may be appropriate and they shall immediately report any changes of telephone numbers to the same people.

26. Fictitious illness or injury reports. Officers shall not feign illness or injury, falsely report themselves ill or injured, or otherwise deceive or attempt to deceive the Chief as to the condition of their health.

27. Incompetence. Officers shall maintain sufficient competency to properly perform their duties and assume the responsibilities of their positions. Officers shall perform their duties in a manner which will tend to establish and maintain the highest standards of efficiency in carrying out the functions and objectives of the Department. Incompetence may be demonstrated by a lack of knowledge of the application of laws required to be enforced; an unwillingness or inability to perform assigned tasks; the failure to conform to work standards established for the officer's rank, grade, or position; the failure to take appropriate action on the occasion of a crime, disorder or other condition deserving police attention; absence without leave; or necessary absence from assigned patrol during tour of duty.

28. Uniform and equipment. When on duty, the police officer shall conform to the following standards relating to uniform and equipment and shall be properly groomed.

(a) Uniform: navy blue shirt and pants, Crescent Township patches, name tag, badge, five-star hat or baseball hat, winter or summer jacket (provided by the Township), black shoes or boots.

(b) Equipment: gun belt, handcuffs, collapsible baton, taser, pepper spray, flashlight, side arm (approved by Chief), extra bullets.

29. Carrying of firearms. Officers, when off duty, may carry an approved firearm if they will be traveling about in public places within the jurisdiction of the Department and will not be consuming intoxicating beverages. When wearing civilian clothes, officers shall conceal the firearm from public view.

30. Operation of vehicles. Officers shall operate official vehicles in a careful and prudent manner, and shall obey all laws of the state and all departmental orders pertaining to such operation. Officers shall set a proper example for other persons by their operation of a vehicle. Loss or suspension of a civilian driving license shall be reported to the Chief immediately.

31. Use of Department equipment. Officers shall utilize Department equipment only for its intended purpose, in accordance with established departmental procedures and shall not abuse, damage or lose Department equipment. All Department equipment issued to officers, including manuals, shall be maintained in proper order.

32. Dissemination of information. Officers 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, in accordance with established departmental procedures. Officers may remove or copy official records or reports from a police installation only in accordance with establishing departmental procedures. Officers shall not divulge the identity of persons giving confidential information except as authorized by proper authority in the performance of police duties.

33. Intervention. Officers shall not interfere with cases being handled by other officers of the Department or by any other agency or persons unless:

(a) Ordered to interfere by the Chief of Police and/or or their designee.

(b) The interfering officer believes beyond a reasonable doubt that a great injustice would result from inaction.

34. Processing property. Property which has been discovered, gathered or received in connection with police responsibilities will be processed in accordance with established departmental procedures. Officers shall not convert to their own use, manufacture, conceal, falsify, destroy, remove, tamper with or withhold any property found in connection with an investigation or other police action, except in accordance with established departmental procedures.

35. Departmental reports, truthfulness. Officers shall submit all necessary reports on time and in accordance with established departmental procedures. Reports submitted by officers shall be truthful and complete, and no officer shall knowingly enter or cause to be entered any inaccurate, false, or improper information.

36. Treatment of persons in custody. Officers shall not mistreat persons who are in their custody. Officers shall handle such persons in accordance with law and established departmental procedures.

37. Use of force. Officers shall not use more force in any situation than is reasonably necessary under the circumstances.

38. Use of weapons. Officers shall not use or handle weapons in a careless or imprudent manner.

39. Arrest, search and seizure. Officers shall not make any arrest, search or seizure which they know or ought to know is not in accordance with law.

40. Use of police vehicle. Officers shall not use police vehicles for their private use. Officers who are on call may park a police vehicle at their private residence.

41. Use of police telephone. The Township provides for police phones and a professional dispatch service. These services are not to be used for private messages of a personal nature except in a bona fide emergency.

42. Discharge of firearms by police officers. These rules of conduct are amended and supplemented by the regulations covering use of force attached to this Chapter 154 as Exhibit A. Any inconsistency between the existing provisions of Chapter 154 and these regulations shall be resolved by the interpretation which favors the regulations contained in Exhibit A.[1]

[1] Editor's Note: Said exhibit is on file in the Township offices.

43. High-speed pursuit by motor vehicle. These rules of conduct are amended and supplemented by the Pursuit or Emergency Driving Procedures attached to this Chapter 154 as Exhibit B. Any inconsistency between the existing provisions of Chapter 154 and these regulations shall be resolved by the interpretation which favors the regulations contained in Exhibit B.[2]

[2] Editor's Note: Said exhibit is on file in the Township offices.

H. Disciplinary code. The list of penalties contained in Exhibit C[3] shall be a guide for all members of the Department. Offenses not included in the list shall result in penalties similar to those specified for a listed offense of comparable seriousness. Repeated violations of departmental rules and regulations or any other course of conduct indicating a police officer has little or no regard for the obligations of members of the Police Department shall be cause for dismissal. This shall apply regardless of the severity of the offenses, and regardless of any reckoning period, and regardless of whether these violations are of the same type. Wherever in Exhibit C the term "five to 10 days" etc., is used, it shall be held to mean suspension from duty without pay. The list of penalties set forth in Exhibit C is intended to serve as a guide only, and is not to be construed as binding, as to the recommendation of the Chief, or as to the penalties which may be imposed by the Township Commissioners. Provisions will be made for a service record for every member of the force, and all pertinent information as to the conduct of members of the Department, including offenses against this section, shall be entered thereon as a permanent record.

[3] Editor's Note: Said exhibit is on file in the Township offices.

I. Harassment policy. The Township Harassment Policy set forth in Chapter 180, § 180.14, is included herein by reference.

§ 154.14 Procedure for arrests without warrant.

A. Purpose. The purpose is to permit a police officer to arrest, without a warrant, for specific summary offenses.

B. General rule. For any of the following offenses, a police officer shall, upon view, have the right to arrest without a warrant upon probable cause when there is ongoing conduct that imperils the personal security of any person or endangers public or private property:

1. Under Title 18 when such offense constitutes a summary offense:

(a) 18 Pa.C.S.A. § 5503 (relating to disorderly conduct).

(b) 18 Pa.C.S.A. § 5505 (relating to public drunkenness).

(c) 18 Pa.C.S.A. § 5507 (relating to obstructing highways and other public passages).