[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Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed former Ch. 154,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.
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:
The police officer designated by the Board to be the chief
officer of the Police Department established by this chapter.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Public Safety Committee of the Board.
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.
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.
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.
A.Â
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.Â
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.
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.
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.
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.
Before entering upon their duties hereunder, all police officers
shall take and subscribe to the oath of loyalty prescribed by the
Pennsylvania Loyalty Act.
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.
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.
The Board hereby certifies, pursuant to Act 120 of 1974, that
it will adhere to the standards for training established by the Commission.
A.Â
Code of ethics. The Code of Ethics for all police officers of the
Township shall be as follows:
1.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
Job description: Chief of Police.
1.Â
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.Â
Typical examples of work.
(a)Â
Plans, organizes and administers a public safety program; directs
the program and activities of the Police Department.
(b)Â
Reviews the work of technical and professional personnel involved
in the various programs.
(c)Â
Confers with the staff to formulate and develop plans and programs
especially in the area of crime control, traffic control and community
relations.
(d)Â
Establishes broad policies for the Department and reviews work
for conformance with policies.
(e)Â
Notifies officers of court hearings.
(f)Â
Exercises control of expenditures of the Department.
(g)Â
Prepares work schedules each week.
(h)Â
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)Â
Completes all required reports.
(j)Â
Performs other related work as required.
(k)Â
Attends regularly scheduled meetings of the Township Commissioners
and Police Department.
3.Â
Required knowledge, skills and abilities.
(a)Â
Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of public
administration.
(b)Â
Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of police
administration.
(c)Â
Ability to exercise effective administrative supervision over
a technical and professional staff.
(d)Â
Ability to quickly evaluate problem areas and to take decisive
action.
(e)Â
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships
with other administrative officials and the public.
C.Â
Job description: Deputy Chief of Police.
1.Â
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.Â
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)Â
Shall be under the direct command of the Chief of Police and
is second in command on the Departmental organizational chart.
(b)Â
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)Â
Supervises the work of subordinate officers and coordinates
the operational activities of the Department.
(d)Â
Develops and coordinates in-service and mandatory training program
for sworn and nonsworn personnel.
(e)Â
Supervises internal investigations of alleged acts of misconduct
as directed by the Chief.
(f)Â
Researches, compiles and prepares narrative and statistical
reports.
(g)Â
Responds to and prepares various business correspondences.
(h)Â
Reviews citizen complaints and makes recommendations to the
Chief for appropriate course of action.
(i)Â
Develops, prepares and implements operational work procedures.
(j)Â
Maintains time and attendance and other personnel records.
(k)Â
Conducts inspections of officers in the field.
(l)Â
Performs other related duties as required.
(m)Â
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.Â
Other job functions:
(a)Â
Assumes command in the absence of the Chief of Police.
(b)Â
Prepares and monitors the departmental budget.
(c)Â
Shall keep the Chief of Police fully informed on all matters
pertaining to the operation of the Police Department.
(d)Â
Assists in details involved in supervising subordinate officers
engaged in the investigation of various crimes.
(e)Â
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)Â
Shall set an example to subordinate officers at all times and
shall enforce all policies, procedures, rules and regulations.
(g)Â
Assist the Chief of Police in the formation of and changes to
the Policy Manual.
(h)Â
Responsible for the dissemination of updated policies and procedures
for the inclusion in the officer's Policy Manual.
(i)Â
Adjust work schedule to assure that sufficient workforce exists
to cover all work shifts and assignments.
(j)Â
Reviews, corrects and approves police reports, affidavits and
criminal complaints submitted by subordinate officers.
(k)Â
Shall evaluate and report on job performance of lower ranking
police officers.
(l)Â
Speaks before the public on police functions and services.
(m)Â
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)Â
Performs other related duties, including special projects as
requested.
(o)Â
Maintains any mandated certifications, such as firearm qualification,
first aid/CPR AED, mandatory training, etc. Organize other programs
or training as deemed necessary.
4.Â
Knowledge of:
(a)Â
Township ordinances, federal, and state statutes.
(b)Â
General order/code of conduct.
(c)Â
Open Records Act.
(d)Â
Standard operating procedures.
(e)Â
Supervisory principles and methods.
(f)Â
Arrest and defense techniques/methods.
(g)Â
Criminal investigation techniques.
(h)Â
Arrest search and seizure laws.
(i)Â
Police identification operation and procedures.
(j)Â
Computer operations.
6.Â
Ability to:
(a)Â
Coordinate unit operational criteria and schedule necessary
manpower.
(b)Â
Prepare clear and concise reports.
(c)Â
Review case files.
(d)Â
Arrest and search warrants.
(e)Â
Conduct interrogations.
(f)Â
Interact and communicate with others in an assertive manner.
(g)Â
Evaluate information of an uncertain or conflicting nature and
make appropriate decision with regards to the law.
(h)Â
Solve problems when all necessary facts are not given.
(i)Â
Remain calm and work fast in emotionally stressful or emergency
conditions.
(j)Â
Establish and maintain a positive working relationship with
fellow employees and the community.
(k)Â
Use the Crescent Township Police Department uniform and protective
equipment.
(l)Â
Safely operate police motor vehicles.
(m)Â
Enforce Township, state, and federal laws.
(n)Â
Pursue and subdue violent individuals.
(o)Â
Conduct arrests and investigations.
(p)Â
Transverse uneven terrain.
7.Â
Minimum job requirements:
8.Â
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.Â
Job description: Sergeant.
1.Â
General summary. Under general direction of the Deputy Chief, directly
supervise and coordinate the daily operational activities of the Police
Department.
2.Â
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)Â
Must be able to safely perform all the essential duties and
responsibilities as required for the police officer and all subordinate
ranks.
(b)Â
Shall supervise the handling of routine police calls and assist
officers in proper handling of those calls.
(c)Â
Observe assigned police officers in the performance of their
duties; review police reports submitted by subordinate officers and
provide guidance where needed.
(d)Â
Notify superior of major crimes and/or disturbances and assume
command until superior officer arrives.
(e)Â
Review reports, case files, warrants, search warrants, supplements,
etc.
(f)Â
Assign and/or participate in the investigations of criminal
cases.
(g)Â
Assist in prosecution of suspects by making arrests, preparing
reports and testifying in court.
(h)Â
Conduct internal investigations of criminal cases if directed
by the Chief of Police and/or Deputy Chief.
(i)Â
Compile, prepare and submit reports.
(j)Â
Train subordinate officers.
(k)Â
Respond to citizen complaints and inquiries.
(l)Â
Perform other related duties as required.
(m)Â
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)Â
Shall report all cases of misconduct related to personnel on
the Sergeant's shift to a superior officer.
(o)Â
Shall evaluate and report on job performance of police officers
on Sergeant's shift.
(p)Â
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)Â
May be required to temporarily assume the duties, activities
and tasks of a superior officer.
3.Â
Other job functions.
(a)Â
Assume command of an assigned shift in the absence of Deputy
Chief or Chief of Police.
(b)Â
Attend meetings and/or seminars.
(c)Â
Make arrest of individuals who violate the law and/or ordinance.
(d)Â
Respond to calls for assistance and provide necessary police
protection.
(e)Â
Conduct searches and collect physical evidence.
(f)Â
Perform other related duties, including special projects as
requested.
(g)Â
Maintain any mandated certifications, such as firearm qualification,
first aid/CPR AED, mandatory training, etc. Organize other programs
or training as deemed necessary.
4.Â
Knowledge, skills and abilities.
(a)Â
Knowledge of Township ordinances, federal, state and city laws
and statutes.
(b)Â
General order/code of conduct.
(c)Â
Open Records Act.
(d)Â
Standard operating procedures.
(e)Â
Supervisory principles and methods.
(f)Â
Arrest and defense techniques/methods.
(g)Â
Criminal investigation techniques.
(h)Â
Arrest, search and seizure laws.
(i)Â
Police identification operation and procedures and computer
relative to dispatching functions.
6.Â
Ability to:
(a)Â
Coordinate operational criteria and schedule the necessary officers.
(b)Â
Prepare clear and concise reports.
(c)Â
Review case files.
(d)Â
Arrest and search warrants.
(e)Â
Conduct interrogations.
(f)Â
Interact and communicate with others in an assertive manner.
(g)Â
Evaluate information of an uncertain or conflicting nature and
make appropriate decision with regards to the law.
(h)Â
Solve problems when all necessary facts are not given.
(i)Â
Remain calm and work fast in emotionally stressful or emergency
conditions.
(j)Â
Establish and maintain a positive working relationship with
fellow employees and community.
(k)Â
Use the Crescent Township Police Department uniform and protective
equipment.
(l)Â
Safety operate police motor vehicles.
(m)Â
Enforce Township, state, and federal laws.
(n)Â
Pursue and subdue violent individuals.
(o)Â
Conduct arrests and investigations.
(p)Â
Transverse uneven terrain.
7.Â
Minimum job requirements.
8.Â
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.Â
Job description: patrol officer.
1.Â
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.Â
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)Â
Patrols an assigned area via foot or auto to ensure law compliance
and to investigate suspicious activities, individuals or conditions.
(b)Â
Performs arrests of individuals who violate the law and/or ordinance.
(c)Â
Subdues violent individuals.
(d)Â
Enforces local, state, and federal laws.
(e)Â
Responds to calls for assistance and provides necessary police
protection.
(f)Â
Issues traffic citation(s) or warning(s) to individuals violating
traffic laws.
(g)Â
Investigates traffic accidents and directs traffic.
(h)Â
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)Â
Conducts searches according to due process procedure and collects
physical evidence.
(j)Â
Interacts with community to establish rapport.
(k)Â
Performs other related duties as required.
(l)Â
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)Â
Use self-directed time in an efficient manner by self-initiating
work.
(n)Â
Obtains all available information that might assist in the detection
and apprehension of an offender.
3.Â
Other job functions.
(a)Â
Conducts follow-up investigations.
(b)Â
Compiles and prepares reports.
(c)Â
Processes prisoners into jail facility.
(d)Â
Prepares cases for court and provides testimony.
(e)Â
Prepares property, auto, and supplies records.
(f)Â
Attends training seminars.
(g)Â
Performs other related duties, including special projects as
requested.
(h)Â
Maintains any mandated certifications, such as firearm qualification,
first aid/CPR AED, mandatory training, etc. Organize other programs
or training as deemed necessary.
5.Â
Skill in communicating both in written and verbal form.
6.Â
Ability to:
(a)Â
Follow law enforcement rules and procedures.
(b)Â
Memorize and retain information.
(c)Â
Interact and communicate with others in an assertive manner.
(d)Â
Evaluate information of an uncertain or conflicting nature and
make appropriate decisions with regards to the law.
(e)Â
Solve problems when all necessary facts are not given.
(f)Â
Remain calm and work fast in emotionally stressful or emergency
conditions.
(g)Â
Establish and maintain a positive working relationship with
fellow employees and the community.
(h)Â
Use the Crescent Township Police Department uniform and protective
equipment.
(i)Â
Safely operate police motor vehicles.
(j)Â
Enforce local, state, and federal laws.
(k)Â
Pursue and subdue violent individuals.
(l)Â
Conduct arrests and investigations.
(m)Â
Transverse uneven terrain.
8.Â
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.Â
Rules and regulations: police officer.
1.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
The officer shall familiarize himself with administrative policy
and execute the service program within the officer's area of
responsibility providing for:
8.Â
The officer shall conduct himself in accordance with high ethical
standards, both on and off the job.
9.Â
The officer shall become familiar with advanced techniques and ideas
designed to improve police performance.
11.Â
The officer shall record in a notebook all pertinent information
necessary for the proper execution of the officer's duties.
12.Â
The officer shall record the officer's activity during the officer's
tour of duty in the prescribed manner.
13.Â
The officer shall supervise and inspect all public licensed places
within the Township and enforce the laws, ordinances and regulations
concerning their operations.
14.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
The officer shall promptly report, on prescribed forms, all accidents
involving the vehicle assigned to the officer's use.
18.Â
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.Â
The officer shall make reports of crimes, vehicular accidents and
incidents in conformity with the procedure for their accurate and
complete preparation.
20.Â
The officer shall receive, serve and prepare return on citations,
warrants and documents, providing information to enable subsequent
service if unable to serve.
21.Â
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.Â
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.Â
The officer shall be accountable for securing, receipting and proper
transporting of all evidence and property coming into the officer's
custody.
24.Â
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.Â
The officer shall enforce traffic laws and ordinances and relieve
conditions interfering with the safe and expeditious movement of vehicles
and pedestrians.
26.Â
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.Â
The officer shall be sensitive to the conduct of juveniles and the
existence of hazards affecting them, particularly in the delinquency
control effort.
28.Â
The officer shall be alert to group tensions of all kinds, notifying
the officer's superiors and preventing disorder.
29.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
The officer shall note and record the license plates and descriptions
of vehicles seen under questionable circumstances and make an investigation.
33.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
The officer shall provide prompt and adequate assistance to all sick,
injured or destitute persons.
40.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
When in uniform the officer shall assist in the movement of vehicles
operating under emergency conditions.
44.Â
The officer shall intelligently and thoroughly investigate each case
assigned to him, initiating the investigation by prompt contact with
the complainant.
45.Â
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.Â
The officer shall study and apply sound investigative techniques
and improve the officer's effectiveness by attention to:
47.Â
The officer shall keep detailed records of the officer's investigations
and promptly execute all other reports required by policy of the Department.
48.Â
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.Â
The officer shall learn the rules of evidence and court procedure
and develop skills which will enable him to be an effective witness.
50.Â
The officer shall serve all legal papers assigned to him and execute
required returns.
51.Â
The officer shall actively cooperate with Township and county attorneys
to prepare cases for trial.
52.Â
The officer shall perform other duties as need dictates.
53.Â
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.Â
Rules of conduct.
1.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.
5.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.
16.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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)Â
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)Â
Equipment: gun belt, handcuffs, collapsible baton, taser, pepper
spray, flashlight, side arm (approved by Chief), extra bullets.
29.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
Intervention. Officers shall not interfere with cases being handled
by other officers of the Department or by any other agency or persons
unless:
34.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
Use of force. Officers shall not use more force in any situation
than is reasonably necessary under the circumstances.
38.Â
Use of weapons. Officers shall not use or handle weapons in a careless
or imprudent manner.
39.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.
A.Â
Purpose. The purpose is to permit a police officer to arrest, without
a warrant, for specific summary offenses.
B.Â
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: