The Bureau of Field Operations (BFO) has one of the more recognizable presence of the SCCPD. It consists of the Patrol Division, which is comprised of four rotating platoons and encompasses several specialized units (PDF).
Patrol Division Hours & Shifts
The Patrol Division operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in 12 hours shifts. The day shift serves from 6:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. The evening shift serves from 6:15 p.m. to 6:15 a.m. Each shift is assigned a Watch Commander Lieutenant and two Shift Commander Sergeants.
Responsibilities
The Patrol Division is directly responsible for maintaining a uniform presence in the county’s eight patrol zones. The division also provides contract patrols in the cities of Augusta, Weldon Springs Heights, St. Paul, Flint Hill, Portage De Sioux, New Melle, and West Alton. Additionally, a full-time officer is dedicated to patrol services in the municipalities of Dardenne Praire and Weldon Spring.
Assigned Vehicle Program
In 1972, the Police Department enacted the permanent vehicle assignment program, which assigns a vehicle to each officer who is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of their assigned vehicle. This also allows officers to take their assigned vehicle to their residence, which increases visibility and enhances response times and safety to the county residents.
The current fleet of marked patrol vehicles, include Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Explorer, and Dodge Charger, to name a few.
Equipment
Patrol vehicles are equipped with equipment specialized to assist officers with their assigned duties while serving the residences of the county. Some of the items include:
- Digital video cameras
- GPS navigation systems
- Mobile data computers
- New state of the art radio system
- Radar units
