PATROL OFFICER

Under basic supervision, patrols, investigates, responds to calls for service, enforces laws, prevents crimes, and assists the general public; conducts surveillance, monitors traffic, and maintains order in the City.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties and responsibilities. This list is

ILLUSTRATIVE

ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Enforces state and federal laws, and City regulations; identifies, prevents, and terminates unlawful activities using experience and technical training; identifies, pursues, and arrests suspects and perpetrators of criminal acts; duties will vary according to job assignment. Performs work according to PLPD policies to enforce laws, preserve peace, maintain order, solve problems, respond to requests for service, and promote crime prevention through community policing. Consistently applies PLPD regulations and procedures, and provides professional police services. Responds to incidents and accidents; initiates basic investigations, and coordinates responses with regional law enforcement and emergency services agencies. Patrols City to preserve the peace, enforce the law, control vehicular traffic, and prevent and detect misconduct, misdemeanors, felonies, and other law violations; serves and protects the community. Preserves the peace of the community through mediation, investigation, intervention, assistance, and arrest; utilizes all lawful means to improve the quality of life by recognizing and resolving problems. Works with citizens to address the issues of safety, crime, and neighborhood disorder. Conducts security checks, responds to citizen complaints, and treats citizens with courtesy and respect. Performs crime investigation and detection, and arrest of persons involved in crimes and misconduct; interrogates suspects, witnesses and drivers; preserves evidence; arrests violators; investigates and renders assistance at accident scenes; takes measurements and draws diagrams of scene; searches scene of crimes for clues; analyzes and evaluates evidence; prepares cases for giving testimony and testifies in court proceedings. Cross-trains in a wide variety of law enforcement skills and disciplines. Prepares accurate and detailed reports and required paperwork. Supports the relationship between the City and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with clients, visitors, and City staff; maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, client records, and City information; performs related duties as assigned or required.

Qualifications:

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED

Knowledge of:

City policies and procedures. Duties, powers, authorities, and limitations of a Police Officer. State, federal, and local civil and criminal laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances. Principles of crime scene management, and the operation of specialized technical equipment. Texas criminal justice and court systems, and principles of criminal justice records management. Modern law enforcement methods and procedures, including case laws governing arrest, rules of evidence, probable cause, use of force, custody of evidence, and search and seizure. Local community issues and regional community resources available to citizens. Geography, roads, and landmarks of City and surrounding areas.

Skill in:

Interpreting and applying criminal laws to information, evidence, and other data compiled. Working under stressful conditions and emergency situations. Investigating, researching, and analyzing facts and situations. Exercising controlled discretion, communicating with violators, recognizing suspicious behavior patterns, mediating difficult situations, and using effective arrest and control techniques. Care, maintenance, and safe operation of a variety of firearms, impact weapons, chemical agents, and other law enforcement tools and equipment. Remaining alert at all times and reacting quickly and calmly in emergency situations. Preparing clear, comprehensive, and accurate reports. Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with co-workers, officials, community groups, advocates, and representatives from local, state and federal agencies. Operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of business software. Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High School Diploma or GED equivalent; AND successful completion of Police Academy training. State of Texas driver's license is required Basic Peace Officers License and certification from Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Education (TCLEOSE) is required. Depending on the needs of the City, additional licenses and certifications may be required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a standard office environment, and in the field to lead investigations and tactical situations; may be exposed to physical attacks, hazardous chemicals, infectious and communicable diseases; required to physically restrain persons. Must maintain a level of physical fitness to meet Department standards.