SOP

Question 1

Briefing

Answer 1

At the beginning of each shift, all patrol personnel report to roll call briefing. Briefing is conducted by the on duty patrol sergeant or their designee and normally consists of:

a. Briefing officers with information regarding daily patrol activity, unusual situations, and major investigations.
b. Notifying officers of changes in schedules and assignments.
c. Notifying officers of new directives or changes in directives.
d. Evaluating officer readiness to assume patrol duties.
e. Identifying any potential or known hazards that are within the City or that could affect police operations.
f. Roll call training as determined to be necessary or required.
g. Issuing of ancillary equipment.
h. Conducting uniform and weapon inspections
2. Personnel may be dispatched to any call for service at any time after the beginning of their tour of duty.
3. The patrol supervisor shall ensure that a jail shake down has been preformed prior to the start of the shift.

Question 2

STAND BY

Answer 2

Contact the prosecutor assigned to the case prior to the day of the request for appearance.

2. Ask permission of the prosecutor to be placed on stand-by for the appearance.
3. Discuss the details of the case with the prosecutor at that time if possible.
4. Provide the prosecutor with a phone number where the officer can be reached.
5. Officers who are allowed by the prosecutor to be on stand-by must be able to respond in uniform or suitable business attire within one (1) hour.
6. Officers who are on stand-by are not compensated unless they are called to court and then only for their time in court plus travel time. Officers who are on stand-by will remain on stand-by until 1:00 P.M. of the day of the trial, unless released earlier by the prosecutor, judge or the secretary of the court. Stand by hours may be extended at the prosecutor‟s discretion.

Question 3

Cellular Telephone Usage

Answer 3

City cellular telephones will be used primarily for police services business. Personal calls should be limited to the officer’s immediate family or matters that should not be delayed.
2. Officers shall refrain from cellular phone activity while driving when such use constitutes an unnecessary distraction from their assigned duties, or a personal and public safety hazard, and will obey all traffic laws relating to cellular phone use. Officers shall not attempt to read or send text messages while operating a city vehicle that is in motion. Officer shall not wear blue tooth ear pieces.

Question 4

Meal Breaks

Answer 4

No more than two (2) uniformed officers and two marked police vehicles (including motorcycles) will meet and check out at any eating establishment. The exception to this is:

a. When uniformed officers are attending departmental functions, or
b. When approved by the officers division commander.
2. Length of Coffee and Meal Breaks
a. Coffee breaks will not exceed fifteen (15) minutes (2 per shift).
b. Meal breaks will not exceed sixty (60) minutes (1 per shift).
c. Officers do not check out on meal or coffee breaks during the first hour of their patrol shift or during the final hour of their patrol shift unless approved by a supervisor.

Question 5

Emergency Staffing Contingency

Answer 5

Level I Normal Staffing

a. Investigations On-Call available if needed
b. Patrol-On Call available if needed
c. Normal readiness
d. 2 hour response capability if called for service
2. Alert: If an Alert is declared
a. Officers notified to carry full equipment with them
b. 1 hour response capability
c. No alcohol consumption
d. All vehicles are serviced and ready
3. Level II Increased Staffing
a. All vacation and leave are cancelled
b. Normal work hours
c. Non-Patrol personnel reports in uniform remain available for patrol assistance.
d. Two additional patrol officers are called in on full shift overtime.
4. Emergency Mobilization Locations
a. Should emergency mobilization be required all personnel summoned to report to work will report in full uniform to main police facility unless otherwise directed.
b. In the event of a catastrophic incident (tornado, flood etc.), proper notifications may not be possible and all employees should respond to the Police Department, if reasonably safe to do so, in lieu of awaiting such notification.

Question 6

Class A Duty Dress

Answer 6

Long or short sleeve uniform shirt (with black under shirt)

b. Badge
c. Name plate
d. Service/proficiency/award bars (optional)
e. Collar insignia (Rank of Lieutenant and higher)

Question 7

Class B Duty Dress

Answer 7

Class B short sleeve uniform shirt

b. Embroidered Badge and name tag
c. Black T-shirt
d. Class B Uniform Trousers

Officers attending court will be in a Class A uniform or civilian clothes to include a shirt and a tie for male employees and appropriate business attire for female employees.

Question 8

Calls for Service

Answer 8

Members of the Patrol Section are responsible to respond to calls for service without delay to prevent injury, protect persons and property, and provide solutions to problems occurring in their respective district assignments.

Question 9

Portable Radio Usage

Answer 9

All officers are issued portable radios. Officers are responsible for ensuring that portable radio power sources are charged and that the device is operable. Officers are to carry the radios either in a case or a belt clip secured to their equipment belt while on duty. Officers may choose to utilize a shoulder microphone and/or ear piece if available.
2. Portable radios will not be used in lieu of checking out with communications. If an officer gets out of their patrol vehicle, the officer shall mark out with communications

Question 10

Case Management Folder

Answer 10

When a report number or a Class C Misdemeanor on view arrest is generated the following steps shall be taken:

a. In the records management system (RMS) a report/incident is created.
b. A folder with the associated report number shall be created on the department‟s computer server. This folder will contain digital evidence and specified forms associated with the report.

Question 11

Vehicle Mobile Video Recording (VMVR) FOLDER

Answer 11

Each vehicle where the VMVR was activated and a report number was generated shall be downloaded to the case management folder.

ii. Each officer that was involved in the call shall complete an “Electronic Evidence Request” form. This form is to be attached to the removable hard drive and turned into the Administrative Sergeant.
iii. The Administrative Sergeant shall create a folder in the case management folder titled “Car Videos” and place each video in this folder.

Question 12

Audio Recording FOLDER

Answer 12

This folder will contain audio recording from the communications section. This includes 9-11 calls, radio traffic, telephone, etc.
ii. Officers should request this evidence by completing the “Electronic Evidence Request” form and forwarding the form to the Administrative Sergeant.

Question 13

Active Shooter Incident

Answer 13

The philosophy driving this policy recognizes that the active shooter must be stopped before he can destroy any more innocent lives. This shall be the duty and responsibility of the initial responding officers, and they shall use all legal means to accomplish it. The prioritization of activities, in their order of importance IS:

a. Stop the active shooter
b. Rescue the victims
c. Provide medical assistance
d. Preserve the crime scene.
3. While it is important to provide medical treatment to the wounded, it is our duty as law enforcement officers to first protect all innocent life by stopping the actions of the active shooter.

Question 14

Active Shooter Procedure

Answer 14

All enforcement personnel who are not on an emergency call shall respond to the scene of an active shooter incident.

b. Contact Team -The first responding officers, up to four, shall form a contact team and go in immediate pursuit of the active shooter. The focus is to make contact as soon as possible and stop the active shooter by arrest, containment, or use of deadly force. The team will be subject to 360-degree vulnerability and will not do a thorough clearing. They will continue on past victims or harmless distractions. The location of victims may be relayed to the rescue team.
c. Rescue Team -The second set of 4 officers arriving on the scene will form a rescue team, which will locate and remove injured victims, and direct uninjured victims out of the building. Rescue team members should remember that uninjured victims may nonetheless be in shock, or paralyzed with fear, and not respond to regular verbal commands. Rescue team members are to remain constantly vigilant as the rapidly changing dynamics of the incident may put them in contact with the suspect and they will be subject to 360-degree vulnerability.
d. Officers should make entry at a location other than the main entrance, if possible, as this is the place where a suspect might logically set up barricades, explosives, or an ambush. Pre-designated entry points should be identified.
6. All personnel are to restrict their use of the radio for emergency traffic only.

Question 15

Building Searches

Answer 15

The officer in charge formulates and directs a search plan based on the physical layout of the building.

2. Notify communications that you are entering the building, the communications operator should close the channel to all but emergency traffic, and officers entering the building should reduce the volume of their portable radios or use an earpiece.
3. Entry is never to be made though small openings or windows unless there is sufficient visual access to the inside of the building to provide cover for the entering officers. Entry is never to be made by less than two officers.
4. Emergency conditions in which threat to life or property would result from a lack of immediate action on the part of the responding officer would, of course, require only that officer act as quickly and safely as the situation dictates.

Question 16

Felony Stop Procedures

Answer 16

When an officer locates a vehicle driven by a known or suspected felon, the officer shall notify communications immediately of the suspect’s location and give a thorough description of the vehicle and its occupants. The officer shall keep the suspect vehicle in view and request sufficient assistance in making the stop.

2. The officer shall keep support units informed of the suspect’s location and direction of travel to aid their approach with minimal use of emergency equipment. The suspect vehicle shall not be stopped unless absolutely necessary until adequate support is available and in position. Circumstances may, however, dictate a one-officer felony vehicle stop.
3. The following procedures shall be used in effecting the stop:
   a. The officer shall plan to stop the suspect vehicle in a location which presents minimal danger to the public.
   b. When conditions are appropriate and support units available, the officer shall move into position to the rear of the suspect vehicle.
   c. The officer shall signal the violator to stop, using all emergency equipment to warn other traffic.
   d. The chosen location of the stop should allow and encourage the suspect vehicle to pull over to the extreme right side of the roadway.
   e. If the violator is known to be armed and dangerous, the officer shall have his weapon easily accessible and ready for immediate use.
   f. When the suspect vehicle begins to stop, the officer shall turn off the siren and turn on the public address system.
   g. The officer shall park the patrol vehicle so that it provides maximum protection and cover.
   h. At night, the officer shall focus all lights on the interior of the suspect vehicle.
   i. The officer shall leave the patrol vehicle quickly but remain behind the door and accessible to the public address system microphone.

Question 17

Foot Pursuits

Answer 17

Although it is an officer‟s decision to initiate a stop, it is the suspect or violator who decides to precipitate a foot pursuit by fleeing. An officer‟s decision to pursue on foot shall be made with an awareness of and appreciation for the risk to which the officer and others will be exposed. No officer or supervisor shall be criticized or disciplined for a decision not to engage in a foot pursuit if, in the officer‟s assessment, the risk exceeds that reasonably acceptable.

2. Where necessary, an officer may pursue persons who he or she reasonably believes have committed an act that would warrant a stop, investigative detention, or arrest.
3. In deciding whether or not to initiate a pursuit, an officer shall consider the following alternatives to foot pursuit:
   a. Containment of the area
   b. Canine search
   c. Saturation of the area with patrol personnel
4. In deciding whether to initiate or continue a foot pursuit, officers shall also consider risk factors whenever officers are:
   a. acting alone,
   b. in an unfamiliar area,
   c. in an area that is hostile, such as a notorious drug trafficking location,
   d. pursuing suspects who are known to be or suspected of being armed,
   e. unable to obtain backup in a timely manner,
   f. not in adequate physical condition to conduct a foot pursuit,
   g. unable to establish and maintain contact with the communications section, or
   h. pursuing in inclement weather, darkness, or reduced visibility conditions.
5. Officers initiating foot pursuits shall be in field command and shall bear operational responsibility for the foot pursuit unless circumstances dictate otherwise or until relieved by a supervisor. Pursuing officers are reminded that voice transmissions while running and in other field tactical situations may be difficult to understand and may have to be repeated.
6. The officer initiating a foot pursuit shall, as soon as practical, provide the following information to Communications:
   a. Unit identifier
   b. Reason for the foot pursuit
   c. Officer location and direction of pursuit
   d. Number of suspects and description
   e. Whether or not the suspect(s) is armed Assisting officers shall immediately attempt to contain the pursued suspect. Such officers shall not respond to the primary officer‟s location unless the suspect has been stopped and the primary officer requests assistance to take the suspect into custody.
7. When two or more officers are in pursuit, they shall not separate unless they remain in sight of each other and maintain communication, but they shall allow the lead officer to concentrate on the suspect‟s actions while the second officer provides backup and maintains communications with dispatch and other assisting officers.
8. Unless there are exigent circumstances such as an immediate threat to the safety of other officers or civilians, officers shall not engage in or continue a foot pursuit under the following conditions:
   a. If the officer believes the danger to pursuing officers or the public outweighs the necessity for immediate apprehension.
   b. While acting alone. If exigent circumstances warrant, the lone officer shall keep the suspect in sight from a safe distance and coordinating containment.
   c. Into buildings, structures, confined spaces, or into wooded or otherwise isolated areas without sufficient backup and containment of the area. The primary officer shall stand by, radio his or her location, and await the arrival of officers to establish a containment perimeter. At this point, the incident shall be considered a barricaded or otherwise noncompliant suspect.
   d. If the officer loses possession of their firearm.
   e. If the suspect‟s location is no longer known.
   f. If primary officers lose communication.
   g. If an officer or third party is injured during the pursuit who requires immediate assistance and there are no other police or medical personnel able to render assistance.
   h. If the officer loses visual contact with the suspect.
   i. If the officer is unsure of his or her own location or direction of travel

Question 18

In-Progress Calls For Service

Answer 18

In progress calls demand three primary considerations. First to ensure the greatest level of safety available to all officers concerned with the call. Second, to contain the scene to prevent the escape of suspects; and third, to preserve the scene for evidence.

2. The following are general guidelines for the handling of the majority of in progress calls:
   a. The responding unit(s) should go to the location where the case is most likely occurring.
   b. Officers will respond code 1 to all non life threatening in progress calls
   c. If, possible, officers should position their vehicle short of the scene to avoid showing the officer‟s presence and position.
   d. Take appropriate time to size up the situation and formulate a plan, and to advise your cover officer.
   e. On armed robbery calls, for the safety of the victim and bystanders, arrests can best be affected outside the building.

Question 19

Accident Investigation

Answer 19

Accidents are investigated by the responding officer. In cases where additional resources are necessary the on-duty supervisor may call to duty an officer who has been specially trained in accident investigation.

5. Enforcement Action
   a. Officers shall utilize the utmost discretion in issuing citations for violations not occurring within their view and presence. Some exception can be given to motor vehicle accident investigations. With regard to class “c” criminal matters not occurring within the officer‟s view and/or presence, the citation must be accompanied with a citizen‟s desire to prosecute and offense report.
   b. Officers shall not release a vehicle to an unlicensed driver or a vehicle without valid insurance to be operated on a public roadway.

Question 20

Accident Reports

Answer 20

Accident reports shall be completed using the TXDOT C.R.A.SH. Reporting system.

b. Reports shall be completed before the end of the shift. Reports that are unable to be completed prior to the end of the shift the officer shall:
i. Create the report in the C.R.A.S.H. reporting system
ii. State the reason and the approving supervisor‟s name in the „notes‟ section of the report.
c. Accident reports will be checked and approved by the traffic section.
d. Accidents involving hit and run shall require a crash report to be prepared with as much information available at the time of the report. This report will be used for follow-up investigation by the officer or an assigned accident investigator. The crash report will be marked in red ink “HIT AND RUN”.

Question 21

Alarm Response

Answer 21

Classifications

a. Burglar
b. Panic
c. Fire
d. Robbery (see section C below for Robbery Alarm Response)
2. Two officers are dispatched. The first unit arriving has the authority to cancel any cover units if it is found the alarm was false.
3. When an open door or window is found, a minimum of two (2) officers are to enter the building.
4. Officers determine if the channel should be closed except to emergency traffic.
5. The responding officer determines if an owner/representative should respond.
6. If a representative is requested, and absent exigent circumstances, officers should stay at the location until a representative arrives on scene.
7. Reporting documentation shall be provided in the call notes.

Question 22

Bank Alarm/ Robbery Response

Answer 22

Upon receipt of a financial institution alarm, a minimum of two patrol units shall be dispatched and a field supervisor shall be notified If the robbery notification is received by telephone, a complete description of the perpetrators shall be obtained from the caller along with as much additional information as possible; particularly, whether the perpetrator is at the scene and, if not, their direction and mode of travel and a complete description of any vehicle involved.

3. If the robbery notification is made by alarm, the communications operator shall not attempt to contact the institution in order to determine the validity of the alarm until officers have given notice that they are in position at the establishment.
   a. If the communications operator is subsequently notified that the alarm is false, they shall advise the caller that police units are responding.
   b. The communications operator shall obtain the identity of and maintain contact with the caller.
   c. The communications operator shall verify the false alarm with a key employee of the establishment (e.g., manager or head teller) and advise them that they will need to exit the facility to meet the responding officers utilizing the Department‟s prearranged signal.
   d. The communications operator shall obtain a physical description of the key employee and provide responding officers with the description and the fact that the employee will meet them outside as required.
4. Responding officers shall use appropriate vehicular warning devices when approaching the scene, but the siren will not be used within the hearing range of the reported robbery.
5. Responding units should be observant of any suspicious vehicles leaving the scene as well as other vehicles or persons outside the facility who may be serving as lookouts, cover or drivers for a robbery team.

Question 23

Arson Investigations

Answer 23

The investigation of arson is primarily the responsibility of the Fire Department. Police Department will assist in any way possible.

2. Patrol Officers will secure the scene and have the communications section notify the Fire Marshal‟s Office for an investigator to be sent to the scene.
3. In all cases where a Fire Investigator is not sent to the scene, the responsibility of the investigation lies with the Police Department. In such cases the Investigations Section is contacted to have an investigator respond to the scene.
4. The responsibility for the initial offense report lies with the responding patrol officer.

Question 24

Assault Investigations

Answer 24

The primary officer assigned is responsible for the initial investigation. The officer controls the scene to ensure all evidence is protected. The officer is to establish that an actual offense has taken place. The officer’s investigation should include, but is not limited to the following.

a. Interview with the victim and any witnesses.
b. Obtain written Affidavits of Fact
c. Identity of all individuals at the location at the time of the offense.
d. Identify the suspect (to include name and address
e. Relationship of the victim and suspect (family member, etc.)
f. If possible interview the suspect.
g. Description as to the method of assaults (hands, weapon, etc.)
h. Description of the injuries.
i. Description of the crime scene.
j. Take photographs of injuries and crime scene.
k. If the assault is aggravated in nature Investigations may be notified and requested to respond to process the scene. The on-duty supervisor will consult with the Investigations Supervisor.

Question 25

Class “C” Assaults

Answer 25

Class “C” assaults are filed in Municipal Court. Officers shall complete an offense report and take a written statement from the complainant before filing Class “C” assault charges. Officers are also encouraged to take photographs of the complainant at the time of first report.

Question 26

Auto Theft (UUMV) Investigations

Answer 26

The responding officer is responsible for the preliminary investigation. The officer is to establish that an actual offense has taken place. The officer’s investigation should include, but is not limited to, the following:

a. Affidavit from the reporting person. (If the reporting person declines to provide a sworn affidavit then the reporting person is advised that the vehicle will not be entered on the TLETS and only a report taken)
b. Accurate description of the vehicle make, model, year, and color.
c. Registration information including the vehicle identification number.
d. Any distinguishing information (bumper stickers, decals, body damage or any other identifiable details.
e. Lien holder information, determine if the payments are up to date or if there is the possibility of a repossession.
f. How many sets of keys, and where they are located
g. Amount of fuel in the vehicle
2. If a stolen vehicle is located, the officer determines the need for the Investigations Section to respond to process the vehicle for evidence. If Investigations is needed, the officer’s immediate supervisor is notified. The on-duty supervisor will make the initial request to have Investigations respond.

Question 27

Barricaded Subjects/Hostage Investigations

Answer 27

Events involving hostage or barricaded suspects will be addressed in accordance with this SOP and may require the use of the Incident Command System.
2. A supervisor is dispatched on any barricaded suspect or hostage situation.
3. The responding supervisor will assume the duties of the Incident Commander until relieved by a higher-ranking officer.
4. Goals to be accomplished are:
a. Protection of the Public
b. Containment of the Suspect
c. Protection of Hostages, and
d. Case Resolution
5. Responding Officers
a. Upon arrival at the scene of a barricaded subject or hostage situation, the first activity should be to limit access and to set up a perimeter.
b. Preliminary investigation should be conducted carefully to determine the nature and extent of the situation.
Once confirmation has been made that a barricaded suspect or hostage situation exists, the on-duty supervisor will be notified of the findings. Remember the on-duty supervisor shall be dispatched at the onset.
d. All attempts during this phase are geared toward avoiding confrontation and in favor of controlling, containing the situation until the arrival of additional personnel specifically trained in tactical operations and/or negotiations.

Question 28

Incident Commander Responsibilities: - barricaded person

Answer 28

Restrict a radio frequency

b. Establish an inner perimeter to prevent inadvertent entry of the public and prevent the escape of the suspect.
c. Establish a command post outside the suspect’s line of fire and sight. The command post should be sufficiently large to accommodate responding personnel and vehicles.
d. Request Communications notify the Chief of Police, Operations Lieutenant, and PIO Officer.
e. Begin evacuation of nearby homes, offices, or buildings as necessary.
f. Issue Rules of engagement to all on-scene officers.
g. Obtain necessary equipment.
h. The Incident Commander selects personnel and makes the following assignments:
i. Operational Officer
ii. Information Officer
7. The Incident Commander conducts a team briefing upon arrival of negotiations and tactical team members.

Question 29

Bomb Threats

Answer 29

The Incident Command System structure will be utilized for Response to Bomb Threats.

2. When a bomb threat or report of a bomb threat is received by communications personnel, the communicator dispatches both police and fire personnel depending on the credibility of the threat or the presence of a suspicious device.
3. Use of radios, mobile telephones, mobile data terminals, computers or any device capable of emitting “RF” energy may be utilized except as follows:
   a. Personnel refrain from use of such devices if within 150’ of an identified device.
   b. Personnel refrain from use of such devices if requested by on-scene commander.
4. A non-credible bomb threat call is considered a Code-1 response level. Non-credible is defined as a threat with no presence of a device noted and/or no specific details of a device, such as the location of time of detonation. Examples of non-credible threats are “There is a bomb at the school” or “I‟m going to blow you guys up” with no other specific information.
5. A credible threat or a suspicious package will be a Code-3 response. Credible is defined as the presence of an actual device or suspicious package, details that include location or time of detonation or other information indicating a credible threat. An example of a credible threat is “There is a bomb in the first floor restroom set to go off in ten minutes” or “Your Company hurt my family; I‟m going to get even. You have ten minutes to get out of the building”.
   a. The first officer to arrive makes personal and immediate contact with the complainant. Other assigned officers stage away from the suspected building/area until otherwise advised by the responding officer and supervisor.
   b. Other police personnel responding stage their vehicles at a location designated by the supervisor.

Question 30

On Scene Procedure - bomb threat

Answer 30

The first officer gathers all needed and available information from the complainant and others present and available to provide the information.
b. The supervisor meets personally with the first responding officer and the complainant. The supervisor and complainant will evaluate the threat and determine whether a search and/or as evacuation is warranted. Unless a device is located, evacuation is a voluntary act of the authority in charge of the property.
If the property is owned by the City of Balch Springs, a mandatory evacuation is conducted. The police supervisor is in control of the location until relieved by another supervisor or Emergency Management.
d. The supervisor will notify and brief the division commander.
e. The division commander will notify the Emergency Manager and the Chief of Police and brief them on the actions being taking by the on-scene supervisor.
f. Searches are conducted by the owner/occupants of the building due to their familiarity with the complex. The police supervisor may assign officers to escort the owner/occupants conducting the search. Personnel conducting the search only look and listen for anything unusual or out of place. They may open closets, cabinets, doors, etc., but should not open or touch any suspicious packages or devices.
g. Do not touch anything, do not move anything.

Question 31

Burglary Investigations

Answer 31

The primary responding officer is responsible for the initial investigation. The officer controls the scene to ensure that all evidence is protected. The officer is to establish that an actual offense has taken place. The investigation should include, but is not limited to the following:
a. Point of entry (including the method of entry)
b. Point of exit.
c. Point(s) of impact (what the suspect did while on the scene)
d. Determination of missing and damaged property.
Interview of all witnesses, neighbors or area businesses
f. Obtain Affidavits of Fact
g. Preserve or collect evidence
h. Photographs
2. The officer is to determine the need for the Investigations Section to respond to process the crime scene and shall convey their belief to the on-duty supervisor. The on-duty supervisor will contact the Investigator.

Question 32

Burglary in Progress Calls for Service

Answer 32

On all burglary in progress calls a minimum of two (2) officers are dispatched and the on-duty supervisor is notified.

2. Upon the officer’s arrival an exterior perimeter is established. The supervisor may call for additional officers.
3. Once a perimeter is established, additional officers may search the building. Officer shall not search buildings/habitations by him/herself.
4. If the owner of the property is present, neither they nor any other person are permitted to assist with the search until the building has been cleared. Have civilians stage away from the building in a place of safety.
5. The officer in charge of the scene should make the determination if the radio channel should be closed to all but emergency traffic. The call can also be handled on an alternate radio frequency if needed.

Question 33

Child Abuse

Answer 33

The primary officer dispatched is responsible for the initial investigation. State law requires that instances or suspected instances of child abuse or neglect be reported by public and private officials such as physicians, dentists, school employees, clergymen and others. Officers shall record and respond to all reports of child abuse, neglect and abandonment irrespective of the source or method of reporting.
2. A preliminary interview will be conducted with the reporting individual, when known, to determine the basis for the report, to include determination of such factors as:
a. the physical condition of the child;
b. a description of the abusive or neglectful behavior;
c. evidence of parental disabilities such as alcoholism, drug abuse, mental illness or other factors that demonstrate or suggest their inability to care for the child;
d. description of suspicious injuries or conditions;
e. the nature of any statements made by the child concerning parental maltreatment; and
f. any evidence of parental indifference or inattention to the child‟s physical or emotional needs.
investigations will respond to scene.

Question 34

Consumption / Possession of Alcohol by a Minor

Answer 34

When a person is underage and suspected of having consumed an alcoholic beverage, and the officer believes the subject to be intoxicated, the officer conducts standardized field sobriety tests.
2. Officers should obtain appropriate medical attention.
3. When an officer determines that a person is underage and has consumed an alcoholic beverage, the officer undertakes one of the following actions:
a. If the minor is under the age of ten years:
i. The child is released to a parent or another responsible adult.
ii. Detailed call notes are completed (CPS referral if warranted)
b. If the minor is at least age ten, but less than 14 years:
i. The minor may be detained at the scene, while contact is made with the minor‟s parent, and arrangements made for the parent or another responsible adult to take custody of the minor, or
ii. The minor may be taken into custody, transported to the Police Facility, processed as a juvenile offender, and detained in a court-approved area until released to the parent.
c. If the minor is at least 14 years, but less than 17 years:
i. A citation is issued for Minor in Consumption The minor may be detained at the scene, while contact is made with the minor‟s parent, and arrangements made for the parent or another responsible adult to take custody of the minor, or
iii. The minor may be taken into custody, transported to the Police Facility, processed as a juvenile offender, and detained in a court-approved area until released to the parent
If the minor is at least 17 years, but less than 21 years:
i. If the officer determines that the minor has consumed an alcoholic beverage, and that the subject is not intoxicated, a citation may be issued and the subject released.
ii. If in public, and the subject is intoxicated, and cannot be released to a parent or other responsible adult, the individual is booked as an adult for Public Intoxication.
iii. If not in public, and intoxicated, contact a parent or responsible adult, release to their custody and issue a citation for Minor in Consumption.

Question 35

Disposition of Evidence

Answer 35

When an officer arrests or issues a citation to a person for public intoxication, or for any other alcohol-related Class C misdemeanor or city ordinance violation, he/she will seize any alcoholic beverage in the possession of the person at the time of the arrest or citation. The call for service number will be referenced in the notes section of the citation.

b. Alcoholic beverage containers seized in accordance with the preceding paragraph will be disposed of as follows:
i. If the person arrested or cited is under 21 years of age, each container, whether opened or unopened, will be poured out and the container properly discarded.
ii. Destruction of any alcoholic beverage at the scene is done within view of the officers patrol units video camera if possible or within view of two officers. Photographs are taken of the containers for evidence. The photograph will be added as media to the call for service number.
c. A copy of the photograph will be stapled to the citation and forwarded to the Municipal Court in the normal process. The seizing officer will indicate the manner of the destruction of the alcohol in the notes section of the call for service.

Question 36

Death Investigations

Answer 36

Deceased persons or persons near death may be encountered in response to a wide variety of calls for service. Officers who encounter such situations shall, in order of importance, based on the circumstances, perform the following:

a. Identify and arrest any perpetrator(s) if present.
b. Ensure officer safety and the safety of others by safeguarding any weapons at the scene.
c. Administer emergency first aid if necessary and/or summon emergency medical personnel.
2. Death can only be determined in an official capacity by a physician. However, in cases involving unmistakable evidence of death (e.g., the presence of lividity or rigor mortis), emergency medical personnel need not be summoned If the officer determines that the person is dead, the factors surrounding that determination shall be entered into the officer‟s report.
b. Officers shall resolve any doubt concerning the life or death of a subject by summoning appropriate emergency medical assistance.
3. Isolate and protect the crime scene from any intrusion by non-essential personnel including officers not directly involved in the crime scene investigation.
4. Notify communications of the circumstances and request the response of a supervisor and any additional personnel as needed. If the death is perceived to be a homicide or potential homicide or the result of accident or suicide, an investigative officer shall also be summoned, and the operations lieutenant notified.
5. Observe and note pertinent circumstances at the scene.
a. Record the nature of any physical modifications to the crime scene as the result of intervention by emergency medical personnel or others.
b. Record in a crime scene log the identity of any persons who were present at or who entered the crime scene.
c. Identify witnesses and record basic information regarding the event. Ask witnesses to remain at the scene in a designated area. If not possible, determine their identity and how they can be contacted by investigators.
d. Identify and ensure that any suspects do not leave. Responding officers may conduct basic, preliminary questioning of a suspect or witness, but should normally defer interviews to investigators.

Question 37

Supervisor Responsibilities - death investigation

Answer 37

A supervisory officer shall respond to any reported death that is not attended by a physician in a health care setting. Responsibilities of the supervisory officer include but are not necessarily limited to the following:
a. Verify that appropriate requests have been made for assistance by crime scene technicians, homicide investigators, and command personnel and request any additional personnel to protect the crime scene or conduct the investigation as necessary.
b. Receive a verbal report from initial responding officers regarding pertinent conditions at the scene upon their arrival, circumstances surrounding the death, the presence of witnesses and/or suspects, disposition of the body, and related details.
c. Ensure completion of preliminary information collection and the protection and integrity of the crime or incident scene.
7. Bodies shall not be moved unless located in a spot that is deemed untenable (e.g., in open view of the public) and only under conditions that do not require a police investigation or medical examiner response. In all other cases, bodies may be covered but may not be moved without approval of the medical examiner‟s office.
8. Death by Other than Natural Causes. In all cases of death other than those due to natural causes where the death will be certified by an attending physician, the medical examiners‟ office shall be notified.
In any case in which there is doubt concerning the cause of death, the coroner‟s office and criminal investigators shall be notified and shall be responsible for conducting an investigation of the death.
b. In cases of death by accident, suicide, homicide, or undetermined causes, the supervisor shall coordinate with homicide investigators and the coroner‟s office in protecting the scene and conducting a preliminary investigation of the incident.
9. Assistance to Survivors. Providing basic support and crisis assistance to survivors is the responsibility of both responding officers and investigators.
10. Officers should not leave the scene of a death where survivors are present until reasonably assured that the survivors have adequate personal control and/or family or close friends readily available to provide support. In gauging the need for assistance, officers shall also consider the following:
a. The emotional reactions and physical condition of the survivors;
b. Availability of other adults in the home or immediate area;
c. Responsibility of the survivors for infants or small children;
d. Home environment, if apparent, (e.g. evidence of excessive alcohol use or drug use, lack of means of financial support, shortage of food, problem with shelter, etc.); and Availability of a support system (e.g. including friends, family, close neighbors, access to clergy, means of transportation, etc.)
11. Officers should not leave a lone survivor unattended until all reasonable efforts have been made to garner first-hand support from the survivor‟s family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, family, clergy, crisis counselors, or other community social service agency.

Question 38

Death Notifications

Answer 38

All death notifications that are the responsibility of this agency shall be delivered in person unless the exigency of circumstances demands notification by telephone.

b. Officers shall be prepared to and shall be provided adequate discretion to spend the necessary time with survivors to provide assistance as authorized by this policy.
c. Prior to contacting next of kin, notifying officers shall gather and familiarize themselves with essential details concerning the deceased, to include full name, age, race and home address, as well as details of the death, location of the body/personal effects and other pertinent information. Officers shall identify the next of kin of the deceased for purposes of notification. Particular effort should be made to locate the closest relative starting with a spouse and followed by parents, brothers or sisters, then children.
d. Only where substantial delays would be required to make contact with next of kin should other relatives be contacted.
e. Officers should contact a supervisor for guidance when in doubt concerning next of kin or delays in notification.

Question 39

Making Notification

Answer 39

Upon arrival at the residence or place of business, officers shall do the following:

i. Check the accuracy of the location;
ii. Request to speak to the immediate survivor;
iii. Identify themselves by name, rank and departmental affiliation;
iv. Verify the relationship of the survivor to the deceased; and
v. Ask to move to a place of privacy.
b. Every reasonable effort shall be made to make the death notification in the privacy of the survivor‟s home or in another location away from public scrutiny.
c. Officers should address the survivor(s) in a straightforward manner and use easy-to-understand language to briefly explain the circumstances of the incident and the fact that the individual is dead.
i. Officers should not use euphemisms such as “passed on” or “no longer with us” in order to avoid using the term “dead” as these may create confusion or false hope.
ii. Officers should avoid graphic aspects of the incident and the use of police jargon.
d. Officers should be prepared for unexpected responses from survivors to include hysteria and possible verbal or physical attack.
e. Officers should provide survivors with sufficient time to regain composure before proceeding. Avoid attempts in the interim to provide comfort by using simple platitudes or trite phrases (e.g. “I know how you feel,” “I know how hard this is for you.”).

Question 40

Driving Under the Influence by a Minor

Answer 40

When a minor (a person who is under the age of 21 – Alcoholic Beverage Code 106.041) is operating a motor vehicle in a public place and has introduced alcohol into their body but is not intoxicated, officers determine if there is any detectable amount of alcohol in the minors system. The smell of alcohol on the minor‟s breath constitutes a detectable amount. DUI is not a lesser included offence to DWI.
2. Officer conducts Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, including the use of a portable breath testing device, if possible.
3. If an arrest for DUI is not made and the officer determines the minor has a detectable amount of alcohol in their system, the officer may:
Issue a citation and complete a DIC-25, DIC-23, and release the minor to a responsible adult.
b. If there is no responsible adult available, the subject is taken into custody and booked into the departmental holding facility on the appropriate charges.
c. If an arrest is made and a specimen of breath (Intoxilyzer Test) or blood is requested, then all standard DWI procedures are followed.

Question 41

Disposition of Evidence- minor alcohol

Answer 41

When an officer arrests or issues a citation to a person for public intoxication, or for any other alcohol-related Class C misdemeanor or city ordinance violation, he/she will seize any alcoholic beverage in the possession of the person at the time of the arrest or citation.

b. Alcoholic beverage containers seized in accordance with the preceding paragraph will be disposed of as follows:
i. If the person arrested or cited is under 21 years of age, each container, whether opened or unopened, will be poured out and the container properly discarded.
ii. Destruction of any alcoholic beverage at the scene is done within view of the officers patrol units video camera if possible or within view of two officers. Photographs are taken of the containers for evidence. The photograph will be added as media to the call for service number.
c. A copy of the photograph will be stapled to the citation and forwarded to the Municipal Court in the normal process. The seizing officer will indicate the manner of the destruction of the alcohol in the notes section of the call for service.

Question 42

Criminal Trespass

Answer 42

Criminal Trespass is a misdemeanor that requires notice for removal from property or that entry is forbidden, and commission does not constitute a breach of the peace. Therefore, an arrest without a warrant must be for an on-view offense.
2. Enforcement Action
a. Upon contacting the suspect the officer obtains identification and checks for wanted information. The officer determines if a Criminal Trespass Warning has been issued to the suspect by interviewing the complainant or having Communications check the master name file.
b. If a warning has not been issued, the officer completes a Trespass Warning, has the suspect sign and instructs the suspect that if they return they will be arrested.
c. The Trespass Warning is given a report or call for service number. The original Trespass Warning is given to the complainant and advised that that it must be maintained for future use.
3. If a warrantless arrest is made, it is necessary that an officer be present whenever a suspect is verbally notified to depart from the premises.
It is legally permissible for a second officer to make a warrantless arrest for criminal trespass if the suspect has been issued a trespass warning by another officer. The original Trespass Warning must be presented to the officer and used as evidence in the arrest / case report.
5. If the suspect has never been given a prior trespass warning, an officer cannot make a warrantless jail arrest for criminal trespass when the suspect is being held against his will by a security guard, business owner, etc. Follow the above steps if proved that the subject had received a criminal trespass warning.
6. Disregarding signs, fences and locked or unlocked habitations is evidence that the subject received warning and can be arrested without the pursuit of a warrant.

Question 43

Drug Paraphernalia

Answer 43

and properly booked in as evidence with the following exceptions:

a. When the seizure and arrest is for an amount of marijuana less than a usable amount (typically less than 5 grams) or is for paraphernalia only with no other drug charge, the following process will be used.
i. The officer will check the subject for wanted and if clear, issue a citation for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The Paraphernalia charge will be the first charge on the citation if more than one charge is cited. The officer will reference the call for service number on the citation in the notes section and a description of the evidence. (This will be linked to a photo of the evidence taken at the station)
ii. The Paraphernalia and or drug residue will be seized and transported to the police facility.
iii. Upon arrival at the police facility, the seizing officer will photograph the evidence and then destroy and dispose of the paraphernalia. The photograph will be added as media to the call for service number.
b. A copy of the photograph will be stapled to the citation and forwarded to the Municipal Court in the normal process. The seizing officer will indicate the manner of the destruction of the paraphernalia in the notes section of the call for service.
2. Officers may issue a citation to violators who are in possession of marijuana less than two ounces.
a. The marijuana shall be seized and processed as any other narcotic and placed in the property room to be destroyed.
b. Officers shall photograph the evidence and attach the picture to the citation.

Question 44

Escorts

Answer 44

Personnel shall not provide emergency or non-emergency escorts for private vehicles. If a medical emergency exists, then an ambulance should be summoned.
2. Officers may provide escorts of vehicles with oversize or hazardous loads. These escort duties shall be conducted under the authorization of the Chief of Police or the on-duty supervisor. The Chief of Police or his designee shall coordinate the escort with the authority having control over the escorted vehicles. Further, the escort shall take place only per a written plan approved by the Chief of Police or his designee.
Officers may provide funeral escorts with marked vehicles. The escort duty shall be conducted under the authorization of the Chief of Police or his designee. Further, the escort shall take place per an articulated plan approved by the Chief of Police or his designee.

Question 45

Executing Warrants With Other Agencies

Answer 45

When outside agencies request patrol assistance to execute search and/or arrest warrants a patrol shift supervisor will be notified and respond.

2. The supervisor will meet with the agency prior to executing the process, to determine the exact needs.
3. The supervisor ensures the following:
   a. The supervisor will determine how many officers will be needed.
   b. All officers wear ballistic vests.
   c. All officers participating will physically attend an organizational meeting prior to serving the process.
   d. The supervisor will verify the existence of a valid warrant, determine the scope of authority outlined in the warrant, and obtain the necessary information to complete an incident report which will be forwarded to the Patrol Commander as soon as practical after the execution of the process.
   e. Due to various monitoring equipment available, the shift supervisor will notify the Communications Section via telephone only the exact location prior to the warrant being served.
   f. If circumstances warrant the shift supervisor may at their discretion withdraw their personnel and equipment.

Question 46

Family Disturbances/Family Violence

Answer 46

Officers investigate family violence cases and make appropriate arrests of family violence suspects, to end the possibility of further violence being committed against the victim. Officers will refer to Directive 7.13-2 for operational procedures.

2. If an offense of assault family violence is determined and the victim of family violence does not want to prosecute the suspect, officers still make appropriate arrests of family violence suspects. Officers refrain from telling the complainant that charges can be dropped at a later time.
3. If the suspect is not at the scene, officers make diligent efforts to apprehend the suspect, if the suspect is believed to be in reasonable proximity to the scene and it is believed the suspect may return and engage in additional family violence.
4. Officers collect and preserve evidence in family violence situations in the same manner that such evidence is collected and preserved in other criminal cases.
5. Officers give all victims or alleged victims of family violence a Notification to Victims of Family Violence packet.
6. Officers shall consult with the victim to determine if an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) is needed. In every case of an aggravated assaultive family violence offense, officers shall fill out an EPO on behalf of the Complainant regardless.

Question 47

Fireworks

Answer 47

Officers should take action when these violations are observed or brought to their attention. Officers may issue a citation for displaying, possessing, shooting, throwing fireworks etc.

2. Disposition of Evidence
   a. When an officer arrests or issues a citation to a person for fireworks, he/she will seize any fireworks in the possession of the person at the time of the arrest or citation.
   b. Fireworks seized in accordance with the preceding paragraph will be disposed of as follows:
   i. The fireworks charge will be the first charge on the citation if more than one charge is cited. The officer will reference the call for service number on the citation in the notes section and a description of the evidence. (This will be linked to a photo of the evidence taken at the station)
   ii. The fireworks will be seized and transported to the police facility.
   iii. Upon arrival at the police facility, the seizing officer will photograph the evidence and then destroy and dispose of by drowning in water. The photograph will be added as media to the call for service number.
   c. A copy of the photograph will be stapled to the citation and forwarded to the Municipal Court in the normal process. The seizing officer will indicate the manner of the destruction of the fireworks in the notes section of the call for service.

Question 48

Injured Persons

Answer 48

Patrol officers should be dispatched to respond to injured person calls when the presence of the officer will protect life, render first aid, or restore order.

2. In the event a child or elderly person has been injured an offense report may be necessary if the officer believes negligence was involved.
3. For the purpose of this section, a child is a person under 15 years of age and an elderly person is over 64 years of age. If the person is injured on city property, an offense or information report is generated.

Question 49

Juvenile Parties and Large Gatherings

Answer 49

Officers responding to calls regarding Juvenile Parties and Gatherings investigate each call to determine if a criminal offense has taken place. Officers are to conduct their investigations following State Law and Departmental Policy to determine the correct course of action.

2. If the violation of law involves a Class C Misdemeanor only officers are not authorized to enter a residence or fenced in area of the residence, without first obtaining consent to enter from an individual who holds possessory interest in the property, regardless if the violation is an on view offense. All other entry into any residence or fenced property should be supported by:
   a. Probable cause to believe that a criminal offense classified as a Class B Misdemeanor or higher is in progress, and
   b. Urgent circumstances exist where an officer would not have time to secure a search warrant, or
   c. Consent from someone with possessory interest in the property, or
   d. A reasonable belief that immediate entry is necessary to protect anyone from physical harm.
3. If it is determined an offense has taken place, officers are to take appropriate enforcement action following established guidelines.
4. If a violation has been determined to involve a minor, the parents or guardian of the minor is contacted and requested to come to the scene to take custody of the violator.
5. Evidence obtained will be photographed and disposed of following established guidelines.

Question 50

Liquor Law Violations

Answer 50

When an arrest is made in a licensed premise as defined by T.A.B.C Section 104.06 due to intoxicated persons permitted to remain on the premises, a copy of the arrest reports are provided to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.

2. In order that desired administrative action be taken, the arrest report must contain the following additional information if applicable:
   a. Observation by the arresting officer of the licensee or his employee permitting the intoxicated person to remain on the premise. (or was in the position to see the intoxicated person, but did nothing to cause him to be removed). Identity of the licensee or the employee who served the intoxicated person (name, age, physical description, address and employment status).
   c. Res Gestae statements made by the licensee, employee or intoxicated person.

Question 51

Major Crime Scenes

Answer 51

Initial responding officers shall initiate the preliminary investigation and perform tasks as designated below until otherwise directed by a supervisor, investigator or other officer specifically assigned to investigations.

2. In transit to crime scenes, officers shall be cognizant of suspects/vehicles that may be in flight.
3. Upon arrival the officer should:
   a. Verify that a crime has been committed and relay essential information to communications.
   b. Administer first aid and/or summon emergency medical assistance if required and take those steps necessary to protect victims or others.
   c. Arrest the perpetrator if at the scene. A decision to leave the crime scene to arrest or pursue the perpetrator should be made based on weighing the immediate needs of victims and others against the safety of the public if the perpetrator were allowed to escape.
   d. Provide communications with such information as:
   i. nature of the crime committed;
   ii. description of the perpetrator and mode/direction of flight;
   iii. description of any vehicle used by the offender and any accomplices;
   iv. use of firearms or other deadly weapons; and
   v. any support required at the crime scene.

Question 52

Missing Persons/ Missing Children

Answer 52

There is no waiting period for reporting a missing person. Missing person reports shall be taken in-person or by telephone in conformance with the criteria of this Standard Operating Procedure and the criticality of the incident.

b. A person may be declared “missing” when his/her whereabouts is unknown and unexplainable for a period of time that is regarded by knowledgeable parties as highly unusual or suspicious in consideration of the subject‟s established behavior patterns, plans or routines.
c. An individual may be considered “missing-critical” who meets the following criteria:
i. A reasonable suspicion that the individual may be the subject of foul play.
ii. Any age where a person may be unable to properly safeguard or care for himself/herself.
iii. A person who suffers from diminished mental capacity or medical conditions that are potentially life threatening if left untreated/unattended.
iv. A person who is a patient of a mental institution and is considered potentially dangerous to himself or others.
v. A person who has demonstrated suicidal tendencies.
vi. A person that may have been involved in a boating, swimming or other sporting accident or natural disaster.
d. On any “missing-critical” investigation, an officer will remain on special assignment attempting to locate the individual until the individual is found or until the Assignment is lifted by the Chief of Police or his designee.
e. Reports of juveniles who are alleged to have voluntarily left home (i.e., “runaways”) should be classified as such only after thorough investigation.

Question 53

Parking Violations

Answer 53

Officers actively enforce parking ordinances in:

a. Legally marked and designated handicapped spaces;
b. fire lanes; and
c. no parking zones.
d. Special attention is given to parking violations in the following circumstances:
i. High traffic areas;
ii. Peak traffic times; and
iii. High complaint areas
2. Enforcement activity is only undertaken in areas lawfully designated by official means or as stipulated by State law and city ordinance. Supervisors may direct the enforcement activity be discontinued in specific areas for special events or unusual circumstances.
3. Officers may remove vehicles in an emergency situation or with the approval of a supervisor in a non-emergency situation and in accordance with the law.

Question 54

Public Intoxication

Answer 54

When a person is found to be intoxicated to the point that the person presents a danger to themselves or others, the appropriate enforcement option may be custodial arrest. Nothing contained herein is intended to restrict or inhibit the release of an intoxicated person to a person or appropriate treatment facility that accepts responsibility for the intoxicated person and in accordance with the law.
2. Whenever possible and practical to do so, such standardized field sobriety tests are conducted in conjunction with all intoxication related arrests.
3. Disposition of Evidence.
a. When an officer arrests or issues a citation to a person for public intoxication, or for any other alcohol-related Class C misdemeanor or City Ordinance violation, they will seize any alcoholic beverage in the possession of the person at the time of the arrest or issuance of a citation.
b. Alcoholic beverage containers seized in accordance with the preceding paragraph will be disposed of as follows:
i. If the person arrested or cited is under 21 years of age follow the guidelines as stated in: ( M. Consumption / Possession of Alcohol by Minor)
ii. If the person arrested or cited is 21 years of age or older, any open container will be poured out and the container properly discarded. Any unopened container, the person will be instructed to open and poured out. If the person refuses to discard the unopened container:
 then the container will be released with the consent of the person taken into custody, to a third party who is 21 years of age or older safeguarded by booking the containers into the property room as “safe keeping”. (containers of alcohol shall not be placed into the personal property of the arrested person in the jail).

Question 55

Robbery Investigations

Answer 55

1. Crime Scene Control
   a. The initial responding officer secures the crime scene and ensures the protection of evidence from victims, suspects, witnesses, spectators and other Department personnel. Adequate perimeters are established for the preservation of the crime scene. Officers remove or cause to be removed any animals or other conditions which may adversely affect the integrity of the scene. Officers request additional assistance as needed.
   b. Personnel may enter the crime scene only if they have a legitimate law enforcement function to perform there, and only at the discretion of the Crime Scene Investigator.
2. Supervisor’s Response
   a. The responding supervisor assumes direct control of the scene.
   b. The supervisor of the initial responding officer directs any assistance that is required and designates an officer to secure the crime scene if the initial officer must assume other duties, i.e., take custody of offender, accompany victim to hospital, etc.
   c. The supervisor assigns an officer the task of maintaining a crime scene log containing the names of individuals entering and exiting the crime scene including the time of entry/exit.
   d. The supervisor assigns officers to conduct a neighborhood inquiry.
   e. Persons near the scene are interviewed concerning what they may have seen or heard as well is what they know about the victim and his/her associates. Officers will diligently record full name, address, and a valid contact phone number of all developed witnesses for subsequent investigative purposes.

Question 56

Robbery in Progress Calls for Service

Answer 56

On all robbery in progress calls a minimum of two (2) officers are dispatched to the scene. In addition the shift supervisor is also requested to respond.
2. Upon Arrival the following takes place:
a. The officers arrive and an exterior perimeter is established.
b. Officers do not enter the building.
c. When the perimeter is set, the supervisor has the communication‟s operator contact the business.
d. The communication‟s operator instructs the business representative, to come outside and meet with the officers.
e. Upon speaking with the business representative the communication‟s operator notifies the supervisor as to the following:
Name of the subject coming out;
ii. Description, including clothing;
iii. The identification of the subject is verified by officers;
3. Unless circumstances prevent, in the event the suspects are still inside the business, officers will refrain from making contact with any suspect until they exit.
4. If a hostage and/or barricaded persons situation becomes evident, refer to section H of these procedures.

Question 57

Sexual Assault Investigations

Answer 57

Due to the trauma of a sexual assault, a victim reaching out for assistance may be in crisis. The victim‟s behaviors may actually be symptomatic of this condition and can range from hysteria, crying and rage to laughter, calmness, and unresponsiveness. There is no one typical reaction, so it is important to refrain from judging or disregarding any victim.

b. When a caller reports a sexual assault, communications personnel shall follow standard emergency response to include evaluating and properly prioritizing the call, securing medical assistance, inquiring about a suspect’s current location, and obtaining detailed information to identify the suspect. Information about the relationship with the victim, weapon use, and history of violence shall also be obtained.
c. To ensure critical evidence is not lost, communications personnel shall:
i. Ask whether the victim has bathed, douched, urinated, or made other physical changes and advise them against doing so.
ii. Ask the victim to use a clean jar to collect the urine should the victim have to urinate. Let the victim know that other evidence may still be identified and recovered so the crime should still be reported if the victim has bathed or made other physical changes.
iii. Preserve the communications audio recording and printout for the investigation.
iv. Explain to the caller that these questions will not delay an officer‟s response to the caller‟s location.

Question 58

Initial Officer Response - sexual assault

Answer 58

As part of the emergency response, officers shall:
a. Make contact with the victim as soon as possible to address safety concerns and summon emergency medical assistance if needed.
b. Attempt to obtain a suspect description immediately and broadcast to other officers.
c. Evaluate the scene for people, vehicles, or objects involved as well as possible threats.Relay all vital information to responding officers and supervisors, including any possible language barriers.
e. Secure the crime scene to ensure that evidence is not lost, changed, or contaminated.
Ask if the victim has changed clothes and locate/secure clothing items the victim changed out of. Clothing items should be packaged individually in clean paper bags. Identify if the assault occurred within the residence and secure those areas from unnecessary access. Check bathrooms for discarded evidence, e.g. used condoms, condom packaging, soiled tissues, other fluids, recent toilet use. Items should be photographed before being handled or disturbed. Notify investigators of findings.
f. Request response from investigators and crime scene technicians as appropriate.
g. Begin a search for the suspect when appropriate.

Question 59

Assisting the Victim

Answer 59

As part of the emergency response, officers shall:

i. Show understanding, patience, and respect for the victim‟s dignity and attempt to establish trust and rapport.
ii. Inform the victim that an officer of the same sex will be provided if desired and available.
iii. Contact a victim advocate as soon as possible to provide assistance throughout the reporting and investigative process.
iv. Supply victims of sexual assault with the phone number for the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) Hotline, 1-800-656-HOPE. Operators at this hotline connect the caller with the rape crisis center closest to the victim‟s location.
b. Request a response from investigations, and clearly explain his or her role and limit the preliminary interview so that the victim is not then asked the same questions by an investigator.
c. Be aware that a victim of sexual assault may bond with the first responding officer. It is important to explain the role of the different members of the sexual assault response team and help with transitions through introductions.
d. Record observations of the crime scene, including the demeanor of the suspect and victim and document any injuries or disheveled clothing.

Question 60

Evidence Collection Issues - sexual assault

Answer 60

Officers shall request assistance or direction from crime scene investigators.

b. Officers shall introduce the need for a medical examination to the victim explaining the importance to investigative and apprehension efforts as well as for the victim‟s well being.
c. If field officers are required to collect or assist in collecting evidence, proper evidence collection procedures will be used. DNA evidence plays a crucial role in the sexual assault investigation. In addition to the victim‟s and suspect‟s bodies and clothing, there are many other potential sources such as condoms, sheets, blankets, pillows, and bottles that may contain biological evidence such as blood, sweat, tissue, saliva, hair, and urine. To properly collect DNA evidence, officers shall:
i. Use sterile gloves and change gloves for each item of handling or collection to avoid contamination. Place all discarded gloves together in a single paper sack.
ii. Photograph or cause to be photographed, each item before handling and/or collection.
iii. Use sterile swabs, papers, solutions, and tools.
iv. Package evidence in individual paper bags or envelopes.
v. Avoid touching the area where potential DNA evidence may exist.
vi. Avoid talking, sneezing, and coughing over evidence.
vii. Air dry evidence before packaging.
viii. Put evidence into new paper bags or envelopes, not plastic.

Question 61

Stranded Motorists

Answer 61

Motorists who are stranded due to accident or mechanical difficulty are provided reasonable assistance as needed.

2. In the event of a motorist requesting a “battery jump”, officers should refrain from this practice due to special equipment and sensitive circuitry with regard to the police unit. A spike or electrical surge can cause thousands of dollars in equipment damages to a police vehicle.
3. Should the motorist need a wrecker, the Officer inquires as to which wrecker company is preferred. If the motorist has no preference, a City contract wrecker is requested.
4. The Officer remains at the scene if:
   a. The street or freeway is obstructed.
   b. A traffic hazard exists;
   c. Debris or other hazards are present.
   d. The stranded party is elderly, disabled, small children are present, or the person has expressed fear or a desire for the officer to remain until assistance arrives.
5. Officers should arrange for or provide local transportation to stranded motorists. Officers restrict this transportation to the City of Balch Springs, or contiguous cities when the situation reasonably allows such, unless otherwise approved by a Supervisor.

Question 62

Suspicious Persons

Answer 62

At least two officers respond to all suspicious person calls. Officers use caution when approaching a suspicious person:
a. If possible approach from behind in a well-lit area.
Stop far enough back to allow time for you to exit your unit.
c. Never pull alongside the individual.

Question 63

Vehicle Maintenance Procedure

Answer 63

Employees assigned a department vehicle assume responsibility to ensure that any malfunctions or mechanical problems with the assigned vehicle are promptly reported to the on-duty supervisor.

2. All maintenance is conducted through the City of Balch Springs Fleet services.
3. All such maintenance is scheduled through the on-duty supervisor.
4. Any employee experiencing difficulties with any vehicle of this department during their tour of duty that would obviously cause additional damage to the unit shall:
   a. Discontinue its use; and
   b. Immediately notify the shift supervisor of such problem with the vehicle; and
   c. Determine the appropriate course of action for the vehicle.

Question 64

Patrol Rifle Usage and Storage

Answer 64

Patrol rifles may be issued or used by officers who have completed the department 16 hour patrol rifle training and have maintained their required qualifications.

1. Rifles will be carried with a 30 round magazine loaded with 28 rounds. This will ensure that the bolt is not under tension of a fully loaded magazine.
2. Rifles are carried in the vehicle in the locking device. Vehicles without a locking device shall be carried in an approved carrying cases secured in the trunk of the vehicle.

Question 65

Patrol Shotguns Usage and Storage

Answer 65

Shotguns are assigned to the patrol division and are checked out each shift. All officers are required to complete the department 16 hour basic shotgun training prior to carrying the shotgun. After completion of training, officers are required to carry a shotgun while assigned to patrol duties. All shotguns shall be carried with one less than capacity in the magazine of approved .00 buck shot ammunition, chamber empty, trigger released, and safety on.

1. Four (4) extra rounds of approved .00 buck shot and two (2) rounds of Slug ammunition shall be carried with each shotgun.
2. All shotguns shall have a sling for securing the weapon.
   Shotguns will be secured inside the vehicle in the locking device. If the vehicle is not equipped with a locking device the shotgun will be secured in the trunk.
3. All shotguns stored at the police department shall be left in an unloaded condition, with chamber open, safety on and secured in gun vault or other designated location. Shotguns shall be unloaded and loaded outside the building.