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Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

Code of Ethics and Trooper Operations​

  1. Code of Ethics:
    • Upholding integrity, honesty, and professionalism in all interactions.
    • Respecting constitutional rights and treating all individuals with dignity.
    • Maintaining impartiality and avoiding discrimination or bias.
    • Committing to public service and community welfare.
  2. Operational Procedures:
    • Conducting patrols with vigilance and attentiveness.
    • Adhering to traffic laws and regulations.
    • Engaging in proactive policing to deter crime.
    • Cooperating with other law enforcement agencies for effective coordination.

Communication with Other Troopers​

  • Effective Communication:
    • Using clear and concise language over radio communications.
    • Following protocols for sharing information and updates.
    • Respecting chain of command in communication hierarchies.
  • Report Writing:
    • Documenting incidents accurately and comprehensively.
    • Including essential details such as time, location, involved parties, and actions taken.
    • Using standardized formats and language for clarity and consistency.
  • Probable Cause vs. Reasonable Suspicion:
    • Probable Cause: Having sufficient facts or evidence to believe a crime has been, is being, or will be committed.
    • Reasonable Suspicion: A belief based on specific facts that a person is, has been, or will be involved in criminal activity.

Use of Force and Vehicle Operations​

  • Use of Force:
    • Employing force only when necessary and proportional to the situation.
    • Following guidelines for de-escalation techniques.
    • Reporting all instances of force used.
  • Vehicle Operations:
    • Operating vehicles safely and within traffic laws.
    • Using emergency equipment (lights and sirens) appropriately.
    • Adhering to speed limits and traffic signals while responding to emergencies.

Uniform and Equipment Standards​

  • Uniform Presentation:
    • Maintaining a neat and professional appearance.
    • Displaying appropriate identification and insignia.
  • Duty Belt and Vest:
    • Carrying essential equipment such as firearm, handcuffs, baton, and radio.
    • Ensuring all equipment is in working order and accessible.

Officer Safety and Medical Procedures​

  • Officer Safety:
    • Prioritizing personal safety and the safety of others in all situations.
    • Using protective equipment as necessary.
    • Following established protocols for handling potentially dangerous situations.
  • Medical Attention Procedures:
    • Providing immediate medical aid to injured parties when safe to do so.
    • Summoning emergency medical services promptly when needed.

Chain of Command and Emergency Response​

  • Chain of Command:
    • Respecting hierarchical structure for decision-making and accountability.
    • Following orders and directives from superiors.
  • Emergency Response:
    • Responding promptly to emergency calls.
    • Using appropriate lights and sirens to alert other motorists.
    • Ensuring safe and efficient navigation through traffic.
  • Miranda Rights:
    • Advising suspects of their rights to remain silent and have an attorney present during custodial interrogations.
    • Ensuring compliance with legal requirements to protect suspects' constitutional rights.

Usage of the Card/MDT​

  • Card/MDT Usage:
    • Using Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) or similar devices for accessing information and conducting checks.
    • Adhering to protocols for data privacy and security.