Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers

About the Role

Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers enforce laws, maintain public order, and ensure community safety through patrols and proactive policing strategies.

Other Common Titles

Patrol Officer
Deputy Sheriff
Law Enforcement Officer
Police Officer
Crime Prevention Officer

Typical Tasks

Patrolling assigned areas to deter and detect crime
Responding to emergency calls and incidents
Investigating crimes and gathering evidence
Writing detailed reports on incidents and arrests
Assisting the public with various safety and legal matters
Conducting traffic stops and enforcing vehicle laws
Collaborating with other law enforcement agencies and community organizations
Testifying in court as needed regarding investigations and arrests

Notable People

Henry Goddard – An early police reformer and advocate for the use of scientific methods in criminal investigations.
Rudolph Giuliani – Former Mayor of New York City known for his crime reduction policies during his tenure, emphasizing aggressive policing.
Alice Stebbins Wells – The first woman in the United States to become a sworn police officer, advocating for the inclusion of women in law enforcement.

Recommended Resources

The Police Basics
A comprehensive overview of the police profession and its responsibilities.
Law Enforcement Today
A podcast discussing current events, trends, and challenges within law enforcement.
International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)
A professional organization that supports police leaders in their efforts to enhance the safety of communities.