Standard Operating Procedures

Chief: Michael Frost

Policies and Structure

The Denver Police Department (DPD) operates under a strict set of policies and guidelines to ensure effective law enforcement and community engagement. All employees are expected to adhere to these policies, with violations potentially resulting in disciplinary actions, including termination. For any inquiries or recommendations regarding departmental policies, personnel should consult their Supervisor or a member of the Chain of Command.

SECTION 1: Department Structure

[1.A] Chain of Command

The Chain of Command establishes the hierarchy of authority within the DPD, ensuring clear lines of responsibility and accountability. Understanding this structure is crucial for effective communication and decision-making.

Chief of Police: The top-ranking official responsible for the overall operation and strategic direction of the department.

Deputy Chief: Assists the Chief and oversees specific divisions, ensuring alignment with departmental goals.

Captain: Manages precincts or specialized units, oversees budgets, and ensures compliance with policies.

Lieutenant: Supervises sergeants and officers, coordinating day-to-day operations and incident management.

Sergeant: Leads teams, provides mentorship, and is responsible for evaluating officer performance.

Corporal: Acts as a shift supervisor and is involved in training new recruits.

Senior Officer: Experienced patrol officers who take on additional responsibilities.

Officer: Conducts patrols, responds to calls, and engages with the community.

Probationary Officer: In training, must complete probationary requirements to become a full-time officer.

Cadet Officer: Pre-hire stage, undergoing training to prepare for a law enforcement career.

[1.B] Administrative Staff Roles

Chief of Police
The Chief leads the DPD, overseeing all operations and strategic initiatives. Responsibilities include developing policies, engaging with community stakeholders, and managing relationships with local government officials. The Chief ensures the department’s mission aligns with community needs and safety objectives.

Deputy Chief
The Deputy Chief supports the Chief in executing policies and managing specific divisions, such as Criminal Investigations or Community Outreach. This role includes developing operational plans, analyzing crime trends, and ensuring that all departmental activities comply with legal standards.

Captain
Captains are responsible for managing precincts or specialized units, overseeing personnel, budgets, and resources. They ensure that policies are effectively implemented, and they work closely with lieutenants to address issues that arise within their teams.

Lieutenant
Lieutenants serve as crucial intermediaries between upper management and front-line officers. They supervise sergeants, manage incident reports, and coordinate with other law enforcement agencies during joint operations.

Sergeant
Sergeants play a vital role in the mentorship and training of officers. They are responsible for ensuring that departmental policies are upheld, addressing performance issues, and providing guidance during complex situations.

Corporal
Corporals act as team leaders during shifts, providing support to sergeants and ensuring that officers adhere to protocols. They are also involved in training and evaluation processes for new recruits.

Senior Officer
Senior Officers serve as role models within the department, leveraging their experience to guide less experienced officers. They may take on specialized tasks and assist in training initiatives.

Officer
Officers form the core of the DPD, responding to emergency calls, conducting patrols, and engaging with the community to build trust and ensure public safety.

Probationary Officer
Probationary Officers are in a critical training phase, learning essential skills and knowledge necessary for effective law enforcement. They must complete a series of evaluations before achieving full officer status.

Cadet Officer
Cadet Officers are in the pre-hire phase, participating in training programs to prepare for a career in law enforcement. Their success in training will determine their eligibility for hire.

SECTION 2: Department Policies

[2.A] Vehicle Structures

[2A.1] Vehicle Appearance and Performance
All DPD vehicles must meet specific standards regarding appearance and functionality. Officers are responsible for ensuring that their patrol vehicles are clean, clearly marked, and equipped with operational emergency lights and sirens. Regular inspections should be conducted to ensure compliance with these standards.

[2A.2] Vehicle Usage Policies
Only authorized personnel may operate certain vehicles, especially those with specialized features. Misuse or unauthorized use of department vehicles is subject to disciplinary actions, including potential termination. Officers must report any mechanical issues or damages immediately to maintain the safety and integrity of department resources.

[2.B] Patrol Structure

[2B.1] Patrol Requirements
Before beginning a patrol shift, officers must:

1. Vehicle Compliance: Ensure the patrol vehicle meets all departmental policies and is ready for service.
2. Clock In: Officers must clock in at designated locations to record their presence and readiness for duty.
3. Communication: Notify dispatch of their availability and readiness to respond to calls.
4. Equipment Check: Equip necessary tools, including body cameras, firearms, and other safety gear.

[2B.2] Patrol Policies
During patrol, officers are expected to:

• Maintain professionalism at all times, representing the department positively in interactions with the public.
• Follow established safety protocols and departmental policies, ensuring a safe environment for both officers and civilians.
• Accurately document incidents, including all relevant details in incident reports to ensure transparency and accountability.

SECTION 3: Training and Development

[3.A] Training Requirements

All personnel must undergo comprehensive training, including:

• Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET): Covers fundamental skills such as criminal law, defensive tactics, and community policing.
• Firearms Training: Ensures proficiency in the use of department-issued firearms, focusing on safety and accuracy.
• De-escalation Techniques: Teaches officers how to diffuse tense situations using verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
• Community Policing Strategies: Promotes engagement with community members to foster trust and cooperation.

[3.B] Ongoing Training

To promote continuous development, officers are required to participate in:

• Annual In-Service Training: Refreshes knowledge on policies, procedures, and legal updates.
• Specialized Training: For units like SWAT, K-9, or Traffic, providing advanced skills tailored to specific responsibilities.
• Mental Health and Wellness Training: Offers strategies for managing stress and maintaining mental health, crucial for officers’ well-being.

SECTION 4: Community Engagement

[4.A] Community Policing Initiatives

The DPD is committed to building strong relationships with the community through various initiatives, including:

• Neighborhood Watch Programs: Encourages residents to participate in local safety efforts, fostering cooperation between police and community members.
• Community Meetings: Provides a platform for open dialogue, allowing community members to voice concerns and suggest improvements.
• School Resource Officer Programs: Places officers in schools to build positive relationships with students and staff, addressing issues before they escalate.
• Youth Engagement Initiatives: Programs designed to educate and engage young people in law enforcement, promoting future career paths in public service.

[4.B] Transparency and Accountability

The DPD prioritizes transparency through:

• Regular Community Forums: Engages the public in discussions about departmental practices and policies.
• Public Access to Data: Provides community members with access to crime statistics and departmental reports, fostering trust and openness.
• Body-Worn Cameras: Implements body-worn cameras for all patrol officers to enhance accountability and provide a record of interactions.

SECTION 5: Disciplinary Actions

[5.A] General Disciplinary Actions

Disciplinary actions are categorized based on the severity of the violation:

• Minor Violations: These may result in a verbal warning or written reprimand and often focus on conduct that does not significantly impact the department’s operations.
• Moderate Violations: More serious infractions may lead to suspension or mandatory retraining, emphasizing the need for improvement.
• Severe Violations: Major breaches of conduct can lead to demotion, termination, or legal action, particularly for actions that jeopardize public safety or trust.

[5.B] Specific Disciplinary Procedures

The process for addressing violations includes:

1. Investigation: All complaints and violations undergo thorough investigations to determine the facts.
2. Hearing: Officers have the right to a hearing where they can present evidence and defend against the charges.
3. Appeal Process: Officers may appeal disciplinary actions within a specified timeframe, ensuring fairness in the process.

[5.C] Disciplinary Actions Based on Rank

Disciplinary measures may vary by rank, reflecting the level of responsibility. Higher-ranking officers, such as sergeants and lieutenants, are held to higher standards due to their leadership roles. Violations by senior staff can lead to more severe consequences to maintain departmental integrity.

SECTION 6: Health and Wellness

[6.A] Officer Wellness Programs

The DPD is dedicated to the mental and physical health of its employees through various programs, including:

• Access to Counseling Services: Provides confidential support for officers dealing with stress, trauma, or personal issues.
• Regular Fitness Assessments: Encourages officers to maintain physical fitness, which is crucial for effective performance in the field.
• Peer Support Networks: Establishes connections among officers for sharing experiences and providing mutual support.

[6.B] Stress Management Resources

Officers are encouraged to utilize resources designed for stress management, including:

• Workshops: Regular sessions on stress management techniques and mental resilience.
• Mindfulness Programs: Introduces practices like yoga and meditation to promote relaxation and mental clarity.
• Time-off Policies: Encourages officers to take leave when necessary for mental health

Chief Signature Michael Frost P-01