Aside from crime prevention, the goals of a patrol officer are to protect lives and property, apprehend and prosecute offenders, and try to preserve peace.
Patrol officers conduct a thorough initial investigation, collect evidence, and record data which will aid in the identification, apprehension, and prosecution of offenders and the recovery of property. They are responsible for exerting every effort to satisfy the needs of citizens requesting service, assistance, or information. When necessary, they make reports of crimes, vehicular accidents, and incidents.
The Patrol Division also consists of several specialized fields including the K-9 Unit, Bicycle Patrol, Motor Unit, School Resource Officers, Animal Control Officers, Telephone Reporting Unit, and the Community Resources Team. An assignment to any of these specialized fields is voluntary and requires special schooling and training.
Responds to calls concerning animals
Used for traffic control, bicycle safety classes, etc
Supported by 5 canines
Supports Winchester Public Schools with four SROs
Handles a multitude of high-risk situations
Used in conjunction with regular patrol units
Provides an effective approach to receiving citizen calls for service
Captain Jason Poe 540-662-4131 Email