3.1 Purpose

The purpose of this chapter is to establish clear guidelines for patrol operations conducted by the San Andreas State Police (SASP). It ensures that all officers operate efficiently, safely, and in alignment with department policies, maximizing public safety while maintaining accountability.

3.2 General Patrol Guidelines

• Officers are expected to conduct proactive patrols, ensuring visibility and crime deterrence.

• Officers must maintain situational awareness at all times, assessing potential threats and responding appropriately.

• Officers shall engage with the public professionally and courteously, upholding the idea of community policing.

• Officers are required to follow department policies regarding the use of lights, sirens, and emergency responses.

• Officers must adhere to state laws at all times, setting an example for the community.

3.3 General Patrol Guidelines, cont.

• Do not use HEAT or BIKE unless the suspect's vehicle is a SUPER car or vehicle known to obtain extreme speeds. Use sound judgement. 

• Only 1 HEAT vehicle OR 1 Motorcycle allowed on a vehicle pursuit. 

• Max of 3 patrol vehicles on a chase with 1 patrol vehicle running parallel.

• If your vehicle gets disabled, you may not rejoin the chase or repair your vehicle unless the criminal initiates a vehicle swap. 

• If the scene escalates, more vehicles may be requested with approval of Command+. 

• Do not shoot or taze tires unless you are in immediate danger. 

3.4 Vehicle Operations & Safety

• All department-issued vehicles must be operated safely and within department policy. Reckless or unauthorized driving is strictly prohibited.

• Officers shall always wear seatbelts while operating or riding in a department vehicle.

3.5 Patrol Responsibilities & Expectations

• Officers must respond to calls for service promptly and effectively, prioritizing emergency calls first.

• Officers shall conduct periodic business and neighborhood checks to enhance community policing efforts.

• Officers should conduct themselves with integrity and accountability, reporting any violations or misconduct observed during patrols.

3.6 Engaging With Civilians & Traffic Stops

• Officers shall use de-escalation tactics when interacting with civilians to prevent unnecessary confrontations.

• Traffic Stops: Officers must adhere to proper protocol when initiating a traffic stop, including:

  • Proper radio callout with location, vehicle description, and occupant count.

  • Clear and professional communication with the driver.

  • Issuance of citations or warnings in accordance with departmental policy.

• Officers should always approach civilian interactions with professionalism, ensuring equal treatment.

3.7 Response to Calls for Service

• Officers shall respond to emergency calls immediately while prioritizing officer and public safety.

• Code Response Guidelines:

  • Code 1: Routine response, no lights or sirens.

  • Code 2: Urgent response, lights only (no sirens).

  • Code 3: Emergency response, lights and sirens activated.

• Officers must provide radio updates when en route, on-scene, and clearing calls.

• If backup is required, officers shall request additional units immediately and establish a secure perimeter when necessary.

• Officer safety is the priority—do not rush into dangerous situations without proper assessment and backup.

3.8 Report Writing & Documentation

• Officers are required to complete accurate and detailed reports for all incidents, including:

  • Arrests

  • Traffic citations or other fines

  • Major calls for service

• Reports must be submitted before the end of an officer’s shift unless otherwise approved by a supervisor.

3.9 commands and tools

• /impound -- Used to impound nearby vehicle

• /panic -- used by downed/in trouble officers to request assistance to all working via alarm with GPS location

• /jail -- used to send someone to jail post arrest processing

• F7 Menu (Billing Menu) > Create Invoice > Job Invoice -- Used to fine a suspect

• F6/F10 Menu (Police Menu) -- Search suspect, check identification, issue weapon license, jail suspect (don't use), unhandcuff suspect, handcuff suspect, escort suspect, place in vehicle, remove in vehicle, vehicle interactions, place objects, fines (don't use)

3.10 Surveillance cameras

Surveillance cameras are now available in the armory. They are currently rank-locked to only be used by Sergeant and higher, however, this may change. The general ROEs for surveillance cameras are as follows:

• Personal Owned Businesses: Cameras NOT AUTHORIZED unless you have written approval from the Court, City Council, or PD Commissioner.

• Public Businesses (Banks, Gas Stations, etc.) & Public Property: Cameras authorized with Command+ approval