Patrol

Functions

Patrol CarPatrol operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In order to provide this coverage, it is split into three shifts: the day shift (6 am to 4 pm), afternoon/power shift (4 pm to 3 pm), and night shift (8 pm to 6 am). The power shift is designed to overlap the afternoon and night shifts, providing additional officers at peak periods. Most Patrol Deputies are scheduled on a 7-days on and 7-days off rotation.

In addition, the office participates in the High Visibility Patrol (HVP) program which allows deputies that live within the county to take the squad car home at the end of each shift during their work week. Deputies agree to start shifts early or stay late if called for service in their "home" area for this benefit. In this manner the Community benefits by having law enforcement services nearby for faster response times, additional patrol, and presence.

Patrol falls under the control of the Operations Division and is led by the Operations Division Captain. The rest of the Patrol consists of:

  • Three Lieutenants
  • Four Sergeants
  • 25 Deputies, including two K-9 units

Basic Duties

A Deputy Sheriff performs various law enforcement functions. Basic duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Patrol the County and all municipalities within Portage County.
  • Traffic enforcement
  • Respond to and investigate traffic accidents
  • Respond to and investigate criminal complaints
  • Interview victims, suspects, and witnesses
  • Serve warrants and civil papers
  • Transport inmates
  • Community Policing activities
  • Assist other Law Enforcement agencies.

Specialized Duties

Patrol Deputies can "specialize" in an area beyond regular patrol responsibilities. Such responsibilities include:

  • Special Response Team
  • Crisis/Hostage Negotiator
  • Field Training Officer
  • Background Investigator
  • Technical Accident Investigation
  • Law Enforcement Instructor
  • Safety Program Instructor
  • K-9 Officer
  • Boat, ATV, Snowmobile, and Bicycle Patrol.