Police Officer

Overview

The primary purpose of this position is general duty police work involving protection of life and property, enforcement of laws, crime investigation, and service to the public. The employee has a significant impact on the quality of life through community partnership, strategic police patrols, and thorough investigations. Assignments may include, but are not limited to patrol, traffic investigations, canine, crime prevention or other police-related functions.

The Sandpoint Police Department has a four-phase testing process to select the best candidate. After you submit your application, you will receive more information on next steps. Below is a brief overview of the testing process and important dates.

• Patrols assigned areas to ensure the security of life and property, observe situations, deter crime by providing high visibility, and inform the public on methods to improve security.
• Respond to suspicious activities and emergency calls for service.
• Enforce local, state, and federal laws and ordinances; issue verbal warnings and citations; pursue and apprehend suspects; request assistance as required; transport prisoners.
• Investigate juvenile and designated adult criminal activity and incidents; interview victims, complainants, witnesses and suspects.
• Coordinate crime scene control and investigation, including interviews, interrogations and identification of witnesses.
• Process crime scenes and collect evidence; store and maintain evidence; may send evidence to other agencies as required.
• Restore order, protect life and property, and maintain peace at public gatherings and in conflict situations.
• Prepare and document cases, complete reports and records, and maintain logs; provide evidence and testimony in court.
• Investigate traffic accidents and provide traffic and crowd control as necessary; participate in special details and assignments.
• Provide emergency aid to incapacitated persons and request additional response.
• Provide information, directions, and other services to the public.
• Direct the activities of police support personnel in field situations.
• Organize and coordinate special assignments, such as crime prevention programs in schools and the community.
• Perform work in accordance with city policies, procedures, and safety practices.
• Assist other staff with assignments and duties as necessary.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Principles, practices, techniques and equipment used in law enforcement, patrol, crime scene and follow-up investigation, pursuit and apprehension, and custody of prisoners.
• Identification techniques and equipment used in investigations.
• Applicable laws, rules, regulations, orders, and court decisions related to law enforcement.
• Safety practices and precautions including safe handling of firearms.
• First aid methods and procedures.
• Standard business software tools (database management, word processing, spreadsheets, email, Internet).
• Techniques for working with diverse populations in potentially confrontational or strained situations.

• Interpreting and applying complex laws, procedures, and policies.
• Maintaining accurate files and preparing clear reports and written materials.
• Staying calm and taking appropriate action in difficult situations.
• Observing and recalling…