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Patrol | Support | Operations

Patrol Division

The Patrol Division, under the direction of the Patrol Division Chief, is the largest division within the Police Department. There are more than 160 officers under the supervision of three commanders. Patrols are provided all day, every day of the year. In addition to 18 patrol beat cars, each of the three regions has at least one extra patrol car assigned to assist the region. This does not include the additional K-9 officers, supervisors, traffic and specialty unit cars, or overtime patrols that fall within this unit. These patrol units ensure a timely, safe, and appropriate response throughout the entire city.

The Patrol Division is composed of the following units:

  • Patrol
  • K-9
  • Bomb Squad
  • Rapid Response Team (RRT)
  • SWAT

The Patrol Division provides the following services:

  • Crash investigations
  • Crime scene technicians
  • Crisis negotiation
  • Honor Guard
  • Motorcycle Unit
  • Special events support
  • Traffic control

 

Support Division

The Support Division includes the Logistics Bureau and Investigative Bureau. 

The Investigative Bureau, commonly known as the Detective Bureau, is composed of approximately 50 sworn and non-sworn personnel assigned to a wide variety of duties. The main responsibilities of the Bureau are to investigate reported crimes against persons and property. The Investigative Bureau is on-call 24 hours a day to respond to major crimes. All detectives are trained and knowledgeable investigators who are committed to follow leads on cases that a normal patrol officer would not have the time or resources to complete.

The Investigative Bureau also has detectives report to the St. Joseph County Prosecutor's metro investigative units where they serve on the County Metro Homicide Unit (CMHU), Drug Investigations Unit (DIU), and Special Victims Unit (SVU). 

The Logistics Bureau provides important support for SBPD and includes the following divisions and units:

  • Payroll and Finance
  • Grant Writing
  • Records Bureau
  • Property and Evidence
  • Crime Lab: The South Bend Police Department continues to advance in evidence analysis. Our Crime Lab is currently working on certification for two examiners in Footwear and Tire mark Impression. It was through the help of Our Local Community Partner Hoosier Tire that essential information and training on tires was able to be accomplished. Hoosier Tire continues to show its commitment to Community involvement. The South Bend Police Department greatly appreciates this help.
  • Public Service Officers
  • Research and Development
  • Building Maintenance
  • Motor Pool

Operations Division

The Operations Division is responsible for the day to day functioning of the department as well as strategic planning. The Operations Division includes:

  • Recruitment, training, and career development
  • Office of Professional Standards
  • Public information
  • Community outreach
  • Strategic Focus Unit
  • Crime intelligence and analysis
  • Michiana Crime Stoppers