To: All RPD Personnel

From: Chief Gary Manos

Date: August 1, 2018

Ref: S.O.P. 18:001 - Community Policing

This SOP establishes guidelines for the philosophy of Community Policing by members of the Ridgely Police Department.

The Ridgely Police Department has a foundation in community service with a philosophy that promotes and supports organizational strategies. The goal of our efforts is to enhance the quality of life, seek solutions, reduce the fear of crime through problem solving and community-police partnerships, and foster a sense of security in both individual citizens and the community.

Members of the Ridgely Police Department will strive to involve all citizens as partners in the process of reducing and controlling crime as well as improving the overall quality of life in the town. Department members will be cognizant that mutual trust between the police and the community is essential for effective policing.

Community Policing reflects both a philosophical as well as a corresponding stylistic manner of how policing will be accomplished. Department members must effectively utilize the resources available to them (both within and outside the agency). It is incumbent upon every agency member to embrace the overall philosophy and adopt a mindset of true Community Policing.

Department members are encouraged to initiate communication with both citizens and businesses to learn what most affects them. This is accomplished by conducting regular business checks, attendance at Ridgely Town Meetings, and attendance at civic meetings/gatherings.

Department members are encouraged to be proactive and to focus on problem-solving techniques as they handle calls for service. Members will be held accountable for their efforts to assist citizens in resolving community-oriented problems that are brought to their attention.

Department members shall strive to identify and recognize those members of the community (individual and otherwise) who are most vulnerable as a means of better understanding their needs.

Community Policing can only be successful when fully supported by the Police Chief and Town Commissioners. It requires an investment in training with special attention focused on communication skills, conflict resolution, resource ID, networking, and cross-culture competency.