During 2003, this focus resulted in a 29% reduction in traffic accidents, and we are continuing this success. The Division is also directing resources in an attempt to control and eventually remove the possession and sale of illegal drugs within the community. Arrests for possession and sale of controlled substances have increased significantly. Our goal is to make the City of Republic one of the safest communities in Southwest Missouri .

The Patrol Division has developed a number of new programs directed at improving our service to the public. These programs also afford our officers the opportunity to gain experience in many areas of law enforcement.

The Patrol Division has a Field Training Program that is comprised of over 500 hours of instruction and review given to recruits by professionally trained and experienced officers. Recruits that complete this intense level of instruction are prepared to become self-sufficient line officers.

The Division’s vehicle fleet is comprised of both Ford Crown Victoria’s and Chevrolet Impalas. For the first time in its history, the Police Department obtained a Harley Davidson Police Motorcycle in 2003 through the Harley Davidson Lease Program. We are developing a vehicle replacement plan with the City that will enable us to keep our fleet in excellent operational condition.

The Division is supported by both Auxiliary and Explorer Officer Units. The Auxiliary Unit is comprised of fully trained and certified officers who are dedicated to patrol operations for at least one shift per month. They also provide patrol services at special events within the community as well as high school athletic games. The Explorer Unit is comprised of young men and women who desire the opportunity to explore the possibility of a career in law enforcement. They handle many special projects for the Police Department and gain valuable experience by riding with patrol officers.

The In-service Training Program is comprised of a supervisory officer who coordinates all training opportunities both within and outside the Department. It is the belief of the current command staff that all officers should be afforded the opportunity to seek the most professional training available.

The Department is in the process of developing a Tactical Support Unit. This is a unit of well trained officers given the task of handling high-risk support operations. The goal is to have this unit on line and operational prior to mid-2006.

Many of our patrol officers handle special duties on a regular basis. These include Police Bicycle Patrol, Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance, In-Service instruction in numerous law enforcement topics and special community projects.