Dear Reader:
The following document was created from the MTAS website (www.mtas.tennessee.edu). This website is maintained daily by MTAS staff and seeks to represent the most current information regarding issues relative to Tennessee municipal government.
We hope this information will be useful to you; reference to it will assist you with many of the questions that will arise in your tenure with municipal government. However, the Tennessee Code Annotated and other relevant laws or regulations should always be consulted before any action is taken based upon the contents of this document.
Please feel free to contact us if you have questions or comments regarding this information or any other MTAS website material.
Sincerely,
The University of Tennessee
Municipal Technical Advisory Service
1610 University Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37921-6741
865-974-0411 phone
865-974-0423 fax
www.mtas.tennessee.edu
POLICE OFFICER
DEFINITION
This employee is responsible for protection of the life and property of the citizens of the city. This employee is under the direct supervision of the Chief of Police and the superior shift supervisor. The employee is expected to perform his or her duties according to state laws, city ordinances and the policies and procedures of the police department. Instructions to the employee are somewhat general but many aspects of the work follow standardized guidelines. However, the employee is frequently required to use independent judgement in order to complete tasks.
EQUIPMENT/JOB LOCATION
The employee will operate a variety of equipment including firearms, radio and communications equipment, police vehicles, radar, drug test kit, computer, and fingerprinting and emergency equipment.
The demands of this position can be stressful both mentally and physically.
The employee may be required to run, jump, bend, climb, crawl, squat, lift and carry heavy objects.
The employee will work both indoors and outdoors with the possibility of being exposed to adverse weather conditions and hazardous or extremely dangerous situations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
Patrols, by foot or motor vehicle, the streets of the city, places of business, and residential districts enforcing city ordinances and state laws.
Investigates suspected crimes, reports findings, and arrests suspected individuals.
Investigates accidents involving persons or property, reports probable cause of accidents, and pursues appropriate course of action.
Answers dispatched calls.
ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED
Directs and controls traffic.
Testifies in court or legal proceedings.
May issue parking tickets.
Maintains all law enforcement equipment.
Provides specialized instruction and makes presentations to school classrooms, community groups, and others.
Assists other departments or agencies with law enforcement activities.
May perform emergency first aid.
May provide animal control services.
Serves as dispatcher.
Operates a computer.
Keeps records.
Performs related work as required.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of the local jurisdiction, city ordinances, and state and federal laws.
Effective methods of investigation.
The court system and presentation of evidence in court proceedings.
Geography of the city.
Methods of first aid.
Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations and to determine the proper course of action.
Ascertain facts by personal contact, observation, and the examination of records.
Explain and interpret pertinent provisions of laws, ordinances and regulations.
Enforce laws firmly, tactfully, equally, and with respect for the rights of others.
Develop skill in the use and care of firearms.
Establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the public and other employees.
Contact with the general public, in a variety of circumstances, is frequent.
Understand and execute difficult oral and written instructions and guidelines.
QUALIFICATIONS
Must possess a valid Tennessee driver's license.
Any combination of training and experience equivalent to:
Graduation from high school.
Must complete a basic police training course within one year of employment.
Must meet the Minimum Standards POST Law (TCA 38-112-106).
Links:
[1] https://www.mtas.tennessee.edu/kb-authors/mtas
DISCLAIMER: The letters and publications written by the MTAS consultants were written based upon the law at the time and/or a specific sets of facts. The laws referenced in the letters and publications may have changed and/or the technical advice provided may not be applicable to your city or circumstances. Always consult with your city attorney or an MTAS consultant before taking any action based on information contained in this website.
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