Patrol Services
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| The St. John Patrol Division consists of three platoons of five officers each. Each platoon is headed by a Patrol Sergeant, and is staffed with one Corporal and three patrolmen. Officers are on patrol 24 hours a day, every day. In addition to responding to a wide range of calls for service, patrol officers enforce traffic laws, investigate accidents, conduct criminal apprehensions and investigations, respond to fire and medical emergencies, conduct business and vacation checks, and many other functions. Patrol is accomplished primarily by the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (above), and each vehicle is outfitted with the latest technology, such as computers and video systems. Officers also patrol on foot and bicycle when weather permits. |
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| Bicycle patrol is considered part of Community Policing. Citizens often feel officers on a bicycle are more “approachable” than in a patrol car. Our bicycle patrol officers patrol the City during the spring, summer, and fall as weather permits. In addition, the bicycles provide for tactical and operational uses that patrol cars do not. Our rugged mountain-style bikes are capable of off-road use, permitting us to operate in areas where the patrol cars are unable to. Further, by being silent and sleek, they provide a stealthy means to conduct various enforcement or surveillance operations. Bicycle patrol officers also participate in functions such as National Night out and Neighborhood Watch meetings. |
| St. John also operates a Police K-9 Unit. Our German Shepherd canine, “Fly” is an invaluable asset to the department. He is trained in protection, narcotics detection, and tracking. Fly can assist our officers, as well as other departments, with tracking a fleeing suspect or missing person, finding hidden narcotics, or building searches. Fly also does K-9 demonstrations throughout the St. Louis area. He is handled by Sgt. Dan Higgins. |
