Pinetop-Lakeside
Police Department

• Police Chief: The Police Chief is the highest-ranking officer in the department and is responsible for overall command and management. They set strategic goals, develop policies, and ensure the department operates efficiently.
• Patrol Division: The Patrol Division is the police department’s backbone, responsible for routine patrol activities, responding to emergency calls, and conducting preliminary investigations. Officers in this division are often the first responders to incidents in the community.
• Criminal Investigations Division: This division focuses on conducting in-depth investigations into serious crimes such as homicides, robberies, and major thefts. Detectives in this unit gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work to solve complex cases.
• Traffic Division: The Traffic Division is dedicated to enforcing traffic laws and ensuring road safety. Officers in this unit handle traffic accidents, issue citations for violations, and work to reduce the number of traffic-related incidents.
• K-9 Unit: The K-9 Unit comprises specially trained police dogs and their handlers. These dogs assist in various tasks, including tracking suspects, locating narcotics, and searching for missing persons.
• Community Policing: This unit focuses on building positive relationships with the community and addressing quality-of-life issues. Officers interact with residents, businesses, and community organizations to better understand and meet their needs.

The history of the Pinetop-Lakeside Police Department dates back to its establishment several decades ago. The department has evolved over time to meet the changing needs of the growing community. Originally a small force with limited resources, it has grown into a well-equipped and highly professional law enforcement agency. Throughout its history, the department has been dedicated to serving and protecting the people of Pinetop-Lakeside.

The Pinetop-Lakeside Police Department plays a vital role in serving the local community and maintaining public safety. Some ways it fulfills this role include:

• Emergency Response: The department provides 24/7 emergency response services, ensuring that help is always available when needed the most. Whether it’s a crime in progress, a medical emergency, or a traffic accident, the police are there to assist.
• Community Engagement: Community policing is a cornerstone of the department’s approach. Officers actively engage with residents, attend community events, and listen to concerns to build trust and foster a sense of partnership between law enforcement and the community.
• Crime Prevention: Through proactive patrols and public outreach, the police department works to prevent crime before it happens. Education programs and safety initiatives are conducted to raise awareness and empower the community to take an active role in crime prevention.
• Investigative Excellence: The Criminal Investigations Division diligently investigates crimes to bring offenders to justice. Their commitment to solving cases contributes to maintaining a safe environment for residents and visitors.
• Collaboration with Other Agencies: The Pinetop-Lakeside Police Department collaborates with other law enforcement agencies, emergency services, and community organizations to address broader public safety issues and promote a coordinated response to emergencies.

The Pinetop-Lakeside Police Department is an integral part of the community, dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents. With a strong focus on community engagement, crime prevention, and professional law enforcement practices, the department continues to serve as a pillar of support and security for the Pinetop-Lakeside area.

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