Orlando Police Department

At the helm of the Orlando Police Department is the Chief of Police, who is currently Eric D. Smith. The department consists of various units, each with specific roles and responsibilities:

• Patrol Division: This is the largest division, and it is in charge of providing 24-hour service to the city, such as responding to calls for service, crime prevention, and traffic enforcement.

• Investigation Division: This unit takes the lead on all criminal investigations and works diligently to bring offenders to justice.
• Community Relations Division: This division focuses on maintaining and improving the department’s relationship with the community, conducting outreach programs, and promoting police-community partnerships.
• Support Services Division: This unit handles logistics, supplies, and other behind-the-scenes work that helps the department run smoothly.

The Orlando Police Department has a rich history that spans decades. In the 1960s, the department conducted a firearm training program for women, showcasing its dedication to community engagement and safety. A significant milestone was achieved in 1998 when Jerry Demings became the department’s first African-American chief, serving with distinction until 2002.

The Orlando Police Department actively seeks to build bridges with the community it serves. It participates in the White House Police Data Initiative, sharing data on officer-involved shootings since 2009. By promoting transparency, the department aims to foster trust between law enforcement and the community.

OPD’s commitment to diversity within its ranks reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the community. The department recently graduated a large recruitment class, indicative of its ongoing efforts to attract diverse staff, including increasing the number of officers of Asian descent. Moreover, it extends ‘sign-on’ bonuses to attract new officers, including those transferring from out-of-state agencies.

However, serving Orlando doesn’t come without its challenges. The department faces nationwide recruitment difficulties, and there has been criticism of its work environment. Despite these challenges, OPD remains dedicated to its mission to maintain order, prevent crime, and protect the citizens of Orlando, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to public service.

The Orlando Police Department continues to make strides in its goal to be a premier law enforcement agency in Florida, focusing on crime prevention, robust community relations, and maintaining a diverse, dedicated workforce. As Orlando grows and evolves, so too does its police department, ready to meet the challenges of the future while honoring its storied past.

Address: The Orlando Police Department is headquartered at 1250 W South Street, Orlando, FL 32805, United States.

Click here to view Orlando accident reports