Duties

An Olean Police officer is responsible for the enforcement of laws and ordinances and the protection of lives and property in an assigned area during specified periods and does related work as required.

The duties consist primarily of routine patrol tasks, assisting in investigation of criminal offenses and the apprehension of criminals. A Police Officer, whether on patrol work or on special assignment, works under the general supervision of a higher ranking officer; however, there is considerable independent responsibility for exercise of sound judgment in emergencies.

Some examples of work included the following:

  • Patrols an assigned area on foot or in a radio cruising car;
  • Responds in emergency situations to protect life and property;
  • Checks doors and windows of unoccupied businesses and residential property;
  • Investigates suspicious activities and makes arrests for violations of Federal and State laws and local ordinances;
  • Escorts prisoners to jail and to court and has them booked on charges;
  • Testifies in court or before a grand jury;
  • Watches for and makes investigations of wanted and missing persons and stolen cars and property;
  • Directs traffic and tickets cars for overtime parking;
  • Maintains order in crowds at parades and other public gatherings;
  • Answers questions for and directs the public;
  • Reports serious defects in streets and in related matters requiring the attention of public agencies;
  • Makes criminal and plain clothes investigations as assigned;
  • Makes daily reports of activities;
  • Complies with departmental regulations pertaining to uniform, firearms and residence requirements;
  • Police Desk Duty: Operates the telephone system, radio communications and teletype system;
  • Receives complaints, institutes proper police action with respect thereto and makes proper entry into department records.