Patrol Division

20241107_112715The most visible elements of the El Dorado Police Department are the men and women who make up the Patrol Division. As the “face” of the department, patrol officers are those people you are accustomed to seeing driving through city neighborhoods, directing traffic at busy intersections, and showing up as quickly and safely as they can when you call for help. As dedicated public servants, it is also the beating heart of the agency, and our officers bring immeasurable amounts of experience, pride, and professionalism to the streets of El Dorado.

EDPD officers must first undergo intense selection and background processes before joining our ranks. This ensures only the most qualified are entrusted with the authority of a police officer, which we believe to be the most serious responsibility any public servant can accept. After selection, new officers spend several months observing, studying, training, and learning from experienced officers before finally joining their brothers and sisters on patrol. EDPD is also proud to be an agency where experienced officers choose to work after starting their careers elsewhere, bringing with them a wealth of policing knowledge and experience.

The Patrol Division provides around-the-clock coverage and access to the police department for the citizens of El Dorado. Each crew of 2-4 Patrol Officers is supervised by a shift Sergeant or Master Police Officer (MPO), and the entire division is overseen by the Operations Lieutenant, allowing for multiple layers of supervision and accountability.

In addition to regular patrol responsibilities, EDPD officers are encouraged to take an active role in their own personal and professional development, as well as in the culture and direction of the department and community. Most members of the agency serve on at least one internal committee or community group and many hold multiple seats. All EDPD employees are also provided abundant paid opportunities to further their individual professional growth, and many hold specialized certifications and positions (below).

  • Federal Motor Carrier Inspector
  • Patrol/Narcotics Detection K9
  • Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE)
  • Drug Recognition Expert (DRE)
  • Digital Forensics Examiner
  • Computerized Voice Stress Analysis Examiner (CVSA)
  • Community Service Officer
  • Tactical Response Operators (aka SWAT)
  • Crisis Negotiator
  • Licensed Drone Operator
  • Defensive Tactics Instructor
  • Range Master/Firearms Instructor
  • Taser & Less-lethal Munitions Instructors
  • Handgun/Shotgun/Patrol Rifle Armorers
  • Child Safety Seat Technician
  • Peer Support Specialist