Article 1: Introduction & Jurisdiction
1.1 Mission Statement
The Blaine County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is dedicated to safeguarding the lives, property, and constitutional rights of all citizens within Blaine County. Through partnership with the community, we will provide professional, fair, and compassionate law enforcement services to maintain peace and order in our rural and incorporated communities.
1.2 Jurisdiction
The primary jurisdiction of the BCSO includes all unincorporated areas of Blaine County and any municipalities that contract with the Sheriff's Office for law enforcement services. Deputies have county-wide authority and are expected to work in cooperation with the SAHP on state highways and the LSPD when near Los Santos city limits.
Article 2: Code of Conduct
2.1 Community Pillar
As members of a close-knit rural community, BCSO deputies must be exemplary in their conduct. Deputies are expected to be approachable, professional, and build positive relationships with the residents they serve. Your character, on and off duty, reflects directly on the Sheriff's Office.
2.2 Unwavering Integrity
Deputies shall enforce the law with impartiality and integrity. All actions must be free from personal bias, prejudice, or favoritism. Upholding the public trust is paramount.
Article 3: Uniform & Equipment
3.1 Uniform Standards
The BCSO uniform represents the authority and tradition of the Sheriff's Office. It must be worn completely and correctly at all times while on duty. Uniforms shall be clean, properly fitted, and in good repair.
3.2 Required Equipment
Deputies must inspect their equipment at the start of each shift to ensure it is fully functional and ready for duty.
- Service Pistol & Ammunition
- Taser & Cartridges
- Patrol Rifle (secured in vehicle)
- Handcuffs & Baton
- Portable Radio & Body Camera
Article 4: Vehicle Policy
4.1 Personal Vehicle Usage & Roleplay Enhancement
To enhance roleplay immersion, all deputies are required to drive a personal vehicle to their assigned station at the start of their shift. At the end of duty, the patrol vehicle must be returned and secured, and the deputy must depart in their personal vehicle.
4.2 Patrol Vehicle Operation
BCSO patrol vehicles are equipped for county-wide operations. Deputies must ensure vehicles are clean, fueled, and in good working order. All vehicle operations will adhere to state law and departmental pursuit policies, with an emphasis on safety over long distances and on varied terrain.
Article 5: Use of Force Continuum
5.1 Sanctity of Life
The BCSO places the highest value on the sanctity of human life. Deputies shall use force only when necessary and to the extent that it is objectively reasonable to accomplish a lawful objective. De-escalation is always the preferred strategy.
5.2 Interactive Use of Force Model
Click on each level to see details. Deputies must be prepared to articulate the reasons for their use of force.
Level 1: Deputy Presence
Level 2: Verbal Commands
Level 3: Non-Lethal Force
Level 4: Lethal Force
Article 6: County Patrol Procedures
6.1 Zone Patrol
Blaine County is divided into patrol zones. Deputies are expected to remain within their assigned zone unless dispatched to a priority call or providing backup. Proactive patrol includes checking on remote properties, businesses, and monitoring county roads.
6.2 Response Times & Backup
Due to the large patrol areas, response times may be longer than in urban centers. Deputies must exercise caution and sound tactics, recognizing that backup may not be immediate. Always update dispatch on your status and location, especially during high-risk situations.
6.3 Inter-Agency Cooperation
Deputies will frequently interact with the SAHP on state routes within the county. Professional courtesy and cooperation are mandatory. All agencies share the common goal of public safety.
Article 7: Disciplinary Action
7.1 Adherence to Policy
Failure to adhere to the policies outlined in this SOP will result in disciplinary action, which may include retraining, suspension, or termination, as determined by the Sheriff and command staff.
7.2 Citizen Complaints
The BCSO takes all citizen complaints seriously. A transparent and thorough investigation will be conducted for every formal complaint filed against a deputy.