Article 1: Introduction & Purpose

1.1 Mission Statement

The San Andreas Highway Patrol (SAHP) is dedicated to serving the citizens of San Andreas with fairness, integrity, and respect. Our primary mission is to ensure the safety and security of the state's highway network, enforce all state laws, and provide assistance to the public. We are committed to professional service and enhancing the quality of life for everyone in San Andreas.

1.2 Purpose of this Document

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) provides a framework of policies and guidelines for all members of the San Andreas Highway Patrol. Adherence to these procedures is mandatory and ensures a consistent, professional, and effective standard of law enforcement across the department.

Article 2: Code of Conduct

2.1 On-Duty Conduct

All officers are expected to conduct themselves in a professional, courteous, and unbiased manner at all times. Officers shall not engage in any conduct that would discredit the department or compromise its integrity. This includes, but is not limited to, respectful communication with the public and fellow officers, maintaining a neat and professional appearance, and performing duties with diligence.

2.2 Off-Duty Conduct

As representatives of the SAHP, officers are expected to uphold the law and maintain a high standard of personal conduct even when off-duty. Any off-duty actions that could bring the department into disrepute may be subject to disciplinary action.

Article 3: Uniform & Equipment

3.1 Uniform Policy

All sworn personnel shall wear the department-issued uniform while on duty, unless authorized by a supervisor for a specific assignment. Uniforms must be kept clean, pressed, and in good repair. All required insignia and nameplates must be properly displayed.

3.2 Equipment

Officers must ensure all issued equipment is maintained and in proper working order before each shift. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Firearm (cleaned and loaded to department standards)
  • Taser
  • Baton
  • Handcuffs
  • Radio
  • Body-worn camera (to be activated during all enforcement encounters)

Article 4: Vehicle Policy

4.1 Personal Vehicle Usage & Roleplay Enhancement

To promote a higher standard of roleplay and realism, all officers are required to commute to and from their assigned duty station in a personal vehicle.

  • Start of Shift: Officers shall drive their personal vehicle to their designated station to begin their shift.
  • End of Shift: Upon completion of a shift, officers must return their patrol vehicle to the station and take their personal vehicle back to a personal garage or residence.
  • Purpose: This policy enhances the roleplay experience by creating a realistic transition between an officer's personal life and their official duties.

Special Case: Take-Home Vehicles

For certain long-term assignments, the Chief or Assistant Chief of Police may grant approval for an officer to take their assigned patrol vehicle to their residence. This is to ensure the officer can respond rapidly to emergency call-outs when off-duty.

4.2 Patrol Vehicle Operation

  • Patrol vehicles are to be used for official business only.
  • Officers must conduct a vehicle check at the start of each shift to ensure it is in proper working condition.
  • All traffic laws must be obeyed during routine patrol. Emergency lights and sirens are only to be used in accordance with the pursuit and emergency response policies.
  • Vehicles must be returned to the motor pool fully fueled and free of damage at the end of each shift. Any damage must be reported immediately to a supervisor.

Article 5: Use of Force Continuum

5.1 Philosophy of De-escalation

The SAHP is committed to the preservation of life and the use of force only when absolutely necessary. The primary goal in any confrontation is to de-escalate the situation and gain voluntary compliance. Officers shall use communication and tactical skills to minimize the need for force.

5.2 Interactive Use of Force Model

Click on each level to see details. Force should be escalated and de-escalated in response to the subject's actions. Use the minimum level of force necessary.

Level 1: Officer Presence

Level 2: Verbal Commands

Level 3: Non-Lethal Force

Level 4: Lethal Force

5.3 Reporting Use of Force

Any use of force beyond verbal commands must be documented in an incident report and reported to a supervisor immediately.

Article 6: Patrol & Radio Procedures

6.1 Radio Communications

All radio communications shall be professional and concise. The use of proper radio etiquette and 10-codes is mandatory to ensure clear and efficient communication. Personal conversations or inappropriate language over the radio are strictly prohibited.

6.2 Traffic Stops

Officers shall conduct traffic stops in a safe and professional manner. This includes selecting a safe location, notifying dispatch of the stop, and approaching the vehicle with caution. The reason for the stop shall be clearly communicated to the driver.

6.3 Pursuits

Vehicle pursuits are authorized only when the suspect is believed to have committed a violent felony and poses a significant and ongoing threat to public safety. The primary officer in a pursuit is responsible for radio communication. Supervisors may terminate a pursuit at any time if the risk to the public outweighs the need to immediately apprehend the suspect.

Article 7: Disciplinary Action

7.1 Violations of SOP

Violations of the policies and procedures outlined in this document will result in disciplinary action. Depending on the severity of the violation, actions may range from verbal counseling and retraining to suspension or removal from the department.

7.2 Complaint Process

All complaints against officers will be thoroughly and impartially investigated by the command staff.