Lexington Police Department 1973-03Q Operation and...a. The officer, prior to utilizing this option, shall complete a “Request for Authorization to Drive Issued Take Home Vehicle

Lexington Police Department Lexington, Kentucky

GENERAL ORDER BY THE AUTHORITY OF THE CHIEF OF POLICE

G.O. 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Rescinds: GO 1973-03P; SO 2013-01

Effective Date: 05/25/17 Distribution All Department Employees

Originally Issued: 1973; 2006

I. PURPOSE The purposes of this policy are to establish procedures and regulations for the assignment, use and operation of all Lexington Police Department vehicles by sworn police officers, safety officers and civilian employees, and to establish procedures and regulations for the maintenance and equipping of department vehicles. II. POLICY It is the policy of the Lexington Police Department that the take home vehicles issued to sworn police officers of this department are intended to enhance public safety through increased visibility of police vehicles in the community, and to permit rapid response of off-duty officers to designated emergencies. It is also the policy of the department that the on-duty and off-duty control, operation, and/or possession of any assigned department vehicle or other department vehicle (as defined below) by authorized safety officers and civilian employees will be in accordance with departmental policy. The use of any department vehicle by any sworn officer is considered a benefit that may be covered by current collective bargaining agreements, and not an employment right. The Chief of Police has the right to suspend or remove any sworn officer from using department vehicle(s), in accordance with GO series 1973-02 Disciplinary Procedures. The use of any department vehicle by any civilian employee is considered a privilege and not an employment right. The Chief of Police has the right to assign, deny suspend or remove any civilian employee from using department vehicle(s). III. DEFINITIONS Assigned Department Vehicle: A department vehicle assigned to a specific safety officer or civilian employee. Off-duty use of the assigned department vehicle by the safety officer or civilian employee is strictly limited, in accordance with guidelines set forth in this and other department policies. Department Vehicle: A car, truck, van, trailer, bus, motorcycle, off-road all-terrain (ATV), bicycle, Segway, aircraft or any other vehicle owned, confiscated, leased, rented, maintained or borrowed by the department. Take Home Vehicle: A department vehicle issued to a specific officer that may be used during off-

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 2 of 33 duty periods, in accordance with guidelines set forth in this and other department policies. Take Home Vehicle Program: A program whereby officers are issued department take home vehicles to increase police presence in the community. Officers issued take home vehicles are mandated to respond to calls for service as well as to render assistance to the public in accordance with guidelines in this and other department policies. IV. ISSUING AND ASSIGNING DEPARTMENT VEHICLES A. General Guidelines

1. The primary consideration for the issuance or assignment of department vehicles is meeting the needs of the department.

2. The Chief of Police has the final authority regarding the issuance or assignment of department vehicles.

3. The Technical Services Unit (TSU) supervisor is responsible to coordinate the issuing and turning in of all department vehicles related to vehicle replacements, and related to assignments, transfers, discipline, leave status, resignation, separation from service or retirement.

a. All employees are expected to turn in assigned department or issued take home vehicles in excellent condition, and with the exterior and interior properly cleaned.

b. The TSU supervisor will inspect and approve the condition of all turned in department vehicles.

4. Supervisors and/or lieutenants shall conduct monthly vehicle inspections and results will be documented as outlined in GO series 1992-08 Inspections.

a. Supervisors will be held accountable for compliance with inspections. b. Inspections shall note deficiencies and include documentation of when deficiencies are corrected.

B. Issuing Take Home Vehicles to Officers 1. The Technical Services Unit (TSU) supervisor is responsible to track the eligibility of officers to be issued new take home vehicles.

a. The TSU supervisor shall prepare and submit, via the chain of command, a prioritized list of officers who are eligible to be issued a new take home vehicle.

1. Willful abuse and/or neglect of a department take home vehicle will negatively impact an officer’s opportunity to be issued a new take home vehicle.

b. The TSU supervisor will also provide pertinent information on each officer’s

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 3 of 33

currently issued take home vehicle. Information to be provided for consideration includes, and is not limited to:

1. The number of years the officer has operated the currently issued take home vehicle. 2. The level and quality of maintenance of the currently issued take home vehicle. 3. The age and/or condition of the currently issued take home vehicle. 4. The number of years of service completed by the officer. 5. The at-fault collision record of the officer.

C. Assigning Department Vehicles to Safety Officers 1. The Technical Services Unit (TSU) supervisor is responsible to track the same eligibility requirements and follow the same procedures as described in IV B above in determining the prioritized list of safety officers eligible to be assigned a new department vehicle.

2. Refer to GO series 2015-01 Safety Officers for additional guidelines regarding safety officer vehicle assignment and usage.

D. Assigning Department Vehicles to Other Civilian Employees (Non-Safety Officers) 1. The Chief of Police has sole authority to approve or disapprove all requests for any civilian employee to be assigned a department vehicle. a. Requests for any civilian employee to be assigned a department vehicle will be submitted, via email, to the Bureau of Administration Assistant Chief identifying the civilian employee(s) and position(s) involved, and the reason(s) for requesting they be assigned a department vehicle(s). b. The BOA Assistant Chief will discuss submitted requests with the Chief of Police. Note: No civilian employee who is assigned a department vehicle is permitted to drive their assigned vehicle to/from an out of county residence without a specific exemption and permission from the Chief of Police. 2. The Chief of Police has approved the following civilian employee positions to utilize pool vehicles during the performance of their regularly assigned duties: a. Computer Information Systems Unit civilian employees b. Property and Evidence Unit civilian employees E. Pool Vehicles


1. The bureau assistant chiefs and the Bureau of Patrol sector commanders or designees are responsible for the overall condition and maintenance of all pool fleet vehicles assigned to their respective bureaus and/or sectors. All vehicles assigned to a particular unit are the responsibility of the lieutenant of the unit.

a. Supervisors designated to coordinate pool vehicles will perform inspections of pool vehicles to ensure accountability for any damage that may have occurred during temporary use. b. A vehicle log shall be maintained for each of the bureau’s assigned marked and unmarked pool vehicles. 2. An officer or civilian employee who uses a marked or unmarked pool vehicle from any bureau is responsible to: a. Record the time, date, mileage and name of the officer or civilian employee who uses the marked or unmarked vehicle in the vehicle log. b. Complete the vehicle log each time a pool vehicle is used. c. Maintain the condition of the pool vehicle while using it.

d. Prior to use, inspect the safety and emergency equipment and the operational condition, as well as check for damage to the assigned or borrowed pool vehicle.

3. Bureau of Patrol officers who must shop their issued take home vehicle for extended repairs will be assigned a patrol pool vehicle for use while on duty. a. This assigned Bureau of Patrol pool vehicle shall not be used as a take home vehicle either in county or out of county, or used for any off duty purposes. These vehicles must remain available for use by on duty patrol officers. 4. Any officer from any bureau who knows their issued take home vehicle will be shopped for extended repairs may contact the Technical Services Unit supervisor to determine whether any alternate transportation is available for temporary take home and/or off duty use. 5. Any civilian employee who knows their assigned department vehicle will be shopped for extended repairs may request assistance from a sworn supervisor, who may contact the Technical Services Unit supervisor to determine whether any alternate transportation is available for the civilian employee’s use while the assigned vehicle is being repaired. F. Operation of Department Vehicle When Not Assigned to Full Duty

1. Officers on modified duty will not be approved for take home vehicle use privilege, but may be authorized to operate a department vehicle while on duty with the approval of the BOA Assistant Chief. 2. Officers on extended military leave should refer to GO series 2015-10 Military Leave and


Deployments. 3. Officers on maternity leave should refer to GO series 2013-01 Pregnancy Policy. 4. Officers assigned to administrative assignments should refer to GO series 1992-07 Compensation, Benefits and Conditions of Work. 5. Officers on disability leave status are not authorized to operate department vehicles.

6. Civilian employees on modified duty shall receive approval from a sworn supervisor prior to operating their assigned department vehicle. V. USE OF DEPARTMENT VEHICLES A. General Department Vehicle Usage and Operational Jurisdiction

1. All employees shall exercise good judgment in utilizing department vehicles to avoid unfavorable comment or negative reflection upon the employee or the department.

2. Only authorized employees, with proper approval, are permitted to operate designated department vehicles.

3. The use of department vehicles by any employee shall be conditioned upon safe driving habits, proper performance of duty, and adherence to laws, ordinances and department policies.

4. Regardless whether the employee is on or off duty, only approved and properly equipped department vehicles will be used for traffic enforcement roles or special assignments.

5. Employees will not operate any department vehicle outside of Fayette County without proper authorization from a supervisor.

6. Exceptions not requiring a supervisor’s prior approval include: a. Making a turnaround to return to the jurisdictional boundaries of the department. b. The authorized pursuit of a suspect or vehicle by an officer. 7. Employees may not use any department vehicle, on or off duty, to haul objects such as furniture, firewood or other large items intended for personal use. B. Use of Issued Take Home Vehicles by Officers

1. The use of issued take home vehicles by officers shall be in accordance with the terms of the current collective bargaining agreements and any associated and current Letters of Agreement.

2. Officers assigned to the Bureau of Patrol are expected to remain in their assigned sectors until the actual end of their shifts.

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 6 of 33 3. Officers assigned to bureaus, other than the Bureau of Patrol, are expected to remain within their assigned jurisdiction until the actual end of their shifts. C. Authorization for Officers to Use Issued Take Home Vehicles Out of County 1. An officer whose primary residence is out of county and within 35 miles of the Fayette County line is eligible to seek authorization to drive their issued take home vehicle to and from the primary residence, as described below. a. The officer, prior to utilizing this option, shall complete a “Request for Authorization to Drive Issued Take Home Vehicle to and from Out of County Primary Residence” Form (Form #276) and submit the completed form to the Office of the Chief.

b. If needed, the Office of the Chief will prepare and send a “point of contact” letter notifying the head of the primary law enforcement agency in the jurisdiction of officer’s residence of the officer’s authorization to operate the issued vehicle out-of-county.

2. Any officer whose primary residence is out of county beyond 35 miles of the Fayette County line is not eligible to drive their issued take home vehicle beyond the Fayette County line. The officer may park the vehicle at an alternate location within Fayette County with approval and as outlined in 3 and 4 below. 3. An officer whose primary residence is outside Fayette County may seek approval to park their issued take home vehicle on private property within Fayette County, with the permission of the owner of the property. a. The location must be approved in advance by the Office of the Chief

4. Officers may also seek approval to park marked issued take home vehicles at businesses in Fayette County identified as potential crime targets as follows:

a. Any officer interested in parking their issued marked take home vehicle at an approved business shall submit a request to the appropriate bureau assistant chief indicating the business name and address. b. Each bureau allocated marked take home vehicles will maintain a list identifying approved business parking locations, and which officers and which issued marked take home vehicles have been authorized to park at these locations.

1. Officers can also recommend additional Fayette County business locations and submit a request for parking approval by forwarding the suggested location(s) to their bureau assistant chief.

2. It is preferred that only one marked issued take home vehicle be parked at an authorized business location. A maximum of two marked issued take home vehicles may be approved to park at the same location only if the officers work different shifts or assignments.


c. After approval, and prior to parking at an authorized business, the officer must contact a manager or owner of the business to obtain permission to park their issued marked take home vehicle on the business property.

1. If the business representative approves the officer parking their issued take home vehicle at the business, the designated parking location must be highly visible, well lighted and reasonably secure.

d. Permission to park at the business location may be withdrawn at any time by either the officer’s bureau assistant chief or an authorized representative of the business. e. Marked take home vehicles that will be parked at a business and unattended for more than one week are not permitted to be parked at the business location during the officer’s absence.

D. Reimbursement Procedures When Officers Use Issued Take Home Vehicles Out of County 1. An officer, with authorization, may drive their assigned take home vehicle to and from their primary residence in another county (within 35 miles of a Fayette County line) directly to Fayette County for commuting purposes for work. a. Officers are required to travel the most efficient and direct route between the Fayette County line and their primary residence in another county. b. Each total round trip mileage will be reimbursed on a monthly basis per current mileage reimbursement procedures (see 3 below). 2. An officer, with authorization, may also drive their assigned take home vehicle (as described in D 1 a. and b. above) directly to Fayette County for personal use inside Fayette County. a. The total round trip mileage between the officer’s primary residence and directly to the Fayette County line for personal use inside Fayette County shall also be recorded and paid for per current mileage reimbursement procedures (see 3. below). 3. Mileage reimbursement will be paid on a monthly basis based on the total number of round trips made that month. a. Reimbursements shall be forwarded to the Office of the Chief on or by the 10th of the following month.

b. It is the responsibility and requirement of the officer to complete a monthly electronic invoice. 1. The invoice is located at: URL Link http://lpdft1:2887/LPDpid/LPDOC.aspx 2. To submit a monthly electronic out of county take home vehicle use invoice:


a. Click on the intranet link on the officer’s MDC or desktop. b. Enter the officer’s 5-digit employee number.

c. Use the drop down box to enter the month of Out of County Use.

d. Indicate "Out of County Use" ("Yes" or "No" drop down box).

e. Enter the number of round trips for the month. Enter “O” if no mileage was used that month.

f. (Optional) Enter "Notes" for the officer’s records. g. Click on "Submit" to create the officer’s monthly invoice. c. A printed copy of the monthly invoice should be forwarded, along with the reimbursement payment, to the Office of the Chief.

4. Failure to abide by the above procedures shall be considered a violation of the current collective bargaining agreements and the terms of Form #276. Refer to GO series 1973-02 Disciplinary Procedures for more information. E. Use of Assigned Department Vehicles by Safety Officers 1. Refer to GO series 2015-01 Safety Officers for guidelines and restrictions for operation and use of assigned department vehicles by safety officers. F. Use of Department Vehicles by Other Civilian Employees 1. Vehicle Equipment a. Civilian employees will not be assigned a department vehicle, nor be permitted to operate any assigned, pool, or trip vehicle, with any exterior or interior emergency or warning lights of any kind. Note: The exceptions to this prohibition are those civilian Technical Services Unit and Forensic Services Unit employees who have been approved to do so by their lieutenant. b. Vehicles assigned to civilian employees will be equipped with: 1. First aid kit 2. Personal protective equipment 3. Fire extinguisher 4. Mobile two-way radio system

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 9 of 33 5. Other equipment as needed based upon duties or assignment c. Vehicle equipment that needs to be issued or reissued, repaired, replaced or replenished shall be reported to the civilian employee’s supervisor, who will provide procedural guidance. d. No vehicle or vehicle equipment modifications are permitted without the pre- approval of the Technical Services Unit supervisor. All modifications shall be completed by Technical Services Unit employees. 2. Vehicle Use and Parking a. The assigned department vehicle or pool vehicle shall only be used during the civilian employee’s assigned duty hours. b. Civilian employees are not permitted to have any non-employee passenger(s) ride with them in their assigned vehicle or pool vehicle without prior approval from their sworn supervisor. c. Approved off-duty parking locations for civilian employees assigned department vehicles: 1. A civilian employee whose primary residence is in Fayette County is approved to park their assigned department vehicle at the civilian employee’s primary residence.

2. A civilian employee whose primary residence is outside of Fayette County is approved to park the assigned department vehicle at a location within Fayette County authorized by their bureau assistant chief. d. Use of a pool vehicle by a civilian employee: 1. Is limited to on duty use only, and is not to be used for other authorized assignments (traffic control, etc.). 2. Shall be approved in advance by a sworn supervisor. 3. The civilian employee will comply with pool vehicle use procedures outlined in IV E above. 4. The pool vehicle shall be parked at the designated department accessible location after each use. e. While off duty, the civilian employee is only authorized to drive the assigned department vehicle in Fayette County: 1. Directly from the approved off-duty parking location to work or to an authorized assignment.

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 10 of 33 2. Directly to the approved off-duty parking location after work or after an authorized assignment. 3. No intermediate stops or any vehicle usage for personal business are authorized.

f. Civilian employees have no law enforcement authority and are prohibited, under any circumstances, from initiating or engaging in any type of police procedure or enforcement action, operating any department vehicle in any emergency or pursuit situation, or providing transportation to a non-employee while operating a department vehicle. 1. Civilian employees are encouraged to notify E911, via radio, if they observe any situation that requires police assistance. g. When a civilian employee is dispatched to a call for service or requesting assistance for the public, they will follow proper radio procedures as outlined in GO series 1977- 01 Police Radio Procedure.

1. Unprofessional or unnecessary use of the police radio by any civilian employee is prohibited.

h. Civilian employees will comply with applicable KRS and RCO at all times while operating any department vehicle. i. Civilian employees shall not smoke, use an e-cigarette, use snuff or chew tobacco in any department vehicles. Smoking in LFUCG-owned vehicles is prohibited by RCO.

j. Any civilian employee authorized to operate a department vehicle shall be required to review this policy and shall be familiar with its contents.

VI. OUT OF COUNTY INCIDENTS AND NOTIFICATIONS A. Officers

1. The following applies specifically to all officers while operating or while in possession of a department vehicle out of county for any reason:

a. Officers operating a department vehicle out of county should be cognizant of the unique circumstances that may be presented to them and, as such, should utilize extraordinary discretion in handling situations encountered. 1. Officers generally have no authority out of county other than those provided under color of law to ordinary individuals. b. In any encounter which may require a police action, officers shall first consider officer and public safety and notify the law enforcement agency of jurisdiction to respond to the situation.


1. Officers are permitted to stop and render aid and make appropriate notifications, however officers may not provide transportation. 2. Officers shall attempt to make all non-emergency notifications by cell phone whenever feasible.

c. Any officer who becomes involved in any incident that required an enforcement action resulting in the use of authority shall immediately notify the law enforcement agency of jurisdiction and an on-duty department supervisor. The supervisor will respond to the incident, if feasible, and/or coordinate appropriate action.

1. Officers shall not initiate an enforcement action unless exigent circumstances exist: i.e. failure to act immediately could jeopardize the safety of the public, imminent destruction of property, under the spirit of mutual aid, or are requested to assist by the law enforcement agency in that jurisdiction.

2. The involved officer shall initiate a request for and/or obtain copies of reports applicable to the incident from the reporting agency.

d. The officer shall also promptly notify an on-duty supervisor of any other circumstances which the officer believes supervisory notification would be prudent and beneficial to the department.

B. All Department Employees (Including Officers)

1. The following applies to all department employees while operating or while in possession of a department vehicle out of county for any reason:

a. Any department employee who encounters the following situations out of county shall immediately notify the law enforcement agency of jurisdiction and an on-duty department supervisor. The supervisor will respond to the incident, if feasible, and/or coordinate appropriate action when:

1. Damage to any department vehicle has occurred due to a collision or criminal mischief.

a. The employee may move the department vehicle out of the roadway to restore normal traffic flow if feasible and as needed.

b. If a wrecker is required for the department vehicle, the employee should request either Fleet Services (during business hours) or the current department contract towing service (after hours) to tow the vehicle. The towing service may be contacted by cell phone to provide directions for the driver.

c. An on-duty supervisor will assist any employee who needs assistance with contacting the proper towing service to tow a department vehicle.


2. Any employee is injured out of county while operating a department vehicle.

a. An on-duty department supervisor will be contacted to report the scene, if feasible, and/or coordinate appropriate action. b. The injured employee can, if able, request the assistance of the first responders at the scene to contact a department supervisor on behalf of the employee.

3. Damage to a department vehicle has occurred due to a non-criminal incident.

b. Any employee who experiences an issue with a department vehicle that prevents its safe operation back to Fayette County shall notify an on-duty supervisor. The supervisor shall assist the employee in an effort to resolve the issue (tire change, dead battery, etc.), if possible, before notifying the appropriate towing service, in an attempt to limit wrecker or service vehicle trips out of county.

VII. OPERATOR’S LICENSES A. All employees shall have in their possession a valid and current Kentucky operator’s license while operating any department motor vehicle. B. If required by law, any employee operating a department special purpose vehicle shall have the appropriate specialized operator’s license in their possession while operating the special purpose vehicle. C. Any employee whose operator’s license or specialized operator’s license is expired, suspended or revoked for any reason shall: 1. Immediately report the situation to the employee’s supervisor, and 2. Not operate any department vehicle. 3. The supervisor is responsible to promptly forward this information, via the chain of command, to the Chief’s Office and the Public Integrity Unit. D. Any employee whose operator’s license or specialized operator’s license is lost or stolen shall promptly report the situation to their supervisor and obtain a replacement as soon as possible. IX. ADDITIONAL DEPARTMENT VEHICLE USAGE CONSIDERATIONS A. Use of Department Vehicles by Officers for Off-Duty Employment 1. Department vehicles may be utilized in off-duty employment under the provisions of (including and not limited to): a. This policy

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 13 of 33 b. The current collective bargaining agreements c. GO series 1973-15 Off-Duty Employment d. GO series 1992-16 Prisoner Security and Transportation e. GO series 2015-01 Safety Officers 2. Receiving compensation, benefits, or other personal gain from merely parking any department vehicle at any location is prohibited unless approved by the Public Integrity Unit. B. Off Duty and On Duty Officer Responses While Operating Issued Take Home Vehicles

1. An off-duty officer who is operating a take home vehicle is required to monitor the police radio and take appropriate action to situations that occur in their presence or requests for assistance from other officers.

a. Appropriate action is that which is necessary, considering the totality of the circumstances, and within the officer’s ability to handle at the time (e.g. availability of weapon, radio communication, and physical condition).

b. Off-duty officers are expected to respond to nearby emergency calls involving the protection of life or property.

c. The off-duty officer is not required to go in and out of service, but must advise E911 if near an emergency call and whether or not they have any passenger(s).

1. Any passengers, other than other off-duty officers, must be left at a safe location and shall not be exposed to the potential dangers involved in responding to and handling the call.

2. If removal of passengers is not feasible, the call will not be handled by the off-duty officer.

2. In minor cases encountered off duty, the officer may request that E911 dispatch an on duty

officer to handle the call. The off duty officer may stand by and assist until the on duty officer arrives. If immediate action is necessary, then the off-duty officer will handle the situation.

3. Whether on or off duty, officers encountering a disabled motorist are required to stop and render assistance, or assist the motorist in obtaining assistance from another employee or private source, as appropriate. Off-duty officers must stay with disabled motorists who present a traffic hazard in the roadway until help arrives, or they are relieved by an on-duty officer.

a. Officers responding to priority calls which would preclude stopping and offering assistance to the motorist are to make E911 aware of the location of the disabled motorist.

4. While off duty and performing traffic stops or responding to criminal calls for service, off


duty officers shall wear a department approved ball cap and “POLICE” florescent wrist strap on the wrist of the weapon hand to identify themselves to other officers. When feasible, a badge should be displayed by the officer. While not required, the wearing of wrist straps is advised for motorist assists. Officers are encouraged to have wrist straps available when engaged in plainclothes assignments, and plainclothes off duty employment that is likely to require the use of arrest authority.

a. Officers shall mark their employee number on the inside of the strap. Wrist straps are the property of the department, and officers are not permitted to transfer or provide wrist straps to the public.

5. On-duty emergency responses will not be made while the vehicle is occupied by any passenger(s) except when:

a. The passenger(s) are other officer(s), or b. The passenger is an approved ride-along program participant.

6. A pursuit shall not be engaged in while providing transportation for any person, other than law enforcement officers acting in an official capacity.

7. Off duty responses by safety officers are severely limited. Refer to GO series 2015-01 Safety Officers for additional information.

C. Use of Trip Cars for Travel Outside of Fayette County

1. All department employees who intend to travel outside of Fayette County on official business shall refer to and comply with the procedures outlined in CAO Policy 4R Travel Policy and Procedures. 2. The Technical Services Unit (TSU) supervisor shall maintain one or more suitable vehicle(s) designated as trip car(s) for out of town travel when a marked department vehicle is not authorized or an unmarked vehicle is preferred.

a. An employee requiring the use of a trip car should request to reserve a trip car, through the chain of command and in advance, whenever possible.

b. An employee is expected to be aware of locations along the travel route that honor the current LFUCG fleet fuel card, and to refuel at locations that accept the fleet card. The TSU supervisor maintains a list of vendors that honor the LFUCG fleet fuel card, or the list can be found on the website: http://www.speedway.com/StoreDetails?store=3479

D. Alcoholic Beverages/Intoxicating Substances 1. Employees are prohibited from:


a. Operating a department vehicle with any measurable amount of alcohol or any other substance in their system that could impair their ability to operate a vehicle. b. Transporting any intoxicant or illegal drugs in a department vehicle, except as required in an official capacity. c. Parking a department vehicle within the proximity of any establishment that serves alcoholic beverages as its main source of income, unless in an official capacity.

E. Tobacco Use

1. Smoking or the use of any electronic or oral smoking device in any department vehicle is prohibited by RCO 14-98(4). 2. The use of tobacco (including and not limited to snuff or chew tobacco) while operating a any department vehicle, regardless of duty status, is prohibited.

F. Use of Seatbelts 1. All department employees are required to use seatbelts at all times while driving or riding in a department vehicle, and shall require seatbelt usage by passengers. 2. When child passenger(s) are riding in a department vehicle, the employee shall ensure that the child passenger(s) are either properly secured in a child restraint system (if 40 inches in height or less), a properly secured child booster seat (if under 8 years old and between 40 and 57 inches in height), or a seatbelt. The child restraint system shall conform to applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards, and the child booster seat shall meet standards set forth in 49 C.F.R. Part 571. a. Small children and infants shall always be secured in the appropriate child restraint system, child booster seat, or seatbelt, and shall be positioned in the rear seats due to airbag concerns.

3. Refer to GO series 1992-16 Prisoner Security and Transportation for guidelines related to use of seatbelts when transporting prisoners.

G. Passengers 1. Any employee operating any department vehicle, whether on or off duty, is responsible for the safety and the proper conduct of any and all passenger(s). 2. Officers are not permitted to have other non-department passengers riding along with them while they are on duty in a department vehicle, unless the person is acting in an official capacity on police business or the person has prior approval from the bureau assistant chief. a. Refer to GO series 2015-14 Ride-Along Program for procedures related to persons riding along with an on-duty officer in a department vehicle when the person is not acting in an official capacity.

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 16 of 33 3. On-duty employees who are operating department vehicles are permitted to use their discretion when transporting other on-duty sworn or civilian department employees.

4. Off-duty civilian employees and off-duty employees of other Urban County Government divisions will not be provided with transportation by on-duty officers except when providing the off-duty employee with transportation needed to facilitate government operations, including and not limited to emergency situations, extreme weather conditions and natural disasters.

5. An off-duty officer is permitted to have passengers in their issued take home vehicle.

6. Refer to GO series 1973-05 Personal Appearance of Sworn Officers for appearance guidelines related to passengers riding in department vehicles.

H. Parking 1. Officers and safety officers shall not park any department vehicle in prohibited parking areas unless required to do so in response to a dispatched call, an emergency or while on official business.

a. Prohibited parking areas are yellow curbs, loading zones, expired parking meters, bus stops, within 20 feet of fire hydrants, or spaces reserved for vehicles other than for police department vehicles.

b. Officers and safety officers attending court shall park department vehicles in designated parking areas, or other legal parking locations. c. Officers and safety officers may park on parking meters as a last resort while conducting official business. d. If an officer or safety officer receives a parking citation from LexPark, they shall promptly forward the citation to the Traffic Section office. Remediation will be coordinated by a Traffic Section supervisor. 2. While on duty, officers and safety officers shall not park marked department vehicles in restaurant or other business parking lots unless they are patronizing the business.

a. On-duty employees are prohibited from eating at establishments whose primary source of income is derived from the sale of alcoholic beverages.

b. On-duty employees are to refrain from eating at the bar area of any establishment.

3. Parking a department vehicle on the street when off duty should be avoided, if other parking is available, in order to minimize the possibility of damage due to hit-and-run or vandalism.

I. Firearms, Weapons and Radios

1. Under no circumstances will an officer leave any firearms, weapons or a portable radio in an


unlocked vehicle. If an officer must leave a firearm, weapon or radio in a vehicle, the firearm, weapon or radio should be locked in a locked glove box, a console that locks, in the trunk, or in a lock box securely attached to the vehicle.

J. Unattended Department Vehicles 1. Employees should not leave any department vehicle unsecured or running unattended. If circumstances are such that the employee is unable to secure the vehicle, the vehicle shall be secured as soon as possible.

2. Unattended department vehicles of off duty employees must be locked at all times. K. Idling

1. A key shall not be left in the ignition of any unattended vehicle belonging to the department. Exceptions are permitted when the use of emergency lights is required. Doors should be locked.

2. Employees should not leave engines idling for an extended period unless required for operational reasons, such as for the safety of occupants or police canines or the active use of emergency or warning lighting. L. Vehicle Appearance

1. Employees are responsible for the appearance and cleanliness of their vehicle, regardless whether the vehicle is temporarily or permanently assigned or issued. 2. Cleaning the engine area is limited to a damp cloth wipe down. Use of pressurized water in the engine area is prohibited. 3. Floor mats used in department owned vehicles must be black or the same color as the interior. 4. No bumper stickers, signs or decals are to be placed in or on a department vehicle without

written approval from the Chief of Police. M. Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

1. Each employee is responsible for scheduling regular maintenance appointments and checking fluid levels of their assigned or issued department vehicles. 2. Each employee issued a take home vehicle shall be fully responsible for the proper care and general maintenance of the vehicle and is required to notify a supervisor of any and all damage. 3. When shopping a vehicle for routine maintenance or repair:

a. Employees are restricted to the Service Writer’s Office, administrative offices, restrooms, and the lunchroom area of the Fleet Services building.


b. Employees awaiting repairs are required by Fleet Services to wait in the designated waiting areas.

c. For safety reasons for all involved, any employee who wants to speak directly with the technician working on their vehicle is required by Fleet Services to first speak with the assistant supervisor. The assistant supervisor will assess the request and determine whether the employee has approval to enter the vehicle bay area to speak with the technician.

4. Officers shall remove all firearms and weapons from the department vehicles before shopping the vehicle at Fleet Services or before leaving a department vehicle at any outside contracted service provider.

5. It is Fleet Services policy to send a vehicle for outside work, such as for warranty or commercial repairs, on the same day the need for repairs is discovered. Employees who leave needed equipment or property in a shopped vehicle that is sent out for repairs will be responsible to retrieve any needed items at the commercial facility. 6. Shopping vehicles for routine preventive maintenance (PM) is scheduled through the Fleet Services supervisor. If the scheduled appointment cannot be kept, adequate notification should be made to the Fleet Services supervisor.

a. Each employee shall be responsible for scheduling warranty repairs when such repairs are needed. All such arrangements shall be made through the Fleet Services supervisor. b. Employees shopping department vehicles during regular duty hours at Fleet Services shall contact the service writer.

7. Shopping vehicles for emergency or breakdown maintenance is to be scheduled through the Fleet Services service writer on as-needed basis.

a. During the regular duty hours of Fleet Services, the employee shall contact the service writer to schedule the needed repairs.

b. After regular business hours, the employee should leave the vehicle on the 10-7 line, complete a work order detailing the needed repairs, and leave the work order and vehicle key(s) at Fleet Services.

8. The Technical Services Unit supervisor shall be responsible for routinely monitoring department vehicle repair records to screen for potential vehicle misuse.

9. If an employee requires a wrecker to assist or tow a department vehicle within Fayette County, the employee shall request that E911 contact Fleet Services. Fleet Services personnel will dispatch the appropriate wrecker service.

a. If another wrecker service is used without the authorization of Fleet Services, the employee shall be responsible for any cost incurred.

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 19 of 33 N. Fueling, Fuel Cards, and Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Fuel Cards

1. Employees should refuel prior to their tours of duty. During the refueling process employees shall:

a. Ensure that the appropriate vehicle fuel cards are used to obtain fuel. b. Ensure that the correct vehicle mileage is entered when obtaining fuel.

c. Remain outside of the vehicle during the refueling process.

d. Ensure that the gas nozzle has been returned to the nozzle hanger prior to entering the vehicle.

2. Fuel cards are assigned to a specific vehicle. Fuel cards are not to be loaned to another employee or used to refuel a different vehicle.

3. Employees are prohibited from using fuel cards issued by the LFUCG to refuel any personally owned vehicle or equipment.

4. If a fuel card or user pin number is lost or stolen:

a. The employee shall report a lost or stolen fuel card directly to Fleet Services and to the Technical Services Unit supervisor as soon as possible, so the card can be deactivated to minimize the opportunity for a fuel theft. b. The employee shall also promptly report the lost or stolen fuel card or user pin to a supervisor, who will follow up with notification via the chain of command.

5. Any requests for rental car fuel cards, loaner vehicle fuel cards and equipment fueling cards shall be directed to the Bureau of Administration office.

6. Employees must submit requests for temporary fuel cards, along with a completed Fleet Management Rental Vehicle Fuel Card Tracking and Monitoring Form (Form 322) to the Bureau of Administration office for processing and tracking.

O. Lost or Stolen Vehicle Keys 1. Employees shall report any lost or stolen vehicle key to their supervisor on the same day the key is discovered to be missing. X. SPECIAL PURPOSE VEHICLES A. Department employees may be required to operate special purpose vehicles. Operation of special purpose vehicles requires the employee to be authorized, qualified, licensed and trained in the operation of the vehicle. It is the duty of any employee who operates a special purpose vehicle to do so with due regard for the safety of themselves and others.

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 20 of 33 B. Special purpose vehicles are defined as any vehicle other than:

1. Standard marked patrol-equipped police sedans.

2. Standard unmarked white traffic-equipped police sedans.

C. Department owned special duty vehicles, including pickup trucks, trucks, wagons, and other special duty vehicles, are restricted to their intended use as prescribed by policy. These vehicles are assigned for specific duties, shall be used only by authorized employees, and only for those specific duties prescribed by and approved in advance by the bureau assistant chief or designee.

1. No employee will use any special duty vehicle to haul firewood, furniture or other large items intended for personal use.

D. Department owned pickup trucks, wagons, and other special duty vehicles will be operated with the vehicle’s capabilities and limitations in mind. Extreme caution must be exercised when engaged in Priority I responses while operating special duty vehicles. Refer to GO series 2011-08 Emergency and Pursuit Driving for additional information. E. Employees shall receive proper training on the safe operation of special duty vehicles prior to operating the vehicle.

1. Barricade and Cone Truck

a. The barricade and cone truck shall be used to transport traffic control equipment and devices which are routinely used by department employees in day-to-day operations and special assignments.

b. The barricade and cone truck shall be utilized primarily to transport traffic control devices under the direction of a safety officer, police officer, or traffic supervisor. Additional uses shall be authorized by a traffic supervisor on an as-needed basis. c. A traffic supervisor shall have the authority to utilize the barricade and cone truck as needed without prior approval of higher authority.

d. A traffic supervisor shall authorize and approve all employees who operate the barricade and cone truck. All authorized employees shall complete a documented orientation and training session.

e. A traffic supervisor shall be responsible for monitoring the condition and maintenance of the barricade and cone truck and ensure that the vehicle is stored in a state of operational readiness. f. A traffic supervisor shall maintain an inventory of equipment which is stored on the barricade and cone truck and shall be responsible for the acquisition of additional equipment. Required equipment includes, but is not limited to, cones, barricades, portable traffic control signs, flares, emergency lights, directional lights, meter bags and such other equipment as may be designated by the bureau assistant chief.


g. The barricade and cone truck may be equipped with a snowplow in inclement weather. Only those employees who have been properly trained in the operation of the vehicle equipped with a snowplow shall be authorized to operate it. h. The bureau assistant chief shall maintain a list of employees who are authorized to operate the barricade and cone truck and ensure that snowplow operators are trained in the proper use of the snowplow.

2. Collision Reconstruction Unit Truck

a. The Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) truck shall be primarily used to transport CRU specialized equipment and/or employees to collision scenes or other major incident scenes. b. The CRU supervisor shall authorize and approve all employees who operate the CRU truck. All employees shall complete a documented orientation and training session prior to operating the CRU truck.

c. The CRU supervisor shall have the authority to utilize the CRU truck as needed and without prior approval from a higher authority. d. The CRU supervisor shall be responsible for monitoring the condition and maintenance of the CRU truck and ensure that the vehicle is stored in a state of operational readiness.

e. The CRU supervisor shall maintain an inventory of equipment stored on the CRU truck and shall be responsible for the acquisition of additional equipment.

3. Emergency Response Unit Truck

a. The Emergency Response Unit truck shall be utilized to transport equipment and employees of the Emergency Response Unit.

b. The ERU commander shall determine the manner in which the ERU truck is utilized, shall designate specific employees to operate the truck and shall establish conditions and limitations of usage.

c. The ERU commander or designee may authorize use of the ERU truck in extreme situations. Due to the specialized equipment stored on the truck, it will not normally be utilized as a command post for special events unless ERU employees are present and authorization is given by the ERU commander. d. Employees authorized to operate the ERU truck shall be trained on its proper operation and equipment and shall demonstrate proficiency in the operation of the truck. The ERU commander shall maintain a list of employees who are authorized and trained to operate the ERU truck. e. The ERU commander shall designate a specific employee to ensure that routine


maintenance is performed. The ERU commander shall routinely inspect the truck for damage, deterioration, and defects. f. The designated employee shall maintain an inventory of equipment and shall ensure that the equipment and truck is stored in a safe and secure location. Equipment required on the truck includes, but is not limited to: specialized weapons, ropes, ladders, PPE, and other items specifically listed on the vehicle inventory.

4. Emergency Response Unit Armored Vehicle

a. The ERU armored vehicle shall be deployed on ERU call outs or training sessions at the direction of the ERU commander or designee to supplement the ERU truck by transporting employees and/or equipment. b. Employees authorized to operate the ERU armored vehicle shall be oriented and trained in its safe operation and shall demonstrate proficiency in the operation of this vehicle. The ERU commander shall maintain a list of employees who are authorized and trained to operate the ERU armored vehicle c. The designated employee shall be responsible for the maintenance and condition of the ERU armored vehicle. The ERU commander shall routinely inspect the vehicle for damage, deterioration, and defects.

d. During a call out situation, and at the direction of the ERU commander or designee, the ERU armored vehicle may be used as a mobile barricade to protect ERU members or other employees or persons.

5. Mobile Command Post

a. The mobile command post shall be utilized by the department at special events, including sporting events and/or concerts, the scene of major disasters, at hostage and barricaded persons situations and other locations where a temporary staging area is needed.

b. The mobile command post is assigned to the Technical Services Unit and shall be utilized under the direction of the Technical Services Unit supervisor in any situation where department employees need temporary shelter.

c. The Technical Services Unit supervisor shall authorize and maintain a list of specific employees who are authorized to operate the mobile command post and ensure that those employees are trained in the safe operation of the vehicle. The Technical Services Unit supervisor shall provide orientation and training to those employees who are to be designated as authorized to operate the mobile command post. d. The Technical Services Unit supervisor shall ultimately be responsible for the condition and maintenance of the mobile command post and to ensure that all service requirements are met.


e. The Technical Services Unit supervisor shall maintain an inventory of equipment which is to be stored on the mobile command post and conduct routine inspections of the vehicle. Minimal equipment includes, but is not limited to: mobile data computer(s), spare portable radio batteries, water, computer, printer/fax, paper, situational maps and unusual occurrence kit.

6. Motorcycles

a. The department utilizes motorcycles for selective traffic enforcement, traffic control, escorts, and special events as designated by the Bureau of Special Operations (BOSO) assistant chief or designee. Motorcycles offer the benefits of increased maneuverability, efficient deployment in congested areas, and the safety of the employee operator.

b. The bureau assistant chief or designee shall establish criteria for the safe operation and utilization of department owned motorcycles. Traffic density, temperature, road conditions and the nature of the assignment shall be give due consideration prior to the utilization and deployment of motorcycles.

c. The bureau assistant chief or designee shall authorize the use of motorcycles according to each assignment and shall give specific instructions as to their duties and responsibilities. d. Prior to operating a department owned motorcycle, authorized officers shall complete a training course which has been authorized and approved by the bureau assistant chief. Only those officers who have demonstrated a proficiency in the safe operation of motorcycles shall be authorized to operate same. All officers who are approved motorcycle operators are required to possess a valid motorcycle license.

e. Each officer who is assigned a motorcycle shall be responsible for the maintenance of the vehicle and shall ensure that the vehicle is in safe operating condition prior to use. The bureau assistant chief or designee shall monitor maintenance records, the overall condition of the vehicle, and the safe operation of same. f. The Traffic Section supervisor shall inspect each officer’s motorcycle on a regular basis and maintain an inventory of equipment assigned to the vehicle and the officer. Issued equipment shall include siren, radar, and other equipment as designated by the bureau assistant chief.

g. The bureau assistant chief or designee shall maintain a current roster of officers who have completed the required training and are authorized to operate department owned motorcycles.

7. Patrol Wagons

a. The Bureau of Patrol sector commanders are responsible for maintaining and staffing patrol wagons on a twenty-four basis for use by the entire department. Officers assigned to the patrol wagons are responsible for the safety and security of prisoners being transported.


b. Refer to GO series 1992-16 Prisoner Security and Transportation for guidelines related to patrol wagon use.

c. The Technical Services Unit supervisor will instruct officers in the proper utilization of the patrol wagon and all associated equipment. d. The Training Section will certify officers to operate the patrol wagons, after testing the officer’s competency in proper loading, backing, parking and operation of special equipment on the patrol wagon. This certification will also be approved by the Technical Services Unit supervisor.

e. The patrol wagons are to be inspected by the oncoming officers assigned as patrol wagon drivers for damage, evidence and contraband prior to each shift. Inspections for contraband shall occur prior to and after each prisoner transport. Transport procedures shall comply with GO series 1992-16 Prisoner Security and Transportation. The assigned officers are also responsible to check fluid levels, tires, safety equipment and the overall condition and cleanliness of the patrol wagon. f. Patrol wagons are equipped with emergency lights and siren. The patrol wagon has reflective department markings similar to marked vehicles. Patrol wagons are also equipped with a supply of rubber gloves and disinfectant solution.

g. The Technical Services Unit supervisor and patrol sector commanders shall maintain a list of officers authorized to operate patrol wagons and all other special purpose vehicles under their control. h. When not transporting prisoners, the officer driving the patrol wagon shall be engaged in other normal law enforcement activities associated with beat responsibilities.

8. Forensic Services Unit Vehicle

a. The Forensic Services Unit vehicle shall be stored at police headquarters. The vehicle is assigned to the FSU supervisor, who is responsible for maintaining the vehicle and its contents. All requests for repairs and/or use shall be directed to the FSU supervisor. b. The FSU vehicle shall be utilized at the discretion of the FSU supervisor at crime scenes and other locations to facilitate the processing of evidence.

c. The FSU supervisor shall instruct their employees in the proper utilization of the FSU vehicle and all associated equipment. The FSU vehicle may be used for other purposes at the discretion of the FSU supervisor.

d. The FSU supervisor shall provide orientation and training to FSU employees who are authorized to operate the FSU vehicle.

e. The FSU supervisor shall be responsible for the condition and maintenance of the FSU vehicle and ensure that all service requirements are met.


f. The FSU supervisor shall maintain an inventory of equipment which is to be stored in or on the FSU vehicle and conduct routine inspections of the vehicle to ensure that the vehicle is adequately equipped. Required vehicle equipment includes, but is not limited to: flashlights, evidence collection containers, marking materials, and PPE.

g. The FSU supervisor shall maintain a list of employees who are authorized to operate the FSU vehicle.

9. Mounted Unit Trucks and Horse Vans

a. The Mounted Unit trucks and horse vans shall be used primarily to transport department horses and necessary equipment from the barn to the point of assignment. Trucks and horse vans shall also be used to transport unit supplies.

b. The Mounted Unit supervisor has the authority to permit the utilization of trucks and horse vans for additional uses. The Mounted Unit supervisor shall authorize specific employees to operate Mounted Unit trucks and horse vans and ensure that, prior to operating the vehicle, those employees are trained in the safe operation and proper use of the vehicle. c. Employees assigned to the Mounted Unit may be assigned individual trucks, for which they will be individually responsible for maintaining the appearance and arranging for necessary maintenance. The Mounted Unit supervisor shall be responsible for inspecting the condition of trucks and horse vans to ensure of their proper care and maintenance. Mounted Unit trucks shall be equipped with emergency equipment. The unit supervisor will determine the additional equipment (tack, water, feed, civil disturbance gear) required by the assignment and shall regularly inspect same. d. Only authorized department employees may operate Mounted Unit trucks and trailers. The unit supervisor shall train Mounted employees on operation, backing and towing considerations and make employees aware of special hazards associated with the operation of these vehicles.

10. School Bus

a. The department school bus may be utilized by the Police Activities League for the purpose of transporting participants of community services programs. Department employees may use the vehicle for transportation to and from cultural events, sporting events, and field trips within Kentucky and/or out-of-state field trips with the approval of the Chief of Police.

b. The department school bus shall be utilized and maintained by the bureau to which it is assigned, as authorized by the bureau assistant chief. Conditions of use include the vehicle may be used for official purposes only, shall be reserved one week in advance, fueled before being returned, and cleaned both inside and out following use. c. The bureau assistant chief or designee shall approve all in-state requests for use of the department school bus.


d. Any driver of the department school bus must be an Urban County Government employee. The driver shall possess a Class A, B, or C commercial driver’s license with a passenger endorsement and is familiarized with the operation of the vehicle. New drivers shall receive training on the operation and backing of the bus.

e. The bureau assistant chief or designee shall appoint a designee who shall be responsible for the maintenance and condition of the vehicle.

f. The department school bus shall be equipped with flares, seatbelts and other equipment as required by the Kentucky Revised Statutes.

11. Canine Unit Vehicles

a. The Canine Unit vehicles shall be used primarily to transport department canines and necessary equipment from the Canine Unit facility to the point of assignment. Canine Unit vehicles shall also be used to transport unit and canine supplies.

b. Only officers who are qualified canine handlers can operate a canine vehicle. These officers shall receive training on the safe operation of a Canine Unit vehicle and demonstrate familiarity with specialized equipment on the vehicle. c. Officers who are canine handlers will be responsible for the maintenance and condition of their assigned vehicle. The unit supervisor is responsible for vehicle inspections.

d. Canine units shall be equipped with protective cages for the canine, water, watering bowl, and lead. The supervisor may designate additional equipment to be maintained in each unit.

e. The Canine Unit supervisor shall be responsible for training all new officers who are canine handlers in the proper operation, maintenance and equipment associated with a canine vehicle. The supervisor shall maintain a list of officers authorized to operate Canine Unit vehicles.

12. All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV)

a. For the purposes of this policy, an ATV is any four-wheeled vehicle designed for the operator to ride by straddling the seat and is equipped with a handlebar for steering. b. ATVs shall be assigned to specific bureaus for use on difficult terrain, special assignments, and such other functions as designated by each bureau. Each bureau assigned an ATV will be responsible for:

1. Maintaining the equipment, condition and general maintenance of the bureau’s assigned ATVs. 2. Maintaining a list of employees authorized to operate the bureau’s assigned ATVs.


c. ATVs shall be operated by employees in accordance with training provided and shall be used in a safe manner. Stunts are never authorized on an ATV. ATVs will not normally be operated on public roadways. Passengers are allowed on an ATV only in extreme circumstances.

d. The bureau assistant chiefs or designees are authorized to deploy ATVs in special circumstances requiring mobility in difficult terrain situations. Circumstances for use include, but are not limited to escapee searches, locating narcotics growing operations, remote area patrol and special assignments for which small vehicles are suitable.

e. Helmets are the only equipment that will be located with each ATV.

f. Only employees who have completed a training and orientation on ATVs will be permitted to operate them.

13. Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV)

a. For the purposes of this policy, a UTV is a four-wheeled vehicle designed for use in rough terrain that is designed to carry the driver and at least one passenger in a “side-by-side” configuration and equipped with a steering wheel; all enclosed within a frame or cab. b. UTVs are assigned to specific bureaus for use and application in difficult or rough terrain, on special assignments and other functions as designated by the assigned bureau or unit.

c. When not in use, the UTVs will be stored in a location established by the assigned bureau or unit and maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and maintenance protocols.

d. The assigned bureau is responsible for providing basic maintenance above the operator level or coordinating for its maintenance at higher levels as necessary. The assigned bureau assistant chief or designee shall ensure that the UTV has the proper equipment.

e. Prior to use, the approved employee who is the UTV operator is responsible to inspect the UTV to identify any damage or other deficiency that may present a safety hazard during operation. The employee will either correct the hazard or deficiency that they are qualified to handle, or will inform the assigned bureau assistant chief or designee of any other maintenance or safety issues. If the hazard or deficiency cannot be fixed or corrected, the employee must have supervisory approval prior to operation of the UTV. f. Only employees that have completed the UTV operator course will be permitted to operate the vehicle on rough terrain. A UTV shall be operated in rough terrain in accordance with the training provided and in a careful and safe manner.

g. The training course, at a minimum, will include instruction on:


1. Safe operation of the UTV based on terrain, location and type of assignment, and number of passengers. 2. Pre-operation inspection and operator level maintenance. 3. Proper procedures on backing and how to trailer the UTV. 4. Legal issues and requirements relevant to the operation of the UTV on roadways.

h. Sector or unit supervisors are authorized to deploy UTVs to patrol or operate in areas requiring mobility in difficult terrain situations. Circumstances for use include, but are not limited to escapee searches, locating narcotics growing operations, remote area patrol and other special assignments for which the vehicle(s) are suitable. UTVs assigned to specialized units shall be deployed based on operational need. i. An assistant chief or designee may authorize employees who have not completed the UTV Operator Course, on a case-by-case basis, to use the UTV when it will be used only on non-rough terrain (parade or a downtown event/celebration). In this case, a trained operator must provide a brief orientation for using the UTV controls and general safety issues. The approved employee operator will be responsible to operate the UTV in a careful and safe manner which will not exceed the limitations intended by the assistant chief or designee’s authorization. j. When utilized in trail or rough terrain situation, any employee who has not completed the UTV Operator Course may only ride as a passenger.

14. Hazardous Devices Unit Truck

a. The Hazardous Devices Unit truck shall be primarily utilized to transport equipment and employees of the Hazardous Devices Unit for missions and training. b. The HDU supervisor shall determine the manner in which the HDU truck is utilized, designate specific employees to operate the vehicle, and establish conditions and limitations of usage. c. The HDU supervisor or designee may authorize use of the HDU truck in extreme situations. Due to the specialized equipment stored on the HDU truck, it will not normally be utilized as a command post for special events unless employees who are HDU members are present and authorization is given by the HDU supervisor.

d. Only authorized department employees may operate the HDU truck. The unit supervisor shall ensure employees who are HDU members are trained on operation, backing and towing considerations and make these employees aware of special hazards associated with the operation of this vehicle. The HDU supervisor shall maintain a list of employees who are authorized and trained to operate the HDU truck.

e. The HDU supervisor shall designate a specific employee to ensure that routine


maintenance is performed. The HDU supervisor shall routinely inspect the HDU truck for damage, deterioration and defects.

f. The HDU truck shall have, at a minimum: emergency lights, siren, and the specified equipment required by the Hazardous Devices Unit. The HDU supervisor is responsible for ensuring that each vehicle has the required equipment necessary for an HDU deployment.

g. The HDU supervisor shall maintain an inventory of equipment, and shall ensure that the equipment and vehicle are stored in a safe and secure location. Equipment required on the vehicle includes and is not limited to explosives, robot, bomb suits, and other bomb response equipment listed on the inventory.

15. Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) Utility Trucks/Trailers

a. The HDU utility trucks/trailers shall be primarily utilized to transport HDU equipment and employees for missions and training. b. The HDU supervisor shall determine the manner in which the HDU utility trucks/trailers are utilized, designate specific employees to operate the vehicles and establish conditions and limitations of usage. c. The HDU utility trucks shall be deployed on HDU call outs and used to pull the HDU equipment trailer, the Total Containment Vessel, and/or UTV. The bureau assistant chief to whom HDU is assigned, or designee, may authorize the use of the HDU utility truck for severe weather occurrences, operations in rough terrain or other circumstances. d. Only authorized department employees may operate HDU utility trucks and trailers. The HDU supervisor shall ensure employees who are HDU members are trained on operation, backing and towing considerations and will make them aware of special hazards associated with the operation of these vehicles. The HDU supervisor shall maintain a list of employees who are authorized and trained to operate the HDU utility trucks/trailers.

e. The HDU supervisor shall designate a specific employee to ensure that routine maintenance is performed. The HDU supervisor shall routinely inspect the vehicles for damage, deterioration and defects.

f. The HDU utility trucks shall have, at a minimum: emergency lights, siren, and the specified equipment required by the Hazardous Devices Unit. The HDU supervisor is responsible for ensuring that each vehicle has the required equipment necessary for an HDU deployment. g. The HDU supervisor shall maintain inventory of equipment, and shall ensure that the equipment and vehicle are stored in a safe and secure location. Equipment required on the vehicle includes, but is not limited to: explosives, robot, bomb suits and other bomb response equipment listed on the inventory.

GO 1973-03Q Operation and Maintenance of Department Vehicles Page 30 of 33 16. Segways

a. Segways are assigned to the Bureau of Special Operations. The purpose of their use is to provide high visibility police presence in the downtown area in an effort to suppress criminal activity and foster positive community relationships. b. Only officers trained in the Segway Basic Optimization Training by a certified Segway instructor may operate a Segway. This training will provide the officer with the knowledge of conditions that the Segway may be utilized safely. c. The Segways will be maintained and/or stored in approved department owned facilities when not in use. d. Although the use of Segways will primarily be in the downtown area, they may be utilized in additional locations with the approval of a supervisor. e. Officers who operate the Segway will wear a protective bicycle helmet at all times. f. The Bureau of Special Operations shall maintain a list of officers authorized and trained to operate Segways.

17. Bicycles

a. The department utilizes officers operating bicycles to increase visibility and mobility, and to enhance public interaction. Deployment of officers on bicycles enhances provision of police services in various areas, including residential neighborhoods, public housing, business and entertainment districts, parks, recreational areas and other appropriate areas. The primary functions of officers on bicycles are crime prevention, detection and enforcement, and to serve as a positive liaison with the community. b. The BOSO Assistant Chief designates an officer to serve as the bicycle coordinator. The bicycle coordinator is assigned to the BOSO Operational Support Section. Duties include, and are not limited to: 1. Assist with the coordination and organization of bicycle training, and maintain a list of officers trained and approved to be assigned to bicycle duties. 2. Conduct bicycle safety inspections and maintenance. 3. Approve and/or coordinate maintenance or and repair by an authorized dealer as needed. 4. Conduct and maintain inventories of bicycles and replacement parts. 5. Maintain records indicating to which officer a bicycle is assigned. 6. Maintain a list of approved bicycles and equipment.


c. Before being assigned to bicycles duties, officers must complete a Kentucky Law Enforcement Council (KLEC) approved Police Cyclist Course. d. Officers assigned to bicycle duties shall: 1. Wear or use all required safety equipment as appropriate. 2. Be responsible for the maintenance and care of their assigned bicycle.

F. Other Special Purpose Vehicles

1. The utilization of other special vehicles shall be under the direction of the bureau assistant chief to whom the vehicles are assigned. 2. The method of deployment shall be the responsibility of the bureau assistant chief and designees. 3. Each bureau assistant chief and designees shall be authorized to utilize and deploy equipment, vehicles and employees as needed to accomplish department objectives.

G. Operation of Special Purpose Vehicles by Civilian Employees

1. Any civilian employee whose job assignment involves the potential to operate a special purpose vehicle (not including a sedan, SUV, pickup truck or standard van) will be directed by a supervisor to complete a Request for Civilian Employee Authorization to Operate Department Special Purpose Vehicle(s) (Form #257) and submit it to the supervisor of the Technical Services Unit.

2. The supervisor of the Technical Services Unit will coordinate and administer training and testing of the civilian employee as needed, utilizing the same type(s) of special purpose vehicle(s) the civilian employee may or will be operating. 3. Upon successful completion of the training and testing, the supervisor of the Technical Services Unit will notify the appropriate supervisors, including the employee’s bureau assistant chief, which type(s) of special duty vehicle(s) the civilian employee is authorized to operate.

a. Civilian employees who have successfully completed special purpose vehicle training may only operate the special purpose vehicle(s) they have been authorized to operate by the Technical Services supervisor. b. The supervisor of the Technical Services Unit will update the Form #257 as needed. c. Completed Forms #257, and related training records, will be maintained by the supervisor of the Technical Services Unit.

XI. EQUIPPING DEPARTMENT VEHICLES A. Marked department vehicles shall be marked only with approved official markings.


1. Vehicles shall be marked on the sides and rear by decals and stripes of reflective vinyl material to distinctly reflect their purpose and will display distinctive numbers on both sides and rear deck to afford unique identification of each vehicle. Officers assigned marked vehicles which have damaged or missing identification numbers shall be responsible for having the number(s) replaced at Fleet Services.

2. Vehicles shall be readily distinguishable as Lexington Police Department vehicles. 3. Vehicles shall be marked with emergency number (911) in reflective material.

B. Department enforcement vehicles operated by officers shall have installed, at a minimum, the following:

1. Emergency Lights:

a. Patrol Vehicles: A set of roof mounted red and blue lights that either flash or rotate, and afford a minimum visibility of 500 feet in any direction, 360 degrees around the vehicle in bright sunlight. The light bar is to be equipped with both alley lights and take-down lights. The light bar will have all functions controllable by distinctive switches within easy reach of the officer driving the vehicle.

b. Marked, unmarked and special duty vehicles shall be equipped with emergency equipment authorized by the Chief of Police, or designees, and shall comply with the requirements established by the Kentucky Revised Statutes.

2. The vehicle will be equipped with a multifunction electronic siren/P.A. system of at least 100 watts with a matching speaker.

3. A two-way mobile radio shall be provided to operate within a system designed to provide adequate coverage of the jurisdictional area as described by maximum coverage standards as promulgated by the Federal Communications Commission.

C. Department vehicles shall be equipped with, at a minimum, the following:

1. A five pound dry chemical type fire extinguisher mounted in the trunk or other accessible area of the vehicle.

2. A department approved first aid kit shall be located in the trunk or other accessible area of the vehicle.

D. The Chief of Police and the Technical Services Unit supervisor will ensure all equipment installed meets or exceeds minimum requirements as established by the National Bureau of Standards for Public Safety Radio Equipment.

E. All department vehicles shall be officially marked as described above, unless exempted by the Chief of Police or designee. F. Alterations


1. All alterations to department vehicles involving the addition or removal of electronic, communications or other related equipment- including personally owned radar and related equipment- requires authorization from the Technical Services Unit (TSU) supervisor and installation by approved and current TSU employees.

2. Personally owned radar and related equipment added to a department vehicle by approved Technical Services Unit employees will be included as part of the vehicle inventory.

3. The officer is responsible for the initial purchase of and any maintenance or repair costs associated with the personally owned radar and related equipment.

4. Any modification or alteration to, or removal or replacement of any existing department-owned equipment already installed in a vehicle by the Technical Services Unit is prohibited. Alterations or removal of this equipment shall only be completed by approved Technical Services Unit employees, and only after authorization is granted by the TSU supervisor.

5. No other alterations to the interior or exterior of a vehicle belonging to the department will be allowed. 6. Employees assigned vehicles equipped with spare tires will not remove the spare tire or jack from the vehicle except to replace flat tires.

7. Prior to being reassigned or turned in to the TSU supervisor, a vehicle belonging to the department is to be accepted with all approved and documented modifications in place, or in the same condition as at the time of issue. The employee is responsible for any expenses associated with returning the vehicle to its original condition. All work associated with returning the vehicle to its original condition will be approved by the TSU supervisor and completed by approved current TSU employees.

Documents

Lexington Police Department 1973-03Q Operation and...a. The officer, prior to utilizing this option, shall complete a “Request for Authorization to Drive Issued Take Home Vehicle