Service Divisions

The Operations Bureau is the most visible branch of the Police Department. This division has the greatest interaction with the community, and it is our goal to respond to the community’s needs in a professional and empathetic manner.

The Operations Division is committed to working in a collaborative effort with the community to identify and address quality of life issues with our focus directed toward long term solutions.

The Support Services Division- Consists of sworn and professional staff whose purpose is to provide internal and external support to the organization and, more importantly, community members. The Support Services Bureau consists of the following:

Administrative Services Division—This division is supervised by a sergeant and is responsible for policy development and compliance, the training of department members, and overseeing the Field Training Unit, which ensures the training of our newest patrol officers. 

Community Outreach Unit – This unit is responsible for our Neighborhood Watch and Business Alert programs, Social Media Outreach, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, Cops on the Corner, the Parent Project Program, Homeless Outreach, liaising with the Building Department and Code Enforcement, and many other community functions.

West Bay Communications Center –  The communications division operates 24 hours a day and is staffed by one Lead Dispatcher and ten Dispatchers. These men and women have the responsibility of answering 9-1-1 calls as the public safety answering point (PSAP) for the cities of Pinole, Hercules, and San Pablo and dispatching police units to calls or transferring the caller to the appropriate agency, such as the Fire Department for fire and medical services. The communication center has direct communication with the police officers in the field through the use of the radio system and the in-car computer system called the Mobile Data System (MDS).

Records Unit – Our Records Unit is responsible for the recording and processing of all crime reports and indexing statistical information regarding citations, reports, subpoena processing, records releases, records and contact checks, and all other administrative functions. Our records unit is also responsible for all counter and walk-in services. 

Property and Evidence Unit – Our Property and Evidence Division is responsible for the intake and cataloging of all property taken into the police department as well as processing evidence for submission to the crime lab for further analysis.  

Volunteers – Our department cannot function without our volunteers! We rely heavily on our volunteers to assist us in projects and duties throughout the department, including patrol through the Pinole Posse program and in our Records Unit.

Explorer Post #2704 – Explorer Programs have become a tremendous resource for law enforcement agencies of all sizes. The Explorer Program helps guide the youth of their community, recruit new officers, and provide volunteer services for their law enforcement agency. It provides the chance to build professional connections with experienced officers who can mentor you and offer guidance. You’ll develop practical skills such as first aid and crime scene investigation, along with essential soft skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication. Engaging in community service projects enables you to make a positive impact and build trust within your community.