WAKEMAN POLICE DEPARTMENT
Patrol Division
The Patrol Division is the core operational component of the Wakeman Police Department. Patrol officers serve as the first responders to emergencies, calls for service, and community concerns. Through visibility, professionalism, and proactive policing, the division ensures the safety and security of the Village of Wakeman.
The Patrol Division is committed to providing timely, effective, and compassionate service while protecting life, property, and the rights of all individuals. Officers work to strengthen relationships with residents and maintain trust through fair, respectful, and transparent policing practices.
The Patrol Division is responsible for:
Responding to 911 calls and emergencies
Including medical emergencies, crashes, disturbances, and crimes in progress.
Proactive neighborhood patrols
Maintaining visibility to deter crime and enhance community safety.
Traffic enforcement & roadway safety
Enforcing traffic laws, responding to collisions, and promoting safe driving.
Investigating criminal activity
Conducting preliminary investigations, gathering witness statements, securing scenes, and completing detailed reports.
Community engagement
Building positive relationships with residents, businesses, and visitors.
Interagency cooperation
Assisting county, state, and neighboring departments as needed.
Evidence Responsibilities
Patrol officers play a vital role in the proper handling, documentation, and preservation of evidence. Their responsibilities include:
Securing crime scenes to prevent contamination or loss of evidence. Identifying, photographing, and collecting physical evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, weapons, narcotics, property, and digital media. Proper packaging and labeling of all evidence using approved procedures to maintain integrity and prevent degradation. Completing accurate evidence documentation including evidence logs, reports, and chain-of-custody forms. Submitting evidence to the designated evidence custodian in accordance with department policy. Maintaining chain-of-custody by ensuring evidence is transferred, stored, and processed only by authorized personnel. Testifying in court regarding evidence collection and handling when required.
Patrol Staffing
The division is staffed by full-time, part-time, and reserve officers who receive training in:
De-escalation
Crisis intervention
First aid/CPR
Defensive tactics
Evidence handling & chain-of-custody
Emergency vehicle operations
Ohio law & procedure
Community policing strategies
Officers provide 24-hour coverage, ensuring swift response and consistent protection for the community.
Community-Focused Policing
Patrol officers take an active role in community engagement, business checks, and public events. This helps maintain open communication and fosters a strong partnership between the department and the community.
