270-RICR-10-00-2
270-RICR-10-00-2. Division of Sheriffs Rules and Regulations (version Amendment, 12/20/2017 to 12/20/2017)
2.1 Purpose
The purpose of this
regulation is to provide a guide for Division of Sheriffs employees
in order to ensure a clear understanding of their conduct required as
employees of the Division of Sheriffs within the Department of Public
Safety.
2.2 Authority
These regulations are
authorized pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 42-7.3-9 and 42-7.3-6.
2.3 Foreword
A. All Division members are
reminded that no set of rules or regulations can be established that
will cover every aspect of security work that may arise. Many
problems are resolved based on a member’s training and common
sense. All members have the responsibility to learn the rules and
regulations in this manual and are expected to know and assume the
duties and obligations set forth herein.
B. All members must uphold and
abide by the laws of the United States and the State of Rhode Island,
and all local ordinances. All members must follow R.I. Gen. Laws §
36-14-5, the Code of Ethics for Rhode Island State Employees, and all
Rhode Island Department of Public Safety policies, rules, objectives,
and orders. Members are expected to carry out all lawful directives
issued by superiors and supervisors.
C. All members are to act at
all times in conformity with R.I. Gen. Laws § 36-14-1, which states,
“It is the policy of the State of Rhode Island that public
officials and employees must adhere to the highest standards of
ethical conduct, respect the public trust and the rights of all
persons, be open, accountable, responsive, avoid the appearance of
impropriety, and not use their position for private gain or
advantage.”
D. Failure to comply with any
rule or regulation in this manual, any subsequent policy or
procedure, or any conduct that is detrimental to this Division, may
result in disciplinary action.
E. Serving as a guide, the
regulations herein contained should provide all sworn and civilian,
union and non-union, line, supervisory, and managerial employees with
a clear understanding of the conduct required of them as employees of
the Division of Sheriffs within the Department of Public Safety.
2.4 Leadership
A. Mission Statement
1. It is the mission of the
Rhode Island Division of Sheriffs to provide the highest level of
services to the Rhode Island Judiciary and Rhode Island Criminal
Justice System while maintaining the greatest degree of integrity,
impartiality, and confidentiality; to treat all individuals with the
utmost respect, dignity, and fairness; to work with the Department of
Corrections and all law enforcement agencies in a spirit of
cooperation; to protect and provide security for all who enter the
Rhode Island Courts while maintaining the highest degree of
professionalism and decorum.
B. Organizational Mission
1. The organizational mission
of the Rhode Island Division of Sheriffs is distributed among its
members.
2. The primary duties of the
Rhode Island Division of Sheriffs are to provide and maintain
security for judges at all state courts; to provide and maintain
security in all courtrooms and other public areas within state
courthouses; to provide and maintain security in the cellblocks in
all state courts, and exercise all powers as required and prescribed
in all other provisions of the general laws and public laws relating
to the powers and duties of sheriffs.
3. The Division shall also be
responsible for statewide transportation of prisoners to and from
police departments, the adult correctional institutions, all
courthouses, and other places of detention; transportation of persons
arrested by state and local police departments to places of
detention; supervising the conduct of and maintain order and
discipline of the prisoners in their custody; the custody and safety
of prisoners while being transported to and from court sessions,
places of detention, and outside hospitals prior to commitment to the
adult correctional institutions; security of prisoners during the
hearing of their cases, and while in outside hospitals prior to
commitment to the adult correctional institutions; the safety and
welfare of prisoners in their custody; to provide security in
connection with transportation in the execution of extraditions; and
to perform matters related to civil process, as prescribed by law.
4. Proficiency in operation
demands that the Division’s form and organization be
quasi-military. It must have a chain of command properly suited to
its own unique demands and for the proper execution of its mission.
5. Consistent with this
organizational mission, Division members shall not knowingly engage
in actions, conduct or associations, either on or off duty, which
compromise the authority of the member or other members, or which
give appearance of improper influence on the Division member’s
judgment when making decisions affecting the Division, offenders or
staff, or which bring discredit on the Division or undermine its
goals and objectives in any way. Such action may be subject to
disciplinary action.
C. Appointment of Members
1. The Director of Public
Safety shall appoint qualified persons to serve as members of the
Rhode Island Division of Sheriffs.
D. Superior Officers
1. A superior officer, who
shall be the rank of sergeant or higher, shall conduct personal
inspections at suitable intervals to determine that all assignments
are performed as ordered; anticipated results are attained; Division
resources are fully employed for the accomplishment of the Division’s
mission; and that any apparent needs or operational deficiencies of
the Division are revealed.
2. A superior officer shall
supervise and allocate responsibilities to subordinate officers,
maintain discipline, and enforce Division rules, regulations,
policies and procedures. A superior officer plans, supervises, and
reviews the work of all Division of Sheriffs personnel and reports
all to his/her Commanding Officer.
3. A superior officer shall
make an immediate, impartial report to his/her commanding officer
relating any incident that he/she is aware of that involves a
violation of the rules and regulations of the Division by any
subordinate member of the Division. He/She shall similarly bring to
the attention of his/her commanding officer any complaint lodged
against any member or employee by another person.
4. A superior officer shall
not abuse those under his/her command by disrespect of their dignity
as human beings.
5. A superior officer shall
inspire confidence and industriousness in his/her subordinates by the
use of tact in giving orders and by constructively correcting
mistakes.
6. A superior officer shall
avoid, as far as circumstances may permit, the censuring of a
subordinate in the presence of others, and he/she shall be fair and
impersonal in evaluating the work of subordinates.
7. A superior officer shall be
responsible for the development and maintenance of proper
professional attitudes of his/her subordinates in their dealings with
the public.
8. Upon assignment, a superior
officer shall assist at, be present for, or conduct shift briefings
in accordance with specific orders of his/her commanding officer.
He/She shall be responsible that all special duty assignments, orders
or instructions necessary for the proper performance of the
Division’s mission are carried out.
2.5 Conduct and Courtesy
A. Obedience to Law
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall obey the laws of the United States and the State of
Rhode Island, ordinances of local jurisdictions, and court orders. If
it is proven that a member has violated this rule of conduct, the
fact that no criminal prosecution was instituted against the member
shall not bar internal disciplinary action. A conviction of the
violation of any law shall be prima facie evidence of a
violation of this rule of conduct.
B. Obedience to Rules and
Regulations
1. All members of the Rhode
Island Division of Sheriffs shall promptly obey, without reservation,
the Rules and Regulations of this Division. A violation of these
Rules and Regulations, or of any Division policy or directive, may be
sufficient cause for disciplinary action. Ignorance of these Rules
and Regulations shall not be considered a justification for any such
violation.
C. Obedience to Superior
Officers
1. Members shall promptly obey
all lawful orders given to them by a superior officer. The chain of
command will be followed and respected at all times. If an order is
not understood, it is the responsibility of the member to obtain
clarification from the superior officer. Members who are given orders
that appear to be in conflict with previously issued orders, rules,
or regulations shall respectfully inform the superior officer who
issued the conflicting order. The responsibility for resolving the
conflict will then be assumed by the superior officer. If the
superior officer does not alter or retract the conflicting order, the
member shall promptly obey the order.
2. All general or special
orders, directives, memorandums, notices or other orders printed on
authorized Division of Sheriffs forms that have been approved by the
Director, Chief Sheriff, Commanding Officer, Department of Public
Safety shall have the force and effect of a Division of Sheriffs
regulation.
D. Acceptance of
Responsibility
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall accept the responsibilities imposed upon them by law
as to their duties and authority. All members are required to be calm
and firm in their actions at all times, and will act together to
protect the public and each other from danger.
E. Reporting Requirements
1. Members shall immediately
report any information received, either on or off duty, which may
have an impact on the safety and security of Division staff, the
Judiciary, or Departmental operations. Even if a member is uncertain
about the significance of information received, the member shall
immediately report it to his/her immediate supervisor.
2. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs who observe or who have knowledge of violations of laws,
ordinances, rules, regulations, or official orders on the part of
another member shall immediately report such incidents to their
immediate supervisor. If for any reason, members fear that providing
this information to his/her immediate supervisor may place them at
risk of personal harm, they may report this information directly to
the Chief Sheriff.
3. Supervisors are required to
relay any information described above to the Chief Sheriff.
F. Courtesy
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall treat members of the public, visitors to Division
offices and facilities, and individuals who call the Division on the
telephone with courtesy, dignity, and respect at all times.
2. Members shall be tactful in
the performance of their duties, shall control their tempers,
exercise the utmost patience and discretion, and shall not engage in
argumentative discussions even in the face of extreme provocation.
Members shall not use coarse, profane, or insolent language or
gestures, and shall not express any prejudice concerning race,
ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religious
belief, age, gender, politics or similar personal characteristics
when speaking to or about members of the public. This prohibition
shall also apply to communications via radio or telecommunications
equipment, electronic and voice mail, the Internet, and all
integrated computer networks.
G. Conduct Unbecoming
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall conduct themselves at all times, both on and off duty,
in such a manner as to bring credit to the Division. Conduct
unbecoming in a member shall include any misconduct, on or off duty
that violates federal, state, or local criminal codes, as well as any
activity, on or off duty, that undermines the work or authority of
the member or other members, brings discredit on the Division,
compromises the Division’s mission or operations, or adversely
affects the public trust.
H. Conduct
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall constantly perform their duties in a responsible,
dignified, and professional manner.
2. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not participate in any incident involving moral
turpitude that impairs their ability to perform as members of the
Division of Sheriffs or cause the Rhode Island Division of Sheriffs
to be brought into disrepute.
I. Harassment and
Discrimination
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not use language, engage in conduct, or prepare
written communication intended to harass, discriminate against,
ridicule, taunt, demean, embarrass, insult, or provoke other members
of the Division, members of the offender population, or members of
the public because of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender
identity, disability, religious belief, age, gender, politics or
similar personal characteristics.
J. Use of Alcohol on Duty or
in Uniform
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall neither consume nor purchase intoxicating beverages
while on duty or while wearing the Division uniform. The presence or
consumption of alcohol on Division premise, in Division vehicles, or
while wearing a uniform or article of clothing with identifying
insignia (e.g. badge or patch) that give the appearance of being on
duty at the Division of Sheriffs, is strictly prohibited.
K. Abuse of Alcohol Off-Duty
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs, while off-duty, shall refrain from consuming intoxicants to
the extent that it could constitute unbecoming conduct as described
in these rules, or render them unfit to report for duty if they are
called back in an emergency. Members shall not consume any alcoholic
beverage during the four hours prior to the start of their regular
shift.
L. Alcoholic Beverages in
State Facilities and Vehicles
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not possess, use, or store alcoholic beverages in any
state facility or vehicle at any time.
M. Use of Drugs
1. The presence or consumption
of controlled substances is strictly prohibited unless they are being
taken pursuant to a valid medical prescription.
2. Members who are in
possession of prescription medication while on duty must take steps
to assure that these substances are stored in such a way that they
are not accessible to the offender population.
3. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not consume excessive medications before or during a
duty shift. Any member taking prescription medication that may affect
his/her performance on duty is obligated to notify his/her
supervisor.
4. Division members may not be
in the possession of a weapon while under the influence of any
medication that impairs judgment.
N. Notification of Contact
with Law Enforcement and Administrative Agencies
1. Members are required to
provide their superior officer with written notification of arrests,
and notice of arraignment dates by law enforcement authorities.
2. Members are required to
provide their superior officer with written notification of
Restraining Orders, No Contact Orders, driver license suspensions or
expirations, or any professional license expirations or suspensions
issued against them.
a. Professional license
suspensions or expirations shall only apply to members who need a
specific license in the performance of their duty.
3. Members are required to
provide their superior officer with notification of any non-duty
related contact with law enforcement.
O. Suspected Intoxication
1. If a superior officer has
reasonable suspicion to believe a member is under the influence of an
intoxicating beverage and/or drugs while on duty, the member shall be
immediately required to submit to tests to determine intoxication.
2. Reasonable suspicion must
be supported by specific facts which may include, but are not limited
to the officer’s appearance, speech, behavior or odors; reports and
observations of the officer’s alcohol or drug related activities;
unexplained changes in behavior or work performance; observed
impairment in ability to perform duties.
3. Any refusal to submit to
testing shall be considered a positive result. An officer subject to
reasonable suspicion testing shall be entitled to union
representation throughout the process if requested.
4. Alcohol breath testing
shall be performed in accordance with Rhode Island Department of
Health protocols, by certified collection personnel.
5. If a blood sample is
required, competent personnel will take the member to a medical
facility for extraction of the sample. The time lapse between the
initial report of the member’s condition and the intoxication tests
shall be accurately recorded. Any person requesting to submit a blood
sample shall be afforded the opportunity, at his/her own cost, to
have an additional blood chemical test.
P. Gratuities, Gifts, Rewards
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not knowingly solicit or accept any gratuity or any
other item of value where there is any connection, however remote,
between such offer or solicitation and the member’s position with
the Division of Sheriffs.
2. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not directly nor indirectly solicit or accept from any
member of the public, member of the offender population, members of
the immediate families, visitors, representatives, or business
associates of offenders, former offenders, or immediate families,
visitors, representatives, or business associates of former offenders
any gratuities, gifts or rewards, nor shall they:
a. Solicit or accept any
gratuities of merchandise, meals, beverages, or any other item of
value that is intended to influence their or any other member’s
actions in any matter of Division of Sheriffs business, or which
might cast an adverse reflection on the Division of Sheriffs or any
of its employees.
b. Solicit or accept any gift
or gratuity from other members if such items would adversely affect
the member’s duties.
c. Solicit or accept any
reward for services rendered in the performance of the member’s
duties.
d. Solicit free admission to
places of amusement for themselves or others.
3. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not directly or indirectly identify themselves as
Division of Sheriffs officers for the purpose of gaining personal
advantages or avoiding the consequences of illegal acts performed by
themselves or by other individuals.
4. Solicit any discounted
services or merchandise offered as a result of their employment with
the Division of Sheriffs. This rule shall not apply to gratuities or
discounts offered to members of the Division of Sheriffs which are
offered to all law enforcement officials (or government employees),
so long as the gratuity or discount is not actively solicited by the
member of the Division of Sheriffs.
Q. Abuse of Position
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not use their official position, official
identification cards, badges or uniform for:
a. Personal or financial gain
for themselves or others.
b. Obtaining privileges not
otherwise available to them, except in the performance of duty.
c. Avoiding the consequences
of illegal acts.
d. Seeking social contacts
under official pretenses.
2. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not lend to another person their identification cards
or badges or permit them to be photographed or reproduced.
R. Permitting Illegal
Activities
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not authorize any individual to violate any law,
ordinance, or court order under any circumstances. When an individual
requests permission to perform an act of questionable legality, the
member shall inform the individual that he/she cannot authorize
anyone to breach the law.
2. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not create the impression that an individual may
violate the law as long as the Division of Sheriffs does not learn of
the violation.
S. Insubordination
1. Insubordination or
disrespect towards superior authority is strictly prohibited.
Insubordination is defined as a failure to recognize the authority of
any superior officer by disrespect or by disputing the superior
officer’s lawful order.
2. Members shall not exhibit
abusive behavior toward a superior officer, including but not limited
to, displaying a disrespectful, insulting, or threatening attitude by
use of language, expressions or gestures.
3. Members shall not refuse to
attend, cooperate with, or answer questions truthfully during
interviews or in requested reports with the Division or Department of
Public Safety. Members are prohibited from impeding, obstructing or
otherwise interfering with an official investigation of the Division
of Sheriffs or Department of Public Safety.
4. Members shall not publicly
criticize the Division of Sheriffs or the Department of Public
Safety, its policies, or other employees in speech, writing, or other
forms of expression. Members shall never speak maliciously about the
Division, its’ policies or members. Any complaints shall be sent
through proper channels. This provision is not intended to preclude
the exercise of members’ rights under state and/or federal law.
This provision shall not apply to union officers speaking on behalf
of union members regarding working conditions.
5. Nothing herein shall be
interpreted as to interfere with, contradict or prohibit a member of
the Division of Sheriffs from exercising their rights under the First
and Fifth amendments of the United States Constitution. Nothing
herein shall prohibit a member of the Division of Sheriffs from
invoking their rights under Garrity v. N.J. 385 U.S. 493 (1967).
T. Conflicts of Interest
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall have no interest, financial or otherwise, direct or
indirect, nor shall they engage in any business transaction, or
professional activity, or incur any obligation of any nature, which
is in conflict with the proper discharge of their duties in the
public interest.
2. Members of the Division are
forbidden to take part in the selection or promotion of any member of
their households, immediate families, or of the immediate families of
spouses or children.
a. Immediate family (to
include blood, marriage, and step relationships) is defined as
parent, grandparent, spouse, including common law, brother, sister,
child, and grandchild.
3. No favoritism will be shown
by any Division member to any subordinate or vendor as a result of a
personal relationship.
U. Use of Tobacco
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs may not use tobacco in any form when performing any official
duty in direct or immediate contact with members of the general
public. When permitted to use tobacco, members must do so in a manner
that will not offend others. All members will comply with the
Governor’s smoking policy and all state laws regarding smoking
while on duty. Smoking in any state facility, building, vehicle, or
office is prohibited.
V. Relations with Division of
Sheriffs Employees
1. Relationships between
members of the Division of Sheriffs shall be characterized by
respect, courtesy, patience and cooperation. Members shall never
behave disrespectfully or use language toward or about any other
Division employee that is degrading, abusive, profane, or refers to
an individual’s race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender,
age, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity in a
demeaning or derogatory manner. Members shall not draw or lift a
weapon toward, offer violence against, nor strike or attempt to
strike any other employee. These prohibitions shall also apply to the
use of communications via radio or telecommunications equipment,
electronic and voice mail, the Internet and all integrated computer
networks.
2. All interactions with
fellow employees, all Division of Sheriffs members, and Department of
Public Safety employees shall be conducted in a professional,
respectful manner.
W. Relations with Offenders
1. Division members shall
protect the civil and legal rights of each member of the offender
population. Members shall be firm, fair, and consistent in their
conduct toward the offender population.
2. The actions and judgments
of members in the exercise of duties that brings them in contact with
the offender population shall not be influenced by personal feelings,
attitudes, or prejudices toward an individual or group.
3. Language that is degrading,
abusive, profane, or refers to an individual’s race, religion,
ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, disability, sexual
orientation, or gender identity in a demeaning or derogatory manner
shall not be used in speaking to or about the offender population.
This prohibition shall also apply to communications via radio and
telecommunications equipment, electronic and voice mail, the
Internet, and all integrated computer networks.
4. Members shall not discuss
Division operations with the offender population or within hearing
range of the offender population. Members shall not permit access to
Division reports, policies, orders, or memoranda, unless such
information is necessary in order for the offender to understand what
is expected of him/her.
X. Unauthorized Physical
Conduct
1. Fighting with fellow
employees of the Division of Sheriffs is strictly prohibited.
Expressing present or future intent to cause harm against fellow
Division members, members of the offender population, and/or members
of the public is strictly prohibited.
2. Excessive use of force or
use of force that does not conform to the Division’s Use of Force
policy is strictly prohibited.
3. Horseplay or rowdiness with
other staff, members of the offender population, and/or members of
the public is strictly prohibited.
Y. Conveyance of Contraband
1. Conveying or allowing
conveyance of any unauthorized items, food, substances, or materials
to or from offenders is strictly prohibited.
2. Conveying or allowing
conveyance of any authorized items, food, substances, or materials to
or from offenders in a manner other than that permitted by Division
policy, directives, or post orders, is strictly prohibited.
3. Members are required to
permit inspection by superiors or designated staff of packages,
envelopes, briefcases, or other containers that are being taken into
or out of secure facilities or vehicles.
Z. Associations
1. All members of the Division
of Sheriffs shall, on or off duty, avoid regular or continuous
associations or dealings with persons whom they know are under
criminal investigation or indictment, or who have a reputation in the
community for present or past involvement in criminal behavior. Such
associations may be permitted where unavoidable because of family
relationships with a Division employee.
2. It is the duty of every
Division member to familiarize himself/herself with the activities
and descriptions of prominent habitual criminals with whom they have
contact.
AA. Loitering
1. A member of the Division of
Sheriffs, when on duty, may enter or frequent a public place only for
the purpose of taking an approved rest break or a regular meal.
BB. Gambling
1. No member of the Division
of Sheriffs shall participate in any form of gambling while on duty
or in uniform, or while at a Division of Sheriffs post, in a vehicle,
or other facility.
CC. Reports
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall complete and submit all reports on time and in
accordance with established Division of Sheriffs procedures. No
member shall knowingly enter or cause to be entered any inaccurate,
false, or misleading information on a report.
DD. Truthfulness
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall speak, document and/or memorialize the truth at all
times and under all circumstances. Members shall also be truthful and
honest in dealing with fellow members.
2. Upon the order of any
superior officer, members shall truthfully answer all questions asked
of them that are specifically directed to the scope of employment and
operations of the Division of Sheriffs.
3. Members shall not provide
false or misleading statements or representations, either verbal or
written, on any official forms, reports, logs, affidavits, or other
documents.
EE. Outside Employment
1. Any Division member who
would like to engage in outside employment shall provide notification
to the Chief Sheriff. The member shall indicate the nature of the
employment, location, anticipated hours of work, and the means by
which he/she may be contacted while employed elsewhere. Requests for
outside employment must meet with approval of the Chief Sheriff.
2. It shall be understood that
the needs of the Division shall take precedence over any other
employment.
FF. Falsification of
Employment Application
1. No person shall procure or
retain employment by willfully misrepresenting their qualifications,
character, reputation, or physical or mental condition. Statements or
representations made in interviews, employment or examination forms
found to be false or intentionally misleading may be cause for
dismissal from the service of the Division.
GG. Dereliction of Duty
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs, while on duty, shall at all times remain alert and ready to
respond to any situation requiring action by the Division. Reading,
writing, using a computer, telephone, cellular telephone, or watching
television while on a security post or other Division assignment are
allowed for job-related activities only, and as authorized by a
superior.
2. While on duty members shall
not:
a. Sleep, lounge, conduct
personal business, attend to personal pleasures, or loiter
b. Talk excessively to other
members, employees, or members of the public, or take part in any
other activities that would cause them to neglect or be inattentive
to duty.
c. Engage in excessive use of
a telephone for personal communication or other activity.
d. Create distractions for
other employees that jeopardize the security or order of Division
operations.
3. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not dedicate any time while on duty to any activity
that does not relate to Division business.
HH. Neglect of Duty
1. All members of the Division
of Sheriffs will patrol their assigned post in a proper manner. Any
member, through reason of neglect, who fails to report unusual
circumstances or incidents, will be subject to disciplinary action.
2. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs must immediately notify their superior officer if they are
unable to continue to perform their duties or will be unable to
report duty as scheduled or assigned.
II. Unsatisfactory Performance
1. Members shall maintain
sufficient competency to properly perform their duties and assume the
responsibilities of their positions. Unsatisfactory performance may
be demonstrated by an unwillingness or inability to perform assigned
tasks; the failure to take appropriate action on the occasion of a
crime, disorder, or other condition deserving Division of Sheriffs
attention; or absence without leave.
JJ. Subject to Call
1. Off-duty members of the
Division of Sheriffs may be called back to work at any time deemed an
emergency by the Department of Public Safety. Members are responsible
for furnishing their commanding officer with a list of places and
phone numbers where they may be reached or if they are temporarily
staying at a location other than their residence.
KK. Notification of Illness,
Injury, Vacation, or Personal Days
1. All members of the Division
of Sheriffs are required to report all scheduled and unscheduled
absences to their supervisor. The supervisor will ensure notification
is made to the Commanding Officer or his/her designee.
2. Illness must be reported at
least 1 hour prior to the start of the shift.
3. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs injured while on duty shall immediately report such injuries
to their commanding officer, and shall comply with such provisions of
existing regulations pertaining to such injuries. Members who become
ill while on duty and find it necessary to leave an assigned post or
duty shall report this fact to their superior officer before leaving
the assignment or post.
4. Vacation and personal days
will be awarded based on availability of personnel. If a member
requests a day off and no one can be found to fill the shift, or the
request will leave the Division short-staffed, then that member will
report for duty.
LL. Fictitious Illness or
Injury Reports
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not feign illness or injury, falsely report themselves
ill or injured, or otherwise deceive or attempt to deceive any member
of the Division as to the condition of their health.
MM. Leaving Duty
Post/Assignment
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs will not leave their posts or assignments unless it is for
the discharge of duty or when properly relieved. If relief does not
arrive on time, the member will notify his/her supervisor. Members
who are not relieved will maintain their post or assignment until
proper relief is located.
2. Members will not depart
from duty without authorization prior to the completion of a shift.
NN. Rest
Periods/Meals
1. No member of the Division
of Sheriffs shall leave his/her building at mealtime or rest period
unless they have been properly relieved and have the permission of a
supervisor.
2. Approved rest breaks shall
not be taken during peak activity periods, during times of emergency,
or at any other times prohibited by a supervisor. Members must be
available for duty at all times in an emergency.
3. Members shall return from
scheduled rest periods and meals in a timely manner.
4. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall willingly be of assistance to the Division of Sheriffs
and the public during rest periods and meals.
OO. Processing Confiscated,
Lost, or Found Items
1. All confiscated, lost or
found items will be recorded with day, date, location, and time of
action, in addition to any other vital information.
2. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs will not take for his/her personal use any confiscated,
lost, or found item.
PP. Dissemination of
Information
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall not, at any time, discuss the policies of the Division
nor divulge any of its dealings to any unauthorized person. The
written policies, rules, regulations, and communications are for
Division use only. They are not to be shared or given to the public
without the permission of the Chief Sheriff. All questions pertaining
to Division of Sheriffs business will be directed to the Chief
Sheriff or his/her designee.
2. Requests by the public for
incident reports shall be directed to a commissioner officer.
Confidential or privileged information or information regarding
pending investigations (i.e., information the disclosure of which
would violate federal or state confidentiality laws, would endanger
courthouse security, or would constitute an unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy) shall never be disclosed to the media, the public,
or other agencies.
3. Access by other Division
members, employees of other agencies or members of the public to
records concerning staff or a member of the offender population will
only be granted subject to the procedures established by the
custodian of those records.
4. The Executive Committee of
Council 94 is permitted to speak to the media about legitimate union
business or matters which relate to collective bargaining or contract
administration.
QQ. Public Pronouncements
1. No member of the Division
of Sheriffs will speak for publication, be interviewed, or make
public speeches on behalf of the Division without the consent of the
Chief Sheriff.
RR. Attendance at Public
Functions
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs are prohibited from attending any of the following functions
while on duty without prior approval from their supervisor, unless
their attendance has been requested as part of their official duties:
a. Public hearings, city/town
council meetings, legislative sessions, political events, etc.
b. Union meetings.
c. Public demonstrations.
SS. Identification
1. Uniform members of the
Division of Sheriffs, when on duty and in uniform, shall at all times
wear in plain sight their badge number and a badge, inscribed with
the words “Rhode Island Sheriff’s Department.” Non-uniformed
staff shall carry their badges and Division credentials while on
duty.
2. All members must allow an
identification photograph to be taken and retaken as necessary to
maintain Division records.
3. Members shall furnish their
badge number, last names, job titles, and name of immediate
supervisor to any person requesting that information when they are on
duty or while portraying themselves in an official capacity.
TT. Saluting
1. Members are required to
render the hand salute to a superior commissioned officer (lieutenant
or higher) within the Division of Sheriffs only at the first meeting
of the day. Members who are driving a vehicle are not required to
salute. Members who are seated will stand and render the proper
salute.
2. Members shall render the
hand salute to the Governor of the State of Rhode Island and the
Director of the Department of Public Safety in the same fashion and
under the same circumstances as the hand salute is rendered to a
superior commissioned officer, whether the member is in uniform or
plain clothes.
3. Saluting the National
Colors and National Anthem- Members in uniform will render a hand
salute at the presentation of colors and at the playing of the
National Anthem.
UU. Care and Maintenance of
State Property and Division Property, Equipment, and Vehicles
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall maintain, in good condition, all property and
equipment assigned to them or under their control. They shall
immediately report to their supervisor any loss or damage of Division
of Sheriffs property, equipment or vehicles assigned to them or under
their control. They shall also notify their supervisor of any defects
or hazardous conditions existing in any property or equipment
assigned to them. In those cases where state property is found
bearing evidence of damage that has not been reported, the last
person using the property, equipment, or vehicle will be held
responsible for said damage.
2. Members shall not use state
or Division property, either by intention or through negligence, in a
manner that may cause damage or injury, or unnecessarily diminish its
value.
3. Members shall not lend,
borrow, sell or duplicate any state or Division property, including
but not limited to security items, without the permission of their
supervisor. Removing state property from Division premises without
the permission of a superior is strictly prohibited, unless this
action is required for the performance of the member’s duties.
4. Members shall not carry or
utilize personal or donated equipment in lieu of or in addition to
Division issued equipment without the authorization of the Chief
Sheriff or his/her designee.
5. All property donated to the
Division must be preapproved by the Chief Sheriff.
VV. Operation of Official
Vehicles
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs shall operate official vehicles in a careful and prudent
manner and shall obey all state laws and the Rules and Regulations of
the Division of Sheriffs pertaining to such operation. Loss or
suspension of any driving license shall be reported immediately.
WW. Accidents Involving
Division of Sheriffs Vehicles
1. Whenever a member of the
Division of Sheriffs is involved in an accident while operating a
Division of Sheriffs vehicle, he/she shall immediately notify his/her
supervisor.
2. All accidents occurring
within the State of Rhode Island will be investigated by the Division
of State Police. The member or the member’s supervisor will ensure
the Division of State Police is immediately contacted for all
accidents involving a Division of Sheriffs vehicle within the State
of Rhode Island.
XX. Responsibility for
Division Vehicle
1. Except in emergencies or
other unusual situations, the operator of a Division of Sheriffs
vehicle shall lock the ignition and the doors and remove the key from
his/her vehicle when leaving it unattended.
YY. Violations
1. Violations of these Rules
and Regulations or of any procedure, directive, order given by
supervisor, and published and/or posted policy may be grounds for
disciplinary actions.
ZZ. Prohibited Action During
Suspension
1. Suspended employees are
subject to all of the Rules and Regulations of the Division of
Sheriffs. They shall not wear any part of the official uniform or act
in the capacity of, or represent themselves as, employees of the
Division of Sheriffs in any manner.
AAA. Knowledge of Division of
Sheriffs Directives
1. All members of the Division
of Sheriffs are responsible for knowing, understanding, and following
all Division of Sheriffs regulations, policies, protocols, and post
orders. It is the responsibility of the member to seek clarification
of any order or material that is not clearly understood.
BBB. Reporting for Duty
1. All members of the Division
of Sheriffs shall report for duty at the proper time and at the
properly assigned location. The member will be in proper uniform with
Division-issued equipment. The member must be alert, and mentally and
physically prepared to perform his/her duties throughout his/her
assigned work assignments. There will be no exceptions.
2. For reasons of safety,
security and mutual protection of employees, the offender population
and the public, if at any time or for any reason an employee feels
that either he/she or a fellow employee is unprepared to adequately
perform his/her assigned duties, it is the employee’s
responsibility to inform their immediate supervisor and seek relief
and/or assistance as soon as possible.
CCC. Security of Firearms
1. A member of the Division of
Sheriffs is responsible for the safekeeping and security of his/her
firearm at all times. A member will not leave his/her firearm
unattended and unsecured at any time.
2. Unauthorized possession of
weapons, as well as the improper use or storage of authorized weapons
is strictly prohibited.
DDD. Questions of Citizens
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs will answer questions from citizens in a courteous manner
and, if unable to provide an answer, will make every effort to obtain
the answer for the citizen, avoiding argument and unnecessary
conversation. A member will give his/her badge number in a courteous
manner to any person who requests it.
EEE. Awareness of Activities
1. Upon returning from any
absence from duty, every member of the Division of Sheriffs will
familiarize himself/herself with all new regulations, policies,
directives, memoranda, and all matters concerning his/her assignment.
FFF. General Knowledge and
Performance
1. Every member of the
Division of Sheriffs will familiarize himself/herself with all the
laws, statutes, ordinances, and regulations necessary for the
proficient execution of his/her duty as a member of the Division of
Sheriffs.
2. All members of the Division
of Sheriffs will familiarize themselves with the procedures and
contact people in their assigned building.
GGG. Marking or Altering
Division Notices and Information
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs will not mark, alter, mar, or deface any notices posted on
any bulletin board, or information in any files, records, or
databases maintained by the Division of Sheriffs. All notices of a
personal nature and/or of a derogatory character regarding any member
are prohibited.
HHH. Wearing of the Uniform
1. Members of the Division of
Sheriffs will wear only the prescribed uniform of the Division.
Division insignias, badges, wreaths, stripes, and all other
authorized decorations will be worn as issued. Members shall not make
any additions or modifications to any uniform, badge or other
identification/insignia unless authorized by the Chief Sheriff.
2. Uniforms will be kept neat,
clean, pressed, and in good repair at all times. Threadbare or faded
items will be replaced accordingly.
3. Coats, overcoats,
raincoats, and sweaters will be kept in good condition and will be
Division-issue only to match the uniform.
4. The uniform cap will be
worn squarely on the head, not tilted back, to the side, or worn in
any other fashion.
5. Ties, mock turtle neck
shirts or dark blue t-shirts may be worn with the winter shirt.
Winter shirts will be buttoned to the top when worn with a tie. All
buttons on the sleeves will be buttoned. Winter shirts, when worn
without the tie and summer shirts will be worn with all buttons,
except for the top one, fastened. Ties will not be worn with the
summer shirt.
6. Leather gear will be
maintained and polished. Worn or tattered gear will be replaced.
7. It is up to the individual
member to notify their supervisor of any equipment needs.
8. The Rhode Island Division
of Sheriffs uniform shall not be worn by any member of the Division
engaged in outside activities or employment. The uniform will not be
worn to social functions or public events.
III. Personal Appearance
1. A Division of Sheriffs
member shall be neat and clean about their person. They shall
maintain good hygiene and be presentable in uniform at all times.
2. Hair regulations - Males
a. Hair shall be trimmed and
presentable at all times. The hair will not touch the collar except
for the close cut hair on the back of the neck. Hair in front will be
cut so it does not hang over the forehead and does not protrude below
the band of a proper work duty hat. The length and bulk of the hair
will not be so excessive as to display a ragged appearance. The hair
above the ears shall be sufficiently trimmed so it does not hang over
the ear.
b. Sideburns in excess are not
allowed. The sideburns length will not exceed halfway down a member’s
ear and will end in a clean horizontal line.
3. Hair regulations - Females
a. Hair shall be clean and
neatly arranged. It shall be styled so as not to get in the way of
Division of Sheriffs duties. Hair will not be worn in any style
longer than shoulder length, and must be worn so as to present a
proper appearance while wearing the uniform hat.
b. Excessive ribbons or
ornaments shall not be allowed. Pins, combs, barrettes, or clips
similar to the hair color may be worn.
4. Jewelry/Body Art
a. Excessive or ornamental
jewelry shall not be worn while on duty. Male members are not allowed
to wear earrings. Female members are allowed to wear simple studs or
post style earrings. Bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings are not
to be worn in excess.
b. No body piercings, tattoos,
or other body art may be visible while in Division uniform
(1) Existing tattoos, as of
June 11, 2012, are allowed.
(2) Effective June 11, 2012,
members who do not have existing tattoos that are visible while in
uniform are restricted from having tattoos on any area that is
visible while in Division uniform.
2.6 Miscellaneous
A. Telephone Requirements
1. Members shall immediately
notify their immediate supervisor of any change in telephone number.
B. Division Letterhead and
Supplies
1. Use of Division of Sheriffs
letterhead for sending official correspondence out to the Division
will not be allowed without permission from the Chief Sheriff. No
member will send any written communication about Division of Sheriffs
business to any person, firm, or other public agency without the
consent of his/her supervisor.
2. The use of Division
letterhead, official stamps, postage, photocopying machines,
materials, equipment or other supplies for personal reasons is
strictly prohibited.
C. Change of Vital Personal
Data
1. Employees are responsible
for notifying the Office of Human Resources within five (5) calendar
days of the following:
a. Any changes in address
and/or telephone number;
b. Change in marital or family
status;
c. Other information which may
affect eligibility for health care coverage or related benefits.