Patrol

The Salem Police Patrol division is currently made up of 27 patrol officers, 8 civilian dispatchers, 6 sergeants and 3 lieutenants. The patrol officers are the backbone of any police agency. They respond to and handle all types of calls for service from the quality of life type nuisance complaints to serious assaults and motor vehicle collisions. Salem Police officers receive 14 weeks of intensive instruction at the NH Police Academy. They then undergo a 12 week field training assignment with a certified Field Training Officer. They will undergo in-service training for the duration of their careers.

Each individual patrol officer is encouraged to investigate and follow-up their cases. If a case requires more detailed investigation, the cases are forwarded to the Investigations Unit. The various specialized units in the department are comprised mainly of patrol officers including the Technical Accident Reconstruction (TAR) team, the K-9 Unit and The Southern NH Special Operations Unit. Many of the tips and cooperating individuals in narcotics cases are developed by the patrol officers. They work closely with detectives in assisting with identifying and apprehending suspects. The patrol officers also conduct motor vehicle enforcement activities on a daily basis in an effort to keep our residents and visitors safe.