The Patrol Bureau is an operational component of the Newton Police Department and is the largest bureau of our department.  Its main function is to provide all law enforcement patrol and related duties to the citizens of Newton. 

The functional responsibilities of the Patrol Bureau include, but are not limited to: 

• Providing direct and general police services to the public 24 hours per day, seven days per week. These services include:
  • Protection of life and property; enforcement of all laws and ordinances; preservation of the peace and public order; identification of criminal offenders and criminal activity; apprehension of offenders; and general traffic services.

The Patrol Bureau Commander is responsible for the overall operation of the Patrol Bureau under the direction of the Chief of Police. The Commander has divisional authority in matters of operation, policy and discipline and will exercise such lawful directives as are necessary to assure the effective performance of the division.

The Patrol Bureau is divided into three shifts that are covered by a sufficient number of patrol officers. A Shift Commander holding the rank of Lieutenant heads each shift.  Shift Commanders are responsible for assuring that adequate supervision and uniform personnel are on duty at all times during their respective shifts.  Each shift also has Patrol Supervisors holding the rank of Sergeant.  The Patrol Supervisors are responsible for supervision and guidance of shift personnel in the field.