HomeMy WebLinkAboutICPD SOG'SFILED
Iowa City Police Department
2001 NO 21 PH 4: 32
Standard Operating Guideline
CITY CLLi If\
WA
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-07
NOVEMBER 22 2001
Subject:
Reference: -
TRAFFIC CITATION RECORDS/
SECURITY
Section:
Issue #:
ADMIN
1
Comma d S/gnat re:
Purpose:
The purpose of this guide is to identify those procedures necessary to maintain
the security and integrity of traffic citations and parking tickets issued to and used
by the Iowa City Police Department.
Definitions:
Traffic Citation - Also called Uniform Citation - the form developed by the State of
Iowa and commonly used in traffic enforcement activities.
Parking Citation - Form developed by the City of Iowa City for citing violators of
municipal parking infractions.
Procedures:
In order to ensure the integrity of those forms used in the enforcement of traffic
laws and ordinances, the following procedures shall be adhered to:
Traffic Citations
1. 'Bulk" packages of traffic citations and parking tickets shall be secured in a
locked area accessible to sworn members of the rank of sergeant and above.
Bulk storage of the citations shall be in a locked cabinet in room 116.
2. Officers will be issued three pads of traffic citations. The issuing supervisor
shall record the beginning and ending number of each pad on a form
developed for this purpose.
3. Officers shall be responsible for accounting for the traffic citations issued to
them. Officers shall submit a copy of all traffic citations for recording in the
traffic records system.
4. If an officer makes an error on a traffic citation, which precludes him/her from
issuing the citation to the violator, he/she shall clearly write the word VOID
across the face of the citation. The voided citation shall be submitted to the
officer's supervisor. The supervisor shall record the number of the voided
citation, along with the reason for the void.
5. Upon completion of one "pad" of traffic citations, the officer may request an
additional pad from a supervisor.
6. On a regularly scheduled basis, the Watch Commander shall forward a copy
of the voided ticket form to the Records Supervisor who may check the
voided numbers with those numbers of issued citations.
Parking Tickets
1. 'Bulk" packages of traffic citations and parking tickets shall be -secured in a
locked area accessible to sworn members of the rank of sergeant and above.
This will be a locked cabinet in room 116.
2. Officers and/or Community Service Officers (CSO) will be issued five pads of
parking citations. The issuing supervisor shall record the beginning and
ending number of each pad on a form developed for this purpose.
3. Officers shall be responsible for accounting for the parking citations issued to
them. Officers shall submit parking citations to the box specifically designed
for this purpose.
4. If an officer makes an error on a parking citation, which precludes him/her
from issuing the citation, he/she shall clearly write the word VOID across the
face of the citation. The voided citation shall be submitted to the officer's
supervisor. The supervisor shall record the number of the voided citation,
along with the reason for the void.
5. Upon completion of one or more "pads" of parking citations, the officer may
request additional pads (up to 5) from a supervisor.
6. Upon approval from a Watch Commander, an officer or CSO may be allowed
additional parking ticket books in excess of 5. The Watch Commander shall
record the beginning and ending number of each pad. The Watch
Commander should note on the log, the reason for issuing additional books.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #.
Effective date:
01-08
NOVEMBER 22, 2001
Subject.
Reference: -
PROMOTIONAL PROCESS
PROMOTIONS, PROMOTIONAL
PROCEDURES
Section:
Issue #:
1
Co nd Signature:
Purpose:
The purpose of this guideline is to identify the responsibilities and procedures
used by the Iowa City Police Department in the promotional process.
Definitions:
Procedures:
Non -sworn Personnel - Each available position will be posted. This will allow all
eligible personnel to contact the Human Resources Department for placement on
the transfer or promotion list in accordance with applicable contract
requirements.
Sworn Personnel - The Chief of Police with the approval of the Civil Service
Commission will determine specific eligibility requirements for specific ranks
within the Iowa City Police Department. These requirements will be posted at the
time of notice of the beginning of the promotional process.
Upon the exhaustion or expiration of the existing promotional list for each rank,
the Chief of Police may contact the Director of Human Relations for the initiation
of the application I selection process for the particular rank. The Human
Relations Department of the City of Iowa City holds the primary responsibility in
the administration of the promotional testing process. The promotional testing
process shall comply with all applicable State Laws pertaining to the testing and
promotion of police personnel.
1. The Human Relations Department will set up and administer the written fast
associated with the promotional process. O
2. All testing materials associated with the promotional process will Wi�cuitl
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3. All procedures associated with the testing process will be non-discriminatory
in nature and related to or representative of the duties associated with the
position.
4. As applicable, the Chief of Police will consult with the Human Relations
Department in determining the membership and content of the assessment
center portion of the test.
5. For the ranks of Lieutenant and Captain, the Chief of Police, in consultation
with the Human Resources Department and the approval of the -Civil Service
Commission may use an Interview Board in lieu of an assessment center.
a. Interview boards will consist of members of other comparable police
departments. The members will be equal to or of higher rank of the
position being filled.
b. The members of the interview board will be determined in consultation
with the Human Resources Director of the City of Iowa City. The Civil
Service Commission may approve the membership of the interview
board.
6. Upon completion of the testing / evaluation process, the candidates shall be
ranked based on their combined performance on all sections of the testing
process.
7. Upon certification of a list of candidates by the Iowa City Civil Service
Commission, the Chief of Police may interview the candidates on the list.
8. The Chief of Police may consult with command and supervisory personnel in
order to evaluate the promotional potential of the candidates on the list.
9. The Chief of Police has sole responsibility in naming the person(s) to be
promoted to the particular position.
10. Upon promotion, all newly promoted supervisors shall serve a probationary
period of 6 months.
11.Newly promoted personnel should receive -training in the duties and
responsibilities associated with the new position as soon as practical after the
promotion.
12. Persons not promoted may reapply for during the next testing process.
13. Persons wishing to contest the results of any phase of the promotional
process shall contact the City of Iowa City Human Resources Director. The
Person contesting the result shall identify the section(s) of the test, which they
wish to contest and identify the reason for contesting the test. If applicable,
the contesting party should provide documentation in support of their contest
at the time of the notice. The -Personnel Director may consult with the
administrator of the test in question and determine the validity of the contest.
If the contest is supported the error shall be corrected. If the contest is not
supported, the contesting party will be notified in writing. The contesting party
may appeal the decision as provided by law.
Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-09
NOVEMBER 24 2001
Subject:
Reference: -
AGENCY JURISDICTION AND
MUTUAL AID
Section:
Issue #:
OPS
1
Co mand Signature:
Purpose:
It is the policy of the Iowa City Police Department to encourage adjacent law
enforcement agencies to join in written mutual aid agreements. The agreement
should describe provisions for the indemnification of the provider agency and_.jts
personnel. It is the purpose of this order to delineate the Department' risdicWn
and mutual aid agreements, and involvement in regional services. c�
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Definitions: `" I
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Procedures: oO� r J
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REQUEST FOR NATIONAL GUARD ASSISTANCE
When a disaster or public disorder situation exists, it shall be the duty of the
Chief of Police or his/her designee, to inform the City Manager or Mayor of the
City of Iowa City of all pertinent details of the emergency. It will be the
responsibility of the Mayor to contact the Office of the Governor and request
assistance of the Iowa National Guard in emergency situations resulting from
natural or man-made disaster or public disorder. Iowa Code chapter 29C
governs the duties and responsibilities of the Iowa National Guard pertaining to
Emergency Management.
REQUEST FOR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE
When an offense has occurred which is in violation of Federal Statue, or there is
Federal jurisdiction, the Lieutenant of Investigations may, in consultation with the
Chief of Police or his/her designee, notify the Federal Agency with jurisdiction of
the incident and may request assistance from the agency. The request may be
in either written or verbal form.
CONCURRENT JURISDICTION
The primary area of responsibility for the Iowa City Police Department is the
corporate city limits of the City of Iowa City, with the exception of properties
belonging to the University of Iowa and the County of Johnson County. This
does not prohibit officers of this Department from initiating actions on these
properties that are within the corporate city limits. This also does not preclude
members of this department from assisting other agencies in other jurisdictions,
with whom this department has entered into to a mutual aid agreement.
1. University of Iowa Properties: Chapter 262.13 allows the Iowa Board of
Regents to create a Department of Public Safety with authority to act "in the
interest of the institution by which they are employed." On property belonging
to the University of Iowa, the University of Iowa Department of Public Safety
shall have primary jurisdiction for activities that initiate on University property.
Members of the Iowa City Police Department should cooperate with members
of the University-DPS as requested. In instances where immediate action is
needed, officers of this department shall either take appropriate action or
establish order until DPS officers arrive. When an act which has occurred on
University property is reported to a member of the Iowa City Police
Department, the member should refer the person to the University
Department of Public Safety or remain with the subject until a DPS officer
arrives.
2. Johnson County properties: On properties belonging to Johnson County, the
Johnson County Sheriffs Department shall have primary law enforcement
responsibility. Upon request of the Johnson County Sheriffs Department,
members of the Iowa City Police Department should provide assistance as
requested. In instances where immediate action is needed, officers of this
department shall either take appropriate action or establish order until a
Deputy arrives. When an act has occurred on County property and is
reported to a member of this department, the member should refer the person
to the Johnson County Sheriffs Department or remain with the person until a
Deputy arrives.
3. University Heights: The corporate limits of University Heights is encircled by
the City of Iowa City and University of Iowa properties. University Heights
employs several part time officers but the Johnson County Sheriffs
Department provides primary law enforcement services for University
Heights. Members of the Iowa City Police Department should assist
members of the Johnson County Sheriffs and/or the University Heights police
department when requested. For incidents which originate in University
M Heights but are reported to a member of the Iowa City Police Department, the
ber should refer the person to the Johnson County Sheriffs Department
main with the person until the arrival of a deputy or University Heights
W o"i Le r. In instances that require immediate action, members of this
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department shall either take appropriate action or establish order until a
Deputy arrives.
The Johnson County Sheriffs Department has countywide law enforcement
authority as defined in the Code of Iowa sections 331.651-331.662. However,
the general activities of the sheriffs department are primarily outside the Iowa
City Corporate limits. The Sheriff or his/her designee may request assistance
from the Iowa City Police Department as needed.
Iowa Department of Public Safety has statewide law enforcement jurisdiction.
Section 321.6 of the Code of Iowa states:
There shall be reciprocal co-operation between the members of the department,
the state department of public safety and local authorities in the enforcing of local
and state traffic laws and in making inspections, although this section shall not be
construed to give the state department of public safety any right to establish
regular patrol beats inside municipal limits unless requested for a special
occasion or emergency by the mayor of such city or the sheriff of the county.
MUTUAL AID AGREEMENTS
The Iowa City Police Department currently has mutual aid agreements with the
following agencies:
1. Johnson County Sheriffs Department
2. Coralville Police Department
3. University of Iowa
The mutual aid agreement stipulates who may request the assistance, that the
commander of the requesting agency is in overall command of the incident, the
authority of the parties responding to the aid request, departmental
responsibilities relating to injury or damage to property when responding to aid
requests, responsibility for concluding the aid request and review procedures.
The communications section of the requesting agency will be in charge of
communications for the incident.
The Department may enter into mutual aid agreements with non-contiguous
agencies as needed, to enhance its ability to conduct/provide ongoing police
functions for incidents which originate in or extend to other jurisdictions.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-10
NOVEMBER 24, 2001
Subject:
Reference: Victims, Investigations,
VICTIM / WITNESS ASSISTANCE
Domestic Abuse, Assaults
Section:
issue A
OPS
1
Co m d Signature:
Purpose: The purpose of this order is to identify those services and
organizations which are available to victims of crime and witnesses and to assure
that departmental personnel assist citizens in becoming aware of these services.
It is the policy of the Iowa City Police Department to address the needs and
welfare of the victims of crimes and witnesses. Additionally, members of the
department shall treat all victims and witnesses with dignity and assist victims in
obtaining available services and keep them apprised of the status of their case.
Definitions: Victim - A person, other than the perpetrator or accomplice, who
suffers direct or threatened physical, emotional, or financial harm as a result of
the commission or attempted commission of a crime. The term "victim" also
includes the family members of a minor, incompetent person, or homicide victim.
Witness - A person, other than a perpetrator, accomplice, or persons employed
in the administration of criminal justice, who has information or evidence relevant
to the investigation of a crime.
Procedures:
1) Rights of Victims and Witnesses
It is the interest of law enforcement to positively interact with the
victim/witnesses of a crime. The criminal justice system is dependent
upon the aid of victims/witnesses to assist in the successful prosecution of
criminals. A cooperative victim/witness raises the proba"ity ofa
conviction. Regardless of the seriousness, or violation, the vicUjjx*itn�s
deserves support and fair treatment. y —J
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All members of this department shall cooperate with "cuting
attorneys, other law enforcement agencies, local service agenc��nd i9e
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courts to afford victims/witnesses the rights and services provided by law.
Direct support to victims and witnesses should include, as applicable:
A. Providing them with information about the status of the case against
the perpetrator.
B. Providing them with information concerning victim compensation
assistance.
C. Assisting the victim in documenting losses.
D. Providing the victim (or their representative) with police reports
concerning traffic crashes, as permitted by law.
E. Providing information on how to obtain emergency crisis intervention
services.
F. Providing reasonable protection from the criminal suspect (or others
assisting him/her) from harm or threats of harm arising from the
victim's/witnesses' cooperation with law enforcement.
G. When no longer needed as evidence, upon request of the victim(s),
the return of property taken as evidence and return of such property,
unless contraband or subject to forfeiture; or provide a written
explanation of the reason why it is not returned.
H. Providing complete and accurate information and incident reports for
purposes of investigation of a civil claim or defense.
I. Upon request, members of this department will provide a victim of a
crime with a contact number for the jail and the prosecuting attorney,
so they may obtain information relating to the release of the
suspect/defendant.
J. Complete and timely filing of State of Iowa, Victim Compensation
forms/report.
2) To the extent such records are not considered confidential by law, the
records of the Iowa City Police Department shall be available to the public.
3) VICTIMMITNESS ASSISTANCE SERVICES
The Commander of Administrative Services will ensure completion of an
analysis of victim/witness assistance needs and available services within
the area at least every two years or obtain a comparable analysis from
local service providers.
A. Officer Referral Directory, Current Victim Analysis
Officers handling cases involving abuses of drugs, alcohol or persons may
rWer the victim to one of the numerous support organizations enumerated
�I ii the pamphlets available at the front desk or the report writing room.
the pamphlets list numerous organizations and contact information for
W " 1- people in need of assistance. If the need is immediate or the
N (-)tim/witness appears unable to make contact with an assisting
?anization on their own, the officer shall consider making contact on
CD U�half of the individual.
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B. Preliminary Investigations
During the preliminary investigation of applicable crimes, the investigating
officer should consider the following:
1. Advise the victim/witness, when practical, if an arrest has been made
and how the case will proceed.
2. In founded cases of sexual abuse or domestic violence, the
investigating officer will advise the person of the appropriate referral
agency, i.e. RVAP or DVIP. The officer should ensure that notification
is made to the agency.
3. Provide the victim/witness with a printed material containing the
contact information for the appropriate agency/organization.
4. Work with RVAP/DVIP in providing care and assistance to the
victim/witness.
5. Insure that the "Notification of Victim Rights" form is provided for all
victims of domestic abuse and attempt to answer any questions the
person may have.
6. Advise the victim/witness to contact the Department if they are
threatened or intimated by the suspect or suspect's family or
companions.
7. Provide the victim/witness with a business card and advise them to
contact the investigating officer if they have any questions or concerns.
As applicable write the case number on the card.
8. Officers receiving a "Victim Verification" form shall complete the form
as soon as practical upon receiving the form. The form shall be
forwarded to the records section for mailing.
C. Follow-up Investigations
The department's domestic violence investigator and any investigator
assigned a sexual assault case shall contact victims of the respective
crime and assist them to the extent possible. To the extent possible,
investigating officers should arrange follow up investigations and
associated procedures, i.e. tests, medical examinations, interviews, as
timely as possible but shall consider theneedsand wishes of the victim(s)
or witness(es). This should include but is not limited to:
1. Re -contacting the victim/witness periodically to determine if additional
assistance is necessary. -
2. Explain or refer them to the County Attorney's victim witness
coordinator for explanation of the procedures involved with the
prosecution of the case and their role in the procedures. f
3. To the extent practical, return any property taken from the vi
4. Refer the victim/witness to the victim/witness coordinator at tNour —,
Attorney's office for further assistance.-
5. To the extent practical, the officer should consider notifying tg victim
of a crime when a suspect has been charged in relation to thrim j
explaining the resulting charge. In those instances v tile_
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victim/witness has specifically requested to be notified of an arrest, the
investigating officer should attempt to ensure this request is met. This
notice may include providing a phone number the victim/witness may
contact to check the current arrest status of the suspect.
D. Confidentiality of Records
The Iowa City Police Department will maintain the confidentiality of related
records and files to the extent consistent with state and other applicable
laws.
Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-11
SEPTEMBER 29, 1999
Subject:
Reference: -
EVIDENCE/SEIZED PROPERTY
Section:
Issue #:
SUPPORT SERVICES
1
Comma d Slgnatu e:
Purpose: The purpose of this guideline is to identify those procedures to be used to
document, secure, and maintain the integrity of property which come — nderMe
control of the Iowa City Police Department.
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Definitions:
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Procedures: r
This guideline will make the assumption that officers are knowledgeWble aU
proficient with the proper evidence gathering techniques.
1) All items submitted as evidence will be documented;
a) on the "Property Control Inventory' and
b) referred to in the "Incident Report"
c) blood kits are the exception as they contain their own documentation
2) The submitted items will be accompanied by the original of the "Property
Control Inventory" and secured in one of the following ways;
a) turned directly over to the Property Custodian
b) placed in the evidence submission lockers, secured and the key deposited
in the designated secured box
c) placed in the Records Sgt.'s office by a supervisor
d) as directed by the Property- Custodian or Captain of Administrative
Services.
3) At no time will evidence be left unsecured or stored in personal areas.
4) If the evidence is to be sent to the Lab (for any reason), it will be the officer's
responsibility to fill out the lab request sheet and submit it with the evidence.
5) All drugs must be weighed and/or counted prior to securing them in the
evidence locker.
6) All items taken subject to search, arrest or safekeeping are required to have
receipts issued to the person it is taken from. This is most efficiently handled
with the "Property Control Inventory' form.
7) Do not bring into the Police Department any potentially hazardous materials
8) All property must be submitted into evidence prior to the officer ending their
tour of duty.
Property Custodian
Intake
1) Empty evidence lockers daily, Monday through Friday -
2) Verify the documentation with the submitted evidence
a) weigh and/or count drugs
b) count money
c) match description listed on "Property Control Inventory" with item(s)
3) Enter the items into the property computer system
4) Place the evidence in proper containers and mark the case number clearly on
the outside of the container
5) Store the evidence in its designated secure area
a) Drugs - safe or designated cabinet
b) Money - turn over to administrative clerk for bank deposit. If storage is
necessary, secure in safe
c) Guns - gun storage area
d) Articles subiect to spoilage/deterioration-refrigerator
e) All other -metal shelf area or secured storage area located off site. Off -site
storage will have the same storage guidelines as those items stored in the
on -site evidence room.
f) Exceptional items -items that deemed more sensitive or valuable in nature
should be stored in the safe within the evidence room.
6) The evidence storage location will be noted on the "Property Control
Inventory'. The original stays in file in the evidence room and pink copy is
forwarded to the case file in Records.
7) Evidence that is to be sent to the lab must have proper documentation.
a) original "Property Control Inventory" and "Lab Request" will be packaged
with the evidence and sent by Registered Mail, Return Receipt
Requested.
b) copy of "Property Control Inventory" and "Lab -Request" will be held in file
in the evidence room. A computer entry noting the sending of the
evidence will be made in the property control system
c) copy of "Property Control Inventory" and "Lab Request" will be forwarded
to Records
c,) d) Pb results shall be confirmed in writing.
c`' e) evidence will be property package in accordance to the DCI
s fr-&aommendations.
VM evidence is returned from the lab;
aence shall be matched with the evidence form(s) in the evidence room
U-- z b)date of return should be filled in on the original evidence sheet and a
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ca@y forwarded to records.
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c) The evidence is properly stored and
d) documentation of the original Inventory sheet returns to the evidence room
files and noted by an entry in the property control system.
Disposal (Chapter 809.5, Iowa Code)
Evidence will be disposed of under one of the following conditions;
1) notice of final disposition of case
2) no charge filed and expiration of the statute of limitations
3) at the direction of the Johnson County Attorney (in writing)
4) at the determination that no charges will be filed & property has no
evidentiary value
The timing for disposal of evidence will be primarily governed by the disposition
of the case. The Clerk of Court provides "Final Disposition Reports" for all cases,
other than citations where a signature release is utilized. The Property
Custodian will receive copies of the completed "Final Disposition Reports" and
returned citations noting dispositions. The Property Custodian will then match
the finalized disposition with any evidence pertaining to that case. It should be
noted that cases under appeal will have evidence held as long as the County
Attorney directs. It is the responsibility of the County Attorney to notify the
property manager to hold evidence once an appeal is filed.
Seized property which is no longer required as evidence or for use in an
investigation may be returned to the owner without the requirement of a hearing,
provided that the person's possession of the property is not prohibited by law and
there is no forfeiture claim on behalf of the state.
1) The owner/possessor of the property will be notified by certified mail (last
known address) that they have 30 days to respond to the Police Department
to claim the items.
2) If there are more than one owner/possessor making claim to the property, the
matter will be turned over to the clerk of court.
3) If there is no claim made to the property within the 30 days, the property will
be deemed as abandoned and disposed of under the guidelines as set out for
"Found Property".
4) All drug items will be documented and disposed of in the manner set forth per
agreement with the Johnson County Attorney.
5) All property and the request for disposal will be presented to the Captain of
Administrative Services for approval. '
6) Disposition will be noted on the property form. All documentation concerning
the property will be submitted to Records.
7) The disposal process will take place within six months after the final
disposition.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-12
SEPTEMBER 29,1999
Subject:
Reference: -
FOUND PROPERTY
Section:
Issue #:
SUPPORT SERVICES
1
Comman Signature:
Purpose: The purpose of this order is to identify the procedures to be use wh9n
Found Property comes into the possession of the department.
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Definitions:
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Procedures:
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This guideline covers all personnel and sections of the Iowa
Cir Police
Department.
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1) All .items (value over $5.00) found or received by Department personnel'will
be recorded;
a) "Property Control Inventory" Sheet
b) "Incident Report"
2) An attempt to contact the identifiable owner will be made and documented in
the report. Property illegal to possess is excluded from this notification.
3) If no owner is identified, or the owner does not immediately respond, the item
will be submitted to the Property Custodian prior to the end of the officer's tour
of duty.
a) attach copy of inventory sheet & report
b) place in evidence locker
c) after hours, larger items may be placed in the Records Sgt. office by a
supervisor.
d) Bicycles and other large objects will be placed at the Wilson Building and
secured along the wall with the provided cable and locks.
e) Items taken directly to the Wilson Building should also have a copy of
inventory sheet placed into the Property Custodian's mailbox.
f) Items requiring extra security measures due to their value or nature should
be turned directly over to the Property Custodian.
4) Keys are the exception to this rule. Keys will be placed in the box located by
the Records window. However, keys will be documented by entering them as
a call for service with a brief description. If they are claimed by an owner, a
subsequent call for service will be used to document the retrieval.
5) Items valued under $5, such as hats, gloves, coffee cups, and obvious junk
should not be received into the found property system. Misplaced/lost items
of this type should go to the information desk or be discarded. No items will
be converted to personal use.
6) In the event the citizen who turns property over to the Police Department
expresses an interest in claiming the property should no owner be found, the
request will be noted and they will be referred to the Johnson County
Attorney. The "receipt' copy of the property control form should be given to
them as their record. Rules for this type of claim are covered in Chapter 556F
of the Code of Iowa.
Property Custodian
Intake
1) Enter item into property computer system
2) If owner has not been contacted, or failed to respond, send registered letter
3) Place property into "Found Property Storage Area" or other suitable secured
storage area. Items of an exceptional nature due to value or nature should be
stored in the safe in the evidence room Items secured by officers at the
Wilson Building will be placed into the evidence storage area. Bicycles will be
secured in the bicycle storage area.
4) Place "Property Form" in the Lost & Found File
5) Any found money will be turned over to the Chiefs Office
Disposal (Chapter 80.39, Iowa Code)
1) If the property is worth less than $5.00 and no owner is apparent, the item
may be destroyed immediately and documented as such on the property
sheet.
2) If the owner is located, the property may be released at any time.
3) If notification to the owner is made by mail to the last known address, the
notice shall be by certified mail.
4) If no owner is determined, the item(s) will be advertised in a local paper for
one edition.
5) If no owner responds or no claim of ownership is made after ninety (90) days,
it will be our policy that the finder of the property may claim the property. If
the finder has no interest or no finder is listed, the property will be sold at
cn,auglon, converted to Police Department control/use, given to a non-profit
Of aDdty or destroyed. Items and their requested method of disposal will be
p_ tented to the Captain of Administrative Services for approval.
; I a �6) -position will be noted on the property form. All documentation concerning
_ N .h"roperty (from intake to disposal) will be submitted to Records.
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Disposal of Dangerous Weapon/Ammunition/Fireworks
Because of the volatile nature of weapons and ammunition, property of this type
will not be returned to the finder or sold at auction.
1) Firearms will be taken to the DCI Lab for disposal
2) Knives and other dangerous weapons will be disposed of at the Iowa City
Landfill under controlled conditions
3) Ammunition may be converted to department or officer use. Non -usable
ammunition will be turned over to personnel from the State Fire Marshall's
Office
4) Fireworks will be turned over to the State Fire Marshall's Office
Firearms held as "safekeeping" as the result of assault or domestic abuse
incidents will be returned to the owner only under the following conditions;
1) the owner has not been convicted of a felony or domestic assault
2) there are no pending felony or domestic assault charges
If the owner of the firearm is convicted of a domestic assault, they have the
option to turn ownership over to a third party by;
1) produce a letter relinquishing ownership to a specified individual who does
not reside with the person convicted of the domestic assault
2) the specified person must have a permit to purchase
3) the specified person must sign a form releasing the Iowa City Police
Department from liability and stating they will take responsibility for the
firearms. They must agree not to permit the relinquishing owner to have
access to the firearms.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-13
NOVEMBER 26, 2001
Subject:
Reference: -
PERSONAL PROTECTION
Section:
Issue #:
1
Command Signature:
Purpose: The purpose of this directive is to establish procedures for personal
protection. The Department will provide adequate protection for special persons,
such as local and visiting dignitaries, VIP's, witnesses, suspects, or any other
person in need of personal protection, based on threat or potential threat to the
well being of those persons. In addition, Department personnel will work
cooperatively with federal and state law enforcement personnel when jointly
providing personal protection. When assisting an outside agency with primary
responsibility for protection of an individual(s), the Iowa City Police Department
will abide by he guidelines and procedures established by the outside agency, to
the extent that they do not conflict with guidelines established by the owa Olt
Police Department.
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Definitions: n�
Procedures: D w
Supervision and Coordination of Protection Detail
The Department shall utilize the Special Response Team (SRT) and other officers,
as needed, to, provide personal protection. The SRT Commander and Investigations
Commander shall coordinate their efforts in handling these details, and will act as
liaison with other protection details assigned to the protectee.
The SRT Commander shall designate a Detail Commander for any protection detail.
Depending on the circumstances, the Detail Commander will normally be an SRT
Operations Officer (SRT Sergeant).
in addition to providing for the protection of the person(s), the Detail Commander will
be responsible for coordinating internal operations with accompanying protection
personnel.
Protection Detail Plan
For major incidents or visits, the Detail Commander will coordinate with the SRT
Commander and will prepare a written plan for the detail. This plan shall be prepared
no less then 24 hours prior to the visit. Any plan, whether written or not, will be kept
confidential and should include:
• Necessary Information to Obtain or Define
a. level and type of threat
b. scope and duration of protection
c. available resources
d. need for outside assistance
e. protectee's schedule
f. guest lists
• Equipment Requirements
a. weapons for assigned officers
b. radios, with necessary attachments, for assigned officers
c. proper clothing and body armor for the protected person and assigned officers
d. vehicles
e. identification by designation (e.g. passes, lapel pins)
• Planning and Reconnoitering of Primary and Alternate Travel Routes
a. consideration of route speed and safety
b. traffic device and intersection control measures
c. motorcade options (e.g. number and type of vehicles, formation)
d. hospital route
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a • fiance Inspection of Sites To Be Visited
>evestablish a command post
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c. identify "necessary' rooms (e.g. break room, hard room)
d. site evacuation routes
e. emergency motorcade staging location
f. crowd control points
g. relocation site (if evacuation becomes necessary)
• Identification and Notification of Emergency Medical Personnel
a. hospital
b. ambulance
• Communications
a. assigned frequencies
b. mutual aid frequencies
c. use of code on scanable radio frequencies
• Arrangements for Gathering Intelligence Information
a. conducting background investigations
b. working with state and federal authorities
c. use of informant information
d. inmate/escapee information
• Assignment of Personnel
a. outer perimeter— uniformed officers
b. middle perimeter— uniformed and plainclothes officers
c. inner perimeter— SRT officers (escorting protectee)
d. marksmen / observers
e. bomb squad personnel
f. motorcade personnel
g. intelligence personnel
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• Establish Emergency Procedures
a. evacuation from site vs. hard room within site
b. coordination of emergency motorcade
c. rehearsal of contingencies
• Coordination of Operations Within the Department and With Outside -Agencies
a. briefing ALL involved personnel on the protection plan
b. notifying area law enforcement agencies
c. maintaining a high level of information security
d. coordination with the United States Secret Service, or other local, state, and
federal law enforcement agencies, when applicable
Operations Involving the United States Secret Service
In details involving the United States Secret Service, Advance Agents will be
responsible for coordinating all protection arrangements during the dignitary's visit.
The Detail Commander will designate an officer to function as the Site Advance
Agent's counterpart at each particular site, and an officer to function as the
Motorcade Advance Agent's counterpart for coordinating travel routes within the city.
The Detail Commander will work with his or her counterpart in planning and
performing the duties associated with the operation. When practical, the Detail
Commander will ride in the lead vehicle, preceding the motorcade, with the Lead
Advance Agent and the Political Advance Person, and shall have communication
with all law enforcement agencies involved in the operation. The Detail Commander
shall remain with the dignitary while he/she is in the city, and will coordinate all
Department responsibilities during the visit.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #:
Effective date: in 3
01-14
NOVEMBER 30, 2001 C7
Subject:
Reference: y o
CIVIL SERVICE SELECTION
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PROCESS
Section:
LEG
Command Signature:
Purpose:
It is the policy of the Iowa City Police Department in cooperation with the Civil Service
Commission and the Personnel Department of the City of Iowa City, to maintain an
efficient, effective and unbiased selection process. All components of the selection
process shall be administered, scored and evaluated in a uniform manner.
The purpose of the selection process is to identify those individuals who possess the
skills, knowledge and aptitudes necessary to be an effective member of the Iowa City
Police Department. The components of the selection process shall comply with all
applicable laws and ordinances, and shall adhere to rigid standards of impartiality.
Controlling legislation and rules are contained in State Code of Iowa, City of Iowa
City personnel policies and applicable Federal legislation. Copies of 'applicable
legislation, city policies, civil service procedures and ILEA requirements are
contained in the Personnel Manual.
Definitions:
Procedures:
RECRUITMENT
The Personnel Department of the City of Iowa City will - have primary
responsibility for the recruitment and testing of applicants for the position of
police officer. The Personnel Department of the City currently consists of four
persons, educated, trained and experienced in the field of Human Resources.
The members of the personnel department are kept appraised and trained in
current laws, state and federal, pertaining to personnel, affirmative action, EEOC
and other related issues; and work to insure that the Police Dept remains in
compliance with all applicable legislation. The Iowa City Police Department will
assist the Personnel Department on an ongoing basis, including but not limited to
the recommendation of locations for posting recruitment notices, changes of
requirements for ILEA and current needs or concerns for the Iowa City Police
Department, and background investigations. The City of Iowa City is an Equal
Employment Opportunity Employer. The Iowa City Police Department will work
to ensure that all applicants receive equal consideration regardless of, race, sex,
creed, religion, age, physical impairment or national origin. All applicants are
encouraged to contact the Personnel Department of the City of Iowa City for any
concerns relating to EEOC.
SELECTION
Application process
The selection process is regulated by Iowa Code chapter 400, which pertains to
Civil Service. The selection process is guided and approved by the Iowa City
Civil Service Commission and administered by the Iowa City Personnel
Department. The City of Iowa City will take available legal steps to encourage
and recruit minorities, women, and members of other protected classes. All
facets of the test shall be administered and interpreted in a uniform manner. The
components of the testing procedure will be relevant to the position of Police
Officer and/or be entrance requirements to ILEA. Upon receiving a request for
an application for Police Officer, the inquiring party will be provided with an
application for employment. Upon receipt of the request for application, an
application and recruitment packet will be sent to the applicant within five working
days. Applicants are not excluded from testing as result of minor errors in the
application information. The recruitment packet contains information related to
the testing process including:
• application deadline
• written test location
• written test date and time
• cutoff if any, for the written test
• description of written test
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• physical agility test date and time n
• physical agility test location N
• — description of physical agility test _ c m i—
• standards for physical agility test,_
• training tips for physical agility test z a rJ—
• tentative MMPI test date and time D o
• MMPllocation
• week scheduled for oral interviews
• other tests or documentation needed prior to appointment
Testing Procedure
The first test administered is the written test. Upon completion of the written test,
it will be immediately scored. As soon as all of the tests are scored, they will be l
posted by an ID number in sequential order. The top scores will be given a time
and date for the physical agility testing, usually held on the following day. The
next tests administered are the physical agility tests. These tests are pass/fail
and applicants must pass all phases of the agility testing to continue. The
physical agility testing is composed of and administered in the following order.
• sit and reach test (measure of flexibility)
• 1 minute sit up test (measure of abdominal muscle endurance)
• 1 minute push up test (measure of upper body strength)
1.5 mile run (measure of cardiovascular capability)
These tests and the required standards are contained in the recruit packet
provided to the applicant. These tests and the meeting of the standards is
required for acceptance to ILEA (IAC 501.2.1(6)). Upon completion of the
physical agility test, the applicants will be advised if they successfully completed
each test. Those candidates, who successfully complete the physical agility
testing, will be given the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. (IAC
501.2.2(2)) All persons who fail to proceed through the selection process may
reapply, without prejudice, for any future positions with the Iowa City Police
Department.
Upon completing the MMPI the candidate will be given a date and time for oral
interviews. Prior to hire the candidate must have successfully taken the National
Police Officer Selection Test (POST). Those candidates scheduled for an
interview will be provided a reminder of the date, time and location of the
interview. After interviews, members of the interviewing panel will rank the
candidates individually. The panel will then reach consensus of the top
candidates. At this time investigators from the Police Department will conduct
background investigations of the top remaining candidates. Background
investigations shall contain, but not be limited to, verification of credentials,
review of any criminal record and verification of at least three personal
references. Upon completion of the background investigations, a ranked list of
up to candidates will be created by the interview panel. This will be submitted to
the Civil Service Commission for Certification. Upon certification, a list of
candidates will be submitted to the Iowa City, City Council. Upon certification of
the list, the Chief of Police may, as authorized, offer to hire any person on the list,
regardless of ranking. Upon an offer to hire, the candidate will be required to
take a pre -employment physical at the citys expense. The examination. shall
include but not be limited to, those areas mentioned in IAC 501.2.1. Information
regarding the exam will be sent to the Municipal Fire and Police Retirement
System of Iowa per Iowa Code 411.6. Upon successful completion of the
physical exam, officers who are currently certified through the ILEA or an
accredited regional academy will be assigned to a watch and begin field training.
Their probationary period of 9 months will begin from their date of hire with the
City of Iowa City. Officers who are not currently certified as officers i he stifle
of Iowa will attend the ILEA or accredited regional academy. The prong
period will begin upon the date of hire with the City of Iowa City ands' nd�D
months after the successful completion of the Academy. Failure to s=essf
All complete the assigned academy will result in termination of emplopph�nt.
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officers who fail to complete their probation will be notified in writing as to the
reason for their dismissal.
Maintenance of Documents.
The Personnel Department maintains all written testing materials prior to and
after the administration of the tests. All materials are stored in a secured area
and are destroyed or returned to the publishers of the test upon completion of the
testing process. All test results are kept on file in the Personnel Department for
three years, at which time they may be destroyed pursuant to Iowa Records Law.
During this period applicants not named to the position, may request in writing, to
review at their test and subsequent results in accordance with requirements set
out by the testing authority.
Background investigative reports are maintained on file for a period of at least
three years. They are maintained by the Lieutenant of the Investigative section.
The results of all pre -hire Physical Examinations are retained by the Human
Resources Department of the City of Iowa City for a period of at least five (5)
years from the date of the exam. Upon successful completion of the pre -hire
physical, the selected person(s) shall take an oath as prescribed by the City
Clerk of the City of Iowa City.
Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-15
DECEMBER 7, 2001
Subject:
Reference: INVESTIGATIONS, CASE
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS
SCREENING, REPORT REVIEW
Section:
Issue #:
INVESTIGATIONS
1
Comm nd Signature:
Purpose: The purpose of this guideline is to identify those steps taken by members
of the Iowa City Police Department in the investigation of criminal activity.
Additionally this guide identifies the responsibilities of those involved in the
investigation of these type incidents. Additionally, this directive identifies basic
responsibilities relating to the preliminary and follow-up activities of officers.
The Iowa City Police Department strives to provide professional, quality investigative
services to the citizens of Iowa City including but not limited to suppression,
identification, apprehension and successful prosecution of criminals and criminal
activities. Investigations shall be conducted in an efficient, unbiased manner.
Definitions:
Procedures:
A. INITIAL RESPONDING OFFICER
Patrol officers are expected to conduct a throug
h
1) Observing and recording conditions, events and remarks.
2) Locating and identifying witnesses.
3) Maintaining and protecting the crime scene and arranging for it's
processing.
4) Interviewing the victim, witnesses, complainant, and suspects.
Patrol officers should follow-up/complete the case to the extent practical prior to
forwarding the case to the Investigation Section. With the exception of financial
crimes, officers should complete investigations, which on their face, are simple
misdemeanors. When forwarding non -financial simple misdemeanors to the
Investigation Section, the initial officer should complete a follow-up request form.
A watch supervisor should sign the sheet acknowledging the need for follow-up
from the Investigation Section.
Cases, which on their face constitute a felony, should be forwarded by means of
a follow-up request form, to the Investigation Section for review. This does not
mean that patrol officers should not or cannot follow through on or complete the
investigation, but is to ensure that the investigation section has knowledge of the
incident and possible suspect(s). In these instances the referral sheet should be
marked INFO ONLY.
The preliminary officer should investigate financial crimes to the exte ractio.
Regardless of the value they should then be forwarded to the In=ati@g
Section.
C i
B. INVESTIGATION SECTION RESPONSIBILITIES
Organization - The Criminal Investigations Section is commanded'y a
Lieutenant responsible for the planning, budgeting, inter-juri iafion$f?
investigative coordination, and overall administration of the section in a tion te-
the normal day to day operations of the section. The Lieutenant of the
Investigative Section is under the command of the Commanding Officer Field
Operations. Additionally, the lieutenant of the Investigative Section will meet with
the Chief of Police or designee on a weekly basis or as directed by the Chief or
designee.
In addition there is a Sergeant assigned to the Investigation Section. The
Sergeant will act in place of the Lieutenant when the Lieutenant is on leave or
otherwise unavailable.
The Lieutenant of the Investigation Section shall provide an on -call list for
weekends and holidays. This list shall be forwarded to the Communications
Supervisor, Watch Commanders and the Commanding Officer of Field
Operations. The designated on -call investigator shall be available by phone or
pager. At other times when an investigator is not readily available, the Lieutenant
of the Investigative Section shall be contacted and will assign an investigator as
needed.
Upon receipt of a case, the Lieutenant of the Investigation Section shall make a
determination of the "solvability" of the particular case using the criteria contained
in General Order 91-07 Case Screening. Once assigned, the Lieutenant of the
Investigation Section shall maintain records indicating the status of the case.
The case records should indicate the case number, date assigned, the
investigator assigned, case status, days open and other information as
determined by the lieutenant of the Investigation Section.
In order to maintain communications between the investigation and patrol
functions, the Lieutenant of the Investigation Section shall periodically arrange for _A
investigators to attend watch meetings on a "as needed" basis. Additionally,
investigators may attend watch meetings when they determine the need to
exchange information with a particular watch(s). When the a member of the
investigation section determines that information needs to be forwarded to the
Patrol Section but the information is such that it can effectively be conveyed in
writing, the Investigator may forward the Information to the appropriate Watch
Commander(s).
C. INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURES
The officer/investigator assigned the case shall maintain the case file in a secure
area. The file shall include a copy of the preliminary investigative report and any
written statements. In addition, the investigator may include any lab results,
follow up reports, notes, statements, and other materials as determined by the
investigating officer. The investigating officers' follow-up should include those
steps necessary to adequately conclude the investigation. Reports shall be
completed in a timely manner and submitted or updated consistent with General
Order 90-02 Case, Report Review. To the extent necessary and practical the
investigating officer should:
1) Review and analyze previous reports, records and/or technical reports,
or lab results, relative to the investigation.
2) Conduct additional interviews and/or interrogations.
a) This may include the interviewing or re -interviewing of the victim,
witnesses and "bystanders".
b) Determine if any witnesses may be able to identify a suspect from
a lineup.
3) Seek additional information from both departmental and non -
departmental sources. These may include but are not limited to:
a) Speaking with the officer(s) who were initially assigned the call.
b) Obtaining information/data from the planning and research section.
c) Obtaining information from records.
d) Obtaining information from informants.
e) Obtaining information from organizations, businesses, institutions
and others that may have dealt with potential suspects.
4) Ensure the collection of evidence and the search of any relevant areas
has been completed.
a) The collection of evidence should conform to accepted, recognized,
practices. If the collection of a particular piece of evidence
exceeds the expertise of the investigating officer, he/she shall
contact a Crime Scene Technician. The collection of physical
evidence by a CST shall be documented on a CST report.
5) Maintain contact with victims and witnesses throughout the SluratiorE-,Of
the investigation. O ='
6) Identify and/or apprehend potential suspects and eliminate ie vVXo -I-I
are no longer suspects.
7) Determine the suspect's potential involvement in other relatE�E eF
8) Check criminal history of suspects. rn _a
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9) Thoroughly prepare the case for legal presentation.
Upon conclusion or suspension of an investigation, the investigating
officer shall purge the file of all redundant or non -related materials and
forward the case file to their supervisor. The supervisor shall verify the
completeness of the investigation. If there is need for further investigation,
he/she may return the file to the investigating officer for further
investigation. Prior to submission to the Records section the supervisor
should verify that redundant or non -related information has been removed
from the file.
D. Habitual/Serious Offenders
When during the course of an investigation an officer has a reason to believe that
one of the parties involved is a habitual or repeat violator the officer shall include
that information in the case file. For these purposes the following guidelines shall
apply:
When investigating a felony, the investigating officer shall complete a NCIC
criminal history on any suspects and check for previous conviction for similar
offenses. If the incident involves a forcible felony and the Certified Criminal
History (CCH) indicates a prior conviction for a similar offense the Investigations
Commander shall be so advised so the case may be expedited.
Chapter 902.8 of the Code of Iowa defines a habitual offender as someone,
"...who has twice before been convicted of any felony in a court of this or any
other state, or of the United States." An offense is a felony if, by the law under
which the person is convicted, it is so classified at the time of the person's
conviction.
Whenever it is confirmed that a subject has been involved in a previous class B
or class A felony, the officer should include this information in the case file.
When investigating a sexual assault and a suspect is developed the investigating
officer shall record any prior sexual assault conviction history in the case file.
Additionally the investigating officer shall determine if the subject is listed on the
Iowa Sexual Offender Registry as determined in chapter 619A, of the Code of
Iowa.
If an officer is investigating a child abuse/neglect incident, the officdor shout&
check the state child abuse registry for a previous record involving the *(D If
record is located, this should be recorded in the case file. h _T1
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When a suspect meets any of the criteria listed above, the investigating officer
shall include the information in the case file and notify the Prosecuting Attorney
of this information. Notification may be in the form of forwarding of the CCH.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
FILED
2001 DEC -4 PH 3: 24
CIP( CLERK
n\AIA (ITVIOWA
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-16
DECEMBER 10, 2001
Subject:
Reference:
RECORDS MAINTENANCE I
RECORDS, CRIMINAL HISTORY,
SECURITY
PUBLIC INFORMATION
Section:
Issue #.
SUPPORT SERVICES
1
Co nd Sig atur :
Purpose:
The purpose of this guide is to identify those procedures taken in conjunction
with the Records function to ensure the security, reliability, integrity, and
timeliness of records and documents in the control of the Iowa City Police
Department. While the security of records is of paramount importance, the
department recognizes that many records are public in nature and will avail to
provide information to requesting parties in as expedient manner as possible.
Definitions:
Procedures:
1. Officers may access central records during normal business hours.
Officers needing a specific case file shall contact record personnel and
request they retrieve a particular file. The record personnel shall either
copy the contents of the file for the officer or record the name of the officer
receiving the file. To the extent practical officers should request case file 2
.days in advance. When circumstances dictate the need to access the
central record repository at other than normal business hours, a watch
supervisor may grant access. The watch supervisor granting access shall
record the case number of any file removed and the name -of the receiving
officer and forward such to the record supervisor by the next business day.
2. During non -business hours the records room shall be locked. Officers
needing to access records during these periods shall first access available
information on the departments' in-house computer. If additional
information is needed from the case file, the officer shall notify a watch
supervisor of the need. The watch supervisor may grant access to the
records section for the purpose of accessing the specific record.
a. Officers removing a file from its assigned position shall insert a record
card indicating the officer's name, the date the file was removed, and
the reason for the removal.
b. Officers shall not remove the original record from the records room
without express permission of a watch supervisor. Officers may make
photocopies of the record in the records section.
c. Upon completion with the record, officers SHALL NOT replace the file in
its original position but shall place the folder to a designated location
within the records section.
3. The release of departmental records shall be done as expeditiously as
possible and shall conform with state requirements pertaining to the
release of public information. The release of departmental records shall
comply with federal and state laws pertaining to the release of information.
a. The person handling the request for the information will make a
determination if the information requested is public information. If so,
the person shall release the information. If the information is not of a
public nature the person handling the request shall advise the person
that the requested information is not of a public nature and should
advise the person of the statutory reason that the information is
exempted from release. (Le. the information requested is intelligence
information and not subject to release)
b. If the there is a question if the information is public information, the
s person handling the release shall advise the person that they will check
with a supervisor to determine if the information may be released. The
C13 rn supervisor shall determine if the information may be released. If the
d u information is not released, the person will be advised of the reason.
If the supervisor is unable to determine if the information is public
' U information, he/she shall forward the .request to the City's legal
oU Q department on the next business day. The Legal Department will make
othe determination as to if the information may be released.
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4. All requests for criminal histories shall be referred to the Iowa Department
of Public Safety. Officers shall not release information contained in a
Computerized Criminal History except to other criminal justice agencies.
5. The Iowa City Police Department shall abide by State Code requirements
pertaining to the maintenance and release of records involving juveniles.
a. Records pertaining information on juveniles shall have a code affixed
indicating that the record contains information relating to a juvenile.
b. All photographs, fingerprints and other identifying information on
juveniles shall be collected, disseminated, retained and disposed of in
conjunction with applicable state code requirements.
The records section shall maintain the original "hard copy" of all records for a
minimum of two years. At the end of this period, records may be photocopied,
microfilmed or otherwise electronically recorded and the "hard copy" shredded.
1. Prior to the recording and destruction of case files, the records supervisor
shall send notice to all sworn personnel indicating that the records will be
recorded and the originals destroyed. Officers needing a particular record(s)
shall notify the records supervisor in writing of the specific record(s) which
they wish to have maintained in it's original state.
2. Microfilm or electronically preserved records shall be maintained for a,
minimum period of 10 years. Originals of all microfilmed or electronically
recorded records shall be maintained at an off -site facility.
3. The Iowa City Police Department will assign arrested persons an individual
file containing information on all arrests. The files shall be maintained
alphanumerically by name and date of birth. Prior to entering arrest
information in the file, records personnel shall compare identifying numbers,
(i.e. SS or DL number) with any identifying or corresponding numbers in the
file.
The Records Supervisor is responsible for the submission of all applicable
information to state and national databases. This includes submission to NIBRS
and UCR system, and state records systems. Submission of records shall be in
accordance with all applicable guidelines and requirements.
On an annual basis a representative from the City of Iowa City technologies
department shall conduct an "audit" of the departments record system for all
passwords and access codes. He/she shall report any errors or access
violations to the system, to the Commander of Administrative Services.
Passwords will be changed on a regularly scheduled basis. On an annual basis,
the Commanding Officer Administrative Services shall cause an audit of all
passwords, access codes etc. to be performed in relation to the central records
system. Any access violations shall be recorded and procedures developed to
minimize the likelihood of the problem reoccurring.
Department personnel are prohibited from downloading or installing software on
to departmental computer. All "outside" software shall be installed by a member
of the City's technology department after being checked for "viruses" or other
problems/conflicts.
All information entered on to the departments in-house computer system shall be
downloaded "backed -up" on a daily basis. "Backup" tapes/discs will be secured
at an off -site location.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-17
DECEMBER 11 2001
Subject:
Reference: MISSING PERSONS,
MISSING PERSONS
MISSING/RUNAWAY JUVENILES,
INVESTIGATIONS
Section:
Issue #:
1
C mand Si nature:
I
Purpose: The purpose of this guide is to establish responsibilities and guidelines
for the investigation of missing persons. It is the policy of the Iowa City Police
Department that all reports of missing persons be given full consideration and
attention by members of this department to include careful recording and
investigation of factual circumstances surrounding the disappearance in accordance
with this policy, and that particular care be exercised in instances involving missing
children and those who may be mentally or physically impaired or others who are
insufficiently prepared to take care of themselves.
Definitions:
Procedures: Missing person reports shall be taken in accordance with the
Code of Iowa, Chapter 694.1, 694.2, 694.3, 694.4, 694.5, 694.6 and 694.10. The
following guide should be adhered too to the extent necessary.
1. Reporting/Classification of Missing Person
a. There is no waiting period for reporting a missing person. Missing person
reports shall be taken in -person or by telephone in conformance with the
- criteria of this policy and the criticality of the incident.
b. A person may be declared "missing" when his/her whereabouts is
unknown and unexplainable for a period of time that is regarded by
knowledgeable parties as highly unusual or suspicious in consideration of
the subject's behavior patterns, plans or routine.
c. Persons may be entered into the "Iowa System" when the following
definition is met. "A missing person is defined as a person of any age Vtho
is missing: 0 0
i) Under proven physical or mental disability. D oM
ii) Under circumstances indicating that the disappearanc"s �bt
voluntary. =i C)
iii) After a catastrophe." rn
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d. A person entry can also be made on a minor if he/she:
i) Has been abducted by a non -custodial parent;
ii) Is lost or has wandered away;
iii) Is an un-emancipated juvenile who does not fit into any other missing
person category.
2. Initial Report Taking
a. The initial report taker must gather as much information as possible in
order to determine if the person is missing or missing due to "suspicious"
circumstances. This includes but is not limited to the following information:
i) Name, age and physical description of the subject and relationship of
the reporting party to the missing person.
ii) Time and place of last known location and the identity of anyone
accompanying the subject.
iii) The extent of any search for the subject.
iv) Whether the subject has been missing on prior occasions and the
degree to which the absence departs from established behavior
patterns, habits or plans.
N a) Whether the individual has been involved recently in domestic
�} M incidents; suffered emotional trauma or life crises; demonstrated
w unusual, uncharacteristic or bizarre behavior; is dependent on
W j drugs or alcohol or has a history of mental illness.
b) The current physical condition of the subject and whether the
U- o person is currently on prescription medication.
the missing person is a child, inquiry should also determine if the child;
C 5 is or maybe with any adult who could cause him/her harm;
ii) may have been the subject of a parental abduction;
iii) has previously run away from home, has threatened to do so or has a
history of explainable or unexplainable absences for extended periods
of time.
3. Preliminary Investigation
The preliminary investigation is intended to gather additional information and
to take those steps that will aid in the search and location of a missing
person. This includes gathering the following types of information and
materials:
a. Complete description of the subject and a recent photograph.
b. Details of any physical or emotional problems.
c. Identity of the last persons(s) to have seen the subject as well as friends,
relatives, coworkers or associates who were or may have been in contact
with the subject prior to disappearance.
d. Plans, habits, routines and personal interests of the subject including
places frequented or locations of particular personal significance.
e. If the person has a vehicle or there is a missing vehicle obtain vehicle and
plate information.
f. Indications of missing personal belongings, particularly money and other
valuables. If the person has access to credit cards, obtain available
information and check on recent use and location of use.
g. Any indications of criminal activity or accident.
h. In the case of a missing juvenile, officers shall be particularly cognizant of
information that may suggest the potential for parental abduction, as well
as the possibility of stranger abduction, as well as:
i) the presence of behavioral problems;
ii) past instances of running away;
iii) signs of an abusive home environment or dysfunctional family
situation;
iv) whether the child is believed to be with adults who may pose a danger;
and
v) the name and location of the school attended by the child and any
persons who may be responsible for private transportation to and from
the location;
vi) when possible officers should gain permission to search a missing
child's home and school locker, as appropriate;
vii) when there are indications of a non -parental abduction, a check of the
Sexual Offender Registry should be initiated. If there is an offender's
address in close proximity to the last known location of the child and/or
the home residence of the child, an officer should be sent to check the
address.
viii)If a determination is made that the child was a probable victim of an
abduction, and the child is not located within an hour of this
determination, the watch supervisor shall contact the Commander of
Field Operations or designee and the Investigative Lieutenant or
designee. An Incident Commander will be designated.
i. Upon verification of a missing person, a missing person report shall be
completed and appropriate entries made in state and national information
databases in accordance with established procedures (e.g.: NCIC and the
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children)
j. Determine the need for outside resources. In consultation with the Watch
Commander, the media may be notified for assistance in locating the
person. Also outside law enforcement agencies may be notified and their
assistance requested in searching for the person.
4. Ongoing Investigation
Ongoing investigations of missing persons may include but not be-Umitedob
the followingactions and activities. _
a. Request release of dental records and any fingerprints available>7, o
b. Contact hospitals for injured/ill persons fitting the descripti@rt-of the
missing person. C
c. Thoroughly check the location at which the missing person wasseg
and conduct interviews as appropriate with persons who wer tt .
individual or who may work in or frequent the area. y N
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d. Conduct interviews with any additional family, friends, work associates,
schoolmates and teachers as well as school counselors and social case
workers as appropriate.
e. Provide identification and related information to appropriate law
enforcement agencies.
f. Decisions to use local media to help locate missing persons shall be made
with the approval Commander of Field Operations or designee and the
missing person's family.
g. The lead investigator shall maintain routine on -going contact with the
missing person's family concerning progress of the investigation. These
and other involved individuals shall be informed that they must notify the
Department as soon as any contact is made with the missing person.
5. Recovery of Missing Persons
a) Competent adults having left for a personal reason(s) cannot be forced to
return. Officers locating such individuals should:
i) advise them that they are the subject of a missing person investigation;
ii) ask if they desire the reporting party or next -of -kin to be notified of their
whereabouts; and
iii) make provisions to forward this information to the reporting party or
next -of -kin if permitted by the missing person.
b) In all cases, reporting parties shall be informed of the well-being of located
missing persons. Unless criminal or medical matters necessitate other
action, desires of missing persons not to reveal their whereabouts shall be
honored.
c) In cases involving juveniles, officers shall ensure:
i) the juvenile receives any necessary medical treatment in a timely
manner;
ii) initial questioning of the youth identifies the circumstances surrounding
the child's disappearance, any individuals who may be criminally
responsible and/or whether an abusive or negligent home environment
was a contributory factor; and
iii) that parents, guardians and/or the person reporting the missing youth
are notified in a timely manner.
d)" Upon location of a missing person, all agencies and information systems
previously contacted for assistance will be notified or updated. Entries
pertaining to the missing person will be canceled.
e) Where indicated, follow-up action shall include filing of reports with
appropriate agencies (i.e. DHS).
f) Where indicated, consult with the County Attorney's office reference the
frig of criminal charges.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
FILED
2001 DEC -5 PM 4: 43
CITY CLERK
A
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-18
DECEMBER 12 2001
Subject: HOSTAGE / BARRICADED
Reference: HOSTAGES, SRT, CRISIS
SUBJECTS
NEGOTIATIONS
Section:
Issue #:
OPS
11
Command S gnature:
Purpose: Law enforcement officers should be cognizant of the fact that hostage
situations and barricaded persons may arise from seemingly routine calls for service.
Officers should be aware that it is the ultimate goal of the Iowa City Police
Department to attempt to achieve the safe release of a hostage, and to take the
suspect into custody. The purpose of this directive is to establish procedures for
Department response to a hostage/banicaded person situation.
The Department will expend all reasonable efforts to resolve all hostage/barricaded
person situations in a peaceful manner. It is the policy of the Iowa City Police
Department to conduct special operations of an emergency or special nature through
the proper, timely, and efficient deployment of Department personnel and equipment,
and through established liaison with outside agencies, as necessary.
Definitions:
HOSTAGE SITUATION: The holding of any person(s) against their will by an armed,
or potentially armed, suspect.
BARRICADED PERSON: The standoff created by an armed, or potentially armed,
suspect in any location, whether forted or not, who is refusing to comply with police
demands for surrender.
INCIDENT COMMANDER: The ranking officer on -scene will normally become the
incident commander. He or she is responsible for managing the overall incident.
INCIDENT COMMAND POST: The field location from which on -scene operations will
be coordinated. All agencies involved in an incident will provide representatives to the
incident command post.
SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM (SRT): This team has specialized tactical training,
equipment, and weapons that are useful in dealing with barricaded/hostage
situations.
SRT COMMANDER: The Commander of Field Operations, who is responsible for all
SRT operations, including deployment, decision making, and tactical resolution of the
incident.
CRISIS NEGOTIATIONS TEAM (CNT): This team has specialized training in talking
with barricaded persons and hostage -takers, in an effort to resolve the incident
peacefully. They are equipped with specialized communications equipment.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS CENTER (TOCI: The field location from which all on -
scene tactical operations are coordinated. Access to the TOG is restricted to SRT
and CNT personnel only.
SRT OPERATIONS OFFICER: An SRT Sergeant or designated SRT member who
is responsible for SRT deployment and tactical planning.
Procedures:
Patrol Response
Because many hostage situations develop impulsively during the commission of
other crimes, patrol officers should consider immediate intervention if the hostage -
taker has not gained physical control of the crime scene and hostage. In such a case,
officers must use extreme caution, recognizing that the safety of the hostage is
paramount.
If the responding patrol officers determine that hostages have been taken and there
are no apparent means by which to retrieve them, or that a suspect has barricaded
themselves in such a manner that to make an approach would cause possible injury
to the officer, hostages, or bystanders, the following actions should be taken:
• The responding patrol officers shall notify the Communications Center of the
situation and request an on -duty patrol supervisor respond to the scene.
• Patrol officers will then contain and isolate the incident scene, establishing an
inner containment perimeter to provide a reasonable degree of safety while
maintaining contact with the incident scene.
• The on -duty patrol supervisor or designee will then notify the Watch Commander,
Commander of Field Operations/SRT Commander, and the Chief of Police of the
situation. He or she will then respond to the scene.
• Upon arrival at the scene, the on -duty patrol supervisor will become the Incident
1 Commander. He or she will assess the situation and request additional personnel
r equipment, both from within and outside the Department, if needed (e.g.,
C) RVCNT, additional patrol officers).
—I �+ Tki6ncident Commander will establish an Incident Command Post, which shall
CZ)Ie l8cated out of sight of the suspect, yet close enough to the scene to be
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practical. The Incident Command Post should be large enough to accommodate
emergency vehicles and key personnel.
• As time and resources permit, the Incident Commander will use available
personnel to establish an outer containment perimeter to control pedestrian and
vehicular traffic into the area. To the extent possible, injured persons and
occupants of affected residences and businesses will be evacuated.
Chain of Command
The chain of command for hostagetbarricaded persons situations will be consistent
with procedures identified in the departments SRT manual.
Incident Commander
Duties and responsibilities of the Incident Commander include:
• Manage the overall incident and develop plans to handle any problems that may
arise
• Assess the situation and request any additional or specialized personnel that are
needed
• Establish a Command Post
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• Evaluate and reposition the inner perimeter for the scene, if necessarn
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• Establish an outer perimeter n
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• Initiate evacuation efforts of persons within the outer perimeter, if posq,
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• Coordinate the efforts of all personnel at he scene D
• Ensure appropriate communications are established with other affected agencies
• Establish a mobilization point, where arriving personnel will be given assignments
and deploy from, and assign an officer to be in charge of it
• Establish and control a response route for emergency vehicles entering and
leaving the area
• Stage ambulance, fire, and rescue personnel at, or near, the Command Post
• Coordinate pedestrian and vehicular traffic control
• Establish a staging area for the media and arrange for the Public Information
Officer to handle the release of information
Assign an officer or clerical employee to the Incident Command Post to maintain
a chronological record of events and personnel assignments, as they occur.
• Maintain communication with the SRT Commander
Special Response Team
The mission of the Iowa City Police Departments Special Response Team is to
support the Iowa City Police Department and other requesting law enforcement
agencies with a tactical response to critical incidents.
Once on the scene, all tactical aspects of the operation become the responsibility of
SRT supervisory personnel. This includes deployment, containment, decision
making, and tactical resolution of the incident. SRT supervisory personnel may use
both SRT and non-SRT personnel to accomplish this mission.
SRT personnel will continue any evacuation efforts or rescue of injured persons
which has not been accomplished by patrol officers. They will also assume primary
responsibility for the inner perimeter, including containment, immediate action,
deliberate action, and marksman/observation teams. The SRT may use pursuit and
surveillance vehicles to assist in preparing and executing tactical options.
The SRT Commander and Operations Officer(s) will coordinate their activities out of
the Tactical Operations Center (TOC). The Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT) will also
function out of this location. Leadership from SRT and CNT will work together to
bring, about a resolution to the incident. The SRT Commander will maintain
communication with the Incident Commander.
Crisis Negotiations Team
The operational mission of the CNT is to establish communication with the suspect(s)
and to the extent possible, resolve the incident without injury to any person involved.
Upon arrival, the CNT will be responsible for establishing communication with the
suspect. This duty may require coordination with the SRT. The CNT will conduct
operations from within the TOC and is supervised by, and reports directly to, the SRT
Commander.
Duties and responsibilities of the CNT include:
�� sS E5a�sh direct communication with the suspect as early in ,the incident as
L1J pMibly.
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L Attempt to ascertain the number, identity, and condition of hostages and suspects
LU P C(9 g intelligence information from the suspect
Keep the SRT Commander and advisory staff informed of any demands, threats,
or deadlines issued by the suspect
• Make no concessions or agreements which might endanger a hostage or police
personnel, and stress the principle that for everything the suspect receives, the
suspect must offer something in return.
Investigations Commander
Duties and responsibilities of the Investigations Commander include:
• Serves as a staff advisor to the SRT Commander
• Assigns investigators to research criminal history and collect background
information on the suspect(s)
Assigns investigators to locate and interview witnesses and persons who may
have information beneficial to the resolution of the incident
Media Relations
The Department's Public Information Officer (PIO), or designee, will be assigned to
interact with the media. The PIO will meet with the media in a safe area to answer
questions and to inform the public of the situation.
Tactical plans will be discussed with the media in broad terms only. Under no
circumstances will the media or public be provided with specific tactical plans,
contemplated tactical plans, or information surrounding the placement or assignment
of tactical personnel.
Post -Occurrence Duties
At the conclusion of the incident, the officer originally assigned to the call will be
responsible for completing the initial incident report before leaving duty. Additionally,
supplemental reports may be required of Departmental personnel who participated in
the incident.
After each hostage/barricaded persons situation, the SRT Commander shall conduct
a staff critique of the incident and the procedures used. The critique shall be in the
form of an after -action report.
The critique and report will be used to assist the Department in developing and
updating the plans for handling such events and to identify the nebd for additional
equipment, and/or training. This critique will be attended by, at a minimum:
• SRT Commander
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• Incident Commander
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• Investigations Commander
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• SRT Operations Officer(s)
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• CNT Members
Upon conclusion of the briefing, the SRT Commander will submit a written report to
the Chief of Police.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
FILED
1001 DEC -5 PM 4* 44
CITY CLERK
in\hm rITY IOWA
SOG #:
Effective date:
01-19
DECEMBER 12, 2001
Subject.
Reference:
COMPUTER SEIZURE
COMPUTERS, INVESTIGATIONS
PROCEDURES
Section:
Issue #:
INVESTIGATIONS
1
Co mand Signature -
Purpose: The purpose of this guide is to identify those procedures to be used in the
seizure of computers, computer related equipment and software.
Definitions: For the purpose of this order, seizure includes the shutting down
of computer equipment and software.
Procedures:
Do to the rapidly changing technologies, it is not practical to expect that all
officers will be familiar with those steps necessary to maintain the integrity of
computer equipment and related programs. If an officer determines that
computer related equipment needs to be seized, the officer will determine if they
possess those skills necessary to seize the equipment as consistent with the
attached guideline. If the seizure of the equipment is beyond the skills or
knowledge of the officer. he / she should contact a watch supervisor. The
supervisor will determine if the equipment in question should be seized. If it is
determined that the equipment is to be seized, the Commander of the
Investigative Section should be contacted. He/she will assign an officer trained
in the seizure of computer equipment to assist in the seizure.
Initial Response
When arriving at the scene of a computer equipment seizure all persons should
be removed from the area of the computer equipment. Photograph the following:
1. Immediate area where computer is located showing location of peripheral
devices, notes, books or other computer related items.
2. Computer screen as you found it.
Collecting Digital Evidence
The first thing that must be done when assessing the scene of a computer
seizure is to determine the status of the computer(s) involved:
1. Is the computer operating?
No - Go to the Preserving Digital Evidence section that follows this
section.
Yes - Go to step 2.
sYit Is a screen saver operating?
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Ui °- - No -Go to step 4.
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H— w Q Yes - Go to step 3.
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g Attempt to deactivate the screen saver by moving the mouse or
pressing one of the arrow keys on the keyboard. DO NOT PRESS ANY
OTHER KEYS. Did this deactivate the screen saver?
No - Photograph the back of the computer case showing where the
power cord is inserted into the computer case; Pull the AC power from
the computer by pulling the power connector at the BACK of the
machine (not from the power outlet in the wall). Then go to the
Preserving Digital Evidence section that follows this section.
Yes - Go to step 4.
4. Do not attempt a preliminary examination of the computer for evidence
by searching for or looking at any files. Examine the computer for
destructive activity. Are files being deleted, a drive being formatted, or
partitions being adjusted?
No - Go to step 5.
Yes - Photograph the back of the computer case showing where the
power cord is inserted into the computer case; Pull the AC power from
the computer by pulling the power connector at the BACK of the
machine (not from the power outlet in the wall). Then go to the
Preserving Digital Evidence section that follows this section.
5. Examine the computer for network activity. Are files being transferred
via modem or network?
No - Disconnect any modem and network cables then go to step 7.
Yes - Record the file name(s) then go to step 6. 0
6. Do you know what the files are?
No - Disconnect modem and network cables then go to step 7
Yes - Decide whether to allow the file transfer to continue. Stop the
transfer immediately, or upon completion, disconnect modem and
network cables then. Then go to step 7.
7. Examine the computer for running applications such as Word, Access,
etc. Be sure to look at the task bar for minimized programs. Are any
applications running?
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No - Go to Shutdown Procedures. 0 o
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Yes - Do the following, then go to the Shutdown Procedures�sgetion.`;
• Identifyapplication(s)� u'
• Record any data (Access database, Word documt, e)
present by photographing each application screen a 5nakiag
detailed notes (including any file name found). 9
Shutdown Procedures
If the first photograph of the screen was of the screen saver, photograph
the screen, then continue.
1. Do you know what operating system the computer is using?
No - Go to step 2.
Yes - Follow the directions for the operating system if located below;
otherwise contact someone authorized by the Department to assist in
computer related evidence questions.
2. Does the screen look like:
No - Go to step 3.
Yes - To further determine the system, while pressing the ALT key,
press the ENTER key, if the screen does not change, it is a DOS
operating system. Photograph the back of the computer case showing
where the power cord is inserted into the computer case; Pull the AC
power plug from the BACK of the computer (not from the power outlet
in the wall). Then go to the Preserving Digital Evidence section that
follows this section.
3. Does the screen look like:
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No - Go to step 4.
Yes - It is a Windows 3.x operating system. Photograph the back of the
computer case showing where the power cord is inserted into the
computer case; Pull the AC power plug from the BACK of the computer
(not from the power outlet in the wall). Then go to the Preserving
Digital Evidence section that follows this section.
4. Does the screen look like:
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• Program Manager like Windows 3.x
• Note Icons have computers or people added
No - Go to step 5.
Yes - This is a Windows NT 3.51 operating system. Photograph the
back of the computer case showing where the power cord is inserted
into the computer case; Pull the AC power plug from the BACK of the
computer (not from the power outlet in the wall). Then go to the
Preserving Digital Evidence section that follows this section.
5. Does the screen look like:
• Start button has Windows symbol
No - Go to step 6.
Yes - This is a Windows 95/98, NT 4.0 or Windows 2000 operating
system. Photograph the back of the computer case showing where the
power cord is inserted into the computer case; Pull the AC power plug
from the BACK of the computer (not from the power outlet in the wall).
Then go to the Preserving Digital Evidence section that follows this
section.
6. Does the screen look like:
• A Windows -like operating environment
• Start button with UNDULinux version symbol (Penguin)
No - Go to step 7.
Yes - This is a version of UNIX or Linux. Care must be taken so the
operating system file structure is not damaged. Follow the following steps to
s
<shut
the system down:
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• Photograph the back of the computer case showing where the
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power cord is inserted into the computer case
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• Press the following buttons at the same time, CONTROL-ALT-
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BACKSPACE to halt XWindows
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• A screen that looks much like DOS with the Linux command
—
prompt will appear. Type "INIT 0" (Zero and no quotes) and
press enter. You should see activity on the screen. When the
activity is complete, photograph the screen a final time and pull the
AC power plug from the back of the computer (not from the power
outlet in the wall)
• If the computer won't shut down, pull the AC power plug from the
back of the computer (not from the power outlet in the wall).
• Go to the Preserving Digital Evidence section that follows this
section.
Does the screen look like:
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• Note the Apple symbol somewhere on the desktop
No - Contact someone authorized by the Department to assist in
computer related evidence questions.
Yes - This is an Apple (Mac) computer. Photograph the back of the
computer case showing where the power cord is inserted into the
computer case; Pull the AC power plug at the BACK of the computer
(not from the power outlet in the wall). Then go to the Preserving
Digital Evidence section that follows this section.
Preserving Digital Evidence
1. Once the computer system has been shutdown, the evidence needs to be
collected. To protect the validity of the data, it must be preserved from
tampering or alteration and a chain of custody started.
2. Take general photographs of all equipment showing its location
3. Take detailed photographs of all equipment that show serial numbers and
where cables and cords are plugged into each device.
4. Label the ends of each cable and the socket it was plugged into. This can
be as simple as labeling the cord and corresponding socket with the letter
"A" so the investigator can ensure the computer can be reassembled in
the lab exactly as it was found when seized.
5. Unplug all equipment where the power cord is connected to the device. If
this is not possible, follow the cord and unplug it from the first power
connection. DO NOT TURN THE EQUIPMENT OFF USING A POWER
SWITCH.
6. Seize all computer media which can include, but is not limited to: floppy
disks, CD-ROM/CD-R/CD-RW disks, data tapes, memory sticks, Zip disks,
Jaz disks, PCMCIA cards or any other removable media or fixed media.
7. Perform a detailed search for any hidden items related to the computer
8. Seize all computer related documentation which can include but is not
limited to: computer manuals, software manuals, documentation printed
using a printer or hand written notes. Officers should pay careful attention
to recognize anything showing e-mail addresses, web site address,
passwords or instructions for the computer or software.
9. Place evidence tape over the power connector on the back of the
computer and a seam where the removable portion of the case meets the
frame.
10. Pack all equipment as necessary to provide safe transportation from the
scene to evidence. Do not use Styrofoam peanuts as a packing material
to transport evidence as they break up and become lodged in openings in
the computer, including disk drive openings. Do not pack disks,
computers or other storage media in sealed plastic containers.
11.If more than one system is seized keep the equipment separated and
create a log detailing which equipment is related to each computer.
12.Do not transport equipment in the trunk next to radio units or other
electronic devices
13.Once the evidence is seized, the investigating officer should contact a
person familiar with the type of equipment seized, prior to setting up and
beginning the search of the seized equipment.
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Iowa City Police Department
Standard Operating Guideline
SOG #.
Effective date: UjIll
01-20
DECEMBER 13, 2001
Subject.
Reference:
EVIDENCE COLLECTION
EVIDENCE COLLECTION,
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION,
PROPERTY/EVIDENCE,
CRIME SCENE PROCESSING,
PHOTOGRAPHY
Section:
Issue #:
INVESTIGATIONS
11
Co nd Sig atu
Purpose: The purpose of this order is to identify procedures concerning initial
collection, marking and storage of evidence into 'official custody'. It is the policy of
the Iowa City Police Department to collect available physical evidence to assist in
ascertaining what occurred during the commission of a crime or potential crime. The
process of collecting physical evidence includes evaluating the crime scene, and
when necessary, photographing, sketching, searching for evidence and properly
collecting evidence related to the scene. To ensure this process is effective officers
collecting evidence will follow accepted practices and guidelines during the collection
process.
Definitions: Chain of Possession - A formal chain of possession (also known
as a 'chain of custody') will be established and recorded, To ensure property is
not lost, damaged, stolen or altered, and is admissible: in court, the chain of
possession shall be kept as short as practical. Procedures for collecting,
marking, storing, and processing evidence have been developed and/or adopted
to keep the chain as short as possible, therefore minimizing the number of
persons who may be required to testify to the intactness of the chain.
Procedures:
A. GENERAL COLLECTION AND MARKING PROCEDURE
1. The recording and collecting officer(s) will collect and take physical
custody of each item of evidence found. Crime Scene Technicians (CST)
will do so in a manner that ensures that no item of evidence contaminates
another. The time of collection will be recorded as each item of evidence
is collected. The evidence or container containing the evidence shall be
marked by the officer and/or CST collecting the evidence. Each item will
Fil_FD
2001 DEC -6 PH 3: 53
CITY CLERK
IOWA
be evaluated for the extent of marking required. Every identifying mark
will be made so that it neither destroys the evidentiary value of the item
nor seriously diminishes the "market value" of the item. The mark should
not be easy to remove or alter. The collection of evidence will be
consistent with the training and knowledge of the collecting officer.
2. Prior to the collection of evidence, the collecting officer should consider
photographing the scene. Photography may consist of the use of either
standard photographic equipment or the use of video recording
equipment. Scene photography should be extensive enough to show the
scene prior to the collection of the evidence. Prior to the collection of
individual pieces of evidence, the collecting officer should consider
photographing the item in place. If necessary, the officer may place a
scale in proximity of the item to be collected after 1s` taking a photograph
without the scale in place. The date and time of the photographs shall be
recorded on the CST log along with a listing of each photograph taken. If
a video recorder is used, the recording officer should identify the date,
time and location recording. All films and video tapes shall be entered
into the property section and processed in accordance with guidelines
developed for the maintenance of film.
3. If the collection of the evidence requires knowledge or skills, or equipment
is required beyond that available through the Iowa City Police
Department, The officer assigned to the collection of the evidence will
advise a watch supervisor. The supervisor will determine if another officer
possessing the requisite skills is available within the department or if
someone from an outside agency should be called to collect the evidence.
4. As applicable, officers should collect samples from known sources for
comparison with the evidence collected. This may include but is not
limited to; the taking of soil samples, hair samples, collection of clothing,
collection of known sources of DNA, or other items which may be used for
comparison with the evidence. .
5. Guidelines developed by the FBI and included in the Handbook of
RTensic Services may serve to guide the collection and preservation of
dence. Additionally, officers receiving specialized training in the
Lu � 4— lection, documentation, or preservation of evidence, may use those
_J ,�Chnigues consistent with their training.
w 6i=T_ie person collecting the evidence shall complete appropriate reports
ntifying the items collected, submitted and as applicable the methods
ed. This includes the completion of appropriate or CST and Incident
reports.
7. All evidence collected shall be submitted to the property in accordance
with department directives pertaining to the submission and transfer of
property to the Property Section.
8. Certain items require special collection and marking procedures. The
non-exclusive list of items may be handled as follows:
a. Cartridges - fired cartridge cases may be marked on the outside near
the open end when possible. When the open end has been crimped or
is too small, the cartridge case will be placed in a sealed envelope or
plastic vial, preferably packed in cotton or similar substance and the
container marked. Multiple cartridges shall be packaged separately.
b. Live Cartridges - Live Cartridges may be packaged either in a vial,
envelope or other container that will render them safe from accidental
discharge. NOTE: if a loaded weapon is located, it shall be
documented. The condition of the weapon shall not be altered until its
condition is documented. Alteration of the condition shall only be
made upon direction of the investigating officer and shall only be to the
extent necessary to make the weapon safe.
c. Documents - Documents will not be marked in any way by anyone
other than a specialist conducting examination. When collecting
documents they should be placed in plastic bags and tagged
accordingly. When forgery is suspected, the investigating officer
should consider gathering samples of writing other than suspected
forged items, from the suspect.
d. Fingerprints - The lifting of latent fingerprints or other methods of
collecting and preserving fingerprints will be the responsibility of a
CST. The officer in charge will evaluate whether a CST should be
called to the scene, or if the object should be collected and processing
done at another location. Items that are transported for future
processing shall be packaged in such a manner as to protect any
known prints on the object.
e. Firearms - Firearms or other weapons should, not be touched before
the location is recorded by photographs and/or sketches. Notes shall
be taken detailing the condition of the weapon(s) and the position of
the safety. Officers should not open the cylinder or breach nor unload
the weapon until the location and condition of the firearm has been
thoroughly documented. When moving the firearm, the officer should
touch only the trigger guard and knurled portions of the handle.
Identification of the weapon should include the make, model, serial
number and barrel length. Do not etch initials for identification, instead
use a tag. Use extreme caution when handling firearms.
f. Fired Bullets - Fired Bullets should be placed in a container and
packed in cotton or similar substance and securely fasted A
marked.
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g. Footprints, Tire Tracks, or Tool Marks - These items should be covered
and preserved in such a manner as to not alter them until they have
been properly recorded, preserved or collected.
h. Liquor and Fluids - Liquor and other fluids which are to be submitted to
the laboratory for chemical analysis shall be poured into a clean glass
container and stopped. Liquor not to be submitted tot he laboratory will
be disposed of per departmental guidelines.
i. Narcotics - Narcotics and suspected narcotics will be separated from
other evidence. They shall be weighed and counted prior to
submission to the property section.
j. "Odors" and Volatile Fluids - When preserving an 'odor" i.e. rag
smelling of gasoline, of volatile fluid, items impregnated with the
substance may be placed in a clear airtight container, preferably glass
as soon as possible. The container will be marked/tagged. The tag
will indicate that the package contains material impregnated with a
volatile fluid.
k. Poisons - Poisons will be placed in nonmetallic containers, preferably
glass and marked or tagged. The container shall specify a poison is
contained.
I. Removed Articles - Any article of evidence which is possible and
desirable to remove will be handled with the utmost caution to prevent
any alteration, contamination or destruction. It will be tagged for
identification.
m. Scrapings and Stains - Blood, semen, saliva and other items which
may contain DNA will be removed from the object involved by a CST or
other person familiar with the collection of such items. The scrapings,
especially blood, shall not be placed in a plastic container. As much of
the stain/scrapping as possible should be collected. Suspected semen
stains should be allowed to dry at room temperature and packaged in a
flat, unfolded position. When dealing with this type evidence, care
should be taken to avoid any contact with the sample to avoid
contamination. To the extent practical, samples should be gathered
from the victim(s) and any known suspects.
n. Glass - Bits of glass will be gathered and placed securely in a non -
plastic container. Glass should be picked up around the outer edges
with tweezers if possible. It is important to obtain all pieces of glass at
the scene of a possible vehicular homicide, assault, or other case
involving a vehicle with possible damage. 1.
o. Trace Items - Trace evidence is any item which is such a size that it
presence may require microscopic examination to discover or analyze.
p. Hair - When possible, samples of hair should be taken at a major crime
uc; Q scene. Comparison hairs form the head, body or genital areas should
be taken from the victim and suspect and placed in a clean paper
EQ container and marked. Hair will be taken by running a clean comb
tLI a w>= through the patch of hair. The whole hair, including roots will be taken.
_I `n `--� U Approx. 20-50 whole hairs are needed. Clipped hair is not acceptable.
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A member of the same sex or hospital personnel will take hair
samples.
q. Paint - Paint chips may be collected and placed in a clean paper
container and marked. Collection of chips rather than powder is
preferred. As much paint as possible should be taken from the bumper
of an automobile in major crimes. Comparison paint should be taken.
r. Fibers - Traces of fibers that cannot be transported should be
photographed and/or sketched. If transportable, the fibers should be
picked off with tweezers or forceps and placed in a glass vial to avoid
static electricity. When possible do not take the clothing off of a
suspect and victim while they are in the same room. All fibers shall be
appropriately packaged and marked.
s. Sand and Soil - Sand and soil samples will be taken from clothing or
body of a victim if possible. Comparison samples of nearby soil should
be taken. All soil or sand shall be placed in a clean glass vial and
marked. Samples of soil around a footprint or track should be taken at
several compass points around the track.
9. Requesting Laboratory Examinations - If need, it is the responsibility of
the assigned officer to request laboratory examination of evidence. If the
case is a major case or one that will require further follow-up by the
Investigation Section, the investigator assigned to the case will assume
the responsibility for requesting testing. Lab results shall be returned in
writing.
10. Collection and Preservation of Evidence in Sexual Assault Cases - The
general rule to use in the collection of evidence in sexual assault cases is
that any item, which the suspect may have come in contact, should be
taken as evidence if it is probable that the suspect may have left behind a
sample of his/her blood, urine, semen, hair or other items from his/her
person, which may lead to the identification as a suspect. The items of
evidence collected from victims in sexual assault are extremely important
and include, but are not limited to:
a. A "rape kit" from the hospital where the victim was examined.
b. Items such as bed sheets, pillowcases, blankets, rugs or other readily
moveable items at the location where the sexual assault occurred.
c. Victim's clothing.
d. Suspect's clothing.
e. Any object which the suspect may have touched and left fingerprints.
Upon completion of a sexual assault examination, the officer r4i ing Ne
"rape kit" from the medical facility should turn it over to the sigRd
investigator or if this is not practical, submit the kit to evideDc6. The ?�
receiving officer shall ensure that the chain of custody log is�taiaed
until the kit is surrendered. m -0 i1
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When collecting sheets, pillowcases, blankets and rugs, extreme car
should be taken not to shake the item so as to dislodge any foreign hairs
that may have been left by the suspect. Should any of these items contain
blood or semen stains, they should by air dried prior to any packaging. If
they are not dry at the time of collection they should be collected and
placed on hangers to dry. The items should be placed in paper bags to
minimize the retention of moisture.
Victim's clothing should be taken as soon as practical and if necessary
allowed to dry prior to submission to the property section. Suspect's
clothing should be taken and handled in the same manner.
If a suspect in is in custody for the assault, the investigating officer should
take those steps necessary to obtain appropriate samples from the
suspect.
11.Evidence Tagging/Marking - Tagging of evidence is distinguished from
marking as being less permanent. It does not harm the commercial value
of the property. Tagging is also a convenient method of identification for
large items and for very small items that have been placed in containers.
When officers tag evidence or containers of evidence, the date, location,
case number, short description of the item and the officer's initials and ID
number may be recorded on the tag. On the back of the tag the officer
may place additional pertinent information about the case. Tagging for
fingerprints - Evidence that is not fingerprinted at the scene will be placed
in an appropriate container and the container tagged. "Print" should; be
written on the tag.
12. Transportation and Shipment of Evidence - Evidence shall packaged in
such a fashion, as it will not be damaged in transport. The investigating
officer shall complete a lab request sheet according to departmental
directives prior to submitting the evidence. The Property Custodian is
responsible for shipping/transporting evidence to the lab and for
documentation of the changes in custody.
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