Police Officer

Bella Vista, AR
Bella Vista Police Department

Position Summary:

This is general and varied duty police work in the protection of life and property through the enforcement of laws and ordinances. Work involves the responsibility for performing routine police assignments that are received from police officers of superior rank. Work normally consists of routine patrol, preliminary investigation and traffic regulation, and investigation duties in a designated area on an assigned shift which involve an element of personal danger and employees must be able to act without direct supervision and to exercise independent judgment in meeting emergencies. Employees may receive special assignments which call upon specialized abilities and knowledge usually acquired through experience as a uniformed officer. In addition, employees may be required to assist other personnel of the police department in conducting interrogations, searches, and related duties as assigned, involving prisoners or suspects, as well as in escorting suspects and juveniles to and from designated points. Assignments and general and special instructions are received from a superior officer who reviews work methods and results through reports, personal inspection, and discussion.

Essential Functions:

  • Enforces the laws and ordinances of the city and other pertinent laws.
  • Patrols an assigned area during a specific period on foot, on bicycle, or in a patrol unit to preserve law and order, to prevent and discover the commission of a crime, and to enforce traffic and parking regulations.
  • Answers calls and complaints involving fire, automobile accidents, robberies and other misdemeanors and felonies.
  • At scene of crime administers first aid, conducts preliminary investigations, gathers evidence, obtains witnesses, and makes arrests; testifies as a witness in court.
  • Interviews persons with complaints and inquiries and attempts to make the proper disposition or direct them to proper authorities.
  • Issues traffic tickets; directs traffic at intersections; participates in escorting funerals.
  • Maintains order in crowds and attends parades and other public gatherings.
  • Conducts accident investigations providing first aid for injured, taking safeguards to prevent further accidents; interviews principals and witnesses, taking written statements from drivers, witnesses; examines vehicles and roadways, observing traffic control devices and obstruction to view; takes necessary street measures; clears the scene of obstructions and wreckage.
  • Escorts prisoners headquarters, jail, and to and from the court; insures that prisoners are properly guarded; supervises trustees washing cars and cleaning buildings.
  • Acts as custodian of personal property and evidence being held for court presentation; maintains records of property, evidence, and automobiles held or impounded.
  • When assigned, participates in training activities.
  • Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • Graduation from a standard high school or possess a valid certificate of equivalency issued by a state department of education (G.E.D.) Some college or technical school preferred.
  • Must be twenty-one (21) years of age or older.
  • Must be a citizen of the United States and a resident of Arkansas.
  • Must possess a valid Arkansas driver’s license.
  • Must be able to attend and graduate from Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy or equivalent from another state.
  • Must be able to effectively use and qualify with law enforcement tools and weapons including firearms, batons, defensive tactics, and other safety equipment.
  • Must meet the department’s psychological and background requirements.
  • Ability to obtain and retain radar operator and data master certificates. Attend and maintain Supervision I and II classes and certifications.