• Must be able to effect an arrest using handcuffs and other restraints; subdue resisting suspects using maneuvers and weapons and resort to the use of hands and feet and other approved weapons in self-defense.
• Must be able to operate and utilize various types of law enforcement equipment; must demonstrate proficiency in the use of firearms approved for use by the department’s firearms officer, and other department-authorized weapons.
• Must be capable of gathering information in criminal investigations by interviewing, and obtaining the statements of victims, witnesses, suspects and confidential informers, and following this, be able to prepare investigative and other reports, including sketches, using appropriate grammar, symbols and mathematical computations. Must be able to process arrested suspects to include taking their photographs.
• Must be able to exercise independent judgment in determining when there is reasonable suspicion to detain, when probable cause exists to search and arrest and when force may be used and to what degree.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license, and be capable of operating a law enforcement vehicle during both day and night, in emergency situations involving speeds in excess of posted limits, in congested traffic and in unsafe road conditions caused by factors such as fog, smoke, rain, ice and snow.
• Must be able to pursue fleeing suspects and perform rescue operations which may involve quickly entering and exiting law enforcement patrol vehicles, lifting, carrying, and dragging heavy objects, climbing over and pulling oneself up over obstacles, jumping down from elevated surfaces, climbing through openings, jumping over obstacles, ditches and streams; crawling in confined areas, balancing on uneven or narrow surfaces and using body force to gain entrance through barriers.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and coherently over law enforcement radio channels while initiating and responding to radio communications.
• Must be able to engage in law enforcement patrol functions that include such things as working rotating shifts, walking on foot patrol and physically checking the doors and windows of buildings to ensure they are secure.
• Must be able to perform rescue functions at accidents, emergencies, and disasters to include arranging for emergency medical aid, lifting, dragging, and carrying people away from dangerous situations and securing and evacuating people from particular areas. Must be able to extinguish small fires by using a fire extinguisher and other appropriate means.
• Must be able to process and transport prisoners and committed mental patients using handcuffs and other appropriate restraints.
• Must be able to perform searches of people, vehicles, buildings, and large outdoor areas which may involve feeling and detecting objects, walking for long periods of time, detaining people and stopping suspicious persons. •
• Must be able to conduct visual and audio surveillance for extended periods of time. Must be able to communicate effectively with people, including juveniles, by giving information and directions, mediating disputes, and advising of rights and processes. Additionally, must be able to endure verbal and mental abuse when confronted with the hostile views and opinions of suspects and other people encountered in an antagonistic environment.
• Must be able to read and comprehend legal and non-legal documents, including the preparation and processing of such documents as citations, affidavits and warrants. Must be able to demonstrate communication skills in court and other formal settings.
• Must be able to identify evidence and substances that provide the basis of criminal offenses and infractions and that indicate the presence of dangerous conditions.
• Must pass a comprehensive background investigation. Candidates must not have any felony convictions.
• Must pass a psychological test administered by the University of Rhode Island and a physical examination administered by University Health Services.
• Must pass this Department’s Campus Police Officer training program, including receiving instruction on Use of Force policy.
• Must be 21 years of age, a United States citizen, and have a high school education, higher education in a related field preferred.
• Must have strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Must successfully complete a one-year probationary period (six months for internal candidates). An employee transferred or promoted from a part-time to a full-time position, or an employee transferred or promoted during the first twelve months of employment with the Department, shall serve a twelve (12) month probation in the new position.
•Must be licensed as a Special Police Officer by the Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.