Broome County Sheriff’s Office
Policy Statement
Effective Date : 1/10/12

Rescinds :

Amends : 203, 9/00, 1/01, 2/01
4/10

Subject : Rules of Conduct

Number : 203

Reference : 14.1

Special Inst.:

Approved :

I. PURPOSE:
A. To establish a code of conduct or rules of conduct for all members of the Broome
County Sheriff’s Office. (revised 2/2001)
II. POLICY:
A. The attached manual entitled “BROOME COUNTY OFFICE of the
SHERIFF, RULES OF CONDUCT” will be the official guide for conduct for all
members of the Broome County Sheriff’s Office. (revised 2/01)
III. PROCEDURES:
A. The manual will be issued to all employees of the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.
B. It shall be the responsibility of supervisors to ensure that new members are
provided a copy. (revised 2/01)
C. Each member shall sign for their copy of the manual, disk or electronic media storage
device (revised 1/12).

39

Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 BROOME COUNTY
OFFICE of the SHERIFF

RULES
OF
CONDUCT
PART 1
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
l. l

Members shall know and comply with all Rules of Conduct, Regulations, Procedures and
Directives established under authority of the Sheriff. Negligence, reluctance or failure to
comply may be deemed Neglect of Duty and will make an officer subject to disciplinary
action. Provisions of any article, rule or procedure may be waived at the discretion
of the Sheriff. (revised 1/2001 )

1.2 Members shall know the duties and responsibilities of their assignment and shall perform
their duties as assigned or related without unnecessary delay.
1.3 Command and Supervisory Members shall equally and impartially enforce office rules of
conduct, regulations, procedures and directives.
1.4 Members who have knowledge of other members who are disobeying orders, ordinances,
B.C.S.O. Rules of Conduct or B.C.S.O. orders or directives of any type will without
unnecessary delay bring the matter to the attention of his/her immediate supervisor. Should
any member believe that the matter is of sufficient gravity or if the matter involves
supervisory personnel, he/she may bypass the chain of command and advise the Sheriff or
Undersheriff. Supervisors who have been advised of such a violation may not ignore the
report, but must investigate the circumstances and/or advise further up the chain of
command as the situation requires. (revised 2/01 )
1.5 Members shall maintain, in neat and orderly fashion, all manuals and directives issued to
them by this Office. Members must make appropriate changes or inserts as they are issued.
(revised 2/01 )
1.6 All manuals, directives and other Office documents are confidential and the property of the
Broome County Sheriff `s Office. However, their safety and security are the responsibility
of the employee to whom they are issued. No employee shall provide, transmit display or
post on the internet, e-mail, text or faxed copies or disclose the contents of any office
document or information without the proper authorization. (revised 1/12)
1.7 Members shall maintain sufficient knowledge of Federal, State and Local statutes to enable
them to adequately perform their duties. Members shall enforce the law equally and without
bias.

1.8

Members shall at all times, whether on or off duty, take appropriate and necessary action
whenever a crime or serious incident is observed or brought to their attention. If the
member decides not to become actively involved in such a matter because of the nature
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 of the incident, the potential for harm to bystanders, witnesses or other members, or due
to the fact that the member is not sufficiently armed or because of the availability of onduty law enforcement members, the member is expected to observe the incident and aid
responding units in whatever manner is requested or directed. (revised 02/01 )
1.9

Members shall follow the chain of command as the official course for transmitting oral
or
written communications. Exceptions may be made in emergency situations or when
properly excused by competent authority, or when time or circumstances do not
permit.

1.10

Orders shall be issued only by competent authority. All orders shall be lawful, in
accordance with rules and regulations, in the proper form, and communicated in a clear,
understandable and civil manner.

1 .l l

Members shall, without unnecessary delay, obey all lawful orders, oral or written as well
as instructions issued by a supervisor or other competent authority.(revised 02/01 )

I.12

Members, when transmitting orders from higher authority, shall not amend or
countermand the orders without good reason, nor shall they intentionally convey a
misrepresentation of orders.
a. All members shall, upon receipt of an order conflicting with any previous order or
instruction, advise the member issuing the second order that a conflict exists. Unless
it
is amended or retracted, the last order shall stand.
b. Members shall not obey any order, which they know or should know requires them to
commit any illegal act. If in doubt as to the legality of an order, the effected member
shall request the issuing officer to clarify the order or for permission to confer with a
higher authority.(revised 02/01)

1.13 Command and supervisory members shall demonstrate by example, proper and desirable
attitudes.
1.14 Members shall render appropriate military courtesies in all official contacts.When on duty
and particularly when in the presence of other law enforcement officer’s civilians or the
public. Command and supervisory members will be referred to by their rank.
(revised 01/12)

Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 1.15

Members will be courteous and respectful in all official contacts with superior members.
The willful disobedience in complying with any order, lawfully issued, orally or in
writing, by a supervisory member or acting supervisor as designated by the Sheriff, or
any disrespectful, insolent or abusive language or actions directed towards a supervisory
or acting supervisory member is prohibited.

1.16

Members shall, in all official contacts, refrain from expressing derogatory statements
relative to other members of the office. Members shall not make slurs or jokes based on a
real or imagined protected status of another member(s) such as, but not limited to, age,
race or gender. Such slurs or jokes shall not be made either to the member(s) at which it's
directed or to other members outside of a member's presence.(revised 02/01)

1.17. Supervisory members shall ensure that employees under their command perform their
full duties. Supervisory members shall project an image of efficiency, effectiveness and
meaningful direction, assisting and instructing those in their command as
necessary.(revised 02/01)
1.18

Supervisors must provide a good example in both conduct and appearance; have a
thorough understanding of the rules and procedures of the Sheriff's Office and shall

assist
and instruct subordinates in the proper performance of their duties.( revised 8/2000)
1.19 Supervisors who either intentionally overlook or condone incompetence or misconduct
on
the part of their subordinates, with disregard to the rules of conduct and policies, shall
be
guilty of neglect of duty. (revised 02/2001)
1.20

Members shall not knowingly engage or participate in any unlawful act or activity which
brings disrepute upon the Broome County Sheriff s Office or any of its members.
(new 01/01 )

1.21

Members shall not leave their assigned duty post without authorization from the O.I.C.,
unless an emergency exists which requires him/her to leave and in that event the O.I.C.
shall be notified. (new 01/01)

PART 2
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 PUBLIC CONTACTS
2.1 Members shall be courteous and respectful in their official dealings with the public.
Members shall provide their names and I.D. numbers to any citizen upon request.
(revised 02/01 )
2.2 Members shall be tactful, helpful, willing and prompt in rendering assistance or service to
the public.
2.3 Members shall not be reluctant or evasive in the performance of their duties.
2.4 Members shall refrain from idleness, laxity or other conduct which exhibits a lack of
diligence.
2.5 Members shall remain calm, composed and patient in the discharge of their duties.
However, when necessary, they shall act with sufficient firmness to carry out a duty.
2.6 Members shall be courteous and orderly in their dealings with the public. Members shall
refrain from harsh, profane, derogatory or insulting language which does not reasonably
serve a legitimate law enforcement purpose. (revised 02/01)
2.7 When using physical force to control or arrest individuals, members will not subject any
person to unnecessary brutality or unlawful physical force. ( revised 01/01 )
2.8 Members shall refrain from actions or conduct while on duty which may discredit any
member of the B.C.S.O. or the Sheriff. These actions shall include, but not Limited to: "
(revised 02/01)
A. Sleeping on duty.
B. Congregating for other than duty related business.
C. Public altercations or disputes between members.
D. Profanity in public.
E. Horseplay in public view.

PART 3
PROHIBITED PLACES, CONDUCT, ASSOCIATIONS
3.1 Members shall not use or possess alcoholic beverages while on duty, except that members
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 working in plain clothes may drink alcoholic beverages while on duty, when necessary to
accomplish a police purpose and when acting under orders from a superior.(revised 02/01)
3.2 Members shall not be unfit for duty due to the use of intoxicants, drugs or other substances.
Members who have been lawfully prescribed a controlled substance must advise their
supervisor if the substance has side effects that may render the member unfit for duty, such
as drowsiness, lightheadedness, euphoria or sensory deprivation or any other side effect that
impinges on the ability of the member to perform his or her duties. In such case the Sheriff
or his/her designee will consult with both the member and with the member's consent, his or
her medical provider in order to determine if the member can perform his or her duty
competently and safely. ( revised 01/01)
3.3 Members, when directed with cause, shall submit to a chemical test of their breath, blood or
urine. This section shall be conducted in accordance with the procedures set forth in any
applicable collective bargaining agreement provision and with Broome County Drug and
Alcohol Policy.( revised 01/01)
3.4 Members shall not promote or engage in gambling or games of chance while on duty unless
approved by a supervisor in the performance of official duties. (revised 8/00)
3.5 Members shall avoid personal association with known criminals, convicted felons or
persons of poor moral character or reputation. Members should avoid personal association
and personal dealings with any persons which would reasonably tend to arouse the
suspicion that such associations would affect their integrity or the performance of their
duties, except as necessary in the performance of official duties. (revised 02/01 )
3.6 Members shall not enter or frequent a house of prostitution, illegal gambling house, or other
establishments and locations where constant or flagrant violations of the law are regularly
violated and exist except in the performance of duty while under the proper and specific
orders from a supervisory member or competent authority. (revised 02/01)
3.7 Members shall not own, operate, be employed in, maintain a financial interest in, nor
benefit in any way from establishments or locations where constant or flagrant violations of
the law exist.
3.8 Members shall not lend assistance or communicate information which may enable any
person to evade arrest, investigation or due process of the law, or enable them to dispose of
or secrete evidence, contraband or information related to criminal activity.

3.9

Members shall not intentionally withhold from proper authority, information related to
known or suspected criminal activity.

3.10 Members shall not knowingly, or without proper authorization, conduct an investigation
or affect an arrest which may interfere with or compromise an existing investigation by
any
official or law enforcement agency.
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 3.11 Members shall not undertake self initiated investigations which are outside their normal
scope of responsibility, without notifying and receiving prior approval from competent
authority. When such notice is impossible or impractical, the member notice shall make
such notice without unnecessary delay.(revised 02/01 )
3.12

Members shall not solicit or accept gifts, including money, tangible or intangible
property, loan, promise, service or entertainment, gratuities, rewards or favors intended

to
cause or reward favorable treatment. Members shall not solicit any food, beverages or
other valuable consideration without cost or at reduced cost at any time.(revised 02/01)
3.13

Members shall not, without proper authorization, offer, sell, or make for publication, the
contents of documents, case histories, photographs or other material related to the
business activities of the B.C.S.O.. (revised 8/00)

3.14

Members shall not use their official position to promote the personal business interest of
any person or organization.

3.15

Members shall not use, nor allow the use of their official position to endorse, certify or
discredit a commercial product.

3.16

Members shall not engage in commercial or profit -making activities, advertising,
vending or soliciting while on duty.

3.17

Members shall not disclose confidential office business or police information to any
person except those officially entitled to disclosure. Violation of security of this type is
misconduct. (revised 02/01)

3.18

Members who are acting as representatives of the B.C.S.O. or who are holding
themselves out as having an official capacity with the B.C.S.O., shall receive prior
approval from the Sheriff or his/her designee before addressing public gatherings,
making
statements on radio, television, in periodicals or other print or electronic media.
Members
shall not act as a respondent to inquiries from such media outlets unless
authorized to do
so by the Sheriff or his/her designee. Members at the scene of an
incident may give basic
information to members of the press such as who, what and
where as long as that
information does not jeopardize a law enforcement
operation or investigation.
(revised 02/01)
3.19

Members when making authorized public statements shall not intentionally convey false
or inaccurate information, nor shall they express their personal opinions as being those of
the County or the Office without approval of competent authority.

3.20

Members shall not use their official position in aid of or in opposition to any political
candidate, party, club, association or society.

3.21

Members shall not, when on duty, engage in fund raising activities, solicit or receive
money for a political organization or other political purpose. (revised 8/00)
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 3.22

Members shall not engage in fund raising activities, distributions of literature, or
petitioning for charitable, civic or religious organizations while on duty or in an official
facility without prior authorization from competent authority.

3.23

Members shall not join, support or associate themselves with subversive organizations or
any group whose principals or activities may place them in conflict with the proper,
impartial or effective performance of their duties.

3.24

Members shall not cause the influence of any person or group outside the Office for
themselves or others in relation to official appointments, promotions, assignments or
disciplinary actions.

3.25

Members shall, whether on or off duty, conduct themselves in a professional manner and
be attentive to the public trust and confidence that has been placed in the Office and its
members. Conduct which may discredit or be prejudicial to the good order, efficiency
or
discipline of the Office is prohibited. Violation of any duly constituted law is also
prohibited.

3.26

Members shall report in writing to the Sheriff within 24 hours any violation of the
following: any violation of the law charged against them in any jurisdiction; any civil
action initiated against them; any state administrative penalty, i.e. suspension or
revocation of a driver’s license or suspension or revocation of Police or Peace
Officer
Certification; an order of protection issued against them by any court. This
section does
not apply to parking citations or non-criminal traffic violations received
while off duty. It does apply to notices of a failure to appear or answer parking citations
and non-criminal
traffic violations. (revised 11/02)

3.27

Members shall not read tabloids, periodicals or books while on duty or possess non work
related reading material in department vehicles or offices. Publications and material
related to the criminal justice field may be read or studied as long as proper and efficient
performance of assigned duties are not impaired.(rev 2/01)

3.28

Members are prohibited from buying or selling anything of value from or to any
complainant, suspect, witness, defendant, prisoner, or other person involved in any case
which has come to their attention or which arose out of their employment with the
department, except as may be specifically authorized by the Sheriff of Undersheriff.

3.29 Members shall report to their superiors in writing any required appearance, voluntary
appearance or planned appearance as a witness for the defense in a criminal case in any
jurisdiction.(revised 02-2001 )
PART 4
INTERNAL MATTERS
4.1 Members shall cooperate fully in all police or B.C.S.O. investigations that specifically relate
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 to the performance of their or another member's duties or alleged violations of B.C.S.O.
Rules of Conduct, Procedures, Policies or Directives. Members shall answer all questions
pertaining to administrative investigations completely and accurately and shall submit all
required reports and documents. Failure to truthfully answer questions as part of an
administrative investigation shall be considered insubordination.(revised 02/01)
4.2 Members shall not dissuade or prevent any person from making or submitting a complaint
relating to a member's conduct or performance of duty.
4.3 Members shall not knowingly make or submit a report or document which contains
inaccurate, false or improper information. They shall not withhold, alter or withdraw a
required report or document, nor influence any person to do so.( revised 8/00)
4.4 Members shall, when directed by competent authority, and without unnecessary delay,
submit for inspection any firearms, uniform item, county property or Office issued
credentials or equipment.
4.5 Members shall, when directed by competent authority, surrender firearms, credentials,
shield, uniforms or any item issued by this Office.
4.6 Members who are suspended from duty shall not wear any portion of the B.C.S.O. uniform
nor shall they exercise police or Sheriffs Office authority in any manner. (new 02/01 )

PART 5
PERSONNEL RULES
5.1 Members are subject to call for duty at all times and shall respond as directed unless
excused by competent authority.
5.2 Members shall report to their designated duty station or area of assignment at the required
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 time, properly attired and equipped and complete required work hours. They shall not leave
their area of assignment without authorization or until properly relieved. ( revised 8/00)
5.3 Members shall, when reporting for duty, be physically and mentally capable of performing
their assigned duties. ( revised 8/00)
5.4 Members shall conform to the established procedures by informing their immediate
supervisor for obtaining authorization for absence from duty.
5.5 Members shall not feign illness or injury, falsely report themselves ill or injured, or
otherwise request absence from duty under false pretenses. ( revised 8/00)
5.6 Members shall submit, according to established procedures, complete and accurate
documentation related to work hours and activities during their tour of duty. ( revised 8/00)
5.7 Members shall reside in Broome County during their tenure with the B.C.S.O. unless
approved by the Broome County Legislature that they may reside outside. They shall
provide the Office with their residential address and telephone number and shall report any
such changes on their first working day following such changes. (new 02/01 )
5.8 Members shall possess a valid New York State driver's license.( revised 8/00)

5.9

Members shall not use the Broome County Sheriff Office mailing address for non- official
purposes or any license or permit without prior approval of the Sheriff. ( revised 8/00)

5.10 Members shall have their shield and identification card in their possession while on duty,
and at all other times when practical. ( revised 8/00)
5.11 Members shall not permit their shield or identification card to be duplicated or to be used
by another person without permission of the Sheriff.( revised 8/00)
5.12 Members shall not possess or distribute business cards indicating association with the
B.C.S.O. unless issued or authorized by the Office. ( revised 8/00)
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 5.13 Members shall not engage in outside employment that is prohibited by law. (revised
8/00)
5.14 Per their current labor agreement, members are permitted lunch period during their
regular eight hour work shift not to exceed the time established in the employee's labor
agreement. (revised 8/00)
5.15 Members shall not, except as provided by the Criminal Procedure Law, withdraw arrest
charges, solicit withdrawals, or void traffic charges, unless approved by their supervisor
or the Sheriff. (revised 8/00)
5.16 Members shall not accept any reward received as a result of any services rendered in the
line of duty without the approval of the Sheriff. ( revised 8/00)
5.17 Members shall not allow personal business to interfere with the performance of their
duties. Any personal business which would interfere with a member’s performance of
assigned duties or responsibilities shall require prior approval of competent
authority. (revised 01/01 )
5.18 Members shall not use their official identification or credentials to gain admission or
privileges into any public or private gathering, event or establishment, for non duty
related purposes.( new 01/01 )

PART 6
UNIFORM AND APPEARANCE
6.1 Members, while on duty, whether in uniform or in civilian attire, shall maintain their
personal appearance in order to present a professional image.
6.2 Members shall wear uniforms or other clothing in accordance with their designated
assignment. This will also include all trials, hearings and in service training.(revised 01/01)
a. Members assigned to uniform duty will wear only those articles of clothing and
accessories issued or approved by the B.C.S.O.. (revised 01/01)
b. Members authorized to wear non-uniform /civilian clothing while on duty will be neatly
dressed. Male members will wear a business suit or sport coat, dress shirt with tie, and
dress slacks. Female Members authorized to wear civilian clothing will wear
professional business - type attire.
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 6.3 Members shall not wear office uniforms, or any part thereof, on outside employment or
other off duty activities, unless authorized by the Sheriff. ( revised 8/00)
6.4 Members are responsible for the care and maintenance of their uniform clothing and
equipment. Uniforms which do not present a neat clean, well pressed appearance, or which
have become faded, torn, frayed or do not fit will not be worn. ( revised 8/00)
6.5 Members shall not alter their uniforms, affix pins, medals, ribbons or any other item
without proper authorization. ( revised 8/00)
6.6 Members shall maintain good physical appearance, exercise personal cleanliness and be
well groomed. ( revised 8/00)
6.7 Members shall maintain hair and shaving styles which conform to the following guidelines.
( revised 8/2000)
1. Male Members:
a. Hair must be clean, neat, combed. Hair may touch the top of each ear, but shall not
fall below the top of each ear. Hair shall not be worn longer than the top of the shirt
collar at the back of the neck.
b. Sideburns will be neatly trimmed, rectangular in shape and not extend below the
midpoint of each ear.

6.7 (continued)
c. Male members must be clean shaven, but may wear a mustache. Mustache must be
trimmed and cannot extend over the upper lip line or below and beyond the comers
of the mouth.
2. Female Members:
a. Female members must keep hair clean, neat and combed. The hair should be arranged
so that it does not extend below the top of the shirt collar. The bulk of the hair should
not interfere with the wearing of uniform head gear, including emergency equipment.
b. Hair ornaments, or ribbons and earrings will not be worn. Pins, combs or barrettes
needed to keep hair in place may be worn, but they must be similar to color of hair,
unobtrusive and concealed as much as possible.
6.8 Members while in uniform, in public view, shall maintain a military bearing. They will be
polite, speak clearly and avoid mannerisms such as slouching, shuffling or placing their
hands in their pockets or leaning against objects. ( revised 8/00)
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 6.9 Members will not use tobacco products (chewing tobacco, cigars, cigarettes, etc) in areas of
public buildings which are accessible to the public, pursuant to Section 1399-0 of the NYS
Public Health Law. (revised 8/00)
6.10 Members may use tobacco as long as: ( new 8/00)
a. They are not in a department vehicle.
b. They are not in the eye of the general public.
c. They are not engaged in traffic direction and control.
d. They do not have to leave their assignment or duty station for the sole purpose of
doing so.
6.11 Members will not chew gum, candy or other products in public view or during special
details, e.g., parades, crowd control, traffic control, or dignitary duty. (new 8/00)
6.12 Members shall submit to uniform and / or equipment inspection when directed by
competent authority.
6.13 Exceptions or modifications to the grooming and appearance regulations may be granted by
the Sheriff when the needs of the department require it.( new 8/00)

PART 7
EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES
7.1 Members shall exercise proper use and reasonable care of all official equipment and
facilities.
7.2 Members shall use only that official equipment authorized for their duty assignment.
Members shall not attempt to operate any equipment which they are not qualified or
authorized to use.( revised 8/00)
7.3 Members shall not use official equipment or facilities for personal or commercial purposes.
Personally owned equipment shall not be used for official purposes without approval of
competent authority.
7.4 Members shall not make unauthorized purchases, transfers, loans, alterations or disposal of
official equipment.
7.5 Members shall not enter into contracts for labor or services on behalf of, or otherwise
obligate the County or B.C.S.O. without proper authorization. (revised 8/00)
7.6 Members shall not allow unauthorized access to, or alteration of official equipment or
facilities.
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 7.7 Members shall report to competent authority, orally or in writing, without unnecessary
delay, any known or observed loss, damage, theft, misuse or removal of official equipment.
7.8 Members shall report to competent authority, orally and in writing, without unnecessary
delay, any known or observed damage to, or misuse, of official facilities.( revised 8/00)
7.9 Members shall not damage or deface any official equipment or facility, or affix
unauthorized materials thereto.
7.10 Members shall not alter damage or remove official posted items without proper
authorization. (revised 0l/01)
7.11 Members shall not post derogatory pictures, obscene or insulting pictures, photographs,
graffiti, cartoons, drawings or depictions of any sort on bulletin boards, chalkboards,
walls, lockers, vehicles or on or about any official facility or property of the B.C.S.O., nor
shall
they fail to remove such materials or arrange for their removal.(new 02/01)

7.12 Members found responsible for mutilation, destruction, loss or misplacement of Broome
County property through negligence or tampering will be subject to disciplinary action.
(new 8/00)
7.13 Members shall, when using or operating official equipment, utilize all provided safety
equipment and comply with related standards of safe operation. (revised 8/00)
7.14 Members shall comply with established procedures when using or operating official
communications equipment or telephones. (revised 8/00)
7.15 Members shall not permit any person not on official police business to ride in a B.C.S.O.
vehicle unless specifically authorized by the Sheriff or competent authority. (revised 8/00)
7.16 Members shall not pull, push, tow, or jump start any vehicle with an Office vehicle except
in an emergency. ( revised 8/00)
7.17 Members shall drive defensively with due regard to public safety and the safety of officers.
All motor vehicle accidents involving department vehicles will be investigated
thoroughly. Any accident determined to be the result of a member’s negligence,
recklessness or disregard for public safety shall be grounds for a charge of misconduct.
Members should also refer to Policy number 724 entitled Accident reporting, more
specifically Section IX. D as it pertains to the establishment of a review board for
“preventable” and “non-preventable” accidents. (rev 2/12)
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 7.18 Members and passengers traveling in or operating a B.C.S.O. or other county vehicle shall
be constrained by safety belts as outlined in Section 1229-C of the New York State Vehicle
and Traffic Law. (revised 8/00)
7.19 Members will not transmit abusive, derogatory, profane or otherwise unprofessional
communication over the radio. (revised 01/01)

PART 8
FIREARMS
8.1 Authorized members, while on duty, shall carry or possess only issued and authorized
firearms and ammunition. Off duty carry of such firearms is not required; however
members who chose to carry an officially issued firearm or personally owned firearm off
duty must abide by all applicable state and federal laws, regulations and B.C.S.O. Rules of
Conduct.
8.2 Members shall exercise proper care, maintenance and safekeeping of all firearms in their
control and possession.
8.3 Members authorized to carry firearms shall have their issued firearm in their possession
while on duty. Exceptions may be made when complying with acceptable regulations of
courts or institutions where possession of firearms is prohibited or regulated.
8.4 Members shall strictly observe safety procedures when using or handling firearms. When on
duty, members shall keep firearms loaded and holstered or secured when not in use. When
off duty, weapons shall be stored in a locked cabinet, closet or locker and the use of a
locking mechanism through the trigger is recommended.( revised 8/00)
8.5

Members shall draw or discharge firearms only in the proper performance of duty. Any
on-duty or duty related discharge of a firearm shall be reported to competent authority
without unnecessary delay, regardless of the location where such discharge occurs. Any
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 onduty, off duty or duty related discharge must be reported to the member's superior or in
his/her absence to the Undersheriff or Sheriff. This requirement does not apply to
authorized firearms training, target practice, test firing following repair or legal hunting.
Any discharge that results in injury to any person, however slight, must be reported in
writing, regardless of the circumstances of the discharge. ( revised 02/01 )
8.6

Members shall not purchase or acquire handguns solely on the basis of a Deputy Sheriff’s
Commission. All purchases or acquisitions shall be made in accordance with New York
State and Federal Law. (revised 8/00)

8.7

Members shall record with the New York State Pistol Permit Bureau, the description and
serial number of all personally owned handguns.
a. Forms for this purpose are available through the B.C.S.O. Pistol Permit Bureau.

PART 9
PROPERTY AND EVIDENCE
9.1 Members shall process, according to established procedures, all property and evidence that
comes into their possession.
9.2 Members shall not convert to their own use, misuse, misappropriate, conceal, falsify, alter,
tamper with, destroy, remove or withhold any property or evidence recovered by, or
surrendered to the B.C.S.O. ( revised 8/00)
9.3 Members shall follow established B.C.S.O. procedures for the destruction and disposition of
property and evidence. ( revised 8/00)
9.4 Members shall not take an interest in, or become a party to, the acquisition of property
disposed of by the Civil Division, and members are prohibited by law from acquiring real
property at an execution sale conducted by the B.C.S.O. ( revised 8/00)
PART 10
PERSON IN CUSTODY
10.1 Members, when arresting or taking persons into custody, shall search and handcuff them
according to established procedures.
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 10.2 Members, when arresting, taking into custody, transporting or detaining persons, shall not
act in a manner intended to provoke or antagonize them and shall ensure such person's
safety and security. (revised 01 /2001 )
10.3 Members, when arresting or taking persons into custody, shall ensure the person's property
is safeguarded.
PART 11
COURTS AND TESTIMONY
11.1

Members who are required to appear at a judicial or other official proceeding shall notify
their O.I.C.. (revised 01/2001)

11.2

Members shall make immediate notification to the Sheriff and the proper Government
Attorney when they are required as a witness for the defense in a criminal action or in
any action against a government entity. ( revised 8/00)

11.3

Members, when appearing at a judicial or other official proceeding, shall be properly
prepared, punctual, properly attired and shall conduct themselves in professional
manner. Proper attire shall refer to section 6.2 b, Uniform and Appearance. (revised
02/01)

11.4

11.5

11.6

Members shall, without unnecessary delay, notify then Sheriff and the B.C. Attorney
upon commencement of a Civil Action or Criminal Action resulting from a duty related
occurrence or their exercise of police authority. Members who are in possession of any
legal process, such as a subpoena or summons, must be forwarded to the Sheriff by the
member. (revised 02/01 )
Members shall not take action on the part of any person in an effort to influence a
disposition in a judicial or official proceeding without the approval of competent
authority. ( revised 8/2000)
Members shall not recommend the name, or secure the services of an attorney for any
person. Members shall not give an opinion as to a fine, penalty or bail to any violator or
suspect.

Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 PART 12
DEFINITIONS
ACTING…………………

acting

Temporarily serving in a position of which the member is not
ordinarily assigned, usually in the position of higher rank or
authority. The authority, responsibilities and duties of the
position are vested in the member for the term of his
status.

AGENCY... ................…………. A lawful enforcement organization, a unit a municipal, state
or
federal government.
APPOINT'MENT..... ..……….... The designation of a person to a non-competitive position or to
a position as the result of a competitive qualification
examination by the Sheriff.
ARREST...................………..….Take into custody by legal authority.
ASSIGNMENT, Area of... ……. A post, patrol zone; location or geographic area to which
members are assigned.( revised 8/00)
ASSIGNMENT….........………... Any personnel placement made by the sheriff, or his
authority.
AUTHORITY…..............………. The power to command, require obedience or to discipline
others.
B.C.S.O………….........……….... Broome County Sheriff’s Office. (revised 1/12)
CHAIN OF COMMAND.……… The unbroken line of authority extending from the Sheriff
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 through a single subordinate at each level of command
descending to the level of execution and return.
COMMAND……………………. To order or require.
COMPETENT AUTHORITY. …The Sheriff, or his/her designee, in a position of command or
authority over other members; orders, directives,
procedures,
or rules that require or prohibit actions or
conduct.
CONFIDENTIAL....…………..... An investigatory or internal office matter not to be divulged
to
unauthorized persons.
COUNTY , The..........…………………… Broome County

CUSTODY...............…………………….. In the control of or under guard by a public servant
pursuant to authorized arrest or an order of the
courts.
DANGEROUS INSTRUMENT…………. Any instrument, article or substance including a
vehicle as that term is defined in the NYS Penal
Law,
Article 10 , which, under the circumstances in
which
it is used, attempted to be used or threatened
to be
used, is readily capable of causing death or
other
serious physical injury. (revised 8/00)
DEADLY WEAPON...........
physical
switchblade knife,
knife, metal kuckle
blackjack, or metal knuckles.

Any loaded weapon from which a shot, readily
capable of producing death or other serious
injury, may be discharged, or a
gravity knife, pilum ballistic
knife, dagger, billy,
(revised 8/00 )

DIRECTIVE... .........……………………... A written or printed form of instructions or
information issued to members; a verbal order.
DIVISION.... ..,............

A duly established section of the Sheriff's Office
having a supervisory head.

DIVISION SUPERVISOR.. ………………That member who is appointed by the Sheriff to
supervise the operation of a division.
(revised 8/00)
DOCUMENT………………………..... . ... Written or printed matter that furnishes information
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 or evidence; a written report, directive, memo.
DUTY……………………………………... Actions or conduct required of members; prescribed
assignments.
On Duty.......……………………….. That period when a member is actively engaged in
the performance of his/her duties either on a
regular
shift, extra duty, or when on duty during
and
because of an emergency.(revised
8/00)

Off Duty....... ……………………… That period when a member is not actively engaged
in, or available for, prescribed duties.
DUTY STATION..…………………...... …..Place of assignment.
EMPLOYEE... ....………………………. …..Each person employed by the Office. This term
includes all" Members" as defined herein.
EVIDENCE…………………….............. ……Material or property of a probative nature which
when linked with proper testimony would tend
to
prove or disprove a point of fact.
FIREARM........……………………........ Handguns issued or approved for official use;
officially
issued shotguns, rifles, machineguns.
(revised 8/00)
FIREARMS, Authorized……………….. A personally owned handgun carried by members with
Sheriff’s Office approval.
GRIEVENCE………………................... The procedure instituted to promote a cooperative,
employer- employee relationship for the resolution
and
settlement of disagreements between the Office
and
members /employees of the Broome County
Sheriff's
Office. ( revised 8/00)
IMMEDIATE…………………............... Without delay.
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR………….. The supervisor exercising command over subordinates
at a particular time.
INCOMPETENCE....………………........ Incapable of satisfactory performance of assigned
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 Sheriff’s Office duties.
INSUBORDINATION………………...... The willful disobedience in complying with any order
lawfully issued, orally or in writing, by a
supervisory
officer, or any disrespectful, insolent or
abusive
language or actions directed toward a
supervisory
officer.

INTERIM ORDER. . . . ..…..... .An order issued by the Sheriff or his designee with the same
force or effect as a rule, regulation or addendum to
procedures.
Interim orders will be incorporated into the
operations manual
on a yearly basis.
INVESTIGATION………....... A police related inquiry intended to establisher or gather
information.
MAY................,………….......... The word “may" as used herein, shall mean that the action
indicated is elective.
MEMBERS............ .....................All sworn employees of the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.
MILITARY COURTESY……... The prescribed military manner of respectfully acknowledging
and addressing other Office members or members of other
military or quasi-military organizations.
NEGLECT OF DUTY.……....... Failure to render proper attention or take appropriate action in
the performance of duty.
OFFICE, The………
OFFICE VEHICLE...

......:....... Broome County Sheriff’s Office.
.......... Any car. truck, bus, snowmobile, boat or other conveyance
registered to or regularly used by this Office.

OFFICIAL CONTACTS ……….Duty related contacts or communications with other
government officials or agencies.
OFFICIAL EQUIPMENT…….. Materials owned or possesses by the Office or County and
issued to, supplied for, or used by members to accomplish
their
duties.
OFFICIAL FACILITY……….. A structure or property owned or utilized by the County or the
Office.
OFFICIAL POSITION……….. A member's standing as a result of their employment with the
Sheriff s Office.
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 OFFICIAL PROCEEDING…… A formal hearing or inquiry intended to establish facts or
gather
information.
O.I.C..………………………….... B.C.S.O. Member who is in charge at a particular time and
place.
OPERTIONS MANUAL……….. The text used to guide and regulate member employees of the
Office.
POLICE AUTHORITY. …………The enforcement power vested in a member by law.
PROCEDURE...…………......... ... A specified method or course of action prescribed by the
Office; an established or adopted practice.
PROFESSIONAL IMAGE……… Visible representation, through military bearing behavior
which conveys a favorable public impression.
PROPER AUTHORIZATION…

Prior approval from competent authority.

PROPERTY...............………….... All items of monetary or personal value to be held until
returned to owner or otherwise properly disposed of.
CONTACTS…………………. . ... Duty- related contacts or communications with the general
public.
REGULATION EQUIPMENT….. Equipment which the Sheriff has approved for member's use.
REGULATIONS.............………... Standards established to prescribe, direct, manage or control.
RULES…………………………...-An established standard, guide or regulation from the Office
of the Sheriff, which prescribes or directs actions, activities
or
the method of accomplishing something. Such established
standard, guide or regulation may require or prohibit
actions
and activities.
RULES OF CONDUCT..……….... Formal statements of required or prohibited conduct.
SHIELD.......…………................... Sheriff's Office issued or authorized badge.
SPECIAL DEPUTY……… .. ....... A sworn temporary employee assigned specific duties who
serve at the pleasure of the Sheriff.
STAFF.....…………………........ .... Those members or employees assigned to serve in an
executive or advisory capacity as assistants to the Sheriff.
SUBVERSIVE......... ……….. . . .. ...Tending to subvert or overthrow a legally a government
unit or government.
Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 SUPERVISORY OFFICER………... A member assigned by competent authority to oversee the
duty -related activities of members of equal or lower
rank.
TENURE………………………….... Period of active employment.
TOUR OF DUTY………………….. On duty.
UNNECESSARY DELAY………… To put off or avoid, without good reason, for a period of
time longer than necessary.
UNIFORM…………………………. The complete uniform issued as approved by the Sheriff.

Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10

 Policy Established 6/97
Policy Revised 9/00
Policy Revised 1/01
Policy Revised 2/01
Policy Reviewed 4/10