Police Policy and Procedure Manuals 

Police Policy Manuals

The public can use police policy manuals as a valuable resource to ensure their rights are protected by following these steps:


Why Should I Read My Police Department's Policy Manual?

1. **Know Your Rights**: Familiarize yourself with your rights during interactions with law enforcement. These rights are often outlined in police policy manuals and may include information about your right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures.


2. **Access the Manuals**: Find and access the police policy manuals for your local law enforcement agencies. These manuals are sometimes available on the agencies' websites or through public records requests. You can also check with local libraries, legal aid organizations, or advocacy groups that might have copies.


3. **Understand Policies and Procedures**: Read through the relevant sections of the policy manuals to understand how law enforcement officers are expected to conduct themselves during various situations. Pay attention to guidelines for stops, searches, arrests, use of force, and interactions with the public.


4. **Document Interactions**: If you have an encounter with law enforcement, try to document the interaction as accurately as possible. Note the officers' badge numbers, names, and any actions or statements made during the encounter. This documentation can be compared against the policies outlined in the manuals.


5. **Identify Violations**: If you believe that an officer's actions during an interaction violated the policies outlined in the manual, you can use this information to challenge the legality of those actions. Understanding the policies can help you determine whether your rights were respected and whether you have grounds for filing a complaint or pursuing legal action.


6. **File Complaints**: If you believe your rights were violated, you can file a complaint with the Brady List, the relevant law enforcement agency's internal affairs division, or oversight body. Reference the specific policy violations you believe occurred to provide evidence for your complaint.


7. **Advocate for Change**: If you notice patterns of policy violations or concerns, consider bringing them to the attention of local advocacy groups, community leaders, or legal organizations. Together, you can work towards advocating for policy reforms that better protect citizens' rights.


8. **Legal Support**: If a situation escalates and you face legal charges, consult with an attorney who can review the police policy manuals and help determine if your rights were violated. Your attorney can use this information to build a defense strategy.


9. **Community Education**: Share your knowledge of police policy manuals with your community. Educating others about their rights and the content of these manuals can empower individuals to protect themselves during interactions with law enforcement.


10. **Participate in Policy Discussions**: Some law enforcement agencies involve the community in policy-making discussions. Participate in these forums to provide input and feedback on policies, ensuring they better reflect the needs and expectations of the community.


Remember that while police policy manuals are valuable resources, they might not cover every scenario or situation. It's important to use them in conjunction with legal advice and guidance to ensure you fully understand your rights and how they apply in various contexts.

View Oklahoma Police Policy & Procedure Manuals HERE!

We strive to keep our site up to date, but cannot, and do not make any guarantee as to the accuracy or if these are the most up to date versions.  We encourage the public to reach out directly to the department to secure the most relevant and up to date information available, this site only serves as a preliminary resource.  If you have an up to date manual you would like to share, or any comments/feedback  please feel free to contact us.