The Field Operations Division is the largest and most visible branch of the department. It provides 24/7 police coverage, rapid emergency response, proactive crime prevention, and community engagement throughout the city. Often referred to as "Patrol", this division enforces state and local laws, conducts criminal investigations, and partners with the community to address a wide range of public safety concerns. Patrol officers also prepare reports, provide courtroom testimony, and apply proven strategies for crime prevention and reduction.

Patrol Beats & Contacts

To ensure effective coverage, the city is divided into patrol zones for command, control, and resource allocation.  Check out our Patrol Beats & Contacts page to view a map of Tempe beats and associated contacts.

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Below is a comprehensive overview of the Field Operations Division, including detailed information about its structure and the specialized workgroups that make up the division.

APACHE NORTH PATROL BUREAU

The Apache North Patrol Bureau is responsible for police services in the city’s northern area (North of Broadway Road).

• North Patrol Sections – Patrol squads covering daytime, evening, and overnight shifts to maintain round-the-clock coverage.

• Strategic Response/Narcotics Section – Includes the ACTION Team, Neighborhood Response Unit, High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Task Force, Tactical Response Unit, and Community Policing Unit (Crime Prevention), with a dedicated Naloxone Program and SWAT Team support.

HARDY SOUTH PATROL BUREAU

The Hardy South Patrol Bureau is responsible for police services in the city’s southern area (South of Broadway Road).

• South Patrol Days, Swings, & Command Duty Graves Sections – Patrol squads covering daytime, evening, and overnight shifts to maintain round-the-clock coverage.

METRO BUREAU

The Metro Patrol Bureau safeguards the city’s central area through specialized units focused on traffic enforcement and safety, downtown patrol support, and protection during special events.

• Central City Section – Includes Bike Squads, Mounted Squad, and the K9 Unit for specialized patrol support.
  
  
• Events Section – Manages the Special Events & Threat Mitigation Unit, Off Duty Employment, Transit & EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) Unit, and the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program.
  
  
• Traffic Section – Manages vehicular safety and enforcement, including the Vehicular Crimes Unit, DUI/Night Traffic Squad, and the Traffic Program.