The Springfield Police Department has announced the addition of Community Service Officers (CSOs) to its ranks, aiming to enhance community engagement and public safety. The new positions will support the department’s sworn officers by handling specific non-emergency responsibilities.
Community Service Officers are non-sworn personnel who will focus on enforcing city ordinances and assisting with various public safety tasks. Their primary duties will include:
Traffic Enforcement and Control: Addressing parking violations, responding to minor traffic accidents, managing neglected or abandoned vehicles, and assisting with traffic control.
City Ordinance Violations: Handling low-level infractions such as fly-dumping to help maintain clean and safe neighborhoods.
Private Property Accident Reports: Managing reports of accidents occurring on private property that do not involve injuries or citations.
By assuming these responsibilities, CSOs will allow sworn officers to focus on higher-priority calls while improving overall department efficiency.
“The addition of Community Service Officers to our department reflects our ongoing efforts to adapt and meet the needs of our residents,” said Springfield Police Chief Ken Scarlette. “Their work will undoubtedly enhance our ability to ensure public safety and improve response times for all.”
Officials say the introduction of the CSO program aligns with the department’s broader mission to provide responsive and effective service to the Springfield community. Officials anticipate that these officers will have a positive impact on both law enforcement operations and the quality of life for residents.