Big Valley Police Chief

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the Tribal Administrator, the Police Chief of the Big Valley Police Department is responsible for overseeing all law enforcement operations, establishing department policies, and ensuring the safety and security of the tribal community. This position involves strategic planning, supervision of personnel, coordination with local, state, and federal agencies, and enforcement of tribal laws. The Police Chief will lead efforts to develop and maintain a fully operational police department, implement community policing strategies, and build strong relationships with tribal leadership and community members.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develop, implement, and continuously improve strategic plans, policies, and procedures to establish and operate the police department.
2. Provide leadership, supervision, and direction to all department personnel, including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, and disciplinary actions.
3. Oversee community policing initiatives to proactively engage with community members and enhance crime prevention and public safety.
4. Manage departmental operations, including patrol, investigations, traffic control, and emergency response.
5. Ensure all department personnel adhere to established protocols, maintain accurate records, and uphold the highest professional standards.
6. Patrol reservation in car, on bicycle, and on foot; answer calls for the protection of life and property, and the enforcement of tribal laws; may conduct both preliminary and follow-up investigations for reported criminal activity, deaths and vehicle traffic accidents.
7. Respond to any emergency, utilizing exceptional physical abilities which include but are not limited to: high speed driving, pursuing criminals while on foot, carrying injured persons, climbing fences and walls, overcoming physical resistance of uncooperative violent suspects, and directing traffic at emergency scenes, fires and special events. Most of these requirements occur outside and may be in inclement weather.
8. Make arrests as necessary; interview victims, complainants and witnesses, interrogate suspects, gather and preserve evidence, testify and present evidence in court.
9. Contact and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies in matters relating to the investigation of crimes and the apprehension of offenders.
10. Prepare reports detailing patrol activities, arrests made, investigations conducted, and unusual incidents observed.
11. Maintain accountability for departmental records, evidence management, and administrative processes
12. Serve warrants and subpoenas.
13. While on patrol, stop drivers who are operating vehicles violating laws; warn drivers against unlawful practices, issue citations and make arrests as necessary.
14. Administer first aid in emergency situations.
15. Maintain contact with citizens regarding potential law enforcement problems and preserve good relationships with the general public.
16. Work unsupervised as a solo unit in responding to emergencies.
17. Perform other duties as assigned