The West Des Moines Police Department is comprised of two divisions with sworn officers, civilian personnel, part-time employees, interns and volunteers. The divisions are entitled the Patrol Division and the Support Services Division.
The Patrol Division is under the direction of one captain, three lieutenants and four sergeants who are responsible for the Uniform Patrol Unit and Special Operations Unit. The Uniform Patrol Unit currently has five patrol territories, as well as additional officers who act as rovers to ensure effective coverage for the City and to provide back-up for the territory cars. There are 3 separate shifts with a lieutenant and sergeant assigned to each shift.
Support Services Division is made up of officers and civilian personnel. This division carries out tasks to support the mission of the other division and the entire department. Support Services has primary responsibility for the Criminal Investigations Unit, Community Education/Outreach Unit, Citizen Police Academy, Police Reserve Unit, recruitment, hiring , crime analysis, technical support, records management, CALEA, media relations, training, property and evidence and management of the law enforcement building and jail facility. The Criminal Investigation Unit is comprised of ten detectives and one part-time civilian investigator. The Community Education/Outreach Unit has three officers assigned to work with the businesses, multi-housing communities, schools and residents to help reduce criminal activity and increase safety.
Non-Emergency, General Information (515) 222-3320
