The Patrol Division consists of approximately 60 sworn personnel. Each officer has completed training mandated by the Department of Criminal Justice Services and is empowered by state law to carry firearms, conduct criminal investigations, make arrests, and testify in court. During each shift, officers in patrol cars are assigned a specific section of the city to patrol. Patrol officers are dispatched by the Chemung County Communications Center to provide assistance, investigate crimes, make traffic stops, and enforce laws. They put their lives on the line as the first-responders to an accident, crime, or dangerous situation.
Patrol officers are the first line of defense in protection for the citizens of the City of Elmira and the most visible element of the Elmira Police Department.
If you need assistance from a patrol officer for an emergency, DIAL 911. The Comm Center will dispatch an officer, paramedics, and fire department personnel as needed. If it is not an emergency, call the Comm Center at (607) 735-8600 and the dispatcher will dispatch an officer or route your call as needed.
If you are stopped by an officer in the City of Elmira, remain calm. Officers are trained to act cautious and suspicious until they have verified the situation is safe. Although you have no intention of harming the officer, the officer will maintain a defensive posture until the officers feels that there is no risk of confrontation or injury. As far as police officers are concerned, there is no such thing as a routine traffic stop. Each stop has the potential for danger.
To make it easier for both you and the officer, the Elmira Police Department has prepared this brochure to offer advice and information to citizens to make traffic stops safer for both you and the police officer.