Patrol
Officers respond to a variety of requests for service including traffic accidents, domestic disturbances, assaults, property crimes, neighborhood disturbances and many other situations. They conduct the initial investigation for all crimes before referring cases needing follow-up to the detective unit. They also give presentations at schools and attend community meetings, as well as patrol neighborhoods.
K-9 unit
The Menlo Park Police Department K-9 unit began in 1987. Two dogs were brought on board at that time and forged the way for what has become an outstanding program. Menlo Park Police K-9 partners have accounted for numerous apprehensions, conducted thousands of building searches, assisted outside agencies with requests for assistance, and attended many community events. Our new K-9, Hardy, and his handler, Officer Manny Torres recently completed an intensive four week canine and canine handler training program. This is a certified training program through the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. Officer Torres and K-9 Hardy will assist with dignitary visits, protection details and demonstrations. Hardy serves as protector for his handler and fellow officers.
In May 2016, the Menlo Park Police Department instituted a narcotic detection dog for use on the Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET). Sergeant Ed Soares and his canine, “Duke,” a Doberman attended a three week basic service dog handler’s course, which focused on narcotic detection work, and vehicle and building searches. Sgt. Soares and Duke also completed an advanced narcotics certification course through the California Narcotic Canine Association (CNCA).
Traffic speed trailer request
The Police Department has a portable speed measuring trailer that is capable of being placed on residential streets. This can be used as a traffic calming measure in the absence of a police officer being present during times of occurrence.
If you would like to request placement of the speed trailer on your street, please contact the traffic sergeant.