The Police Mission Statement

To be a police officer is a noble endeavor. It is a profession that encompasses a
multitude of challenges, and requires a like number of talents to meet those demands.

The mission of the Police Department is profound because of its breadth,
significance, and complexity. It is a diverse service that requires significant knowledge
and skills and a unique authority. This service includes protecting the constitutional
rights of citizens, preventing and controlling crime, apprehending offenders, aiding
citizens in hazardous situations, facilitating traffic, resolving conflict, and maintaining
order.

The primary mission of the Department is to preserve the peace and order of the
community through conflict management and enforcement of law. This mission requires
officers who are committed to the rule of law and have the unique authority to
investigate, arrest, search, seize, use reasonable and necessary force, and charge
persons with violations of the law.

Policing, however, goes beyond simply enforcing laws. The Police Department is
seen as a provider of service to the community that grants the authority and reason to
exist. Police officers are often called upon to do those things that others will not or
cannot do. The Police Department is often the agency of last resort. There must be a
moral philosophy and strong appreciation of the need for service in the police
profession. Unwavering belief in such a philosophy will earn for officers the respect and
support of the public that is essential to complete the mission.

A police officer's life is one of sacrifice and ideals, based upon the responsibilities
entrusted to him by the community. An officer accepts the challenge to defend the
innocent, protect the weak, and aid the distressed, and to do so without fear, favor or
prejudice. Rigid adherence to those principles set out in the Law Enforcement Code of
Ethics is mandatory for anyone accepting a position in the Newtown Township Police
Department.

Civilian employees of the Police Department share honor and status with sworn
officers. Thus, it is required that civilian employees possess the same devotion to duty
and to accept similar responsibilities. All members of the Department should be proud
to hold a position that demands so much.