Why Are Police in the US Often Alone in the Patrol Car? Wouldn't It Be Safer with Two Per Car?

Understanding the Resource Allocation and Efficiency of Solo Patrols

During my patrols, it was common for me to operate alone in my patrol car, a practice that has become increasingly prevalent in U.S. law enforcement. This is largely due to the funding and operational constraints faced by many cities and police departments. In many instances, patrol cars are funded by city contracts, and the preference is to allocate resources toward having more single-officer patrols over fewer double-officer patrols for the same financial outlay.

Factors Influencing Solo Patrol Practices

Resource Allocation

Resource Allocation: Police departments often operate with limited budgets and personnel. Operating with one officer per patrol car allows these departments to maximize their coverage and respond to more calls for service. This is particularly relevant in large jurisdictions where the need for multiple units can be overwhelming.

Efficiency

Efficiency: Solo patrols can lead to quicker response times. By having fewer officers per vehicle, departments can allocate more cars onto the road, thereby enhancing their ability to respond to incidents more swiftly. This is crucial in maintaining public safety and minimizing response times.

Community Policing Philosophy

Community Policing Philosophy: Some police departments emphasize community policing, which encourages officers to build robust relationships within their communities. Solo patrols can help officers become more familiar with their neighborhoods and residents, fostering a sense of community and trust. This approach is beneficial in creating a strong community-oriented policing model.

Training and Experience

Training and Experience: Officers are rigorously trained to handle situations independently and have the skills to assess risks and make decisions on their own. The expectation is that officers can call for backup if needed, which is a crucial safety protocol.

Historical Precedents

Historical Precedents: The tradition of solo patrols has been established over many years and changing this practice would require significant adjustments in staffing, funding, and operational protocols. This historical precedence has solidified the practice of solo patrols in many departments.

Cost Considerations and Trade-Offs

While having two officers per vehicle could enhance safety, particularly in potentially dangerous situations, the trade-offs in terms of resource utilization and response capabilities often lead departments to opt for solo patrols. Deploying two officers per vehicle would increase costs by approximately 80% according to some studies. This financial consideration often makes solo patrols the more feasible choice for many departments.

Exceptions to Solo Patrols

A few large agencies still run two-officer patrols, including New York and Los Angeles, which are the most prominent examples. Factors such as the crime level in specific areas and the need for additional support during special events and operations may also necessitate the use of two-officer units.

District-Specific Two-Officer Units

District-Specific Two-Officer Units: These units are often deployed in residential, business, and especially entertainment areas where safety needs are higher. For example, high-density residential areas or entertainment districts such as Times Square in New York City may require additional officers to ensure safety during peak hours.

Conclusion and Future Trends

In general, the decision to run solo patrols or two-officer units is influenced by a combination of cost, crime statistics, and the specific needs of the jurisdiction. While solo patrols are the more common practice, the need for additional support is always a factor. As public safety concerns evolve, and as technology advances, the balance between safety and efficiency in patrol strategies may continue to shift.