The Community Response Unit (CRU) is comprised of four officers and one sergeant. The officers are selected to the position through a selection process that includes personnel file review and an oral interview. The CRU functions under what is commonly known as Problem Oriented Policing (POP). Any unique or special problems that patrol isn’t able to handle the CRU will be assigned the problem and work it to a conclusion.

The CRU officers could find themselves working in a marked patrol unit targeting wanted person’s one day and on the next day be working on a plainclothes detail covertly staking out a specific location looking for criminal activity. The CRU has the ability to work and respond to service like the patrol unit; however, the work process is more like detectives taking the investigation to a conclusion often using a SARA model of policing. SARA is Scanning, Analysis, Response and Assessment each stage has a specific function and guides a team clearly to the identified goals or end result. Scanning consists of Identifying recurring problems and concerns of the public and to develop a goal. Analysis consists of researching a problem understanding what is the root cause; how it is currently being handled and what approach might work better. Response consists of carrying out the plan of action. Assessment consists of gathering information to determine whether the plan worked or if the goals were met. Any adjustments or revisions in the plan can be made to meet the goals. Details of each investigation vary; some are complex while others can be as simple as staking out a residence for a wanted person until he/she shows up.

Traditional patrol is driven by calls for service and is expected to respond in a certain amount of time; handle the call then clear for the next call. The CRU can take a detail and using all resources available work it until the conclusion. This frees up patrol to respond to calls and frees up detectives who are already busy with a case load.