Field Operations Bureau

The Field Operations Bureau, led by Deputy Chief Roland Andrade, is the largest and most prominent division of the Santa Ana Police Department. It includes Patrol, Traffic, the Community Engagement Team, and several specialized units that respond to a wide variety of field incidents. The dedicated men and women of the Bureau take pride in serving residents, businesses, and visitors through a Community-Oriented Policing philosophy guided by the Department’s Mission, Vision, and Values.

The mission of the Field Operations Bureau is to ensure the safety and security of all individuals in Santa Ana. This mission is achieved by delivering responsive and professional public safety services, using a combination of problem-solving approaches and collaborative partnerships with the community. Through prevention, suppression, and apprehension strategies, the Bureau works to address and reduce entrenched community problems.

As the cornerstone of field service delivery for the Santa Ana Police Department, the Field Operations Bureau is committed to providing the highest level of service with dignity and respect. Each day, the men and women of the Bureau willingly place themselves in harm’s way to safeguard the well-being of the city’s residents, visitors, and businesses.

Bureau Command Staff

Patrol Division

The Patrol Division is committed to delivering prompt and exceptional service during emergencies and crises for residents and business operators in the city. Patrol officers conduct initial investigations of most crimes, address quality-of-life concerns, and engage in community outreach through various Community-Oriented Policing initiatives.

Community oriented policing through the district policing model

The Patrol Division operates under a district policing model, dividing the city into the West Policing Division—comprising the Westend and Southcoast districts—and the East Policing Division, which includes the Northeast and Southeast districts. Each division is overseen by a District Commander.

The district policing model is designed to address community concerns through a Community-Oriented Policing approach. It focuses on addressing ongoing crime trends, quality-of-life issues, and community outreach efficiently and effectively. This is achieved by leveraging resources across the organization and collaborating with government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses. District Commanders and their staff actively engage with the public by attending community meetings and partnering with Neighborhood Watch captains to maintain strong connections with the community.

Regional Substations and Community Engagement

To enhance Community-Oriented Policing and community outreach, the Field Operations Bureau operates two regional substations.

The Westend Office: This substation has fostered a long-standing relationship with the community and the nonprofit Westend COP board. It hosts events such as National Night Out and other community programs throughout the year.

The Regional Transportation Center Substation: This facility provides an additional point of contact for community members.

Special Enforcement Teams

Managed by the Division Commander, these teams include:

Directed Enforcement Teams: Assigned to both the east and west sides of the city, addressing localized crime trends.
Downtown Liaison Unit: Supporting the fast-growing downtown business and entertainment district.

Santa Ana’s Downtown has become a thriving hub for businesses, entertainment, and residential developments, particularly near the Artists Village. The Mounted Unit provides a visible and approachable law enforcement presence in this area, fostering community engagement.

Additional Specialized Units

Other specialized units supporting the department include:

Air Support Team: Partnering with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, "Duke" helicopter responds to thousands of calls annually, providing tactical information, assisting with arrests, and enhancing officer safety. Equipped with advanced technology, including HD infrared cameras and high-powered lighting, it plays a vital role in crime suppression and emergency response.
Canine Unit: Police service dogs are used to apprehend violent suspects and detect narcotics. Unique members of the unit include "Rosie," a bloodhound for tracking missing persons, and "Shadow," the first full-time therapeutic K-9 in Orange County, offering emotional support and aiding in interviews with juvenile victims. Training takes place at the Wheeler Canine Training Center in Santiago Park, with additional support from local businesses for real-world search simulations.
DUI Enforcement Team: Focused on reducing impaired driving and enhancing road safety.
Police Plan Check Office: Located at City Hall, this office manages crime prevention programs, special events, and partnerships with the State Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).

Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT)

SWAT is a highly specialized unit trained to respond to high-risk incidents that exceed the capabilities of first responders or investigative units. These include acts of terrorism, barricaded suspects, hostage situations, riots, high-risk warrant service, and dignitary protection. The team, consisting of two commanders, five team leaders, 33 operators, and crisis negotiators, undergoes rigorous training to maintain physical fitness, firearms proficiency, and tactical skills. The Crisis Negotiators within SWAT handles delicate situations involving barricaded suspects, hostage negotiations, suicide interventions, and domestic violence incidents.

Mounted Unit

Established in 1990 as a volunteer unit, the Mounted Unit now includes 5 sworn officers. Members provide their own horses and complete a 40-hour Mounted Enforcement School. The unit is deployed for crowd management at large events, high-visibility patrols in parks and shopping centers, and crime suppression in targeted areas.

Community Engagement

These specialized units enhance the department’s mission to provide safety and security through innovative strategies and community partnerships, fostering trust and ensuring the well-being of residents and visitors in Santa Ana. Learn more on our Community Engagement webpage.

Operations Division

The Operations Division includes the Department’s Quality of Life Team (QOLT), Directed Patrol, Downtown Business Unit (DTLU), and AB 109 Team. Learn more on our Operations Division webpage.

Traffic Division

The Traffic Division is dedicated to ensuring traffic safety throughout the City of Santa Ana. This mission is achieved through a combination of education, technology, and enforcement. By working collaboratively with the community, the division addresses traffic concerns through effective problem-solving strategies. Visit our Traffic Division webpage to learn more. Learn more on our Traffic Division webpage.