SWAT
SWAT/ASORT currently has sixteen (16) operators including a team Doctor from the ER at Med-Central Mansfield. The operators are from three (3) different agencies collaborating their resources and manpower. The agencies currently providing manpower and resources work collaboratively with SWAT/ASORT on all callouts.
Honor Guard
The Honor Guard represent the Division at Parades, Division Functions, Funerals, and when requested by the Chief of Police. The officers in the unit train on a regular basis to become fluid and precise in their movements and knowledge of special function protocols. There is currently, one Reserve Officer, seven Officers, one Sergeant, 2 Lieutenants, and one Captain in the Honor Guard and Color Guard.
The Honor Guard and Color Guard represented the department for the Office of the Chief of Police in the following capacities in 2014:
Honor Guard
- OPOTA Fallen Officer Memorial Ceremony
- Second Floor Memorial Ceremony
- Gravesite Ceremony for Local Fallen Officers
Color Guard
- Memorial Day Parade
- Korean War Parade
- OPOTA Memorial Ceremony in London, Ohio
- Labor Day Parade
Mansfield Police Motorcycle Unit
The Mansfield Division of Police reestablished the Motorcycle Unit in 2016. The unit builds on a rich history dating back to the 1960s, when officers patrolled on three-wheel motorcycles for traffic enforcement and parking violations and two-wheel motorcycles for general patrol duties.
Responsibilities
The Mansfield Police Motorcycle Unit plays a vital role in public safety by performing traffic enforcement, investigating accidents, and providing escorts for special events and dignitaries. With their specialized training, officers can navigate congested areas efficiently and respond quickly to incidents.
Community Outreach
The unit is dedicated to educating the public on traffic safety and promoting positive community relations. Officers regularly participate in local events, and school visits to engage with residents and foster trust.
Visibility & Readiness
With high visibility and specialized training, officers in the Motorcycle Unit are prepared to respond to traffic issues, offer assistance during heavy congestion, and support public safety efforts during parades, festivals, and other community gatherings.
UAS (Drone)
The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Unit, also known as the Drone Unit, was established by the Mansfield Police Department in 2017. The concept was developed in the fall of 2017, and by March 2018, seven officers were selected to participate in the program and receive specialized drone operation training. The initial fleet included two DJI M210 drones with Zenmuse XT336 thermal cameras, Z30 cameras, and X4 cameras, as well as a DJI Mavic Pro for smaller-scale operations.
The unit held its first formal training on April 11, 2018, at the K-9 training facility, where all officers completed the FAA Part 107 certification test. On August 24, 2018, at 1600 hours, the UAS Unit became operational. That same evening, the unit was called upon to assist the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department with a missing person search, showcasing its readiness for rapid deployment.
Growth and Expansion (2024)
In 2024, the UAS Unit expanded with the addition of two new operators, Officer Joshua Taylor, and Lt. Don Rhinehart, bringing the total number of certified UAS operators to eight. This ensured coverage across all three shifts and multiple divisions. During the year, all previously uncertified members completed their FAA Part 107 certification, ensuring full licensing for all operators.
The fleet also grew with the addition of a DJI Avata 2 drone, equipped with First-Person View (FPV) capabilities and a motion joystick for enhanced maneuverability. This compact drone is ideal for indoor operations, offering precise control in confined spaces.
Drone as First Repsonder (DFR) Program
A key milestone in 2024 was the launch of the Drone as First Responder (DFR) Program—a pioneering joint initiative between the Mansfield Police Department and the Mansfield Fire Department. The first program of its kind in Ohio, DFR uses drones to deliver real-time aerial footage during emergencies, enhancing situational awareness for first responders. By providing aerial views before responders arrive on the scene, the DFR program aids in faster, more informed decision-making, improving response times and overall emergency management effectiveness.
K9 Unit
The K9 Unit consists of three teams which are assigned to the Patrol Section. The K9 Unit officers train in narcotics detection, tracking, obedience, agility, and suspect apprehension. The K9 Unit officers are assigned a vehicle and special equipment to care for the K9’s. During 2013 the K-9 Unit conducted 10 school searches and attended D.A.R.E. and Safety Town graduations. The K-9 Unit was utilized on 197 police calls during 2013. The K-9 Unit was involved in the arrest of 99 suspects, conducted 150 vehicle and building searches, seized 202 grams of cocaine, 18 grams of heroin, and 566 grams of marijuana. The Unit also seized over $12,000 in suspected drug money.
Bicycle Unit
The bike patrol unit is an extra-duty detail, utilized by patrol. The unit serves as a versatile and effective tool for law enforcement, offering both direct security and positive community engagement. Their presence not only provides physical security but also strengthens the bond between law enforcement and the public they serve.
Mobile Operations Center
The Mobile Operations Center (MOC), is a 38 feet long Command Center built by Farber Specialty Vehicles. It serves a critical role in supporting law enforcement during emergencies, community events, and public outreach activities.
By utilizing this asset not only in emergencies but also in day-to-day community outreach, we can better serve the public, educate the next generation about safety, and foster positive relationships in the neighborhoods we protect.