Working "in partnership with the community" the Irvine Police Department patrols approximately 70 square miles and is rapidly growing, providing service to over 209,806 persons. The projected population is 279,000 at buildout (2035).

The patrol division of the Irvine Police Department polices in a Geographic Policing model. This means Irvine has been divided into three geographic areas. These areas are based on their geographic location and are known as “Portola,” “University” and “Crossroads.”

Currently, patrol officers operate under the area policing plan and officers, whether a patrol officer, traffic officer or a detective, are assigned to one of three areas. The officers, who are assigned to a geographical area for 1 year, are allowing them to become more familiar with problems occurring in their respective areas. In doing so, the officers' ability to address the community's needs and concerns will be more effective and specific. In addition to the improvements to the way we operate, we are also implementing cutting edge technology to help our officers and civilian employees to be more effective.

Each police vehicle is equipped with a laptop computer, offering powerful computer software that allows officers to locate addresses, create reports, generate maps, and receive calls for service. As technology advances, we too will maintain the most state of the art equipment available. In addition to that technology, police vehicles are also equipped with in-car video technology. These additions to our technological tools will contribute to a safer community. The vehicles are equipped with less lethal weapons, patrol rifles and certain vehicles contain spike strips for stopping pursuits.

Working as a patrol officer you have the ability to work a wide variety of assignments. Possible assignments include:

• Field training officer (FTO)

• Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT)

• Bike patrol

• Spectrum entertainment Policing Officer

• Canine Officer

• Specialized Investigations

• DARE Officer

• School Resource Officer