The police are law enforcement officers who usually take an oath (make a promise) to protect and serve their communities. Police officers—or collectively, police departments—enforce laws, investigate potential crimes, and make arrests.
In Missouri, as in other states, police officers are sworn law enforcement officials who have taken an oath to protect and serve their communities. Their primary responsibilities include enforcing local, state, and federal laws, investigating crimes, and apprehending individuals suspected of committing offenses. Missouri police departments operate under state statutes that define their powers and duties, as well as under the regulations and policies of the municipalities they serve. The state's law enforcement system is structured to ensure that police officers are trained and certified through the Missouri Department of Public Safety's Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Program. This program sets the minimum standards for training and certification of law enforcement officers in the state. Additionally, police conduct is subject to oversight to ensure compliance with legal and constitutional standards, including the use of force and respect for citizens' rights.