1.1.0 RESPECT FOR OTHERS
The San Andreas State Police is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that respects the rights, dignity, and individuality of every employee. This policy establishes guidelines for promoting respect, discouraging bias, and eliminating prejudice within the workplace. By adhering to this policy, the Department ensures that all employees feel valued, safe, and supported, thereby fostering a culture of equality and fairness.
1.1.01 POLICY STATEMENT
It is the policy of the San Andreas State Police to uphold the principles of respect, fairness, and inclusivity in all aspects of operations. The Department unequivocally disapproves of any form of bias or prejudice, including, but not limited to, those based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, marital status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
1.1.02 SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Command members, including executives and supervisors, shall actively promote a culture of respect and inclusion, lead by example, and take responsibility for preventing and addressing biases or prejudices within their teams.
B. Supervisors shall ensure that all employees are aware of this policy, receive appropriate training on diversity and inclusion, and understand their responsibilities in upholding these principles.
1.1.03 EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES
A. All employees are expected to treat their colleagues, members of the public, and others with respect and dignity, regardless of differences in background, opinions, or beliefs.
B. Employees must promptly report any instances of bias, harassment, or discrimination that they witness or experience, in accordance with the Department’s established reporting mechanisms.
1.1.1 INTEGRITY
The purpose of this section is to establish guidelines and expectations for integrity within the San Andreas State Police. Maintaining the highest standards of integrity is essential to ensure the trust and confidence of the public we serve, as well as the effective functioning of the Department.
1.1.12 ETHICAL CONDUCT
All employees of the San Andreas State Police are expected to exhibit the highest levels of ethical conduct in all aspects of their duties. This includes, but is not limited to, honesty, fairness, professionalism, and adherence to all applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
1.1.13 CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Employees must avoid conflicts of interest that may compromise their impartiality or diminish public trust in the Department. Any actual or potential conflicts of interest shall be promptly disclosed to the appropriate supervisor or designated authority.
1.1.14 CONFIDENTIALITY AND DATA PROTECTION
Employees shall respect and safeguard all confidential information obtained in the course of their duties. This includes, but is not limited to:
A. Personal or sensitive data,
B. Details of ongoing investigations, and
C. Operational or strategic information of the Department.
Such information shall only be disclosed to authorized individuals on a need-to-know basis, and only in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and Departmental procedures.
1.1.15 TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining public trust. Employees must conduct their duties in a transparent manner and provide accurate, complete, and timely information when required. Any errors, mistakes, or deviations from established procedures shall be promptly reported to a supervisor or other designated authority.
1.1.16 PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES
Engaging in activities that may compromise the integrity of the San Andreas State Police is strictly prohibited. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:
A. Fraud, theft, or misappropriation of resources,
B. Bribery or acceptance of improper benefits,
C. Misuse or abuse of authority, and
D. Any form of corruption or unethical practice.
Any such activities shall be reported immediately, and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, as well as criminal prosecution where applicable.
1.1.17 SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervisors and managers are responsible for setting a positive example of integrity and for promoting a culture of ethical behavior within their areas of responsibility. Supervisors shall provide clear guidance regarding integrity expectations, monitor compliance, and take corrective measures when necessary.
1.1.18 EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES
All employees bear a personal responsibility to uphold the principles of integrity as outlined in this policy. Employees shall:
A. Familiarize themselves with the Department’s code of conduct and relevant policies,
B. Follow established procedures at all times, and
C. Promptly report any concerns or violations of integrity to the appropriate supervisor or authority.
1.1.2 CONDUCT UNBECOMING AN OFFICER
The purpose of this section is to establish guidelines and expectations for conduct unbecoming an officer within the San Andreas State Police. Troopers are held to a higher standard of behavior, both on and off duty, in order to maintain the public’s trust and confidence in the Department.
1.1.21 PROFESSIONALISM AND DEMEANOR
Troopers of the San Andreas State Police are expected to conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism, exhibiting respectful and courteous behavior toward the public, colleagues, and all individuals they interact with during the course of their duties. Troopers shall maintain a calm and composed demeanor, even in challenging circumstances, in order to de-escalate conflicts and promote public safety.
1.1.22 PERSONAL CONDUCT
Troopers must uphold the highest standards of personal conduct, both on and off duty, in a manner that reflects positively on the Department and the law enforcement profession. Actions or behaviors that discredit the Department or undermine public trust are strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, engaging in criminal behavior, substance abuse, dishonesty, harassment, discrimination, or any other conduct that violates the law or Departmental policy.
1.1.23 SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE CONDUCT
Troopers must exercise caution and discretion in their use of social media and online platforms. Posts, comments, or other online communications that degrade the Department, its personnel, or the public perception of law enforcement constitute conduct unbecoming of an officer. Troopers shall not disclose confidential or sensitive information and must refrain from any online behavior that compromises professionalism or impartiality.
A. Troopers are strictly prohibited from posting or sharing pictures, videos, or content on social media platforms that could be considered inappropriate, offensive, or compromising to their professional image or that of the Department. This includes, but is not limited to, explicit or sexually suggestive material, discriminatory or derogatory content, or anything that could tarnish the reputation of the Trooper or the Department.
B. Troopers must safeguard confidential and sensitive information in both their official and personal capacities. This includes not sharing or disclosing any Departmental information, ongoing investigations, operational strategies, or personal information of colleagues or members of the public on social media. Troopers shall adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and Departmental policies governing the protection of such information.
C. Troopers are encouraged to review and adjust their privacy settings on social media platforms to ensure proper protection of their personal information and content. Privacy settings should be configured to limit access to personal details, and Troopers should be aware of the risks associated with sharing personal information online.
D. Troopers shall maintain impartiality and avoid expressing personal political opinions or engaging in discussions that could compromise their perceived objectivity and professionalism. Troopers shall refrain from making public political endorsements, participating in partisan activities, or sharing content that could be perceived as favoring one political group over another.
1.1.24 OFF-DUTY CONDUCT
Troopers shall recognize that their conduct off duty can significantly impact the reputation of the San Andreas State Police. Engaging in illegal, unethical, or otherwise improper activities off duty may constitute conduct unbecoming an officer and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
1.1.3 EMPLOYEE’S DUTY TO REPORT MISCONDUCT
The purpose of this section is to emphasize the importance of reporting misconduct within the Department. Every employee has a duty to promptly report any observed or suspected misconduct to ensure the integrity, accountability, and effectiveness of the Department.
1.1.31 REPORTING OBLIGATION
All employees of the Department have a duty to report any form of misconduct committed by fellow employees, supervisors, or any other individuals associated with the Department. Misconduct includes, but is not limited to, violations of laws, regulations, policies, or ethical standards that may impact the Department’s reputation, operations, or public trust.
1.1.32 WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION
The Department is committed to protecting employees who report misconduct in good faith. Whistleblowers shall be shielded from retaliation, discrimination, or adverse employment actions. Any reprisals against employees who report misconduct will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action against the responsible individuals.
1.1.33 REPORTING CHANNELS
Employees have multiple channels through which they may report misconduct. Reports may be made by the following methods.
A. Chain of Command: Employees are encouraged to report misconduct to their immediate supervisor or the next level of management within their chain of command. Supervisors must take such reports seriously, maintain confidentiality to the extent possible, and initiate appropriate investigations
B. Internal Affairs or Ethics Unit: The Department maintains an Internal Affairs or Ethics Unit responsible for handling misconduct investigations. Employees may directly report misconduct to this unit, ensuring concerns are addressed independently and impartially.
1.1.34 OBLIGATION TO COOPERATE
Employees who report misconduct are required to cooperate fully with any investigations or inquiries related to the reported misconduct. This includes providing accurate information, preserving relevant evidence, and participating in interviews or other investigative procedures as requested by the designated authorities.
1.1.4 USE OF INTOXICANTS
The purpose of this section is to establish clear guidelines regarding the use of intoxicants by employees of the Department. It is essential to maintain a professional and responsible environment in which employees do not report for duty while under the influence of intoxicating substances, ((whether in-character or in real life)). This standard ensures sound judgment, effective performance, and the preservation of public trust.
1.1.41 PROHIBITION OF INTOXICATION ON DUTY
Employees are strictly prohibited from reporting for duty while under the influence of intoxicants. Intoxicants include, but are not limited to, alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications that impair cognitive or physical ability, or any other substance that may alter judgment or compromise job performance.
1.1.42 RESPONSIBILITY FOR DECISION MAKING
Employees are responsible for maintaining their ability to make sound and rational decisions while on duty. If an employee’s judgment is impaired due to intoxicant use, they may be held accountable for any resulting poor decisions, substandard performance, or violations of policy.
1.1.43 PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY
Employees are expected to exercise personal responsibility in their use of intoxicants, both on and off duty. Employees shall refrain from engaging in any activity that may impair their ability to perform their duties effectively, maintain professional standards, or preserve the public’s trust in the Department.
1.1.5 GROOMING, PERSONAL APPEARANCE, BODY MODIFICATIONS AND ACCESSORIES
All members of the Department shall comply with the following regulations unless exempted by this policy, by other relevant Departmental or Divisional policy, or by authorization of a member of the Command Staff.
1.1.51 TATTOOS
A. Tattoos on the head, neck, or hands are prohibited.
B. Tattoos that indicate, or may reasonably be perceived to indicate, an association with any person, group, or organization involved in activity incompatible with law enforcement duties: including illegal gangs, criminal activity, or discriminatory practices, are prohibited.
C. Tattoos that a reasonable person would consider offensive are prohibited.
D. Tattoos on the arms and legs are permitted and do not require coverage.
1.1.52 HAIR
A. Hairstyles shall be neat and professional in appearance.
B. Hair color shall be limited to naturally occurring shades.
C. Dyed hair is permitted, provided the dye is of a naturally occurring shade.
D. Male sworn members shall keep hair neat, clean, and properly trimmed. Hair shall be moderately tapered, shall not extend below the top of the collar, and shall not cover any portion of the ear.
E. Hairstyles shall not interfere with the proper wearing of uniform headgear or impair vision in any way.
1.1.53 FACIAL HAIR
A. Facial hair shall be kept short, neat, clean, and properly trimmed.
1.1.54 PIERCINGS AND BODY MODIFICATIONS
A. Male members shall not wear piercings unless expressly authorized for their assignment.
B. Female members may wear one pair of earrings that are conservative and business-like in appearance, provided they do not interfere with job duties.
C. Body modifications are prohibited unless performed for standard cosmetic or medical purposes.
1.1.55 MAKEUP AND NAIL POLISH
A. Female members are permitted to wear mascara, eye shadow, lipstick, and other makeup, provided it is professional and conservative in style and appearance.
B. Female members may wear solid-color nail polish, provided it maintains a professional appearance.
1.1.56 EXCEPTIONS
A. Reasonable accommodations shall be made for cultural or religious practices where appropriate.
B. Members performing covert duties may be exempted from portions of this policy with the consent of a relevant commanding officer.
The purpose of this section is to emphasize the importance of a mandatory uniform standard within the Department of Public Safety. Every employee is subject to this policy and must adhere to their assigned uniform guidelines at all times while on duty or in an official capacity.
Accents and Accessories:
Personnel holding the ranks of Trooper through Corporal shall wear silver accents and accessories.
Personnel holding the ranks of Sergeant through Colonel shall wear gold accents and accessories.
1.1.61 Class A – Uniform Regulations
Class A uniforms are the most formal and heavily regulated attire within the San Andreas State Police. Strict adherence to the following guidelines is required:
Shirt: Light blue uniform shirt with department-issued patches and a tie.
Pants: Dark blue uniform trousers with a light blue stripe on each exterior pant leg.
Restrictions: No external vest may be worn in combination with a Class A uniform.
Equipment: Authorized utility belts and holsters are permitted, excluding thigh holsters.
Headwear: A campaign hat is required.
1.1.62 Class B – Uniform Regulations
Class B uniforms serve as the standard duty uniform and provide a more relaxed fit for personnel assigned to patrol, while still requiring compliance with uniform standards:
Shirt: Light blue uniform shirt with department-issued patches, worn without a tie.
Pants: Dark blue uniform trousers with a light blue exterior stripe on each pant leg, or approved dark blue BDUs/tactical pants.
Armor: Troopers may wear armor-skin polos beneath an exterior vest matching uniform color. MOLLE-compatible gear may be affixed to exterior vests.
Equipment: Authorized utility belts and holsters are permitted.
Headwear: A campaign hat or authorized ballcap may be worn.
1.1.63 Class C – Uniform Regulations
Class C uniforms are specialized operational attire, designed for tactical and specialty unit deployment. They may only be worn by personnel assigned to approved divisions or otherwise authorized by command staff:
Shirt: Dark blue uniform shirt with subdued department-issued patches, worn without a tie.
Pants: Approved dark blue BDUs or tactical pants.
Armor: Any exterior vest is authorized, including tactical and black MOLLE vests.
Equipment: Nylon duty belts are mandatory. Troopers may select any authorized holster.
Headwear: Only an authorized ballcap may be worn.
Usage Restriction: Class C uniforms are limited to specialty divisions such as K-9, ASU, Traffic, and SRT, or as otherwise directed by command.