Mobile Observation Tower
Draft Policy
Purpose & Scope
The Mobile Observation Tower (MOT) is a versatile platform designed to provide a visible police presence, deter crime, and capture video evidence. Its elevated viewpoint allows for effective monitoring of large crowds, thereby enhancing the Police Department’s ability to ensure public safety.
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the use, care, and deployment of the Mobile Observation Tower to ensure its effective and responsible use.
Objective
The purpose of the MOT is to enhance community safety, increase police visibility and provid e strategic advantages in monitoring and managing large public events, as well as to enhance police operations and deter crime as authorized by the Chief of Police or their designee.
Supervision
The Incident Commander or Watch Commander is responsible for monitoring the MOT's operation during its use.
Uses
• The MOT will primarily be used for Rose Bowl , Tournament of Roses, or other mass attendance events. Any other deployment of the MOT must be approved by the Chief of Police or their designee.
• Overnight Use: Approval from the Chief of Police or their designee is required to leave the tower unattended overnight. The MOT must be secured at all times when not manned and should be placed in a well-lit area to deter tampering or unauthorized access. • Notification: Police Dispatch or the Rose Bowl PD Command Post must be notified of the specific location and status (manned/unmanned) of the MOT during each deployment. • Operating Guidelines: A copy of the operating guidelines must remain in the tower and be adhered to during deployment.
• Restricted Use: The MOT will not be used in residential neighborhoods unless exigent circumstances exist, and only with the approval of the Chief of Police or their designee.
Exigent circumstances can be defined as an emergency situation requiring swift action, such as imminent danger to life or serious damage to property.
Deployment
• Trained Personnel Only: The MOT will only be deployed by personnel who have received specific training in its operational procedures, including transportation (towing), setup, and removal. All personnel must operate the tower in accordance with the training provided.
• Deployment Log: A deployment history shall be recorded through dispatch for each use of the MOT. This log should include:
o Date and time of deployment and removal.
o Location of deployment.
o Names of personnel manning the MOT.
o Status updates (manned/unmanned) during the deployment.
Maintenance
• Fleet Sergeant Responsibility: The Fleet Sergeant is responsible for the routine maintenance and service of the MOT.
• Reporting Damage: Any damage or equipment malfunctions must be immediately reported to a supervisor for prompt resolution.
• Video Surveillance and Data Storage: Video recordings from the MOT must be securely stored according to department protocols. Access to footage is restricted to authorized personnel and should be used in accordance with department policies. Non-evidentiary video recordings will be stored no longer than 30 days.
Compliance with Surveillance and Privacy Rules
The MOT’s use must comply with applicable laws, including requirements pertaining to surveillance and privacy.