The initial stage of advancing within the New Rochelle Police Department involves a 21-week training program at the Westchester County Police Academy. During this period, officers are considered probationary and receive instruction on various topics including criminal law, penal law, report writing, and human relations aspects such as domestic violence, elder abuse, mental health issues, ethical awareness, and stress management. Recruits also undergo training in tactics, firearms, water safety, off-duty confrontations, and driving skills. Physical fitness is an integral part of their routine at the Academy.

After completing the academy training, the next phase consists of a two-week, in-service training conducted by New Rochelle's Training Unit. Probationary Police Officers participate in a recruit orientation to familiarize themselves with the department's policies and undergo additional training in firearms, physical fitness, and tactics.

Following this, Probationary Police Officers are paired with a Training Officer for a minimum of 20 days to gain practical experience and apply their training in real-life scenarios. During this phase, they learn essential skills such as reasoning, adaptability, and problem recognition while understanding the operational aspects of law enforcement careers.

Upon completing this training phase, officers are then assigned to continue their probationary period independently, to further develop their skills and expertise in the field.

The Patrol Unit operates with three tours, each assigned to personnel permanently. The first tour covers midnight to 8:00 a.m., the second from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and the third from 4:00 p.m. to midnight.

The city is divided into motorized patrol sectors, foot patrol posts, and community policing beats. Personnel from the Patrol Unit cover these areas, responding to calls, conducting initial crime investigations, assisting in medical and fire emergencies, dealing with emotionally distressed individuals, investigating auto accidents, enforcing laws, making arrests, and offering various other services.

There are plenty of career paths within our department. Within the Criminal Investigations Division, detectives handle investigations, while Forensics examines crime scenes. You can also explore various field operations and specialized units during your career. Alternatively, you can advance from Police Officer to Sergeant, Lieutenant, and eventually Captain.