Policy

The Minneapolis Emergency Communications Center (MECC) is the communications link between the Police Department and the public it serves.

The MPD acknowledges the authority of MECC to dispatch or otherwise deploy MPD resources to facilitate prompt responses to calls for police service.

This policy establishes parameters, classification priorities, and specifications related to call code and radio call numbers of the MPD.

Priority Call Code Numbers and Procedures

Call Code Numbers

1. Call code numbers are used by dispatchers and members to indicate the seriousness of an incident and the procedures for response.
2. The responsibility for determining the appropriate call code number rests with the responding member based upon information communicated from MECC or other personnel.
3. The call code numbers used are:

Code One: Indicates that a member cannot be located or does not answer the radio.

Code Two: A call to be answered or situation to be handled immediately. The red lights and siren shall not be used, and all traffic laws will be obeyed.

Code Three: Emergency Situation ‑ To be answered immediately, but in a manner enabling the responding units to reach the scene as quickly and safely as possible. MN Statute sections 169.03 and 169.17 require the use of red lights and siren for emergency driving.

Code Four: Situation is under control. Responding squads that have not arrived may clear.

Call Classification Priorities

1. The Police Department and MECC have developed protocols and appropriate timeframes for dispatching calls and have established common working definitions about the urgency of any situation and to facilitate the most efficient delivery of service to the public.

2. MECC call classification priorities are not the same as call code numbers.
3. Police calls are identified by a nature code and each nature code is assigned to one of five possible priority categories. The categories are:

Priority 0 ‑ Calls classified as Priority 0 include those situations where a known crisis exists that threatens the life of an individual. This is the highest possible priority and the fastest possible response is desired. The MECC objective is to have squads en route to the call within 30 seconds of receipt by the dispatcher.

Priority 1 ‑ Calls classified as Priority 1 include situations where an imminent threat to personal safety, or the loss or damage to property exists. Conditions at the scene of the call are unstable. The MECC objective is to have a squad en route to a priority 1 event within 70 seconds of receipt by the dispatcher.

Priority 2 ‑ Calls classified as Priority 2 include situations where no immediate threat of harm exists at the scene of the call. A timely police response is still desirable. The MECC objective is to have priority 2 calls assigned at the earliest opportunity or within 45 minutes of receipt by the dispatcher. Pending priority 2 calls are assigned out of sector to an available precinct squad after 10 minutes or if known that sector squads will be unavailable indefinitely. Priority 2 calls are assigned up to the last 15 minutes of shift. If after 30 minutes the call remains in MECC due to a lack of recommended unit availability, the dispatcher may notify the affected precinct shift supervisor to review the pending priority 2 calls and recommend a course of action.

Priority 3 ‑ Calls classified as Priority 3 include situations where conditions are stable at the scene of the call. MECC may hold priority 3 calls for the squad in whose MPD district the call is occurring for up to one hour. After one hour, the situation should be reassessed by MECC and the precinct field supervisor, if necessary, to determine if the call should be reassigned to a squad outside of the MPD district in which the call is occurring. Priority 3 calls may be assigned up to the last 15 minutes of shift.

Priority 9 ‑ Calls classified as Priority 9 include administrative or service assignments. Squads on a service assignment may be reassigned to an event with a higher priority.

Radio Call Numbers

1. Radio call numbers are developed by the Minneapolis Emergency Communications Center (MECC) with input from the MPD Equipment Specialist. Current listings of radio call numbers are maintained by MECC and the MPD Equipment Specialist.

For precincts, call numbers are designed to indicate the precinct, sector, and sequence within the sector. For example:

• Squad 420 ‑ Fourth Precinct, Sector Two, Primary Squad
• Squad 421 through 429 ‑ Fourth Precinct, Sector Two, Secondary Squads

2. Members shall begin all radio communication using their assigned call numbers and radio prefix.

Radio Prefixes

1. All vehicles using MPD radio channels will use the following prefixes which indicate their type of assignment:

• “Squad” for marked vehicle
• “Car” for unmarked or civilian vehicles
• “Portable” for members away from their vehicle
• “Chaplain” for chaplains
• “Base” for precinct, unit or division fixed operations
• “Beat” for members assigned to a specific beat
• “Bike” for Bike Patrol
• “Mounted” for members on horseback
• “Off-duty” for members working off-duty employment (under P&P 3-800)
• “Unit” for agents or community service members

2. When beginning a radio transmission, members shall begin the transmission with their appropriate radio prefix (Squad 310, not just 310).

One and Two Member Designation

1. In all communications with the MECC dispatcher, one member squads or cars will be designated as "Able," i.e., 321A.

2. If, during an apprehension or an investigation, an member separates from a partner, the driver of the vehicle will be "A(ble)," (320A). The passenger of the vehicle shall be "B(aker)," (320B). If no vehicle is being used, the members shall decide beforehand who shall be designated as "A" and "B."
3. If, during a shift, one member assigned to a two-member squad is away from duty, the remaining member shall immediately report the squad's change in designation to MECC.

FTO Squads

Squads that have an FTO and a Member in training will be designated as an FTO Squad. (Example 320 FTO or 320A FTO.) This designation will be used on the precinct line-up sheet, but standard radio call sign procedures will be used.

7-103 Calls for Service

• Summary: Outlines protocols for handling and dispatching service calls.
• Effective Date: 01-01-2026
• Last Review Date: 09-26-2022

The purpose of the policy is to define, cover the application of, give guidelines for response and approach to, and outline the procedures for MPD calls for service.

Scope

1. Calls for service include calls assigned by MECC, as well as self-initiated and any call a member self-assigns to.

2. This policy applies to:

• On-duty uniformed members
• Members employed by an off-duty employer, in a law enforcement capacity as an MPD member
• Off-duty members taking any law enforcement action as an MPD member

3. This policy covers uniformed member response. Response to calls for service by plainclothes members will be handled in accordance with P&P 10-202.

Prompt Response and Safe Approach

1. It is the policy of the Minneapolis Police Department to respond to all calls for service within a minimum amount of time after being dispatched or notified of the need for police service.

1. Members shall respond without delay to calls for police service unless otherwise directed by proper authority. Emergency calls for service shall take precedence. However, all dispatched calls shall be answered as soon as possible consistent with departmental procedures.
2. If members need to temporarily go out-of-service on a detail or otherwise be unavailable for calls, they shall notify their immediate supervisor and request permission for such details.
3. Members working uniformed patrol or in a marked squad who wish to go out of service for a meal break shall request OTL status from the MECC dispatcher.

1. The request must include the requested OTL location.
2. The dispatcher may grant or deny OTL status based on call load and staffing levels.
3. Members shall not take excessive time for meals and members working two-member squads must take OTL at the same time.
4. No more than three marked or unmarked squads may be OTL at the same public location unless members are also participating in a community event.

2. Members shall be responsible for responding to calls in a safe manner and assessing any need for additional assistance.

Assigning to Calls

Calls assigned by MECC

1. The dispatcher shall have the authority to assign calls to all available sworn personnel, including superior members. Members shall not refuse to take a call.
2. When membera member is unable to respond to an assigned call for any reason, the member shall promptly notify the dispatcher and provide the reason for the change in status.
3. Members shall not pass on to the succeeding shift any assigned calls without the permission of the shift supervisor.

Self-initiated calls

1. Any time a member initiates a law enforcement action that was not part of a call assigned by MECC, the member shall notify MECC to generate a call for service and assign to the call.

1. Any temporary detainment shall be considered a law enforcement action and requires a call for service. This includes, but is not limited to, all investigative stops and traffic stops.

2. Taking a report of criminal activity shall be considered a law enforcement action and requires a call for service.

2. If a member is assisting a citizen and is using MPD tools or resources to provide assistance (including a squad) or will be out of service for more than a short time, the member shall notify MECC to generate a call for service and assign to the call.

1. This does not include encounters where a citizen is only filing a complaint. Such encounters do not require a call for service. If a call for service was initiated already and the encounter is determined to be only complaint-related, the call shall be cleared as PROSRV.

3. The notification to MECC should be done by initiating an on-site in the Mobile Data Computer (MDC) or by radio. If the member does not have access to an MDC or a radio, the notification can be made by phone.

Self-assigning to calls

All MPD members who respond to calls for service or arrive on scene at an active call for service shall assign to the call, subject to the exceptions described below in [b].

1. This includes assisting squads and supervisors through the rank of Lieutenant.

2. Exceptions:

1. This does not include appointed positions, except when they are performing crime scene management or are directly involved in the call for service.
2. This does not include members performing the role of a Public Information Member.

4. Situations may arise which require that a member decide whether to continue on an assigned call or handle a citizen's complaint, an observed event, or a higher priority call, and cause the original call to be reassigned. Such determination should be based upon the comparative urgency and the risk to life and property of the assigned call and the intervening incident.

1. When it is not possible for members to handle a citizen's complaint or an observed event, they should, if circumstances permit, give directions for obtaining such assistance or initiate the necessary notifications themselves.
2. When handling a call and subsequently receiving a higher priority call, members shall advise the person of the reason for leaving and of the squad's intention of returning after the call.

Acknowledging Calls

1. All members assigned calls by MECC shall immediately acknowledge receipt of the call via voice radio.

2. Any time a squad is responding to an event, the members shall notify the dispatcher either by radio or by pressing the “Self-assign” button.

Arriving on Calls

Members shall announce their arrival at the scene by:

1. Depressing the “Arrive” status key on their MDC; and

2. If the unit is the first of multiple squads to arrive, using the voice radio indicating their call number followed by the word "arrived."

Updating the Problem Nature Code

Members shall ensure the Problem Nature Code is accurate or is updated to reflect the correct code as soon as practical. The code must be updated prior to clearing the call.

Clearing from Calls

Members shall clear from all calls or other assignments as soon as the call or assignment is complete by:

1. Depressing the “Clear” status key on their MDC and adding a disposition code; or

2. Using the voice radio indicating their call number followed by the word “cleared” and by a disposition code.

Single Transmission

Whenever possible, all aired status changes should be accomplished on a single radio transmission (Squad 320 is clear report).

Broadcasting Descriptions

1. The first members to arrive at a crime scene or other incident that warrants the broadcasting of descriptive information shall conduct a brief interview with victims and/or witnesses.

2. If sufficient information is obtained to justify a broadcast, and radio traffic permits, it shall be transmitted in the following manner:

1. The member will notify the dispatcher that a description is available. The member will also inform the dispatcher of the extent of dissemination of the broadcast (e.g. involved channel, citywide, regional broadcast, teletype, etc.) and will indicate arrest authority (au. probable cause, attempt to locate, etc.).

2. The dispatcher will notify all squads that a description will follow and will state the location and nature of the crime. Permission will then be given for broadcast.

3. Once the dispatcher has given permission, the member shall broadcast the description in the following sequence:

1. Type of crime
2. Time of occurrence
3. Location of occurrence
4. Number of suspects
5. Description of suspects
6. Weapons involved
7. Direction and method of flight
8. Description of vehicle, if applicable
9. Description of loss, if applicable

Request for Back-Up

1. Additional squads will be dispatched when requested by a member or when department policy dictates a back-up be sent automatically for an "Able" squad responding to certain types of incidents.

2. Members requesting a back-up shall give their squad number, location and code priority.
3. If the requesting member or the on scene superior member determines that back up squads are not needed, the back-up squad should be canceled.

Emergency or “Member Needs Help” Procedure

1. When an emergency situation arises, members shall notify the dispatcher by doing the following:

1. Stating their radio call number, followed by "EMERGENCY" or "Member needs help."
2. Giving the location of the member needing help.
3. Giving the reason for the emergency, if time permits.

2. Whenever an emergency or "member needs help" is announced, all other members shall immediately clear the airway and keep the frequency clear until the dispatcher acknowledges the call.

1. Responding vehicles should wait to give their numbers until it is obvious that the member calling the emergency is finished giving information.
2. When responding vehicles do give their numbers, they should be brief and then remain off the air until they arrive at the scene.

3. Once aired, the emergency commands the channel until the dispatcher announces a Code 4 and normal radio traffic is resumed.

7-104 Radio Contact and Use

• Summary: Provides regulations for officers using department radios.
• Effective Date: 01-01-2026
• Last Review Date: 09-26-2022

This policy defines the parameters of working with a radio, including the use of an Mobile Data Computer (MDC).

Radio Contact

1. Members working on the street (including when at lunch or any other break) shall be in radio contact at all times.

2. Members handling an assigned call shall remain available for emergency or higher priority calls by maintaining radio communication via a portable radio.

Use of Base Units

1. Base unit radio transceivers located in divisions, precincts and units shall not communicate directly with their mobile or portable personnel or other base units, except on the designated car to car channel, or with the approval of MECC.

2. For MECC approval to communicate directly, the base unit operator shall contact the dispatcher by radio and request use of the air for the necessary transmission.

Unnecessary Use of Radio or Mobile Data Computer (MDC)

1. The police radio and MDC are for police business only. They shall not be used to conduct personal business or to transmit personal messages.

1. MDC messages are public information and are subject to public disclosure.
2. These communications are subject to the provisions in other policies that cover electronic communications, (such as the policies in P&P 5-100 Code of Conduct). Inappropriate language or remarks shall be immediately reported to a supervisor, Inspector or Commander, or Bureau Head.
3. Communication about incidents over the radio or MDC shall only include the information, questions or comments necessary to handle or respond to the incident. Commentary shall not be included.

2. Information checks shall be requested only on the channel designated for such purposes. In most instances, Channel 7 will be the designated channel. When requesting information from Channel 7 or the precinct base, members should try to include the nature of service in the initial transmission ("Squad 320, REGISTRATION," wait for acknowledgment; then "Squad 320, David Adam Paul 543").
3. Members shall use Channel 5 or any other designated channel for non‑emergency squad-to-squad or squad-to-precinct radio communications.
4. Requests for interoperable radio channels (MPD detail, Metro or State talk-groups) shall be made through the MECC Duty Supervisor.

7-105 Command Staff Notification Protocol

• Summary: Details procedures for notifying command staff of critical incidents.
• Effective Date: 11-28-2025
• Last Review Date: 11-28-2025
Policy Change Notice:
• SO23-011; SO24-007; SO25-025; SO25-027

Purpose

Notification Requirements

Page to Command Staff

Direct Notification to the Chief

7-106 KOPS (Keeping Our Police Safe)

• Summary: Establishes policies for officer safety alerts and coordination.
• Effective Date: 09-26-2022

Policy

1. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety's "alert file" called KOPS (Keeping Our Police Safe) enhances officer safety by alerting officers of unsafe situations when encountering a vehicle or person involved in a recent incident by disseminating safety information statewide.
2. The standard CJIS (Criminal Justice Information System) queries that check person or vehicle files also hit on KOPS alerts, immediately warning officers of potentially dangerous situations. Officers should respond to the KOPS alerts in the same manner as any other CJIS hits. The message will be accompanied by the caveat "For officer safety purpose only, this is not a warrant."
3. If the officers want to relay any message to alert fellow law enforcement officers, they will forward the message, with pertinent information, to their immediate supervisor for approval. Upon approval, the supervisor will forward the message to MECC (Minneapolis Emergency Communication Center) for entry into the KOPS system.
4. There are three KOPS alert options available:

• Officer Safety
• Safety to Individual (other than officer), i.e., suicidal person
• Informational

5. Alerts may be flagged to indicate when weapons may be involved.
6. All KOPS file information is automatically purged from the system after 72 hours except in the case of 12-hour domestic abuse pick up and hold cases.

7-107 Communications Record Keeping

• Summary: Defines requirements for maintaining communications records.
• Effective Date: 09-26-2022

Definitions