3-201 - Authorized Equipment and Weapons

To provide regulations and procedures regarding the distribution, maintenance and possession of both City-owned and personal police-related equipment. (12/30/10)

While working, sworn MPD employees shall only carry and use equipment and weapons that have been authorized by the MPD Training Unit, and only the weapons the employee has been trained to use by the MPD Training Unit or its designee.

The MPD Training Unit shall be responsible for conducting research and product testing of any new equipment or weapons prior to authorization for carry and use by sworn MPD employees. Documentation of any employee authorized to conduct field testing of new equipment or weapon shall be retained by the MPD Training Unit. (07/19/07)

MPD employees shall comply with directives as outlined unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Chief of Police or his/her designee. (12/30/10)

1. Equipment shall not be altered in any way to change its general appearance or function. (03/08/02)
2. All MPD purchased equipment shall be marked with the full “Minneapolis Police” designation before issue/use. Markings may include “Mpls Police” or “MPD.” Police Stores will provide uniform markings and advise units of the best marking for equipment type. If equipment is purchased/shipped directly to a unit, the commander shall ensure that the items are brought to Police Stores for Department marking before use. This directive does not apply to standard “police” labeled clothing. (07/19/07) (12/30/10)
3. All employees on leave of absence in excess of 180 days, disability status, resignation, termination or retirement shall relinquish all city-issued equipment immediately upon the start of such status to Police Stores. A CAPRS report will be filed for any item not returned. (03/08/02) (03/01/05) (07/19/07) (12/30/10)
4. MPD employees under suspension shall report as ordered and surrender their badges, identification card and any other city issued equipment requested by the Internal Affairs Unit.

1. No employee may wear the MPD uniform, be armed, or carry a badge or police identification while under suspension. (07/19/07)
2. During a suspension period, an employee cannot carry a weapon based on their status as a licensed peace officer with the Minneapolis Police Department. This also includes the ability to carry a weapon into other states based on federal law. An employee may carry a weapon during the suspension period, provided they have other legal authority to do so (e.g. State of Minnesota Permit to Carry a Handgun). (12/30/10)