Riverside Police Department

The Riverside Police Department (RPD) is the primary law enforcement agency serving the city of Riverside, California. With a population of over 313,000 residents, Riverside relies on the RPD to maintain public safety, prevent crime, and foster strong community relationships. The department operates under a mission centered on building trust between officers and the public while delivering responsive and effective services. Headquartered at 4102 Orange Street, Riverside, CA 92501, the RPD also maintains a second station at 10540 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92505, ensuring broad coverage across the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

RPD is structured into multiple specialized divisions, each designed to address specific aspects of law enforcement. These include Field Operations, Investigations, Management Services, and the Traffic Bureau, among others. The department employs sworn officers, civilian staff, and support personnel who work together to respond to emergencies, investigate crimes, manage records, and engage with the community. Through neighborhood policing centers, school resource officers, and outreach programs, the RPD emphasizes proactive engagement. It also provides digital tools for residents to access crime data, request reports, and stay informed. The department’s commitment to transparency and accountability is reflected in its public reporting, use-of-force policies, and regular community updates.

About the Riverside Police Department

The Riverside Police Department is a full-service municipal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting life and property within the city limits of Riverside, California. Established to uphold state and local laws, the RPD operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with a focus on community-oriented policing. The department serves a diverse urban population and covers an area of approximately 81 square miles. Its leadership is headed by the Chief of Police, who oversees administrative, operational, and community service functions through a structured command system.

Mission and Core Values

The RPD’s mission statement emphasizes a partnership between law enforcement and the community. It commits to building public trust through ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability. The department values integrity, professionalism, and respect in all interactions. These principles guide officer training, policy development, and daily operations. The RPD also prioritizes employee development, ensuring that officers and staff are equipped with the skills and resources needed to serve effectively.

• Public trust and safety are central to all operations
• Quality service delivery through trained and valued employees
• Responsive communication with residents and stakeholders
• Commitment to fairness and equal treatment under the law

Department Leadership and Structure

The Office of the Chief of Police serves as the central administrative body of the RPD. It includes three key sections: Department Administration, Department Operations, and the Community Services Bureau. This office is responsible for strategic planning, policy oversight, and internal affairs investigations, including cases of officer misconduct. The Chief is supported by executive staff, including lieutenants and civilian directors, who manage day-to-day functions across divisions.

The RPD is organized into four major operational divisions:

Sworn and Civilian Personnel

The RPD employs approximately 130 sworn officers in the Field Operations Division alone, supported by sergeants, lieutenants, and civilian staff. Additional personnel are assigned to specialized units such as the K-9 team, bomb squad, and school resource officers. The department also maintains a robust training program to ensure officers meet state standards and are prepared for evolving challenges in modern policing.

• Over 200 total sworn officers across all divisions
• Civilian support staff in records, dispatch, and administration
• Ongoing professional development and certification programs

Divisions and Specialized Units

The Riverside Police Department is divided into several key units, each with distinct responsibilities. This structure allows the department to respond efficiently to a wide range of incidents, from traffic violations to major criminal investigations. Each division operates under the direction of the Chief of Police and contributes to the overall mission of public safety and community trust.

Field Operations Division

The Field Operations Division is the largest and most visible branch of the RPD. It is responsible for initial emergency response, routine patrols, and community engagement. This division ensures a police presence across all areas of Riverside through four Neighborhood Policing Centers (NPCs): North, East, Central, and West. Each NPC serves a specific geographic zone, allowing officers to build relationships with residents and address neighborhood-specific concerns.

• Approximately 130 sworn officers are assigned to patrol duties
• 24 sergeants and 6 lieutenant watch commanders oversee shifts
• K-9 unit supports search, detection, and suspect apprehension
• Four NPCs enhance localized policing and rapid response

Investigations Division

The Investigations Division handles follow-up inquiries after initial reports are filed. It is subdivided into specialized units that focus on particular types of crime. These units work closely with prosecutors to build strong cases for the court. The division also manages evidence collection and chain-of-custody procedures to ensure legal integrity.

• Crimes Against Persons: Homicide, assault, and related violent crimes
• Robbery Unit: Armed robberies and weapons violations
• Property Crimes & Tagging: Burglary, theft, and vandalism
• Sexual Assault, Child Abuse, and Domestic Violence: Sensitive case investigations
• Economic/Auto Theft: Fraud, embezzlement, and vehicle theft
• School Resource Officers (SRO): On-campus safety in schools
• Evidence Unit: Collection, storage, and analysis of physical evidence
• Special Investigations Bureau: Gangs, narcotics, intelligence, and bomb squad
• 290 PC Compliance Officer: Monitoring registered sex offenders

Management Services and Traffic Bureau

The Management Services Division supports the operational backbone of the RPD. It manages accounting, budgeting, fleet maintenance, facilities, and the Records Bureau. This division ensures that all administrative functions run smoothly, enabling frontline officers to focus on public safety. The Records Bureau processes requests for police reports, accident reports, and background checks.

The Traffic Bureau enforces traffic laws and investigates vehicle collisions. It includes the Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT), which responds to fatal or serious crashes. The bureau promotes road safety through education, enforcement, and engineering recommendations.

• Traffic Bureau: 39 sworn officers dedicated to traffic enforcement
• MAIT: Specialized team for complex crash investigations
• Records Bureau: Handles public requests for official documents
• Fiscal Management: Oversees department budget and expenditures

Crime Statistics and Public Data

The Riverside Police Department provides transparent access to crime data to help residents stay informed about safety trends in their neighborhoods. These statistics are updated regularly and reflect both violent and property crimes reported within the city. The data is used internally for resource allocation and externally for public awareness and community planning.

Annual Crime

In a typical year, Riverside experiences approximately 12,626 reported crimes. The majority of these are property-related, but violent crimes are closely monitored due to their impact on public safety. The following table breaks down the most recent annual crime statistics per 1,000 residents:

Violent vs. Property Crime Distribution

Violent crimes account for about 11% of all reported incidents in Riverside, while property crimes make up the remaining 89%. This distribution is consistent with national trends in mid-sized urban areas. Despite the high number of property crimes, the rate of violent crime remains relatively low compared to similar cities. The RPD uses this data to deploy resources strategically, focusing on high-risk areas and times.

• Total violent crimes: 1,399 per year (4.46 per 1,000 residents)
• Total property crimes: 11,227 per year (35.81 per 1,000 residents)
• Annual chance of violent crime victimization: 1 in 224
• Annual chance of property crime victimization: 1 in 28

Accessing Crime Data Online

Residents can view monthly crime statistics and maps through the RPD website. The department publishes updated reports that include incident counts, locations, and trends. An interactive crime map is also available, allowing users to explore real-time data by neighborhood and crime type.

To access monthly crime statistics:

• Go to https://riversideca.gov/rpd/resources-forms/crime-statistics

• Scroll to the “Monthly Crime Statistics” section
• Select the desired month and year from the dropdown menu
• Click “Generate Report” to view the data

The system will return a table showing crime counts by category, including violent and property offenses, for the selected time period.

To use the interactive crime map:

• Visit https://www.cityprotect.com/map/list

• Enter “Riverside, CA” in the search bar at the top
• Zoom in to view incidents by street or neighborhood
• Click on any marker to see the type of crime, date, and time

The map displays incidents from the past 30 days, including theft, assault, vandalism, and traffic violations.

Public Records and Report Requests

The Riverside Police Department maintains a comprehensive Records Bureau that handles requests for police reports, accident reports, and other official documents. These records are essential for insurance claims, legal proceedings, and personal documentation. The process is designed to be accessible while protecting privacy and sensitive information.

Types of Available Reports

The Records Bureau provides several types of reports to the public, including:

• Incident reports (non-traffic criminal events)
• Traffic collision reports (filed by officers at the scene)
• Arrest reports (summary of booking information)
• Property reports (lost, found, or stolen items)
• Background checks (for employment or licensing)

All requests must include specific details to locate the correct record. Personal information such as names, dates, and case numbers helps streamline the search process.

How to Request a Police Report

To request a report from the Records Bureau, follow these steps:

• Visit the official RPD Management Services page at https://riversideca.gov/rpd/
• Click on “Records Bureau” in the left-hand menu
• Download the “Request for Police Report” form
• Fill in the required fields: your name, contact information, report type, date of incident, location, and involved parties
• Submit the completed form in person, by mail, or via email as instructed
• Pay any applicable fees (typically $10–$25 per report)

The system will process your request within 5 to 10 business days. You will receive a notification when the report is ready for pickup or delivery.

Jail and Inmate Information

For information about individuals currently in custody, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department manages the jail system. The RPD does not operate the jail but provides arrest data that feeds into the system. To search for an inmate:

• Go to https://jimspub.riversidesheriff.org/jimsacucgi/InmateInfo.html

• Choose between “Search by Booking Number” or “Search by Name”
• If searching by name, enter the first and last name, date of birth, and sex in the designated fields
• Click “Search” to view results

The system will return the inmate’s name, booking number, charges, bail amount, and housing location if available.

Community Engagement and Outreach

The Riverside Police Department places a strong emphasis on building relationships with residents through outreach programs, public events, and educational initiatives. These efforts aim to increase trust, reduce crime, and promote cooperation between law enforcement and the community.

Neighborhood Policing Centers (NPCs)

The RPD operates four Neighborhood Policing Centers located in the North, East, Central, and West zones of the city. Each center serves as a local hub for officers to interact with residents, address concerns, and coordinate crime prevention efforts. NPCs host regular meetings, safety workshops, and youth programs.

• North NPC: Serves the University and downtown areas
• East NPC: Covers residential neighborhoods near Magnolia Avenue
• Central NPC: Focuses on the downtown core and commercial districts
• West NPC: Supports communities near the 91 Freeway corridor

School Resource Officers (SROs)

The RPD assigns sworn officers to local schools as School Resource Officers. These officers provide security, mentor students, and teach law-related education classes. The SRO program strengthens ties between youth and law enforcement and helps prevent school-based incidents.

• SROs are assigned to middle and high schools across Riverside
• They conduct safety drills and respond to on-campus emergencies
• Officers participate in anti-bullying and drug prevention campaigns

Community Events and Programs

The RPD regularly participates in and hosts community events such as National Night Out, coffee with a cop, and safety fairs. These gatherings allow residents to meet officers in a relaxed setting and discuss local issues. The department also supports youth programs like the Police Activities League and summer camps.

• Annual “Shop with a Cop” event during the holidays
• Free self-defense workshops for women and seniors
• Partnerships with local nonprofits for homelessness outreach

Transparency and Accountability

The Riverside Police Department is committed to operating with transparency and accountability. It publishes policies, use-of-force data, and internal investigation outcomes to maintain public trust. These practices align with state and national standards for modern policing.

Use of Force Policy

The RPD has a detailed Use of Force Policy that governs when and how officers may apply physical force. The policy emphasizes de-escalation, proportionality, and reporting. All use-of-force incidents are reviewed by supervisors and may be investigated by the Office of the Chief.

• Officers must report any use of force, including pointing a firearm
• Body-worn cameras are required during all enforcement interactions
• Annual training on de-escalation and crisis intervention

Internal Affairs and Misconduct Investigations

The Office of the Chief of Police oversees internal affairs investigations. Complaints against officers are reviewed promptly and impartially. Findings are documented and may result in disciplinary action, retraining, or policy changes.

• Complaints can be filed online, by phone, or in person
• All investigations are completed within 60 days when possible
• Outcomes are shared with the complainant and, when appropriate, the public

Public Access to Policies and Reports

The RPD publishes key policies on its website, including the Use of Force Policy, Body-Worn Camera Policy, and Community Policing Strategy. Annual reports summarize department activities, crime trends, and community engagement efforts.

To view current policies:

• Go to http://www.riversideca.gov/rpd/
• Click on “Resources & Forms” in the main menu
• Select “Department Policies” from the dropdown
• Browse or search for the desired policy document

The system will display the full text of the policy, including effective date and revision history.

Employment and Hiring Process

The Riverside Police Department offers career opportunities for sworn officers, civilian staff, and support personnel. The hiring process is competitive and includes multiple stages to ensure candidates meet high standards of professionalism and integrity.

Sworn Officer Requirements

To become a police officer with the RPD, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 21 years old at the time of appointment
• Possess a high school diploma or GED
• Have a valid California driver’s license
• Pass a written exam, physical agility test, and oral interview
• Complete a background investigation and psychological evaluation
• Undergo a medical examination and drug screening

Hiring Process Steps

The RPD hiring process typically follows this sequence:

• Submit an online application through the city’s employment portal
• Take the written examination (covers reading, writing, and reasoning)
• Pass the physical agility test (includes running, push-ups, and obstacle course)
• Participate in a panel interview with department supervisors
• Complete a polygraph test and background check
• Attend a conditional job offer meeting
• Enroll in the police academy if selected

Civilian and Support Positions

The RPD also hires civilian employees for roles in dispatch, records, administration, and technology. These positions do not require peace officer certification but may involve public contact and data management. Job postings are listed on the city’s official employment website.

• Dispatcher: Handles 911 calls and radio communications
• Records Clerk: Processes report requests and maintains databases
• Crime Analyst: Interprets data to support investigations
• IT Specialist: Manages department technology systems

Emergency and Non-Emergency Contact

The Riverside Police Department provides multiple ways for residents to contact law enforcement, depending on the urgency of the situation. Knowing when to call 911 versus the non-emergency line helps ensure rapid response to true emergencies.

When to Call 911

Call 911 immediately if:

• Someone is in immediate danger, or life is at risk
• A crime is in progress (e.g., robbery, assault, break-in)
• There is a fire, medical emergency, or serious accident
• You witness a traffic collision with injuries

Stay on the line and provide clear details about the location, people involved, and nature of the emergency.

Non-Emergency Number and Services

For non-urgent matters, use the RPD non-emergency line. This includes reporting minor crimes, requesting welfare checks, or asking general questions.

• Dial (951) 826-5311
• Wait for the dispatcher to answer
• State your name, location, and the nature of your request
• Follow instructions for filing a report or scheduling a callback

The system will connect you to the appropriate unit or guide next steps.

Online Reporting Tool

For certain non-emergency crimes, the RPD offers an online reporting system. This is ideal for incidents like theft under $500, vandalism, or lost property.

To file a report online:

• Go to https://riversideca.gov/rpd/
• Select the type of report (e.g., theft, vandalism)
• Fill in all required fields: date, time, location, description, and suspect details
• Upload photos if applicable
• Click “Submit” to send the report

The system will generate a case number and email a copy of the report to you. An officer may follow up if additional information is needed.

(FAQs) About Riverside Police Department

The following frequently asked questions provide clear and practical information about the services, procedures, and contact details of the Riverside Police Department. These answers are designed to help residents and visitors quickly understand how to request records, report issues, access jail information, and interact with police services in Riverside.

How do I request a copy of a police report from the Riverside Police Department?

To request a police report, visit the RPD Management Services page and download the official request form. You must provide your name, contact information, the date and location of the incident, and the names of involved parties. Submit the completed form in person, by mail, or via email, and pay the required fee, typically between $10 and $25. The Records Bureau processes requests within 5 to 10 business days. Reports can be picked up or mailed, depending on your preference. Only involved parties or authorized representatives can access certain records due to privacy laws. Always include a case number if available to speed up the process.

What is the non-emergency phone number for the Riverside Police Department?

The non-emergency number for the Riverside Police Department is (951) 826-5311. This line is for reporting minor crimes, requesting welfare checks, asking questions, or scheduling appointments. Do not use this number for life-threatening situations or crimes in progress. For those, always call 911. When calling the non-emergency line, be prepared to provide your name, location, and a clear description of the issue. Dispatchers will assess the urgency and either send an officer or direct you to online resources. This number is staffed 24/7, but response times may vary based on call volume.

How can I find out if someone is in jail in Riverside?

To check if someone is in jail, use the Riverside County Sheriff’s Jail Information Management System (JIMS) at jimspub.riversidesheriff.org. You can search by booking number or by entering the person’s first and last name, date of birth, and sex. The system will display the inmate’s current status, charges, bail amount, and housing location if they are in custody. Note that the RPD makes arrests, but the jail is managed by the Sheriff’s Department. Results are updated in real time and are publicly accessible. You do not need an account or permission to search.

Where is the Riverside Police Department headquarters located?

The main headquarters of the Riverside Police Department is located at 4102 Orange Street, Riverside, CA 92501. This building houses the Office of the Chief, administrative staff, and some operational units. A second station is located at 10540 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92505, serving the eastern part of the city. Both locations are open to the public during business hours for report filing, inquiries, and community meetings. Parking is available on-site. For directions, use GPS or visit the RPD website for a map link. Always call ahead if you need to speak with a specific officer or unit.

How do I file a complaint against a Riverside police officer?

To file a complaint, contact the Office of the Chief of Police through the RPD website or by visiting headquarters in person. You can submit a written statement detailing the incident, including date, time, location, and the officer’s name or badge number if known. Complaints are reviewed by internal affairs and investigated within 60 days. You will receive a written response outlining the findings and any actions taken. All complaints are confidential, and retaliation is prohibited. For serious allegations, an independent review may be conducted. The process ensures accountability while protecting the rights of both the public and officers.