Police Division

Responsibilities

The Police Division is a full-service law enforcement agency providing 24/7 patrol services, School Resource Officers, community policing officers, and specialized service teams.

Our top priorities are reducing crime and enhancing the quality of life for our residents. We believe public safety is strongest when built on trust, transparency, and collaboration. Through partnership-based policing, we work closely with neighborhoods, schools, and local businesses to prevent crime, solve problems, and strengthen our community.

Divisions & Functions

Patrol Operations:  Responsible for the daily activities of uniformed officers. Providing around-the-clock response to calls for service, proactive patrol, and strategic deployment of personnel to prevent crime and address community safety concerns.

Administrative Services: Supports the operational needs of the division, including: purchasing and budgeting, property and evidence, fleet and equipment, facilities, training coordination, and community engagement initiatives.

PowerEngage - Citizen Feedback

The Portage Department of Public Safety uses PowerEngage, a text-based citizen feedback tool designed to enhance communication and transparency.

After certain non-life-threatening interactions with Portage Police Officers, residents may receive a text message hours or days later inviting them to complete a brief survey about their experience. This system allows the department to gather valuable feedback, measure service quality, and continually improve how we serve the community.

Participation is completely voluntary. Citizens who prefer not to participate may simply ignore the message or reply STOP to opt out of future text surveys.

IMPORTANT: PowerEngage surveys are not monitored for emergencies or criminal reports. To report a crime or emergency, always dial 9-1-1.

Accreditation

The Portage Police Division is committed to professional excellence and accountability. To support that commitment, the division maintains accreditation at both the state and national levels.

Accreditation is awarded only after an agency demonstrates compliance with rigorous standards covering policies, procedures, operations, training, and best practices in law enforcement.

Michigan Law Enforcement Accredited Agencies (MLEAC)

Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA)

Portage is one of only four law enforcement agencies in Michigan to hold dual accreditation status, reflecting our ongoing dedication to high standards, transparency, and continuous improvement.