The Police Department is charged with protecting the safety and welfare of the public. The majority of the officers are responsible for patrol duties, but others serve as canine, DARE, crime prevention, accident investigators, high school liaison, and investigation officers. Department investigators serve in a general capacity but one investigator and a patrol officer serve as gang specialists. Another officer is assigned to the North Central Narcotics Division as a clandestine operative. Department members serve a number of task forces in the area. Civilian personnel serve a vital role in the support services area, including records processing, telecommunications, and community service.