Special Operations
Diverse in its mixture of personnel and responsibilities, the Special Operations Division consists of both sworn and non-sworn employees who provide valuable services to citizens and co-workers. Special Operations is responsible for the following areas:
| School Crossing | Special Events |
| Reserves | Parking Enforcement |
School Crossing Guard Program
The School Crossing Guard program has been in existence since 1971 at the Tallahassee Police Department. Currently, fifty-six uniformed civilians, mostly retired seniors, staff the crossings for 25 public elementary and middle schools within the city limits. Each crossing guard is certified by Florida's Department of Transportation and receives training annually as defined by Florida statute.
The School Crossing Guard program is an asset to the department in that it alleviates sworn officers from having to staff 55 crossings daily. Crossing guards are also used for special school-related functions and for departmentally-staffed events such as the March of Dimes, Heart Walk and Springtime Tallahassee. Ms. Mary Bryant has been a School Crossing Guard since the program was civilianized in 1971.
The unit's activities are currently coordinated by Reserve Officer Charles Rushing and Ms. Patrica Hatcher. Sgt. Ken Sumpter supervises the school crossing guard program. If you have questions on becoming a SCG, contact Officer Rushing via phone 891-4258. If you would like to apply to become a school crossing guard, please use the standard employment application.
Special Events Planning
With a very active City and State Government, university system, and Convention & Visitors Bureau, we are continuing to experience a high volume of special events requiring police coordination and control. The Special Events Planning unit is responsible for planning and staffing for security and traffic control at major community events in Tallahassee. Some of those events include the Springtime Tallahassee Parade, Florida A & M University and Florida State University football games, the annual Celebration of Lights and all dignitary visits to the city. The coordination and planning for all events is performed by Sgt. Rod Young (850) 891-4625.
Download Permit Application (PDF)
Reserves
The Reserves are composed of 25 fully sworn officers who supplement both day-to-day uniformed officer duties and provide manpower for special events.
Parking Enforcement
Parking Enforcement Technicians are responsible for enforcing the parking codes in the downtown, Capitol Complex and university areas of Tallahassee. The unit is staffed with a Sergeant and five Parking Enforcement Technicians.