Town of Carmel Police Department (New York)


The Town of Carmel Police Department was established in 1940 and is the largest municipal police agency in Putnam County, New York. The department has the primary responsibility for law enforcement and criminal investigation within the Town of Carmel, including the hamlets of Carmel, Mahopac, and Mahopac Falls.

History

Created after the New York State Legislature made it possible for towns to create their own police forces, the Town of Carmel Police Department originally consisted of two officers to patrol the largely rural town. The town appointed its first police chief, Wallace Barrett, in 1944, and expanded to three officers in 1945.
In 1959 the police department was given its first headquarters in the Carmel Town Hall on Mcalpin avenue. Prior to using this space, which now houses the Carmel Historical Society, officers worked out of their homes.
The department moved to its current headquarters, at 60 Mcalpin Avenue, in 1975 and now has 35 sworn officers and serves more than 35,000 residents.

Patrol Division

The Patrol Division is the largest division within the police department. The division is commanded by a Lieutenant and consists of Patrol Sergeants and Police Officers. The Patrol Division is responsible for patrolling the approximately forty square mile town twenty-four hours a day and responds to all emergency, and non-emergency, calls for service. The Patrol Division is also charged with the enforcement of all state and local laws.

Detective Division

The Detective Division conducts in-depth investigations into crimes that occur within the town. The division consists of three detectives and is commanded by a Detective Sergeant. In addition to criminal investigations, detectives maintain and investigate the department's outstanding arrest warrants and evidence, as well as provide assistance to domestic violence victims.

Specialty Units

Marine Unit: Established to ensure safety on the approximately Lake Mahopac, the marine unit patrols the lake using a Boston Whaler patrol boat and a 2005 Yamaha jet ski. The unit operates regularly from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and as needed at other times during the year.
Bicycle Unit: Established in 2003 the Bicycle Unit patrols the New York State Bike Trail that runs from New York City through Westchester and Putnam Counties and into Connecticut. The unit ensures safety on the bike trail, patrols the town's business districts and assists during parades and other special events.