There are four patrol squads, each led by a sergeant and seven officers. Operating on 12-hour rotating shifts, patrol provides 24/7 coverage across 39 square miles, responding to calls for service and supporting surrounding agencies. Officers also participate in regional teams to maximize resources and strengthen public safety efforts.

The Richland Traffic Safety Unit was reinstated in 2023 and is made up of three traffic officers and one sergeant. The goal of this unit is to reduce the number and severity of traffic collisions and reckless driving activity in the City of Richland.

Visit our Traffic Unit page for more information and ways citizens can connect with RPD to help promote safer roads in the City of Richland.

Traffic Unit

The Richland Police Department works alongside surrounding law enforcement agencies to provide officers for the Tri-City Regional Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team. This highly trained team responds to pre-planned and high-risk situations with the goal of protecting lives and bringing incidents to a safe resolution. Their work is guided by professionalism, integrity, and strong teamwork.

The Richland Police Department bomb squad consists of four federally trained and certified bomb technicians who respond to bomb-related calls throughout Eastern Washington.  This squad also assists the Tri-City Regional SWAT Team with their specialized equipment and training.  

The Richland Police Department utilizes drones as an additional tool to keep the community and officers safe.  This unit is comprised of eight pilots and one team lead. All pilots are commercially certified through the FAA.

This relatively new technology has proven both useful and successful in apprehending suspects and locating missing individuals.

The Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT) was established in 2024. This is a voluntary team of patrol officers that work together to combat the cycle of domestic violence within our community.  The goal of this team is to decrease recidivism by working with advocates in our community to ensure those affected by domestic violence are connected with resources and are actively engaged in the process. 

DVRT members receive specialized training focused on domestic violence investigations. This opportunity allows individuals to contribute significantly to the well-being of the community while gaining valuable skills and knowledge in handling domestic violence cases.

RPD works in conjunction with Domestic Violence Services of Benton and Franklin Counties (DVSBF) to provide resources to Richland community members. If you are someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call 9-1-1 or our non-emergency phone number at (509) 628-0333.