Special Law Enforcement Officer (SLEO) in the United States
In some States, a special law enforcement (or police) officer is an individual at least 18 years old, who holds a commission granted by the Governor. Generally, a commission authorizes the officer to arrest individuals who trespass or commit offenses on the property described in the commission, exercise the powers of a police officer on the property described in the commission, and exercise the powers of a police officer in a county or municipal corporation associated with the property described in the commission, and direct and control traffic on public highways and roadways in the immediate vicinity of the property described in the commission.
In many U.S. cities, part-time Class I and Class II Special Law Enforcement Officers assist the full-time time police staff in a variety of police functions. While working, Class I Officers (SLEOI) have limited police powers while Class II Officers (SLEOII) have full police authority.
Some of the services Special Law Enforcement Officers provide are:
- Traffic Assistance
- Crowd Control
- Court Security
- Directed Patrol Services
- Enforcement of City Ordinances, Traffic and Criminal Laws
- Other functions as directed by a Police Supervisor
In New Jersey
The Special Law Enforcement Officers are appointed by the Mayor and Council, subjected to the Ordinance and the laws of the State of New Jersey. A special law enforcement officer shall be under the supervision and direction of the Chief of Police or, in the absence of the Chief, another superior officer designated by the Chief of Police.
Classes of Special Law Enforcement Officers.
Special law enforcement officers, in New Jersey, shall perform duties in accordance with the requirements set forth in N.J.S.A. 40A:14-146.11: “Class One Special Law Enforcement Officers shall be authorized to perform routine traffic detail, spectator control and similar duties. If authorized by ordinance or resolution, as appropriate, Class One officers shall have the power to issue summonses for disorderly persons and petty disorderly persons offenses, violations of municipal ordinances and violations of Title 39 of the Revised Statutes. The use of a firearm by an officer of this class shall be strictly prohibited and no Class One officer shall be assigned any duties which may require the carrying or use of a firearm.”