Specialized Roles & Units

Community Service Officer (CSO)

Community Service Officers (CSOs) are civilian staff members who help our officers and the public. They handle many important tasks that do not require a police officer, such as:

  • Writing reports and looking for evidence at crime scenes.
  • Enforcing parking rules and helping with traffic.
  • Helping drivers on the road and moving city vehicles.
  • Helping with prisoner booking and safety.
  • Managing evidence and digital records.
  • Providing fingerprinting services for the public.

Suburban Emergency Response Team (S.E.R.T.)

The West Des Moines Police Department is part of S.E.R.T., a regional team made up of about 40 officers from several local departments. This team is specially trained to handle dangerous situations that require expert tactics and equipment.

Our Goal: To protect and save lives during high-risk events, such as hostage rescues or serving dangerous warrants.

Police Analyst

Our Police Analyst looks at data and crime patterns to help the department use its staff and equipment where they are needed most. This helps our officers stop and solve crimes more quickly.

Honor Guard Unit

A West Des Moines Police Officer in a formal Honor Guard uniform performing a hand salute.

The Honor Guard is a respected unit of up to 12 officers who serve on the team in addition to their regular jobs. They represent our department at funerals, memorials, and formal community events.