| She is subject to the same rules and
regulations of the department, and is required to equip
herself with a .38 caliber revolver, handcuffs and uniform.
Her innate sensibility in coping with the myriad problems of
adolescence is probably a policewoman's most valuable asset.
Relative to the functions performed by these woman, it is
safe to say that about 40% of their work load involves the
service of warrants on female offenders, both juvenile and
adult.
During the year 1966 this figure amounted to 662. An
equal portion of time is allocated to taking of statements
and subsequent investigations concerning morals
offenses.
In addition to rendering assistance to any of the squads
within the department, our policewoman's services are often
utilized by the District Attorney's office, the State Police
and federal agencies. Last year a total of 362 cases of
female juvenile offenders were processed by this unit.
Among other duties performed by our group are:
preparation of court cases, referrals to social service
agencies, guarding female prisoners charged with felonies
who are confined to hospitals, maintain order at sporting
events and other convocations, participating in narcotics
and gambling raids, keeping under surveillance public
establishments which tend to foster delinquency among
youngsters, rendition of female offenders from other
jurisdictions who are wanted by this department for crimes
committed here, conducting tours through police
headquarters, duty in the women's cell block when no matron
is available, and fulfilling speaking engagements before
civic groups.
Most of our investigations reveal heartaches and tragedy
for those involved. The role of the policewoman as depicted
on the television screen and in books - all glamour and
intrigue - is pure fantasy. Ask any policewoman.
To sum it up, our "gals in blue" are second to
none and certainly a credit to the Buffalo Police
department.
|
