The Academy — Handbook
Standard Operating Procedure — “To Protect & Serve”
Training Guide for TOs
Purpose:
To standardize the training of new Recruits and provide as much information as
possible
so they can effectively apply their knowledge while on duty.
FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY
The information in this Handbook is only to be seen and used by the Los Santos Police Department. Any use of this document or its contents outside the LSPD is forbidden and may be pursued legally. This Handbook is meant for the LSPD and LSPD only.
Notes for the Reader
This manual is designed to provide TOs with tools and information to use during training sessions or while on patrol.
- This document supplements the Global SOP and the Department’s SOP with further detail on specific procedures.
- If this document ever conflicts with another SOP, the other SOP takes precedence.
-
Trainings are to be hosted based on recruit availability.
- If the recruit is free Friday at 3 PM EST, schedule the training for that time.
- If you host training not based on recruit availability, you must announce it at least 2 hours beforehand.
- Any time under 2 hours requires Academy Director+ approval.
- Any time under 45 minutes requires High Command approval, preferably the Head of The Academy.
-
If you cancel plans to lead a training without:
- a valid reason, or
- notifying at least 1 hour before the start time,
→ you will receive a 1 week suspension from hosting trainings.
- You are not required to read every single line to recruits. If a topic needs more attention, take the time to go deeper.
Section 1: TO / TA Guidelines
1.1 Pre-Training
- No training shall have more TOs/TAs than recruits.
- Per SOP:
- Recruits should have reviewed uniform guidelines.
- Recruits should have reviewed vehicle guidelines.
- Recruits should be familiar with equipment guidelines.
Recommended training composition:
- Head TO: 1
- Assistants (TA/TO): 2 (add 1 extra assistant for every 3 additional recruits)
- STO: 1 (Optional – oversight/admin role)
1.2 Recruit Discipline
NOTE
- These guidelines apply only during training.
- These actions are only to be taken by the Head TO leading the training.
If an officer at a training:
- Fails to follow TO orders, or
- Violates department policy
The following punishments may be used at the TO’s discretion:
- Verbal Warning (can be repeated as a second verbal warning)
- Physical conditioning – Run a number of laps (1–20) around or to/from a specified point.
- Removal from training – Kick the member from training and report them to LSPD Low Command for reprimand or admin action.
1.3 Training CoC
- STO (Senior Training Officer)
- May attend trainings in an administrative capacity.
- Observes TOs/TAs to ensure SOP-compliant, high standard training.
- Can halt training at any time and reprimand members as needed.
- Head TO
- Overall in charge of the training session.
- Final authority on topics, pacing, and when to move on.
- TA (Training Assistant)
- Assists Head TO with training delivery.
- Helps cover topics, enforce SOPs, and uphold training rules.
- Recruit
- Expected to follow directions of the TOs.
- Listen carefully, think actively, and apply training to their actions.
1.4 Training Briefing
When conducting training, always begin with:
- An introduction of each TO/TA.
- A short overview of topics that will be covered.
- A short Q&A moment for recruits.
Example Opening Script (Head TO):
“Hello recruits, my name is [Rank] [Name] with The Academy. I will be assisted today by [Name of additional TOs/TAs]. Welcome to the training and thanks for attending. Today’s training will be separated into 2 different sections: Classroom and Hands-On.”
Classroom Portion Topics
- Equipment
- Comms / RTO
- Primary Sources
- Starting & Ending Patrol
- Miranda Rights
- Arresting
- Setting Up CAD
- Basic Medical Training
- Vehicle & Radar Information
- Professionalism & Maturity
Hands-On Portion Topics
- Weapons Training
- Vehicle Techniques
- Traffic Stops (10-11)
- Code 5 Stops
- Vehicle & Foot Pursuit
- Use of Force
- Signal 11
Recruit Expectations (Read/Explain):
During this training, you will be referred to as a recruit, and the following rules apply until training concludes:
- Remain in uniform
- Follow all orders, policies, and procedures
- Respect each other and the TOs
- Listen carefully
- Do not goof off or get off-topic
Failure to follow these expectations will result in punishment.
1.5 Officer Expectations
- You must be kind, courteous, and professional at all times.
- Once trained, you are held to a higher standard on and off duty.
- You will be invited to the Department Hub Discord.
- From there, make a role request and ping any HC for the LSPD role.
Recruits are expected to know the difference between:
Probable Cause (PC)
When there are sufficient facts or hard evidence that criminal activity has been, is being, or will be committed. Officers can act on this information.
Reasonable Suspicion (RS)
When facts or circumstances indicate that a crime has been, is being, or will be committed, but the evidence is not yet at PC level.
1.6 FiveM & Discord Name
While on duty:
- You must be in RTO with the appropriate callsign and badge before entering.
- Your FiveM name should be:
RP Name
Example:John D. - When you first clock in using
/duty, you’ll be prompted for your Name/Callsign.- This must match the roster and be updated when needed.
- After the first time, it will paste automatically when using
/duty.
1.6.1 Discord Name
While on duty:
- Your Discord name must match your call-sign & RP name from the LSPD roster.
- Your Discord name should be:
Callsign | RP Name
Example:7L-00 | John D. - You must be wearing the LSPD Badge assigned by Department High Command. (Can be found on the Master Roster, just find your name and under the Badge column, click the "LINK")
Section 2: Patrol Preparation & Resources
2.1 Equipment
Note for TOs:
If a recruit's uniform or vehicle is incorrect, fix it before starting training.
- Follow Uniform Guidelines per main SOP.
- Follow Vehicle Guidelines per main SOP.
- Consider all conditions before using spike strips.
- Limit props, and clear them after each use.
2.2 Comms / RTO
While in RTO:
- Keep transmissions clean and to the point.
- Max transmission length: ~7 seconds (depending on situation).
- Leave at least 3 seconds between each transmission.
- Use 10-codes as much as possible (refer to Handbook).
- Speak clearly: do not shout, whisper, or swear.
- Signal 100 means priority-only traffic:
- Do not call non-priority scenes during this time.
- To 10-22 (cancel) a scene, it must be approved by the highest-ranking officer in RTO.
2.3 Primary Sources (Case Law References)
-
Tennessee v. Garner
Deadly force may be used to prevent the escape of a fleeing suspect only if the officer has a good faith belief that the suspect poses a serious threat of death or serious injury to officers or others (e.g., assault, death, hostage-taking). -
Miranda v. Arizona
A suspect must be informed of their Miranda rights prior to any questioning or interrogation while in police custody. -
Terry v. Ohio
An officer may perform a pat-down (frisk) if they believe:- The person has committed, is committing, or will commit a crime, and
- The person is reasonably believed to be armed and dangerous.
-
Pennsylvania v. Mimms
The officer may order the driver out of the vehicle at any time during a stop.
→ Makes it a lawful order.
2.4 Starting & Ending Patrol
Starting Patrol
- Go to Little Seoul PD (Postal 735).
- Use
/dutyin-game. - Sign into CAD.
- Notify dispatch or RTO that you are on duty:
- Example:
Callsign to dispatch: 10-8, 10-41.
- Example:
- Ensure your headtag is on and correctly shows your active department.
Ending Patrol
- Drive back to the station and delete your vehicle.
- Notify dispatch or RTO that you are going off duty:
- Example:
Callsign to dispatch: 10-7, 10-42.
- Example:
2.5 Miranda Rights
Definition:
Miranda rights inform a suspect of their constitutional rights regarding questioning for
a suspected crime.
Standard Miranda Warning Text:
“You have the right to remain silent, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, and have that attorney present during any questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided to you by the state at no cost. You have the right to invoke these rights at any time. Do you understand your rights? Knowing your rights, do you wish to talk to me?”
Usage Guidelines:
- Read Miranda rights before questioning / interrogating a suspect in custody.
- Department policy:
- Read rights upon arrest if:
- The suspect is in police custody,
- You intend to question them,
- And you intend to use their statements in court.
- Read rights upon arrest if:
- Statements made before custody can still be used if no questioning by officers occurred.
2.6 Arresting
Before Arrest
- Make sure you correctly identify the suspect.
- Ensure you have a valid legal reason for arrest.
- Place them in handcuffs.
After Arrest
- Read them their Miranda Rights.
- Search their person and immediate area (bags, vehicle, room, etc.).
- Place them in your patrol vehicle.
- Write a detailed report in CAD.
If a driver is stopped for a minor traffic infraction (e.g. running a red light, speeding slightly, light revving) and requests a supervisor:
- You must promptly request a supervisor and suspend further action.
- If no LSPD/LC/HC supervisor is available, request one from SAHP, BCSO, or another department.
- Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action.
2.7 Setting Up CAD
- Ensure each recruit has CAD access:
- If not, they must request permissions in the LSPD Discord.
- Recruits should set their Rank to:
Recruit. - Show an example CAD report, then have recruits complete a report on “Nathan Andrews”.
CAD Statuses:
- Available
- Ready for calls. Must also follow RTO rules and announce 10-41 / 10-8.
- Busy
- Handling something (traffic stop, booking, writing CAD).
- Can still be dispatched if really needed. Must not be deafened in RTO.
- Unavailable
- Not available for calls (e.g. 10-7, away from keyboard).
- Enroute
- On the way to a scene or assigned call.
- On Scene
- Arrived at the active scene or call.
(If CAD Login Fails) – Steps to create a character in CAD:
- Register via Discord: https://cad.calirp.gg/
- Verify if required (preferably with 2FA).
- Go to “Citizen” and create a civilian (no single-word names).
- Create Officer:
- Callsign Symbol 1 = full callsign, e.g.
2S-18 - Callsign Symbol 2 =
Space
- Callsign Symbol 1 = full callsign, e.g.
- Go to Officer/EMS/FD → Dashboard.
- Click “Go On Duty”.
- Press yourself “10-8 | ON DUTY” so dispatch can see you.
If the “officer” tab is missing, contact High Command for permission updates.
Reporting in CAD:
- Teach recruits how to create:
- Arrest reports
- Citations
- Vehicle citations
- BOLOs
- Warrants
- Use of force reports
- Emphasize:
- They must get Corporal+ signature for CAD reports (show the Discord channel/format).
- After a CAD report is complete:
- Go to
#signature-neededchannel in LSPD Discord. - Fill out the provided format and tag a supervisor+.
- Supervisor reviews the report and responds.
- If corrections are needed, they open a thread; recruit must fix errors and inform them.
- Go to
- Every arrest, citation, incident, etc. requires a report.
- Missing reports can lead to disciplinary action.
Self-Dispatch Rule:
- When a dispatcher is active:
- No self-dispatching to calls.
- No self-attaching to active calls (but you may request attachment if nearby).
CAD Registration Requirements:
- Ensure the following are registered in CAD:
- Vehicle
- Weapons (Pistol, AR, Bean Bag)
2.8 Basic Medical Training
Initial Assessment (ABCs + LOC):
- Responsiveness
- Is the patient conscious?
- Do they respond to voice or touch?
- Airway
- Is nose/throat clear?
- Remove blood, vomit, or foreign material.
- If needed, roll patient on their side and clear airway.
- Remember: Life over limb (you may move a suspected spinal injury to open the airway if necessary).
- Breathing
- Look for rise and fall of chest.
- Listen for breath sounds.
- Circulation
- Check for pulse.
- If present, treat injuries.
- If absent, start CPR immediately.
- CPR
- Chest compressions + artificial ventilation.
- Used for cardiac arrest to maintain blood flow and brain function.
- LOC – Level of Consciousness
- How alert and aware is the patient?
Standard LEO Medical Gear:
- Gauze + hemostatic dressings
- Tourniquet
- Smelling salts
- Narcan
- Chest seals
- Portable AED
- Alcohol pads/wipes
- Medical tape
- Scissors
- Masks, face shields, gloves
Gunshot Wound (GSW) Basics:
- Apply direct pressure.
- Clean with saline.
- Wrap with bandages or gauze.
- Contact EMS or transport to hospital.
2.9 Vehicle & Radar Information
- On duty, you have access to F5 Speed Radar & Plate Radar.
- Press F5 to open the system.
- Turn on and use radar while on duty as needed.
2.9.1 Vehicle Structure
LSPD plate format must follow:
LSPD: ##LPD###
Vehicle usage is rank-restricted:
- Follow the roster vehicle list.
- Driving a vehicle outside your rank can result in discipline.
2.9.2 Radio (In-Game)
- Using
/dutywill automatically place you in the Server Radio. - You must:
- Be in both Server Radio and Discord RTO for your area of patrol (AOP).
- Use the radio PTT keybind to talk with other units.
Changing Radio Callsign/Name:
- Press M to open LEO / Civilian Menu.
- Select “Radio”.
- Change Name, Callsign, and Frequency as needed.
2.9.3 LEO “M” Menu
- Once on duty, the “Police” menu becomes available.
- From here, you can:
- Cuff
- Impound vehicles
- Issue citations
- Give business cards
- And more
- You can also Cuff/Drag using Left-Alt (L-ALT) via the “third eye” interaction.
TOs should screenshare and demonstrate how to use the M menu and cuff/drag actions.
2.10 Professionalism & Maturity On Duty
- Maintain Immersion (IC):
- Stay in character at all times while on duty.
- Follow departmental SOPs.
- Use professional, realistic radio etiquette.
- Exhibit Emotional Control:
- Stay calm under pressure.
- Handle chaotic scenes without losing composure.
- Avoid OOC disputes or rage-quitting.
- Respectful Conduct & Authority:
- Treat all players with respect (IC and OOC).
- Follow the chain of command.
- Do not abuse power or server privileges.
- Prioritize Realism:
- Traffic stops, use of force, medical aid, etc. must be:
- Realistic
- Justifiable
- Contributing positively to the RP environment
- Traffic stops, use of force, medical aid, etc. must be:
Section 3: Field Training
Practical guidance for weapons handling, vehicle tactics, high-risk stops, pursuits, and radio usage during field training sessions.
3.1 Weapons Training
Emphasis on de-escalation, less-than-lethal options, and safe deployment.
TO should:
- Share screen and show the De-escalation Pyramid (not escalation).
- Explain non-lethal options (officer presence, commands, etc.).
- Walk through the chart from bottom to top.
Less-Than-Lethal Definition
Less-than-lethal means less likely to kill a person but can still be deadly under certain conditions.
Taser (Less-Than-Lethal)
- Give at least one warning. If no compliance, you may deploy the taser.
- Call out: “Taser! Taser!” when firing.
- If prongs connect, you can re-tase by aiming and pressing Page Up.
- Reload taser with
/reloadtaser:- Do not reload mid-scene unless necessary; do it back at your vehicle.
- For a dry stun (point-blank): aim and press X to tase at close range.
Do NOT tase near ledges/elevated surfaces or in water at ankle depth or deeper.
Bean Bag Shotgun (Less-Than-Lethal)
- Give at least one clear warning.
- Announce: “Firing bean bags!” so other units don’t mistake it for lethal rounds.
- Recommended minimum usage range: 10 feet, unless reacting to an extreme life-or-death situation.
- Never aim at:
- Head / Neck
- Groin
- Directly over the heart
- Abdomen
These can cause serious injury or death.
Post-Deployment Requirements
- Bean bag rounds and tasers are intended to disable, not kill.
- After using them, suspects must be treated medically.
- To remove taser prongs, type
/removebarbsin chat.
3.1.5 Rules of Engagement (ROE)
Defines when it is acceptable to engage a target. Violations can lead to major disciplinary action.
Scenarios:
No Imminent Threat
- Suspect has a gun to a hostage’s head but is communicating and negotiating.
- Suspect threatens to shoot the hostage but is still communicating to get out.
- Suspect drops hostage at the door and attempts to flee in a vehicle.
Imminent Threat
- Suspect has a gun to the hostage’s head and is non-communicative.
- Suspect rejects negotiations and fails to comply with commands.
- Suspect decamps from a 10-80 with a gun in hand, refusing to drop the weapon.
TOs should read this entire section to recruits to clarify who and when they may engage.
3.2 Vehicle Techniques
Safe and controlled vehicle operations under different response codes.
When driving in code, always remember some drivers may not see or hear your emergency equipment.
Code 1
- Normal response.
- Obey traffic laws and speed limits.
- No lights, no sirens.
Code 2
- Lights on, no siren.
- Faster response.
- Clear intersections with caution; may tap siren or horn.
Code 3
- Lights and sirens.
- Highest priority response.
- Clear intersections safely; keep speeding controlled.
J-Turns
- Used to quickly change direction in emergencies.
- TO demonstrates once, then recruits practice (each side once).
Roadblocks
- One police vehicle = one lane blocked.
- Use police barriers to block two lanes (max 2 barriers per vehicle).
- Requirements:
- Emergency lights on.
- Officer out of the vehicle.
- Do not hide directly behind patrol car.
- Use subdivision assets when available.
- Demonstrate a proper roadblock with patrol vehicle + barriers (no cones).
Do not actually ram TO vehicles; you may demonstrate how a barrier stops a vehicle.
3.3 Traffic Stop (10-11)
Standardized process for vehicle stops, callouts, and documentation.
Initial Setup
- Angle your vehicle and front tires to protect yourself and the suspect.
- Run a plate check in CAD or via dispatch before contact.
- If the vehicle is:
- Unregistered
- Stolen
- Linked to serious priors
RTO Callout Example
Officer: “[Callsign] to dispatch.”
Dispatch: “Go for dispatch.”
Officer: “10-11 when ready.”
Dispatch: “Go for your 10-11.”
Officer: “10-11 at postal 1000, Great Ocean Highway, on a two-door black sedan, occupied times one, no additionals needed.”
Also teach how to call a 10-11 with no active dispatch (RTO only).
On-Foot Contact
- Approach passenger side.
- Be polite; introduce yourself and your department.
- Explain the reason for the stop.
- Request license and registration (first & last name).
Back at the Patrol Car
- Run the name in CAD; double-check spelling.
- Check for prior tickets, arrests, warrants, and firearms.
- If name doesn’t match the registered owner, note and question the driver.
Citation / Final Contact
- Issue citation or verbal/written warning; list penal code and reason.
- Re-approach passenger side, explain action taken, and return ID.
- Instruct driver: “Wait until my lights are turned off before pulling away.”
Training Exercise
- TOs/TAs run one full demonstration 10-11.
- Each recruit runs a 10-11 using RTO.
- Recruits complete a CAD report for “Nathan Andrews” if required.
3.4 Code 5 (High-Risk Stops – Non-Violent & Violent)
High-risk felony stop procedures, formation, and command structure.
Formation (“M” Shape)
- Form an “M” shape with patrol vehicles.
- Middle officer:
- Director of the stop.
- Holds non-lethal Bean Bag shotgun.
- Left & right officers:
- Hold lethal weapons.
- Use ARs for known lethal threats; handguns otherwise.
Verbal Commands (Director of Stop)
Use Shout (Z key). Commands must be loud, clear, and authoritative.
- “Driver, honk your horn twice if you can hear my voice.”
- “Turn off the vehicle. Take the keys out of the ignition and throw them out the window.”
- “With your left hand, reach outside and open the driver door.”
- “Keep both hands up and visible.”
- “Slowly step out of the vehicle, facing away from the sound of my voice.”
- “With your hands up, slowly walk backwards toward the sound of my voice until I say stop.”
- “Stop.”
- “Slowly drop to your knees and cross your ankles.”
If suspect doesn’t comply, use less-lethal. If they produce a weapon or show harmful intent, use lethal as appropriate.
Handcuff & “On Your Six”
- Director (non-lethal) moves to handcuff suspect.
- Once secure and director returns behind cover:
- Left officer moves behind Code 5 lineup to join right officer.
- Left officer states: “On your six.”
Vehicle Clear
- Both officers move together to clear suspect’s vehicle.
- Stay on the same side to avoid crossfire.
- Open doors and search as necessary.
3.5 Vehicle Pursuit (10-80) & 10-70 Procedures
Structure for vehicle pursuits, foot pursuits, and PIT maneuvers.
10-80 – Vehicle Pursuit
- Call the 10-80 into RTO.
- Request additional units to join.
- Until backup arrives:
- Maintain visual contact.
- Call out 10-20 (location) and direction of travel.
Unit Roles
- Primary unit:
- Closest to suspect vehicle.
- Maintains visual contact.
- Secondary unit:
- Handles radio callouts (10-20, direction, behavior).
- Additional units:
- Provide traffic control.
- Stand ready to replace Primary/Secondary.
TEU / HEAT & Limits
- If TEU/HEAT are available, they take Primary.
- Allow faster units to pass on your left when safe.
- Limit pursuits to about 5 units; others handle remaining duties.
General Pursuit Rules
- Stay in control of your vehicle; safety is priority.
- Call off pursuit if unsafe.
- Avoid driving in oncoming lanes; if you do, return when safe.
- Use proper intersection clearing techniques.
- Minimize vehicle damage and maintain safe following distance.
10-70 – Foot Pursuit Procedures
- Call 10-70 into RTO.
- Request additional units.
- Give suspect description:
- Clothing style & colors.
- Shoes (rarely changed).
- Once close enough, attempt tackle or tase if necessary.
- If tased, cuff and proceed with detention/arrest steps.
PIT Maneuver Procedures
Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) is used to stop vehicles that pose a serious risk to the public.
- Request a PIT timer in RTO via dispatch or highest-ranking officer.
- Confirm road, weather, and traffic conditions are safe.
- Inform all units of PIT attempt.
- If conditions are safe and speed is under ~150 mph:
- Use push bar to strike the rear quarter panel (usually back-right tire area).
- After spinout, additional units cautiously box in suspect vehicle.
Training Exercise
- Demonstrate a 10-80 with RTO callouts.
- Each recruit spends ~1 minute as Primary and Secondary.
- After PIT, suspect flees → becomes 10-70; recruits lead foot pursuit with less-lethal.
- TA acting as suspect:
- No weapons or violent acts toward recruits.
- No climbing buildings or spawning vehicles.
- Warn that continued running will result in a tase.
3.6 Use of Force
This section should cover the force continuum, proportionality, reporting requirements, and supervisor review process in your full SOP.
Ensure recruits understand:
- Force must always be reasonable, necessary, and proportional.
- All significant uses of force require documentation and, where policy requires, a supervisor review.
- Deadly force is a last resort, consistent with case law such as Tennessee v. Garner.
3.7 Signal 11
Operation of the Wraith radar and plate reader system, for conducting speed traps. (Signal 11)
- Access the Wraith system by pressing F5.
- TO should screenshare to demonstrate this.
- When the remote appears, press “Toggle Display” to show radar.
- Press “PWR” on the left to power radar on.
- Adjust radar settings as desired.
Plate Reader
- Click “Plate Reader” on the bottom left of the remote.
- Click “Toggle Display” to show plates being scanned.
- Use scanned data to identify hits, verify registration, and assist with traffic enforcement.
Walk recruits through the full workflow via screenshare and live practice.
Section 4: End of Training
Close out training with structured review, documentation, and clear next steps for recruits and supervisors.
4.1 Ending Notes
At the end of training:
- Quickly review key in-game commands again:
- Jailing
- Hospitalizing
- Other relevant commands
- Show recruits where to find the penal codes.
- Ensure they understand and agree to follow the Cali RP rules.
4.2 Training Debrief & Evaluation
Post-session Q&A, performance review, and roster updates.
Debrief with Recruits
- Answer any remaining questions from recruits.
- Briefly review all topics covered.
- If unsure about a question:
- Refer to SOP or ask another TO Supervisor.
Internal TO Discussion
- Deafen and mute recruits in voice.
- TOs and supervisors privately discuss:
- Each recruit’s performance.
- Pass/Fail decision.
- Head TO has final say on pass/fail.
- Only a higher-rank evaluating command member can overturn that decision.
4.3 Checklist
End of Training Checklist
TO Use- Add “Needs Ride Along” to each recruit.
- Add “Needs 1st Ride Along” to each recruit.
- Add “Needs 2nd Ride Along” to each recruit.
- Check the “Training Complete” box in the recruit Roster.
- Fill out The Academy Action in Discord, tagging all attendees.
- Fill out The Academy Activity Tracker form.
- Send the LSPD training rating to each recruit.
- Administer Recruit Training Quiz and review answers:
- Recruit must score at least 70%.
- Encourage supervisors at the training to take recruits on their required ride-alongs, if possible.
End of Document