The Decline of Two-Man Police Cars: Necessity, Budget, and Safety Considerations

In contemporary law enforcement, the prevalence of one-man versus two-man police cars has become a topic of significant discussion. Traditionally, two-man police cars have been the norm, but recent economic pressures and community demands are pushing many departments towards the adoption of one-man cars. This article explores the multifaceted reasons behind this shift, focusing on budget considerations, the necessity of officer safety, and the challenges faced by modern law enforcement.

From Two-Man to One-Man Cars: A Shift in Departmental Policies

Typically, police departments have favored two-man cars, especially in urban areas where they form core patrol units. However, as cities strive to cut expenses, the emphasis on two-man cars is waning. For instance, in my city, each platoon or shift is equipped with a specific number of one-man and two-man cars as part of a car plan. These one-man cars, often referred to as 'report cars,' are utilized for low-impact assignments where a suspect is not present, and they are not dispatched alone to housing projects.

During priority calls where two-man cars are insufficient, departments often deploy two one-man cars to meet and respond together. This staffing strategy aims to balance officer safety and effective response rates, ensuring that some officers are always closer to emergencies, even when fewer two-man cars are available.

City-Level Decisions and the Impact on Patrol Efficiency

Our department fields two deputy 'county cars' on the evening and early morning shifts, which effectively patrol the unincorporated areas. The majority of our vehicles, however, are contract city cars, reflecting the varying preferences of cities for levels of police services. Cities often opt for a higher number of one-deputy cars to maximize their investment, as two one-deputy cars can cover more ground compared to a single two-deputy car. This strategy can lead to faster response times for certain calls, particularly those that require a single officer, such as report calls.

Moreover, the deployment of training cars does not alleviate the issue. Two-deputy city cars are often used for training purposes, but the county pays for the deputy undergoing training, not the city. While the training cars are beneficial, they do not provide the full benefit of two-man teams on every shift.

Budgetary Constraints and Their Impact on Departmental Operations

Budgetary constraints are a primary factor driving the shift towards one-man cars. The cost of maintaining and staffing two-man units can be significantly higher, making budget management a key consideration in departmental decisions. In a budget-constrained environment, every dollar saved is crucial, and sometimes, the decision to use one-man cars is seen as a more economical choice.

It is important to note that budget considerations are not the sole factor influencing this shift. The public presence and safety of officers also play a critical role. Removing the partner from a police car can lead to reduced safety for officers, especially in high-risk situations. The logistical challenge of managing multiple one-deputy cars increases, as there is a higher chance of bickering over driving duties and the potential for logistical disarray.

The Future of Police Car Operations

While the practicalities of cost savings and officer safety must be balanced, the preference for a two-man car among many officers remains rooted in the belief that safety and partnership enhance job performance. However, the real challenge lies in securing the necessary funds to maintain two-man units. If the financial landscape does not change, the trend towards one-man cars may continue to gain momentum.

The debate over two-man versus one-man cars highlights the complex interplay between economic necessity, operational efficiency, and officer safety. As law enforcement continues to face evolving challenges, it is crucial for departments to carefully weigh these factors in shaping their policies and practices.