> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://dpssop.equinoxroleplay.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# 7.2 - Authority, Responsibilities, & Oversight

> Organizational structure, roles, and oversight of statewide K-9 operations.

### Organizational Structure

The San Andreas Department of Public Safety K-9 Division operates under a clearly defined command hierarchy to ensure accountability, operational consistency, and proper supervision of **K-9** teams.

| Rank / Title                                      | Role & Responsibilities                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  |
| ------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| **Probationary K-9 Officer**                      | Entry-level handler under direct supervision. May not patrol solo. May respond to K-9 calls only under active oversight by a certified K-9 Officer or Senior K-9 Officer. Focused on foundational obedience, search, and handling skills during training phase. Subject to performance evaluations before certification. |
| **K-9 Officer**                                   | Fully certified handler authorized for solo patrols, deployments, and independent training sessions. May respond to K-9 requests from any law enforcement agency statewide. Responsible for daily **K-9** care, operational readiness, and accurate documentation.                                                       |
| **Senior K-9 Officer**                            | Acting field supervisor for all K-9 operations. Oversees K-9 Officers and Probationary K-9 Officers on shift, ensures compliance with all operational policies, and provides on-scene mentorship and evaluation. Authorized to approve or deny deployments and training activities.                                      |
| **Patrol Lieutenant / Captain**                   | Administrative and operational supervisor for K-9 units within their command zone. Manages shift-level oversight, ensures integration with patrol operations, and conducts after-action reviews for all K-9 deployments. Reports up the chain to the Chief or Sheriff.                                                   |
| **Chief of Police / Sheriff (Oversight)**         | Exercises executive oversight of K-9 policy enforcement and operational adherence within their department. Responsible for ensuring agency compliance with State Police guidelines and the statewide K-9 Operating Manual.                                                                                               |
| **Head of K-9 Personnel (State Police)**          | Primary administrative authority for all K-9 programs statewide. Manages daily operations, training records, certifications, disciplinary matters, and shift logs. Ensures consistent policy enforcement and acts as liaison between local agencies and the State Police.                                                |
| **Head of Division (Office of the Commissioner)** | Final authority for all statewide K-9 operations. Responsible for strategic oversight, training funding, budget allocation, and reimbursement programs for local agencies. Approves or amends operational manuals and establishes statewide certification requirements.                                                  |