ORLANDO, Fla. – Every now and then, someone asks me a question that really hits on a good teachable moment and this one is no exception: “What exactly is a Community Service Officer or a Field Service Officer? I’ve seen cars that look like police vehicles, but I’m not sure what they actually do.”
This is a great question and the answer is something more people should know.
Community Service Officers (CSOs) or Field Service Officers (FSOs) are non-sworn members of a law enforcement agency, meaning they’re not certified police officers and they don’t carry the same arrest powers. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t a vital part of public safety.
These individuals wear uniforms, drive agency-marked vehicles, and respond to certain types of calls for service. They’re trained and authorized to assist with non-emergency or low-priority situations, which frees up sworn officers to focus on more urgent law enforcement duties.
These officers handle a variety of tasks, including:
- Taking reports for things like lost property, vandalism, or minor traffic crashes
- Assisting with traffic control during events, accidents, or road closures
- Helping with non-emergency public concerns, like noise complaints or abandoned vehicles
- Supporting the day-to-day operations of their department with community outreach and logistical work
Think of them as the helpful bridge between the community and law enforcement, stepping in where full police response isn’t always necessary.
“But Their Cars Look Like Police Cars!”
Yep, that’s often true and for good reason. Their vehicles are designed to be visible and equipped to safely operate in traffic and community settings. However, if you take a closer look, these cars are clearly marked with titles like “Community Service Officer” or “Field Service,” so there’s no confusion about their role.
While they are not police officers, they are still protected under certain state laws while performing their duties and are valued team members of the agency they represent.
These men and women play an essential role in keeping things running smoothly for law enforcement agencies. They ease the workload of sworn officers and provide a direct, friendly connection between agencies and the public. So, the next time you see one of these officers out in the community, just know, they’re doing real work that helps keep our cities and neighborhoods safe, supported, and running efficiently.