Fremont Police Department, CA
Home MenuAccountability: Budget and Finance
What is the percentage of the total police budget allocated to address social issues such as homelessness?
While the police budget is broken down by units and not by service categories, we continually address social issues whenever appropriate. Our Mobile Evaluation Team (MET) was created in partnership with health and social service professionals to provide a more comprehensive and compassionate response to calls for service involving the homeless and/or community members experiencing a mental health crisis. For Fiscal Year 2020/21, MET has an annual budget of $880,000 which is .9% of the total police budget. MET continues to link community members to mental health and/or homeless service providers and provides resources and guidance to family members and loved ones of those dealing with mental illness. We are unfortunately not able to specifically capture the percentage of time other units, such as patrol officers, spend on homeless or mental health calls for service. We are able to share that approximately 10% of calls patrol responds to involve these types of calls. When MET is not available, other resources respond. The City of Fremont has several additional programs and services available that address social issues. The City’s budget on community services can be found here. Please visit the Human Services Department for additional information on services offered by the City.- 6% of the $96,544,000 total Fremont Police budget for Fiscal Year 2020/21 is allocated to overtime. The overtime budget includes allocations for the entire department, representing hours served by both sworn and non-sworn staff. Overtime hours are used for a variety of functions including but not limited to: dispatch, patrol, records and community engagement. Fremont Police has several operations that rely heavily on overtime, such as special investigations and community-based events including Building Bridges and the Safety Fair. Major criminal investigations can impact overtime numbers as well. Patrol teams have minimum staffing levels. Overtime may be used to ensure shifts are staffed up to minimum levels, but not beyond.
0.5% of the $96,544,000 total Fremont Police budget for Fiscal Year 2020/21 is allocated to training for the entire department. Please note this figure does not include travel expenses and per diem for non-POST training. Training is provided to both sworn and non-sworn staff as appropriate.Please refer to the training section on our Accountability page for more information on the types of training offered to our officers.
Accountability: Calls for Service
In calendar year 2019 FPD Dispatch handled 257,872 Fremont calls, of which 85,110 were 911 emergency calls and 172,762 were non-emergency calls, resulting in 21,620 documented police reports.FPD Dispatch also handled 60,856 Union City calls, of which 29,682 were 911 emergency calls and 31,264 were non-emergency calls.
Accountability: Campaign Zero
Campaign Zero recently issued a Police Scorecard for the largest 100 cities in California. Fremont did not receive a passing grade. What is your reaction to that?
We were concerned by the information and have begun to take a closer look at this research and their methodology. We have confirmed that the data is taken from URSUS (Use of Force incident reporting), population data, and demographic data. These numbers do reflect what has occurred, but these numbers do not include context, situation, or other pertinent factors that led to these incidents. These are some of our additional findings and facts:
These incidents were ongoing investigations and responses to calls for service; apart from June 1, 2016, which started as a car stop.
Many of these incidents stemmed from our officers engaging offenders who entered our community to commit serious crimes. Many of these incidents involved ongoing investigations, which meant we had investigative leads to include identified offenders and evidence that led to these contacts.
One of the deadly force incidents on June 1, 2016, was the result of two Fremont officers being severely injured from the suspect’s gunfire.
Campaign Zero used a subjective scoring system for each agency on deadly force incidents, the proportion of citizen complaints that were found in favor of the complainant, and how the department prioritized investigation of violent crime versus lower level crimes. Using their methods, nearly every single department rated by this site received an “F” grade, including those that had NO uses of deadly force at all in the time period assessed.
Fremont had one of the best scores on the site for proportion of complaints found in favor of the complainant, and an excellent score on policing methods:- FPD received an A grade in our approach to policing.
- FPD had a very low amount of misdemeanor arrests and it’s specifically noted in the Scorecard data, as well as the unsolved homicide rate, as noted in the slide.
- FPD solved all Fremont homicides during the review period (2013-2018). FPD is dedicated to bringing justice to ALL families, regardless of race, religion, socio-economic status.
- FPD reduced violent crime by 20% in 2019, with reductions in all crime categories reported to the FBI – homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assault.
It is a reality that police officers are asked to protect the public from the small percentage of people who are willing to harm others. Unfortunately, when confronting these individuals, sometimes force is required to either take them into custody or defend themselves or others from harm.
The 3-year time period assessed provides a data set too small to extract broad conclusions. It’s important to view the circumstances of each incident individually and you can look at these incidents yourselves on our Transparency Portal.
We are preparing for the RIPA (Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board) requirements to capture all STOP data by 2022 (per AB 953)
Accountability: Community Engagement
How can the Police Department and City partner together to start the dialogue between officers patrolling the streets and our diverse community?
The City of Fremont and the Police Department enjoy a very positive relationship with our diverse community and we specifically engage with different minority groups through various measures. Our current Engage Fremont Initiative is an example on how we strive to deepen the dialogue on policing in our community. We will continue to strengthen our relationship with various ethnic groups through both established programs and special events. When schools are in session, we engage our youth population through our Building Bridges program. Outside of school, we engage our community through a variety of special events and communication channels (e.g. Coffee with a Cop, Badges and Boba, National Night Out, Neighborhood/District community meetings, etc.) With the recent pandemic, we suspended in-person events, but are beginning to engage our community through virtual events and online meetings. We will also continue to provide our officers with a very robust and comprehensive training program, with topics in cultural diversity and implicit bias, and we will enhance our training in diversity related topics as appropriate.
What has or will FPD do to help heal and build trust in the community? Is there community oversight on FPD practices?
The City of Fremont has long been a leader in progressive policing practices and is committed to responding to this pivotal moment in our nation by working with the local community to establish a shared vision of public safety that serves everyone equitably. In Summer 2020, the City launched the Engage Fremont initiative to deepen the dialogue on policing with our community. Through the initiative, Fremont community members are invited to participate in a series of community engagement activities to assist in identifying community priorities and recommended next steps on the topic of policing and race in the City of Fremont. This broader initiative stems from the Town Hall Meeting held on June 10, 2020 that featured the topic of policing in Fremont. During the virtual event, more than 800 community members listened in. People commented and asked questions on a wide variety of issues including social services, homeless services, use of force policies, and police accountability and transparency. City leaders emphasized their desire to continue the dialogue with Fremont community members and their intent to develop a plan for an ongoing conversation, leading to the initiative.
Community Partnership has always been one of the core values of Fremont Police and we sincerely value our relationship with the community. Effective policing requires public trust and support. We work to build trust, cooperation and communication with all members of our public. For over twenty years, we have a Community Advisory Group that brings together a representative cross-section of community perspectives to serve in an advisory capacity to the Chief of Police by providing input on policy issues, department direction and prioritization. Board members also facilitate two-way communication between the Fremont Police Department and those we serve. The group provides invaluable guidance to us in dealing with complex issues such as immigration, homelessness, and the balance of technology and privacy rights.We also have many community programs for adults and kids, as well as special events and charitable projects where we continue to build our trust and partnership with the community.Some of these programs include Building Bridges, Youth Academy, Youth Explorers, School Visits, Shop with a Cop, Coffee with a Cop, Community Police Academy, National Night Out, Neighborhood Crime Watch, Safety Fair, and charitable projects supporting Special Olympics of Northern California.
Accountability: Crime, Reporting, and Services
The Mobile Evaluation Team (MET) was created in 2017, in response to an increase in mental health related calls for service. This team currently consists of one sergeant, two officers, and one community service officer, all trained in mental health issues and crisis intervention. These specially trained officers are paired with a clinician to provide enhanced services to those experiencing mental health crises and/or homelessness.
- In 2019, a total of 21, 620 reports were documents. This was an increase over 2018, when a total of 18, 289 reports were documented.
Overall Part I Crimes, which are mandated to be reported monthly to the Uniform Crime Reporting Statistics (Bureau of Justice) have been trending down in Fremont over the last few years. The category of theft, specifically theft from an auto, have remained Fremont’s highest trend over the last 18 months.
- Part I Crimes– 4943 crimes reported, represents a 5% decrease from 2018
- Part II Crimes – 5688 crimes reported, represents a 14% decrease from 2018
- Hate Crime Reports - 4
- Home Invasion Robberies – 3
- Traffic
- Fatal Collisions – 7
- Auto vs. Pedestrians - 3
- Auto vs. Bicyclist - 1
- Injury Collisions – 593
- DUI Arrests – down 25% from 2018
- Fatal Collisions – 7
Accountability: General
Are City resources available for service calls that are non-criminal, e.g. homeless, mental health evaluation, or need for social services?
During an emergency, it's important to call 9-1-1 so we can dispatch police, fire, and medical assistance as needed and as quickly as possible. Every situation is different and the resources required to resolve the situation is not solely characterized by criminal or non-criminal activities. As mentioned in earlier FAQs, Fremont Police's Mobile Evaluation Team (MET) was created in partnership with health professionals to provide a more comprehensive and compassionate response to calls for service involving the homeless and/or community members experiencing a mental health crisis.MET continues to link community members to mental health and/or homeless service providers and provide resources and guidance to family members and loved ones of those dealing with mental illness. The City of Fremont also has a several programs and services available to address social issues. Please visit the Human Services Department for additional information on services offered by the City.
- Developed nearly three decades ago, the Community Oriented Police Problem Solving (COPPS) Program has evolved into a culture and philosophy at the Fremont Police Department. All COPPS principles are embedded in our community policing philosophy. We made the intentional decision to enhance community engagement efforts through a variety of programs and events, including Building Bridges and our community camera project. We continue to apply a community-oriented philosophy today in our approach to engagement and street crimes. Please read more about our Community Partnerships on our Accountability page.
- Yes, our values align with all of the #8CANTWAIT recommendations. We have developed a brochure to help our community understand our use of force policy and our response to #8CANTWAIT.
How does the Police Department handle recent protests and communicate with the various protesting groups?
We communicate with protesting groups through a variety of methods. While Engage Fremont is serving as a platform for us to communicate information to the public, we are having regular meetings (phone and online on a weekly basis) with protesting groups to understand their events. We are respectful to the peaceful protests and will continue to have a respectful dialogue. We regularly facilitate first amendment activities and our goal is to support the process and ensure the event is safe.What percentage of the police department is sworn vs. non-sworn personnel (professional)? What are some situations that are handled by non-sworn personnel?
As of FY 2020/21, FPD staffing is approved and budgeted for 320.5 full time employees, of which 199 are sworn personnel, and 121.5 are non-sworn professional employees. All sworn personnel are armed while on duty. Professional employees include Community Service Officers (CSOs) and staff supporting a variety of functions in crimes analysis, records, dispatch, equipment, jail, property and evidence, digital media, public affairs, purchasing, budgeting and finance, and animal services. Since the 1970s, our Community Service Officers (CSOs) have handled non-emergency calls for services that do not require the presence of an armed police officer, such as identifying and enforcing parking ordinances, responding to and investigating non-injury traffic collisions, investigating property crimes with no suspect information such as vandalism and burglary calls, interviewing victims/witnesses and documenting statements.
Fremont Police's Mobile Evaluation Team (MET) was created in 2017 in partnership with health professionals to provide a more comprehensive and compassionate response to calls for service involving the homeless and/or community members experiencing a mental health crisis. MET links community members to mental health and/or homeless service providers and provide resources and guidance to family members and loved ones of those dealing with mental illness. The MET team currently consists of four individuals: one Police Sergeant, one Police Officer, a full time Crisis Nurse/Crisis Care Coordinator and a half time Crisis Intervention Specialist.
According to CA penal code Chapter 4.5. Peace Officers [830 - 832.19] and Chapter 4 Article 1. Administration and Enforcement [2800 - 2818], only sworn peace officers can enforce most moving violations as defined by the California Vehicle Code. This means only a police officer has the legal authority to detain a person for a traffic stop. Safety is always a top priority during any type of police action or enforcement - this includes both public safety and safety of our staff.As routine as a traffic stop may seem, the situation is a detention and can lead to other aspects, including a possible arrest (e.g. DUI). A traffic stop can turn into a serious situation when any signs of criminal activity is being discovered. Every year, a number of law enforcement officers are injured or killed during traffic stops. Please refer to the FBI statistics on the number of officers killed while on duty. Due to the possible danger and potentially deadly consequences of a traffic stop, it's important that only trained officers are performing such action.
Some of the most frequently received traffic complaints are related to speeding, not stopping at stop signs, and reckless driving. While the City does have a red light camera program to enforce and deter red light violations, other technologies, such as radar speed enforcement or stop sign enforcement via cameras, are not permitted in California. There are currently no viable alternatives that can legally substitute traffic enforcement of police officers in the City. Police officers are obliged to enforce traffic laws and investigate traffic collisions, helping to keep our roads safe for the community.
Accountability: Homelessness/Mobile Evaluation Team (MET)
Are there percentages/figures that can be provided about the proportion of mental health calls taken by FPD? Or alternatively the ratio of resources taken up by calls related to homelessness/mental health calls?
Our calls of services are not categorized by service needs. Homelessness and mental health issues can be included in all possible call types so it's difficult to define and pin point a call type for this purpose. There is currently no precise calculation for Fremont incidents involving our homeless population. The best option available to us is to analyze incident data that have the keywords of “homeless” or “transient” listed in the details. A six-month sample of January – June 2019 calls for service data showed that FPD officers responded to 14 calls per day, or approximately 10% of calls, involving homeless issues*.
*Calls for Service from January – June 2019 were analyzed. Of 56,906 total calls for service 2,539 referenced “homeless” or “transient” in the detail. Based on this initially calculation approximately 4.5% of all calls for service referenced transient or homeless. However, recognizing that a vast number of these calls were not calls for service which required a response from an officer, we excluded some of these call types. Once the designated call types were excluded, data indicates 25,219 calls for service of which 2,508 calls referenced “homeless” or “transient” in the details. These 2,508 calls include 415H (disturbance calls involving homeless) as well as any calls with the specified keywords. This amounts to 14 calls per day related to homeless/transient, which is approximately 10% of calls. In January – June 2020 we experienced significant variation in crime reports due to COVID. During this period, we received 48,697 calls for service of which 1,989 of these had “homeless” or “transient” in the call detail for 4.1% of all calls for service. Applying the exclusion list there were 23,139 calls for service of which 1,964 of these had “homeless” or “transient” in the call detail for 8.5%.
- In Jan-Jun 2019, there were 410 battery and assault related reports, and 63 of these involved homeless/transient keywords in the details.
- In Jan-Jun 2020, there were 389 battery and assault related reports, and 51 of these involved homeless/transient keywords in the details.
- In Jan-Jun of 2019, there were 33 Estes robberies, 11 of the suspects or arrestees were listed as transient.
- In Jan-Jun of 2020, there were 17 Estes robberies, six of the suspects or arrestees were listed as transient.
The graph below indicates the number of calls received from January 2019 – June 2020 related to 5150s – individual with mental health issues posting a danger to self or others, and 415Hs - disturbance involving homeless. Please keep in mind that these are only two of the call types that explicitly includes mental health/homeless in the call category.There are a number of mentally ill homeless in the City potentially posing serious danger to themselves and the public. What are some concrete steps that the City or MET are taking to resolve this issue?
The City and our Mobile Evaluation Team (MET) are aware of the homeless community members in various parts of the City.MET regularly visits known areas to offer and provide services to those community members as part of its mission.MET has also made numerous referrals to homeless services providers asking for assistance in addressing this population.Finally, MET coordinates with other City of Fremont departments to conduct regular clean ups and abatement. City leadership is constantly evaluating locations throughout the City where homeless activities are having a negative impact on surrounding community members and/or businesses. In 2020 the City filled the Homeless Coordinator position to serve as a liaison between the homeless population. City services, and other available resources. The City has also championed the Housing Navigation Center which opens August 2020. City of Fremont balances the needs of both homeless and other community members in enforcing local regulations and conducting clean ups and abatement. Enforcing local regulations with equity and compassion and understanding is a model Fremont Police strives to achieve. Because some locations are private property, it is the responsibility of the property owner to clean up any homeless camps on his/her property. MET frequently works with private property owners throughout the City to address homeless issues on their property.
When was the Mobile Evaluation Team (MET) founded? How is the unit set up to allow a few individuals to take on such a wide breadth of responsibilities?
The Mobile Evaluation Team (MET) was officially created in January of 2017. Fremont MET borrowed many concepts and ideas from Oakland PD’s MET, which is a partnership between Oakland PD and ACBH. The MET currently has a team of five individuals: one Police Sergeant, two Police Officers, one Community Service Officer, and a City of Fremont Human Services Crisis Intervention Specialist.
It has been a challenge for MET to address such a wide breadth of responsibilities, however, there have been numerous success stories, and the team has made great inroads in building new partnerships with local service providers while strengthening existing collaborative efforts.After years of increases our 5150 calls (individual with mental health issues posting a danger to self or others) have decreased each year after the MET program has launched.
There are other teams in our community which address homeless and/or mental health, but none of them are a collaboration between law enforcement and mental health or homeless services providers.MET continues to provide compassionate services to our homeless population and also started minor unofficial case management services to address members of the Fremont community who were high utilizers of emergency services (Fire, Police, EMS).The goal is to redirect those individuals to appropriate service providers for long term case management services and care whenever possible.It is important to be aware that sometimes individuals are averse to accepting any services.
Accountability: Internal Affairs
Does Fremont Police Department have a policy of holding officers accountable for not turning on their body worn cameras?
Yes, we have a comprehensive body-worn camera policy that requires officers to turn on their body worn cameras while on duty. Officers must turn on their cameras as they exit the police building at the beginning of each shift. Officers are held accountable for their actions and any violations are thoroughly investigated. Body worn cameras were first issued the department’s traffic division in 2014, when in-car cameras could not be installed on motorcycles. Body-worn cameras were deployed department-wide in November of 2018. Please refer to our body worn camera information page and our department policy on body worn camera system.Our department closely supervises our sworn personnel and any policy violation would be investigated thoroughly. Our officers are continuously trained in cultural diversity, implicit bias, and anti-discrimination to ensure fair police practices. We take allegations seriously and conduct immediate and thorough investigation on such allegations. We maintain and exceed training standards set forth by POST in this area. POST Guidelines-Requires Racial/Cultural Diversity Training every five years.Since 2018, FPD completes the training every two years. Additional training information can be found in the Training Section of our Accountability page. Our department has policies outlining Guidelines for Conduct, preventing Discriminatory Harassment, and Biased Based Policing (training and lesson plan.)
Is there a system in place for FPD officers to identify problems within their department without fear of backlash?
Yes, there are options for Officers to report problems in the department. All Police Department staff are subject to State of California whistleblower protections and are required to comply with Citywide polices as well as the policies that are specific to the department. Officers may choose to report problems to their immediate supervisors or their superiors. Additionally, the City of Fremont’s Administrative Regulation 2.12, a citywide policy prohibiting harassment, discrimination and retaliation, allows any staff members, including sworn personnel, to make a related complaint confidentially and directly to Human Resources. The policy also prohibits acts of retaliation towards an employee making a complaint. All City of Fremont employees are expected to review and acknowledge receipt of this policy each year, and all supervisors are required to attend annual training on sexual harassment and reporting laws. Fremont Police also has a specific policy on Anti-Retaliation.- All officer misconduct at the department is handled by our Internal Affairs Unit. Please visit this link to better understand the process.
Accountability: Record Retention
Did the Fremont Police Department Destroy decades of records that would have been responsive to new requirements under SB1421?
The City has had a records retention policy for decades and went through an update that began in early 2017. During our update, the police departments retention policy and practice was aligned with the law. The schedule update did not include an update to internal affairs records, as that already existed, nor did the retention policy update the City’s ability to produce records under SB1421. All releasable records that have been requested, have been made available and additional information on this topic can be located on the police department's transparency portal . A single box of old records dating back to the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s, had been misfiled and was located during the project. This box of files was out of compliance with our existing records retention policy and should have been purged in accordance years ago. None of the records in the box would have been subject to disclosure under SB1421.
Chief Kimberly Petersen’s letter to the Fremont community in response to the KQED article on records retention policy.
Accountability: Recruitment/Personnel
- During the hiring process we look at each candidate's background including education, job experiences, personality traits, and how they perform on various recruitment-related exams. Just with other life experiences, we do consider military experiences as part of a candidate's background. The decision to hire a specific candidate, however, does not rely on any single experience. We take a holistic approach to each hire and we look at a small number of candidates at any given time. We are able to get to know each candidate in depth, allowing a higher level of scrutiny. Once hired, they will go through rigorous (ongoing) training to ensure they are performing to their best abilities. Please refer to the training section on our Accountability Page and POST for information regarding the training received by our officers.
California Government Code Section 1031 requires peace officers to have a high school diploma or equivalent, possess a Class C California driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record, and be 20.5 years of age at the time of applying and 21 years of age at the time of appointment, and be citizens of the United State. These are the minimum qualifications established by law. Diversity is something we value, and the department takes a holistic approach to hiring. We often look for additional traits and qualifications beyond those that are minimally required by law. Our recruitment strategies include reaching out to a broad candidate pool and our goal has been to hire quality candidates who successfully make it through our rigorous and competitive hiring process. We believe Fremont residents deserve the best and our candidates greatly exceed those minimum qualifications. We are fortunate that we can set high standards in our hiring process, as we are generally only hiring a few candidates at any given time. Officer starting salary is dependent upon qualifications. The minimum education requirement is a high school diploma, GED, or CHSPE. Above all else, Fremont PD values the life experiences that our Police Officers bring with them every day to their job, including emotional intelligence, maturity, common sense and the ability to communicate. They will be speaking with members of the public from all walks of life and put in many new situations each shift. Education, prior job experience, and military service all equip them with skillsets that can help them navigate as a Police Officer. Salary for our officers are:
- Academy salary: $8,074 monthly
- Officer salary: $8,881 - $10,798 monthly depending on qualifications
Additional information about our recruitment process and compensation can be found on the Police Department Jobs Website.
What is the average number and the maximum number of overtime hours an Officer is allowed to work per week? Is there a way to regulate these hours?
There is no maximum limit for overtime hours, however, each officer generally should not work more than 15 consecutive hours per day (our regular shift is 11 hours) absent exigent circumstances. All overtime must be pre-approved by a supervisor and we do not staff above our shift minimums. We do not track average number of overtime hours as this varies widely between units and individual officers.Some other variables impacting overtime hours include the number of overall vacancies, time off per shift, special events, special investigations, and high priority/profile cases, etc.
When selecting police officers, what are the personal characteristics that you seek to identify and why?
We take a holistic approach to hiring and ensure our candidates are well-rounded and well-suited for the job. We look for the following factors and characteristics in our candidates: integrity, service-oriented, background, communication skills, community involvement/awareness, experience, interest motivation, interpersonal skills, and problem solving. We also have three in-person oral board interviews (entry level, Lt. panel, and executive panel) to engage with a candidate, which is more than most agencies.Our candidates also need to complete an evaluation with a third party post-certified psychologist prior to being hired. Once hired, they will go through rigorous (ongoing) training to ensure they are performing to their best abilities.Please refer to the training section on our Accountability Page and POST for information regarding the training received by our officers.
Accountability: School Resource Officers (SRO)
Approximately $2.5 million dollars is spent on the SRO program in Fremont. Is the entire program funded by FPD?
The City of Fremont and FUSD have had a partnership since 1998 for the SRO program.The two agencies have a formal MOU and agreement to share the costs for the program.The total budget for fiscal year 2020/21 is $2.5 million. The unit comprises of six officers and a sergeant.The Unit is fully dedicated to the schools and handles all calls for service on Fremont school campus and surrounding areas if the call involves students.SRO’s also provide security at dances, graduations and sporting events as part of the MOU. For the 2020/21 budget year, FUSD is estimated to be billed for three of the seven positions, costing approximately $838,000.As a result of COVID-19, the City of Fremont has agreed that FUSD will not be required to pay for SRO services during distance learning and physical school closures when SROs are not physically on campus.
Are SROs trained on topics such as child development, the school to prison pipeline, and implicit bias when it comes to students? How are evaluations conducted on SROs?
Our School Resource Officers (SROs) attend the annual NASRO conference, which covers a variety of topics including school safety, active shooter, drugs, implicit bias. The training is the industry standard and best practices for school-based law enforcement. FUSD representatives sit on the formal oral board interviews for the SRO appointments. FUSD provides feedback on each SRO to our department on a continual basis and ongoing open communications take place between FUSD and Fremont Police regarding the program. SROs are Fremont Police employees and are governed by Fremont Police Department policies. Complaints against an SRO are handled the same as any other officer.
What kind of feedback has FPD/City of Fremont received from students and staff at local high schools about the SRO program? Is this information available to the public?
Principals at the high schools, as well as those we work with at the district, are in favor of our School Resource Officers (SRO) program. However, there were some public comments recently made at the Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) School Board Meetings that some felt SROs contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline and have called for the removal of the SRO unit from FUSD.
During the July 29, 2020, FUSD Board Meeting, information was shared regarding a general high school survey with 6,190 students respondents and a specialized survey sent to 30 African American students attending Fremont Schools. When asked, "Do you think SROs belong on FUSD Campuses?" 65.5% of the general public survey respondents are supportive of the SRO program and believes SROs should remain on campus, while 19.9% believe they should not be on campus, and 14.5% preferred not to answer. Respondents to the specialized survey received slightly different questions and gave their experiences with SROs on campus an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5, with 5 being the most positive, whereas their overall ratings for their experiences attending Fremont schools and experiences with school staff were lower at 3.1 and 3.4 respectively. Though these studies may not necessarily represent the entire FUSD population, we are excited that the preliminary findings suggest a very positive relationship between our students and the SROs. Overall, the majority of responders have positive feelings for our SROs and believe they should be on campus. At the same meeting, the Board voted (on item 15.8 Fremont Police Department/School Resource Office Partnership) to evaluate the SRO program relationship with the City of Fremont and direct staff to renegotiate the contract to allow FUSD not pay while under distance learning (The City of Fremont agreed that FUSD will not be required to pay for SRO services during distance learning for COVID-19). We look forward to holding further discussions with the district to improve our SRO program.
The FUSD School Board meeting videos and materials are open and available to the public on their website. We are not currently aware if the school district has published the survey information.
Accountability: Supplies and Equipment
No, the Fremont Police Department does not participate, nor are we in possession of any equipment through the Military’s 1033 Surplus Program.
Does the Fremont Police Department use an armored tank? Is the department militarized with such vehicles?
The Fremont Police Department does not have an armored tank.The department has an armored rescue vehicle, known as a Bear CAT and is 50% owner of an armored medical vehicle, known as a Med CAT in partnership with San Leandro Police Department. The two vehicles are NOT a tank, but rather an armored rescue/medical vehicle on a Ford F550 chassis built specially for municipal law enforcement use.The Bear CAT vehicle is used to transport officers (e.g. SWAT) to and from incidents, some which could be dangerous and to assist with the recovery and protection of civilians and officers during such situations. For example, the vehicle may be used as a protective shield during negations in a hostage situation, armed confrontation, or when a suspect is barricading at a specific location.It’s critical that we have the ability to approach these situations with protection. Please keep in mind that Bear Cats are not tanks — they are vehicles of refuge which serve to protect police and civilians alike. The Bear Cat vehicle in itself is not a militarized weapon and is not capable of attacks. The Med-CAT armored vehicle is fully equipped as a medical transport vehicle and delivers medical aid in emergency situations where field trauma care is needed. This vehicle is operated by the Department’s Trauma Emergency Medical Team, comprising of officers and Fremont firefighters trained and certified as paramedics. These vehicles are only used in situations requiring a higher level of protection and usage is governed by our policy on Armored Rescue Vehicle (Arv) – Lenco Bearcat Medevac.
Fremont Police officers have been wearing outer vests for about 15 years. The vest transfers weight of equipment traditionally worn around the waist from hips to the upper body and helps reduce potential catastrophic back injuries.A 2017/18 study by the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire found that officers who carry most of their equipment — which often weighs close to 30 pounds — on vests rather than duty belts experience significantly less hip and lower-back pain. The vests help to distribute weight more evenly so there is less strain on the hips and lower back. The study also determined that outer vests do not limit the officers’ range of motion or create other issues that would be problematic for the officers from a safety standpoint.
Study Reference:
Accountability: Use of Force and Training
Several years ago, we began sending officers and dispatchers to Crisis Intervention Training (C.I.T.). This training course provides officers with an enhanced understanding of who to handle calls involving persons suffering from mental illness. To date (June 2020) we have sent approximately 75 officers/dispatchers to the training. Class size has been limited to only allowing 2-3 employees at a time.
Yes, all of our use of force training has a de-escalation component.All recent training curriculum can be located here. Some of the training include:
- Racial Profiling/Cultural Diversity:
- May 2018-2 hours POST Update training
- June 2020-2 hours POST Update training
- Use of force/De-Escalation:
- September 2018-Defensive Tactics Training
- February 2019-Defensive Tactics Training
- May 2020- Foot pursuit, pursuit policy update training
- June 2020- Use of force and De-Escalation training
Please refer to the training section on our Accountability Page for a list of additional training received by our officers.
- Racial Profiling/Cultural Diversity:
Does the department have a policy on holding officers who stand by and watch a fellow officer use unnecessary force accountable?
Yes, our officers have a duty to intercede as governed by our use of force policy. We require officers to intervene and report when unreasonable force is observed. FPD Policy 300.2.1 – DUTY TO INTERCEDE states the following: “Any officer present and observing another officer using force that is clearly beyond that which is objectively reasonable under the circumstances shall, when in a position to do so, intercede to prevent the use of unreasonable force. An officer who observes another employee use force that exceeds the degree of force permitted by law should promptly report these observations to a supervisor.” This information is highlighted in our response to #8CANTWAIT.
Has the Police Department adapted its training to cover the new law on use of deadly force that now uses a "necessary" Standard?
Yes, Fremont Police has conducted the review according to AB 392 and our Use of Force Policy has been updated to reflect new standards.We conducted training accordingly in December 2019, the required POST training, and an additional 3-hour training in Summer 2020 (specifically for AB 392 changes in use of force).
What measures besides community complaints does FPD use to assure the diversity and bias training programs are effective?
We maintain, and at times exceed, training standards set forth by POST. POST Guidelines require racial and cultural diversity training every five years.Since 2018, FPD completes the training every two years. Some of the relevant training includes:
- LD 03-Principled Policing in the Community: 26 hours of academy training
- LD 37-People with disabilities: 15 hours of academy training
- LD 42- Cultural Diversity/Discrimination: 16 hours of academy training
- Racial and Cultural Diversity/Racial Profiling-Every 5 years
- May 2018-2 hours POST Update training
- June 2020-2 hours POST Update training
Additional information on training can be found on our Accountability page.
Business Services
The City of Fremont has partnered with BidSync to post, distribute, and then to receive electronic responses to the city’s solicitations. We are excited to utilize this innovative advance in electronic commerce. Please register as a prospective supplier to obtain information on open solicitations from the city.
By registering with BidSync you will be recognized as a supplier that is interested in doing business with the city and you will be able to receive email notices of the city’s bidding opportunities and then respond electronically. There is no charge to receive notices about or respond to the city’s solicitations. By registering with BidSync you will also have access to bidding opportunities from other public sector agencies, if you choose.
Register at BidSync.
Note: The inclusion of the hypertext link to BidSync's website is not intended as an endorsement of any other product or service offered or referenced by BidSync.
Yes. We offer Livescan digital fingerprinting services. The Detention Facility is located at 1990 Stevenson Boulevard, behind the Police Department. Additional information can be obtained from the Fingerprinting Services page.
Communications Center
Stay on the line and let the call-taker know that you made an error. Hanging up will require Communications Center personnel to call you back until they get an answer on the line. This is considered a 9-1-1 disconnect and it is a top priority for police.
Call 9-1-1 when anyone's life is in danger or you are witnessing criminal activity that is currently in progress.
Please call (510) 790-6800, option 3. The non-emergency line would be used for crimes that have already occurred and the suspect is no longer present, suspicious activity, and all other non-urgent matters requiring the assistance of a police officer or community service officer.
If you are the victim of identity theft, a traffic accident, lost property, theft, hit and run, vehicle burglary, harassing phone call, or vandalism and you don't have suspect information, file your report online.
Community Academy
You must be 18 years old or older, a resident of Fremont, and/or work in Fremont. You do not need to be a US citizen.
Future academy sessions will be announced in advance via Nixle, Facebook and Twitter. Once the announcement is made interested parties should complete a Community Academy application online or deliver it to the Fremont Police Department’s Records Unit, located in the front lobby. Applications will be made available on the website when enrollment is available..
The academy and background check are free.
No, all participants are welcome. Participates may elect to not take part in any of the practical exercises.
The first class is mandatory. In addition, participants must commit to 8 of the 9 sessions. In order to get the full benefit of the experience, it is important to be present for all phases.
Community Engagement
Suspicious activity should be reported to the Police Department at the time it is observed. Call (510) 790-6800, option 3. Provide detailed descriptions of person(s), vehicle(s), and activity. All in-progress crimes or emergencies should be reported by calling 9-1-1 from your land line or cell.
All traffic related concerns or questions should be directed to our Traffic Unit at (510) 790-6760.
The Neighborhood Crime Watch signs are installed after the neighborhood meeting facilitated by a Community Engagement Specialist. Once you complete the steps to formalize your group, the signs can be installed. For more information visit the Neighborhood Crime Watch page.
Crime Free
Why should I participate in the Crime Free Program when I don't have any problems on my property and I don't have the time?
No community is immune to crime or violence. The Crime Free Program works with property management and owners to help protect against crime and violence. This is done through free training put on by the Fremont Police Department and constant communication with the PD about crime trends and general issues occurring in our community. The security assessment also aids in crime reduction as well as civil liability. The Crime Free Program also works with property management and owners when a crime does occur on property.
Property managers will see a reduction in crime, better community awareness, increased property values, more attractive neighborhoods, advertisement of participation, and improved quality of life.
The time invested in the Crime Free Program is minimal and can show great impact in rental communities. The first phase (management training) is one eight-hour class that typically takes place during the week. The second phase (security assessment) will normally take 45 minutes to complete. The third phase (resident safety social) is the final phase of the Crime Free Program and can last one to two hours.
Over a several-month period, the 35 fully certified Crime Free properties saw an average decrease in calls for service of 52%, an average decrease in reports of 60%, and an average decrease in arrests of 79%. There are an additional 62 properties in Fremont who participate in the Crime Free Program.
The Crime Free Program has been a huge success in Fremont since its inception in 2008. The rental communities who do participate in the program have seen a number of positive changes to their communities—including a reduction in drug and gang-related crimes and incidents, nuisance complaints, and property crimes.
The Crime Free Program has opened the lines of communication between the Fremont Police Department and management/owners of rental properties. Because of this, managers and residents have not only helped FPD solve several crimes but they have also aided in catching suspects in various types of investigations.
The Crime Free Program was developed by the Mesa Police Department (Arizona) in 1992, and is now an international crime prevention program found in Canada, Puerto Rico, and Japan. The Crime Free Program offers permanent solutions to recurring problems and helps to prevent crime before it happens. Fremont isn't the only city that has seen success with the program; there are over a thousand other cities around the world that have seen great success with it. Several local agencies also recognize the importance of Crime Free and offer the program, including:
- Alameda County Sheriff
- Dublin PD
- Hayward PD
- Pleasanton PD
- San Leandro PD
- San Ramon PD
- Union City PD
Department FAQs
- If you see someone getting hurt
- If you smell smoke or see fire
- If you're not sure you have an emergency
- To get help for someone who is hurt
- We will ask you what happened and where the crime occurred.
- We will ask you if anyone is injured, and if the injured person is in the same location. If the injured person is at a different address we will want to know where they are.
- We will ask you if you know the people involved in the incident.
- We will ask you if there are weapons involved.
- We will ask you for a full description of the people involved in the incident.
- We will ask you for associated vehicle descriptions.
- We will ask you if you want to remain anonymous.
- We may ask you to stay on the phone with us until officers arrive.
No. Dispatchers will always ask for your name in the event the officers would like to contact you, but you do not have to provide it.
Dispatchers are trained to try to get as much information as possible to best determine the nature of the problem. The information provided by callers can assist the officers in determining what they will need in order to keep others safe and out of harm's way.
You can make a police report at any time. The Police Department is a 24-hour operation. If you would like advice from an officer one is available for contact at the Police Department from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Detention Facility
The Detention/Jail Facility is located to the rear of the Police Department, 1990 Stevenson Blvd.
- From I-880 North, take the Stevenson Blvd. exit. Go East on Stevenson Blvd. to the Police Department at 2000 Stevenson Blvd.
- From I-880 South, take the Stevenson Blvd. exit. Go East on Stevenson Blvd. to the Police Department at 2000 Stevenson Blvd.
- From I-680 North, take the Mission Blvd exit. Go left on Stevenson Blvd. to the Police Department at 2000 Stevenson Blvd.
- From I-680 South, take the Mission Blvd exit. Go left on Stevenson Blvd. to the Police Department at 2000 Stevenson Blvd.
The jail visiting hours are:
- Monday through Friday, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Each prisoner will be limited to two 30 minute visits per day, excluding visits with their attorneys, bail bondsmen or physicians. Visitors must be 18 years or older and have a valid form of identification. Minors are permitted to visit their parents when accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
A prisoner has a right to be released on bail unless arrested for an offense where no bail is permitted, or arrested on a warrant or detainer which specifies "No Bail.”
The Fremont Jail will accept bail 24 hours a day in the form of cash, cashier's checks, and surety bonds from a bail bonds person or his/her representative. Personal checks may be accepted from other than the prisoner, but only for misdemeanor charges to be heard in the Fremont Hall of Justice, or warrants issued by that court. A current proof of funds from a bank (e.g. an ATM receipt dated that day), a valid form of identification and a thumb print from the person issuing the check(s) are required.
10% fee in lieu of total bail or a credit card is not accepted.
Prisoners who are in custody on charges to be heard in the Fremont Court and are unable to post bail will be scheduled for the next available court day. Prisoners who are in custody on non-Fremont Court cases and are unable to post bail will be transferred to the Alameda County Jail (Santa Rita) on the next available trip.
Persons arrested on suspicion of being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol are held for at least six (6) hours, or until that person is sober enough to provide for his/her own safety.
39439 Paseo Padre Parkway (at Walnut Avenue)
For any warrant of arrests issued by Fremont Superior Court, you can self-surrender to the Fremont Jail at any time; if you want to appear in court on the same day that you self-surrender, you must come to the Fremont Jail before 6:00 a.m. during court days for booking.
For any warrant of arrests not issued by Fremont Superior Court, you can self-surrender to the Fremont Jail at any time. You will be processed and transferred to Alameda County Jail. The Alameda County Sheriff Department will then transport you to the appropriate court.
If the warrant of arrest is eligible for bail, you have the option to post bail to appear in court at a later date.
During regular visiting schedules, simply come to the jail lobby with a valid form of identification and tell the jailers on duty that you came to pick up property from a prisoner. In the case of an emergency, the jail will release the prisoner's property outside the regular visiting schedules. You will be required to sign the property form acknowledging receipt of the prisoner’s property.
Food or money for prisoners is not accepted by the jail.
On a prisoner's request, an even exchange of clothing is allowed by the jail. A fresh set of clothes will be accepted by the jail if the prisoner's clothing was taken for evidence during the booking process, or if the prisoner did not have any clothing on when he/she got to the jail.
Prescription medication will be accepted by the jail if it does not fall under the types of medication which are prohibited in the jail, if it is properly labeled with the prisoner's name, and if the medication is not in capsule form.
For a court disposition on a prisoner who was sent to the Fremont Court, please call the Marshall's office at (925) 795-2590.
Most prisoners who are sent to court are not returned to the jail. The prisoners are either released from court or remanded into custody at Santa Rita (Alameda County Jail). Santa Rita's telephone number is (925) 551-6500.
All first time 290 PC (sex offenders) registrants to the City of Fremont must first meet for interview with the detectives assigned to CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS INVESTIGATIONS before coming to the jail to register. Please call (510) 790-6949 to schedule an appointment.
For annual/monthly 290 PC registration and any other updates, please call (510) 790-6942 to schedule an appointment.457.1 PC (Arson) registrants must first meet for interview with the detectives assigned to CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS INVESTIGATIONS before coming to the jail to register. Please call (510) 790-6949 to schedule an appointment.
11590 HS (Narcotics Offender) registrants are not required to interview with the detectives, but must provide acceptable form of identification and documents from the court or form SS-8048 from Department of Probation or Parole in order to expedite the registration.
DFR - Drone as First Responder
- UAV is an Unmanned Aerial System and is commonly called a drone. A drone is an aerial device with an onboard computer operated remotely – generally by a pilot on the ground – using a handheld controller. Small drones are battery-operated, weigh less than 55 pounds, have four rotors like a quad-copter, and are equipped with a video camera.
UAVs are deployed for the following reasons:
- Public safety and life preservation missions, including barricaded suspects, hostage situations, active shooters, apprehension of armed and dangerous fleeing suspects, and high-risk search warrants
- Mass casualty events
- Lost or missing persons
- Rescue events
- Disaster response and recovery
- Suspected explosive devices
- Fire suppression or investigation
- Hazardous material releases
- Post-incident crime scene preservation and documentation
- Pursuant to a search warrant
- Special Events
- When there is probable cause to believe that the UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) will record images of a place, thing, condition, or event and that those images tend to show a felony has been committed or tends to show that a particular person has committed a felony.
- Anytime a UAS would enhance public safety, improve operational safety, incident stabilization, or incident mitigation as determined by the authorizing person
- Anti-UAV operations when a person is operating a UAV in a manner that impedes emergency personnel who, in the course of their duties, are coping with an emergency (refer to Penal Code § 402(a)1)
- Training missions
- Mutual Aid support when the underlying mission meets the uses outlined in the policy (Policy 614)
Fremont Police Department officers and Fremont Fire Department firefighters have been training with a software system (DroneSense) that allows our current UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) systems to be operated as DFR (also known as Drone as First Responder). The concept of DFR is different from traditional drone programs. Instead of launching a drone after an officer/firefighter is already on scene, UAVs are deployed from fixed locations throughout the city and respond immediately to emergencies as soon as they come into the emergency dispatch center.
Under the DFR model, UAVs are dispatched just like officers or other first responders that are on patrol, often arriving on-scene within two minutes. Once there is a call into 9-1-1, a remote pilot can dispatch the drone autonomously from any location (in this instance, Parkway Towers-39906 Fremont Blvd) to the incident location through the DroneSense software.
Upon arriving on scene, the remote pilot can take complete control of the aircraft and its camera/ sensors (using a keyboard and controller), providing a live video feed and valuable situational awareness of the incident to key stakeholders. When the appropriate response is implemented, and the call is cleared, the remote pilot clicks a button, and the drone autonomously returns to the landing site, where the RPIC (remote pilot in command) can prepare it for the next call.
The intent of the program is to improve incident response times, increase officer/firefighter safety, increase de-escalation outcomes, and become a force multiplier to public safety with increased actionable intelligence. The information DFR relays helps drive the best response to an incident, including determining the best tools, tactics, and resources necessary to safely mitigate a problem -often before units even arrive on scene.
- Helicopters and other manned aircraft (air support) are very expensive to operate. Currently, FPD relies on the Alameda County Sheriff’s Department and other local agencies for air support. UAVs can be used in a variety of ways that supplement mutual aid air support requests in a cost-effective and efficient manner, like the DFR aerial intelligence-led emergency response. Additionally, UAVs can traditionally perform 33% of the missions that a traditional air support unit can perform at a fraction of the cost.
- All FPD UAS pilots are subject to FAA regulations related to airspace use, and all must have a valid “Part 107” Remote Pilot License. UAS pilots are also subject to the FPD Policy on UAS Operations.
- In addition to the training and study required to maintain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License, all FPD UAV Unit members train regularly in a variety of locations and settings to ensure operational efficiency. All members must pass a qualification standard set by the United States Department of Commerce- National Institute of Science and Technology. The Unit is an active member and participant of the Airborne Public Safety Association (APSA). All training is documented, FPD maintains the records, and are subject to review by the FAA.
Can foreign countries gain access to FPD’s drone data or information through a drone’s built-in software?
No. Our drone data does not utilize the onboard software from the drone manufacturer. From the outset of our program, we have used an encrypted, US-based software program to bypass the drone manufacturer’s systems. Our data is encrypted and is stored on US-based servers that meet federal requirements for confidential law enforcement databases.- The intent of the DFR Program is to enhance FPD’s response to emergency calls for service. As such, drones are used during an active response to an emergency or other call for police assistance. FPD policy strictly prohibits drone operators from intentionally recording or transmitting images of any location where a person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside private buildings, except where authorized by a warrant issued by a judge or in emergency situations.
- Video and photos collected by UAS are stored for the purposes of conducting police investigations and subsequent prosecutions. Accordingly, videos and photos are generally accessible to police investigators for official use only. Like all police records, video and photos may also be subject to additional release under the same rules and restrictions as BWC video and other items of evidence. Generally, UAS photos and videos are considered part of the investigative record. They are not available to the public under the California Public Records Act (CPRA) or Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Please refer to the FPD Policy on Portable Audio/Video Recorders for more details.
- All video and photo evidence taken during any UAS mission is stored in the same manner and location as Body Worn Camera (BWC) video and other investigative evidence. FPD stores all digital evidence through a private “cloud” service, Evidence.com. The service is authorized and certified under state and federal regulations for the security and protection of confidential information and is available only for official law enforcement purposes. Evidence is stored and saved for a limited time (less than a year) unless categorized as evidence in an actual crime or formal investigation. Then it is stored for a period of time consistent with all other evidence retention schedules.
Anyone may email the UAV Unit Sergeant directly Ken Kwok. In addition, anyone may make a service complaint via the Office of Professional Standards and Accountability:
1) Via email to: internalaffairs@fremont.gov
2)Via phone call to 510-790-6900
For more FAQs related to UAS, please visit the Federal Aviation Administration’s FAQ page
For more FAQs related to DFR, please visit the Federal Aviation Administration’s FAQ page.
File a Police Report
No, if the crime took place outside the City of Fremont, please call the police department for that city unless you are reporting Identity Theft. Identity Theft can be reported no matter what city it occurred in.
If the crime took place on a state freeway, please call the California Highway Patrol office nearest you.
A known suspect is when you (or someone you know) have information on who the person is that committed the crime and where to find this person, and/or when you have the license plate number of the suspect's vehicle.
Identity Theft
If you live or work in the city of Fremont and you believe you have suffered from Identity Theft or a financial scam, you can file a police report to document the incident and possibly begin an investigation.
You can come to the Fremont Police Department at 2000 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont or you can call our Dispatch Unit at (510) 790-6800, option 3 to report the incident to an Officer.
Most ID Theft and Fraud reports are filed with using the Fremont Police online report service to document the incident.
I reported my crime to my financial institution or credit card company. Should I still make a police report?
Yes, the bank and credit card companies will not contact the police department, and we will only know about the incident if you report it to us. It’s best to document ID Theft crimes with a police report as well as filing an ID Theft report with the Federal Trade Commission.
No, cases are assigned based upon a variety of factors. The supporting documents provide more information and allow us to request evidence from other sources. Ultimately, we will need specific information to obtain evidence from the companies. Keep copies of notification letters, financial statements, full credit card or account numbers, checks (both sides), etc, so we have all the information we need to further investigate your case.
Most financial institutions/credit card companies require that we send in an authorization signed by the victim before they will give us any information. You can use the Fremont Police Department Fraud document: 530.8 PC Release Form to designate us as your agent for further investigation. We need a signed form for each company we contact for documentation.
Video evidence is essential when it is available. However, businesses only retain the video for a limited amount of time, usually 14-60 days. Victims should report the crime as soon as possible or we may not review your case until that evidence has been eliminated.
You can add a supplement to your original online report. Follow the prompts and be sure to click the supplemental button, and put in your report number for your original report that was filed online. You may also add to a report that was not originally done online. Just check the supplemental box that says: “You are adding information to a previous report, which was reported to an officer.”
You can call the Fremont Police Records Unit (510) 790-6860 or the Investigations Unit (510) 790-6900.
You will not get a call by a detective unless the case is assigned and the detective needs additional information from you.
The Financial Crimes Unit does not have sufficient staff to assign every case. The supervisor reviews reports to determine if a case will be assigned. Factors that are considered are dollar loss, if the crime is involved in a crime pattern, if the suspect is known or likely to be identified, and if there are investigative leads.
If you sent money to another country, the Fremont Police Department cannot investigate. The Federal Trade Commission has a relationship with some countries and they will share this information with them. Report international crimes.
Yes! You should check out these sites and others for more information about what to do first and what to do next as the victim of Identity Theft and Fraud related crimes:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC) ID Theft website has reporting resources as well as step-by-step instructions on what to do. This includes links to credit reporting bureaus, information about obtaining your FREE credit reports, how to place a fraud alert or a credit freeze, sample letters to send to merchants/financial entities, etc.
- If the Internet or computer was used to facilitate any crime, please report the crime to the Internet Crime Complaint Center. This database is operated by the FBI. They will also provide crime pattern information to local agencies. If the crime is part of a nationwide pattern, the FBI can choose to investigate the crime. Report your internet crime here.
- The ID Theft Center offers excellent information and resources.
- The California Department of Justice offers great information about ID theft cases, fraud crimes and resources for victims.
- If you believe you are a victim of a tax scam, contact the IRS to file a report and obtain more information
- If you think someone is using your Social Security Number to file a tax return, get a job or get credit in your name, report it to the Social Security Administration.
- If you think your driver license number has been stolen, contact the California DMV.
There are so many useful websites that offer information on how to identify a scam and how to protect yourself. Please use the links from the listed government sites as well as doing your own Internet search. The more you know, the harder it is to fall for a scam – no matter how good the fraudster is.
Investigations
If it is a case assigned to a detective, call the Investigations Unit main line at (510) 790-6900. If assigned to an officer, contact the main line at (510) 790-6560 and Records Unit will direct you appropriately.
If the loss from the fraud/theft is $950 or more, and you have additional information (such as an IP address, suspect identification, suspect name, etc.), you should file an online police report which will be reviewed by a Detective from the Investigations Unit. If the reviewing Detective determines there is sufficient information to warrant further investigation, the Detective will contact you. File a report online.
Contact the Records Unit at (510) 790-6560.
Contact the main jail line at (510) 790-6703.
Contact the main line at (510) 790-6800, and the front desk will find the officer who has the child or will contact Dispatch to find out.
My son (a juvenile) was arrested a while ago, and I haven't received any mail on the status of his arrest. How do I get this information?
Contact the Crimes Against Persons Secretary at the main Investigations line (510) 790-6900 to check case status.
I was on the Megan's Law website and saw my neighbor is a registrant. I would like to find out more information.
Call the main Investigation line at (510) 790-6900, and they will advise you about scheduling an appointment with a detective.
Main
Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.
Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.
Missing Persons
There is no waiting period, you may file the report immediately.
Do duplicate reports need to be filed with all the police agencies in cities the missing person visits / works?
No, the missing person is entered into the nationwide Missing and Unidentified Persons System.
Yes, the report will be sent to the appropriate law enforcement agency where the person resides for follow-up.
Mobile Evaluation Team (MET)
The Mobile Evaluation Team (MET) was created in 2017, in response to an increase in mental health related calls for service. This team currently consists of one sergeant, two officers, and one community service officer, all trained in mental health issues and crisis intervention. These specially trained officers are paired with a clinician to provide enhanced services to those experiencing mental health crises and/or homelessness.
Personnel
Applicant must be 20 1/2 years of age at time of filing, and 21 years of age at time of appointment.
Applicants must have graduated from high school, or the equivalent.
Police Officers must be U.S. Citizens. A permanent resident alien who desires employment as a Police Officer must be eligible for and have applied for citizenship.
Professional Standards & Accountability
The City of Fremont, and your Police Department, prides itself on being responsive to the needs and concerns of all citizens and guests of our community. Compliments, complaints, and criticisms of our services are accepted as meaningful indications of the job we are doing, and provide us with the information necessary to serve you better.
While we strive to provide service of the highest quality, we realize that with our high volume of public contact, coupled with the nature of our task, not everyone may be completely satisfied. Additionally, not all people will clearly understand the reasons for actions taken by police employees. However, we also recognize that many citizens will be grateful for the service provided and look for a way to express their gratitude.
The information presented is designed to help all members of the community have a better understanding of the process of complimenting an employee, or filing a complaint. Additionally, the page will explain what the Police Department will do to investigate your complaint.
You may have had contact with a Police Department employee where their conduct or actions, in your opinion, did not rise to the level of a formal complaint. You may feel a need to discuss the employee's behavior with us, but do not want any further involvement with the matter.
There are times when the actions of an employee may appear to be inappropriate, but are procedurally and legally correct. This happens sometimes with issues of search and seizure, or self-incrimination warnings (miranda admonitions). We invite you to ask these types of questions, and we will seek to respond quickly to your inquiry. Usually, this can be done by the supervisor or watch commander.
A complaint is any dissatisfaction, grievance, accusation, or allegation, which if true will adversely affect the department's efficiency and its relationship with you, the public.
Any person who witnessed an incident, who feels the Police Department treated him or her in an adverse manner, or has direct or well founded knowledge of inappropriate actions by any police employee, may make a complaint.
View our Compliment & Complaint Procedure.
Property & Evidence
An appointment is required for property pick-up. Please call (510) 790-6920 to set up a day / time.
Unclaimed property is sent to California Auction Company:
If the gun can legally be released, you must first obtain a clearance letter from the Department of Justice (DOJ). You can access their form online at the DOJ website, or we can send you a print copy in the mail. The process can take four to eight weeks. The clearance letter (confirming that you can legally possess a firearm) is valid for 30 days. You must make an appointment to retrieve your firearm before the letter expires. You must also bring a locking container for handguns. Ammo is not released at the same time as guns.
Contact the Property & Evidence Division at (510) 790-6920.
Records Unit
Reports are usually ready for pick up within five to ten business days. Please call ahead to make sure your report is ready and available - (510) 790-6860, or for your convenience, you may Email Us and provide the following information:
- Date of birth
- Date, time, and location of occurrence
- Name
- Report Number
- Type of Report (e.g. traffic accident, crime, or other)
Copies of releasable crime reports are available to authorized parties. Government Code 6254 and case law restricts the supplying of police reports in certain circumstances. Once a crime report is filed with the District Attorney's Office, suspects, victims, and other interested parties should contact the Alameda County Superior Court - Fremont Hall of Justice, District Attorney's Office at (510) 795-2500 for additional information.
To purchase a copy of a releasable crime report, you must complete an Application for Release of Information request form or visit our Records Unit Monday through Friday from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm.
The Police Department lobby is open to the public Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and closed on City-observed holidays.
You may return the form by faxing it to the Records Unit at (510) 790-6831, or drop it off at the front desk in the lobby area.
If your request meets the criteria for release of disclosable public records, it will be available for purchase (upon receipt of the form) within 10 days of receipt of request.
For information about the status of your request, please contact the Records Unit at (510) 790-6860.
Please Note: Effective April 5, 2017, a fee of $16 is charged for each report.
All police reports cost $16 each. You may pay cash, check, or credit card (MasterCard or Visa). No check-cards or ATM cards are accepted.
Call the Fremont Hall of Justice, Traffic Division at (510) 818-7502 for the fine amounts. You may either mail the payment to the courthouse or take it to the courthouse.
39439 Paseo Padre Parkway
Fremont CA 94538
(on the corner of Paseo Padre Parkway and Walnut Avenue)You may also pay your fine online.
Call the Fremont Police Department Records Unit at (510) 790-6860 for assistance.
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Go to the courthouse and get a copy of the ticket.
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Bring the citation to any law enforcement agency with your vehicle, and someone will sign off the ticket.
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Return the ticket to the courthouse (either by mail or in person):
39439 Paseo Padre Parkway
Fremont CA 94538
(on the corner of Paseo Padre Parkway and Walnut Avenue)
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To locate your vehicle the following information is needed:
- Vehicle license plate or VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) number
- Registered owner's name and address
- Year of vehicle and vehicle make
- Last known location of vehicle
Then call the police department at (510) 790-6800.
If your vehicle was towed for anything other than being involved in a traffic accident or a recovered stolen vehicle, the fee is $105 and payable at the time of release. There will be additional fees from the tow company for their services.
Yes, but the following is required:
- A letter with your signature authorizing the person to pick up your vehicle
- A copy of your driver's license or identification card
- The person picking up the vehicle release must have a valid driver's license
This section is in regards to your impounded or stored vehicle (including 30 day towed vehicles).
If you disagree with your vehicle being towed by Fremont Police Department's staff, you may file an online protest or call the Tow Hearing Official at (510) 790-6899.
I want to buy a house in a certain neighborhood. How can I find out what kind of crimes have occurred there?
You may go to the Crime Statistics page or Sexual Offender Locator page on our website. There you will see the reported crimes for your desired location and the general locations where sexual offenders reside.
In Alameda County, court orders are dealt with in person at the Hayward Hall of Justice.
The Hayward Hall of Justice is located at 24405 Amador St, Hayward, CA, 94544 and can be called at (510) 690-2700.
For more information and additional directions, visit our page on restraining orders.
Call the Hayward Hall of Justice at (510) 690-2700.
By calling the Records Unit of the police department at (510) 790-6860, we can confirm if there is an active warrant with the City of Fremont.
You may self-surrender at the Fremont City Detention / Jail Facility, Monday through Friday before 8:30 am, holidays excluded.
You may also post bail at the Fremont City Detention/Jail Facility anytime. Please call (510) 790-6703 for assistance.
Fremont City Detention/Jail Facility
1990 Stevenson Blvd
Fremont, CA 94538No.
Reserve Officer Program
Yes. Pay rates depend upon the level of training / qualifications and specific assignment.
Reserve officers must average approximately 20 hours per month. Specific work hours are most often flexible.
School Resource Unit
Even though School Resource Officers are assigned to their respective campuses, they are full-time police officers. They are expected to assist in any emergency situation that might occur in the city.
The Fremont Police School Resource Officer program has the officer working five days a week. Any overtime they incur is put into a compensatory time bank which allows them to take off school breaks and summer vacation. They are required to work two weeks of summer school. If they choose to work through the summer, they are normally assigned to the Patrol Division.
School Resource Officers investigate crimes. School Resource Officers are governed by law and police policy regarding juvenile dispositions. While oftentimes school and police investigations will overlap, the school district has a separate discipline matrix that it follows.
Stay Connected
I'd like to send a photo or video to the Fremont Police Department that contains possible suspicious activity, who do I send it to?
Please send all photos and videos to the Fremont Police Department.
They are monitored during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and occasionally after hours.
Please do not use our social media sites to report a crime. All emergencies should be reported by calling 9-1-1 or our non-emergency number (510) 790-6800, option 3.
Task Force
For any emergency situations, call 9-1-1 for an immediate response from patrol personnel. The Task Force will be contacted by the appropriate agency regarding the incident and will follow up with the investigation.
The Task Force responds to assist patrol personnel when major gang or drug crimes are involved. Additionally, the Task Force is responsible for gang violence suppression, disrupting drug operations, marijuana cultivation investigations, and drug lab investigations.
All Task Force detectives are specially trained in investigating major gang and drug crimes. These types of crimes often travel outside of the individual cities' jurisdictions. By combining the resources of each participating agency, the Task Force is able to function as a self-contained unit capable of responding to various jurisdictions to investigate these crimes.
Tow Hearing
Please leave your information on the tow line at (510) 790-6899. The line is checked throughout the day. Please include your name and telephone, license plate, and police report numbers. The second way is to fill out a Impound Hearing Request.
The tow hearing officer only deals with City of Fremont tows. For example, if an apartment complex hires a tow company, the tow hearing officer does not have jurisdiction on those tows. A person's recourse is to go through the tow company or property owner. If the registered owner feels that the tow was invalid and an agreement cannot be reached, they can take them to small claims court.
The tow hearing officer deals with the tow. If you believe the tickets were not properly issued, follow the process listed on the ticket to contest it.
Yes, the Records Division is only open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday. A tow hearing might not occur the same day when you leave your message. Tow fees will accumulate. If the vehicle was towed improperly, you will be reimbursed.
If your vehicle was stolen / recovered or towed during an accident, you do not need a vehicle release. If in doubt, call FPD records to verify.
The release is $105.
The registered owner of the impounded vehicle is responsible for all towing, storage, lien, and release fees.
Your vehicle was impounded because you or another person who was driving your vehicle has:
- A revoked driver license
- A suspended driver license
- Never been issued a driver license
The registered owner can also be cited for allowing an unlicensed driver to drive their vehicle. Here are some common circumstances:
I let 'so and so' drive. I didn't know his or her license was not valid.
If it's your vehicle, it's your responsibility. Under section 14604 CVC, the owner of a vehicle has a duty to ensure the person driving their vehicle possesses a valid license. If you allow or permit anyone, including your spouse, child, friend or relative to drive your vehicle and that person does not have a valid license, you will be responsible for towing and storage fees. You will not have access to your vehicle for 30 days.He or she took the car without my permission.
To say that someone has taken your car without your permission is not a valid excuse. Ask yourself how this happened. Have you allowed this person to use your car in the past? Do they have access to your vehicle? Did you ask to see their license?To say that someone without a valid license has taken your vehicle without your knowledge or permission, is in fact, cause for a stolen vehicle report to be filed. That person will be arrested for vehicle theft and prosecuted for that crime.
What if I don't agree with the officer who impounded my car?
The registered owner may request a post-storage hearing. It is a review of the tow as provided for in the California Vehicle Code. This is an administrative review to determine whether the officer had reasonable cause to tow the vehicle.I am the owner of the car and I have a valid license.
This law follows the driver of the vehicle at the time it was towed. The hold will be lifted if the driver obtains a valid license prior to the end of the 30 days (The driver's license status is what determines the hold). The registered owner should come to the police department for a release once the driver of their vehicle acquires a valid license. The fact that you, the owner, have a valid license is not relevant.
Traffic - Parking
Cars parked for more than 72 hours are considered an abandoned vehicle and should be reported to the Traffic Unit, For more information and to report, visit: Vehicle Abatement | Fremont Police Department, CA
Transportation Engineering has additional details regarding illegal parking on this document.
Vehicle Abatement: Issues with abandoned vehicles and/or illegally parked vehicles are handled by the Police Traffic Unit at (510) 790-6760. or using the form Traffic Complaint Form | Fremont Police Department, CA.
Parking/illegal parking is defined by Fremont Municipal Code Chapter 10.05 Article X - XI, and is further subjected to the California Vehicle Code regulations.
In short, on a public street a vehicle may be stopped or parked within 18 inches of the curb facing in the direction of traffic movement unless signs are in place prohibiting such stopping or standing.
On a a public street in a residential neighborhood, parked vehicles should not block any public driveways. On a private driveway, the property owner may permit vehicle parking if the vehicle is parked parallel to the driveway, subject to all other conditions listed by the Fremont Municipal Code and California Vehicle Code. A vehicle cannot park perpendicular to a private driveway, even with the property owner's permission. Any car parked perpendicular to a driveway is considered illegal parking and is subject to citation.
Traffic - Red Light Camera Program
When a driver facing a steady circular red signal or a steady red arrow signal fails to make a complete stop at or before the limit line before entering an intersection.
The red light program staff and/or the Traffic Commissioner (if contested) will review the video in order to determine that a violation has occurred. A citation is issued when a vehicle passes the crosswalk limit lines and enters the intersection on a red light (regardless of turning direction) without making a complete stop.
The 4 photographs are still images. There is a 12 second video of your violation that will show the movement of your vehicle through the red light.
If the date of your violation is within the last 60 days, you can log onto www.photonotice.com (City code: FRM). You may also view the violation images and video at the Fremont Police Department at 2000 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont, CA 94538, by appointment only. Please call (510) 790-6622 to schedule an appointment.
You gave permission, along with fingerprinting, when you obtained your California Driver License.
In California, it is legal to make a right turn on red, unless there is a sign stating otherwise. However, you must come to a complete stop before you make the turn. California Vehicle Code section 21453 (b) states “Except when a sign is in place prohibiting a turn, a driver, after stopping as required by subdivision (a), may turn right.”
Slowing down is not the same as stopping. Your vehicle must come to a stop. California vehicle code section 587 defines “Stop or stopping” when prohibited shall mean any cessation of movement of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the direction of a police officer or official traffic control device or signal.
First, you should make sure to read all of the instructions and information you have received with your violation notice. (Refer to Instruction Page). The Nomination/Affidavit portion on the back of your citation or notice has the boxes to check and places to fill in the required information. Please include proof of sale or release of liability. Be sure to sign it and mail it back to:
Redflex Traffic Systems, Inc.
Traffic Enforcement Office
P.O. Box 42034
Phoenix, AZ 85080If the driver is a friend or family member, enclose a photocopy of their driver license whenever possible or provide the driver license number. Please include a phone number where we can contact you if needed.
Providing accurate and complete nomination information can facilitate the process of removing your responsibility for the citation.
You may have your license suspended, not be able to renew your driver license or re-register your vehicle, and possibly face additional collection fees and fines.
The City of Fremont Public Works Department is responsible for ensuring that the traffic signal timing, including the yellow light timing, meets the requirements outlined in the CA Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Staff from both the PD Red Light Camera Unit and Public Works Department visits each intersection quarterly to confirm the yellow light timing meets MUTCD standards. Cal Trans is responsible for Mission Blvd.
The fine starts at $490. The amount is set by the State of California, not the City of Fremont or the Fremont Police Department.
The court offers payment plans or community service. Contact the Fremont Hall of Justice for more information on payment options.
You can appear at your arraignment in court and request a trial by written declaration or you can telephone the court ahead of time and request a trial by written declaration form. Fill out the form with a check for the bail amount and mail it back to the court before the due date
Yes, but only if you have not been cited within the last 18 months (ticket to ticket). The ability to attend traffic school may be denied by the Traffic Commissioner if you contest the citation and are found guilty in court. The traffic school option is not available to drivers possessing a commercial driver license.
Contact the Fremont Police Department Red Light Camera Unit at 510-790-6622
Training
- Attendance and successful graduation from a basic police academy (Approximately six months long)
- Attendance of an in-house academy (approximately three to four weeks long)
- Successful completion of the Field Training Program (approximately four to five months long)
How long does it take to train a police officer from the time they are hired to the time they are able to perform their duties as a police officer?
It takes approximately one year of training before a police officer is ready to perform their duties on their own.
Why do you continue to train Police Department personnel even though they are able to perform their job?
Like the athletes who continue to train and practice to be the best at what they do, so train the employees who work for the Fremont Police Department.
Truck Route Enforcement
No. Automall Pkwy is restricted to trucks over 5 tons (10,000 lbs.). Truck drivers commonly use Automall Pkwy to transition between I-680 and I-880. Violators are subject to a citation.
What is the proper truck route to transition between I-680 and I-880 without driving thru Automall Pkwy?
I-680/Mission Bl/Warm Springs Bl Exit, I-680/Mission Bl north Exit to Stevenson Bl, I-880/Mission Bl/Warm Springs Bl (SR262) Exit, I-880/Stevenson Bl Exit to Mission Bl south or thru Niles Canyon Rd (SR84).
My GPS device or my company told me to go this way and I didn’t know it’s not a truck route. I also didn’t see the truck route signs. I have been going this way for years. Why am I getting a citation?
It is ultimately the driver’s responsibility to be aware of designated or restricted truck routes. Most GPS devices do not automatically display restricted truck routes within a city. Pay close attention to restricted truck route signs on the freeway and on city streets. PRE-PLAN YOUR TRIP.
No. The same rules apply for all local commercial trucks, except as stated in FMC 3-2708.
Yes. A State over-sized load permit alone is not enough to drive thru City of Fremont streets.
Volunteer
Complete the Adult Application or Teen Volunteer Application and either deliver it or mail it to:
Fremont Police Department
Volunteer Coordinator
2000 Stevenson Blvd.
Fremont, CA 94538If there are openings comparable to the position you are interested in, the volunteer coordinator will contact you.
Yes. All volunteers at the Fremont Police Department are subject to a complete background investigation prior to beginning volunteer services.
About Us » About Fremont Police
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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