Includes bibliographical references and index.

Knowing the rural community -- Role of the rural police officer -- Managing the rural police agency -- Selecting and training the rural police officer -- Patrolling the rural community -- Procedural law on the rural road -- Investigating crime in the rural community -- Succeeding in the rural police subculture.

The majority of law enforcement agencies in the United States employ less than 25 officers. Most of these agencies are found in our rural communities where officers and deputies often patrol vast areas with little or no backup, less than up-to-date equipment, and limited opportunities for in-service training. This handbook provides readers with procedures and tactics to perform their duties with competence and professionalism while keeping their own safety in mind. Major topics include: The role of the police officer; procedural law; patrol procedures; management and supervision; criminal investigation; selection and training; community relations; and police subculture.