The Patrol Division responds to all calls for police service placed to the Department, either through the 911 system, or through non-emergency phones. The patrol deputies handle the initial investigations of thefts, burglaries, robberies, assaults, and all other felony, misdemeanor, and public service calls. Upon completion of the initial investigation, the case is either suspended, continued to the Investigations Division, closed by arrest, referred to the District Attorney for review/prosecution, or unfounded.

The Palm Desert Police Department supports and promotes the concept of Community Oriented Policing. This is accomplished by the assignment of officers to regular beat assignments, providing state-of-the-art equipment and training, and adequate staffing to handle approximately 100 calls for service received daily. The Palm Desert Police Department also operates two off-site Police Sub-Stations. One sub-station is located at 42-305 Washington St., Suite E to provide easier access to police services to the residents and business patrons for the east side of the city and our second substation is located at 72-990 Hwy 111.

The Palm Desert Police Contract consists of 78 sworn deputy sheriff's positions. 36 of these positions are dedicated to the patrol division with the remaining deputies dedicated to special assignments such as the Traffic Division, Special Enforcement Teams, School Resource Officer, and Narcotics Enforcement. The deputy sheriff's positions are further supported by sworn supervision and administration. (see Org. Chart) The police contract also contains several non-sworn support positions to assist with the daily operation of the station and to support field services. Together, they are able to provide professional service to the citizens of Palm Desert.