§ 19-1-201. POLICE OFFICERS.

(a)

Powers and duties. A police officer is a peace officer who has the same powers, with respect to criminal and civil matters and the enforcement of related laws, as the powers possessed by sheriffs, constables, police, and peace officers at common law and by statute or ordinance.

(b)

Training. A police officer shall receive the training required by the State Police Training Commission and additional training in law enforcement, community relations, and related subjects as determined by the County Chief of Police.

(c)

Probationary period. The probationary period for a newly appointed police officer is 2 years from the date of appointment.

(d)

Suspensions. A police officer may be suspended as provided in:

(1)

The state's Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights; or

(2)

Special Rule 6B of the Personnel Rules for Police and Fire Departments.

(e)

Rules. A police officer shall comply with the rules adopted by the Chief of Police regarding attendance, conduct, training, discipline, and procedure.

(f)

Immunities and defenses. The Chief and all police officers shall have and enjoy all the immunities of defense available to sheriffs, constables, police, and peace officers in any suit, civil or criminal, brought against them in consequence of acts or omissions done in the course of their official duties.

(g)

Salary. A police officer shall be paid a salary as specified in the county classification and compensation plan and as provided in the budget.

(h)

Pensions and retirement.

(1)

A police officer employed by the Department before October 1, 1959, may be entitled to the benefits of the "Policemen's Special Fund of Baltimore County" as formerly provided in the code.

(2)

A member of the Department employed by the Department on or after October 1, 1959, may be entitled to the benefits of the "Employees' Retirement System of Baltimore County" as provided in the code.

(1988 Code, § 27-4) (Bill No. 169, § 2, 1-26-1990; Bill No. 96-00, § 2, 7-1-2004; Bill No. 73-03, § 32, 7-1-2004)