Abstract
One of the major goals of this study was to determine how well reserves perform in a highly intense and complex environment, while having a limited amount of time available to gain necessary skills and build a sufficient knowledge base. Data establishing the foundation for this study came from literary sources, and a 22- question survey received from 67 police departments and Offices of the Sheriff in California, that served to measure reserve officer training, utilization, and performance. The results of research conducted indicate reserves receive sufficient training to perform their duties, and a majority of agencies believe that Reserves handle routine functions as well as full-time officers, but experience and aptitude play the most significant role during incidents. Almost all agencies surveyed assign reserves to patrol, special events, and DUI checkpoints, while about half assign them to traffic enforcement, traffic control, and crime scene security. There are a variety of other specialized units that reserves work in (detectives, bike unit, search and rescue, etc.), but smaller percentages of agencies assign their reserves to these areas. It is recommended that reserve coordinators regularly evaluate where it is best to assign their officers, and maintain open lines of communication, so that performance along all levels can be discussed with the officer.