The "Officer in Charge" – Wilmington PD

Course Facts

• Instructor: Superintendent Lanita Cullinane, Boston PD
• Date: October 7, 2026
• Location: Wilmington Police Department
• Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
• Price: $199.00 USD

Course Overview

The First Line Supervisor role represents a vital position within law enforcement organizations. When a formal supervisor is unavailable, many police departments rely on the senior officer present to assume the Officer in Charge designation. This individual manages personnel direction and maintains supervisory control throughout their shift, while simultaneously functioning as a crucial conduit between command leadership and field personnel. This course combines presentations, practical demonstrations, and collaborative classroom discussion to equip OICs with essential knowledge and competencies for excelling in their supervisory responsibilities.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The First Line Supervisor is one of the most important positions in any Police Department. In the absence of a formal supervisor, many Police Departments throughout the Country utilize the Senior Officer on shift as the "Officer in Charge". The OIC is responsible for directing personnel and providing supervisory oversight for their shift. They also serve as a critical communication link between the upper command staff and patrol officer. Through lecture, demonstration and class interaction, this course will assist the OIC as they develop in their roles and responsibilities as shift supervisor.

TOPICS INCLUDE

• Roles and Responsibilities of the "Officer in Charge"
• Transitioning from Patrol to "Officer in Charge"
• Accountability
• Liability
• Leadership
• Motivation
• Communication
• Conflict Resolution
• Reviewing Reports
• Peer Support
• High Risk Low Frequency Policy Review