The Denver Police Department (DPD) is the full service police department jointly for the City and County of Denver, Colorado, which provides police services to the entire county, including Denver International Airport, and may provide contractual security police service to special districts within the county. The police department is within the Denver Department of Public Safety, which also includes the Denver Sheriff Department and Denver Fire Department. The DPD was established in 1859. The current police chief is Ron Thomas. The Patrol Division is made up of 6 patrol districts. Within each patrol district, there are up to 3 different sectors. Each sector is made up of numerous precincts. Each precinct has one patrol car with 1–2 officers assigned it. Officers assigned to patrol work four 10-hour shifts. Recruits begin the DPD Academy as a recruit officer. Upon graduation, officers are classified as "police officer 4th class." After the completion of 3 years of service, officers are classified as "police officer 1st class." Specialized units Denver Police Department Mounted Patrol S.W.A.T. Special Weapons And Tactics The SWAT Team deals with hostage negotiation, drug busts and counter-terrorism METRO SWAT operates 2 LENCO Bear Cats and a new Freightliner Command Post AIR SUPPORT UNIT (1) Bell 407 http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/29625574/detail.html AIR1 over Denver. HALO (High Activity Location Observation) Program The HALO Program is a collaborative effort between Denver Police, community groups and local businesses. Established in 2006, the program utilizes networked video cameras through surveillance to deter crime and enhance public safety through faster response to incidents. Monitored locations include high-traffic intersections, areas where drug activity and street crime are prevalent, and public facilities and parks. Cameras are also used to protect tourist sites, healthcare facilities and areas with homeland security importance. Mobile cameras are used to help manage crime hotspots. Police point to successes, including HALO's help in controlling major drug and street crime issues on notorious East Colfax Avenue. Denver Police Department decorations Denver Police Medal of Honor Denver Police Medal of Valor Denver Police Distinguished Service Cross Denver Police Purple Heart Denver Police Life Saving Medal Denver Police Star Award Denver Police Merit Award Denver Police Leadership Award Denver Police Community Service Award Denver Police Campaign Medal Physical Fitness Award Chief's Unit Citation Official Commendations Citizens Appreciate Police District TOP COP Award Rank Structure and Insignia Demographics Breakdown of the makeup of the rank and file of DPD as of the