The Patrol Section of the Rota Department of Public Safety is composed of four shifts. They are responsible for conducting criminal patrols and answering public complaints. A sergeant commands each shift. They are responsible for the general supervision, accountability, instructions, and control of personnel assigned under them. They are also charged with coordinating with law enforcement and other agencies when their assistance is needed. They additionally respond to incidents to supervise and guide the police officers under their command.

The Officers under the Patrol Section work in partnership with other specialized units and programs within the department, such as the Traffic Section, Boating Safety Section, and the Criminal Investigation Division, and with various law enforcement and social service agencies to deliver high quality service to the community. These partnerships and networking are vital because patrol officers are the first responders to all emergency calls; if an incident that requires other sections or agencies’ help and expertise, patrol officers would make the proper call for assistance.