Law enforcement agency often use mobile communication devices (MCDs) in the course of police operations to enhance departmental communication. MCDs may be used by officers to conduct official business when the use of radio communication or landline telephones is inappropriate, unavailable, or inadequate to meet communication needs and when the device is used in accordance with this policy. Information or data housed in personal or departmental MCDs related to the course and scope of employment is the property of the police department.

These documentsprovide law enforcement officers with guidelines for the use of cellular phones as well as similar MCDs. They do not cover the use of mobile data terminals (MDTs).