Columbia Police changing shift structure beginning in September Published Columbia Police changing shift structure beginning in September COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) The Columbia Police Department announced officers will move to 12-hour shifts beginning September 5. Officials say the change aims to increase the number of officers on shifts and available to respond to calls. Columbia Police Chief Geoff Jones says the changed schedule will increase officer safety, improve the Department’s ability to provide training and increase opportunities for officers to take time off. "We’re committed to minimizing the number of consecutive 12-hour shifts an officer will work," Jones said. "That is in the best interest of the officer and the community."