The department employs over 50 officers, and serves an area of 6.47mi² and population of approximately 21,000, including the borough of Dravosburg.

[5] The Detective Bureau is responsible for investigation of most serious crimes, or those beyond the time constraints or expertise of patrol officers, which occur in the city.

Homicide, arson and other major crimes which require investigative or forensic support are handled cooperatively with the Allegheny County Police Department's Detective Bureau.

[5] The McKeesport Police Department currently provides law enforcement services to the Borough of Dravosburg, which is connected to the city via the W.D.

Typically, officers carry a sidearm, additional magazines, expandable baton, OC spray and handcuffs.

In 2020 the department began exploring the possibility of utilizing ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology to combat shots fired calls and reduce response time.

The K9 Unit operates marked vehicles adapted for canine transport including the Dodge Charger Pursuit and the Ford Explorer and Crown Victoria in slick-top configuration.

For detectives, the Ford Crown Victoria continues to serve as the primary unmarked vehicle along with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Dodge Charger.

The department also operates a trailer-based mobile substation, primarily deployed at the annual International Village.

A number of standard patrol vehicles lack roof-mounted, replaced with visor lighting as a cost saving measure.

This change was made following successful legal action in relation to allegations of political interference in the belief in would prevent future occurrences.