Pierce County Deputies chase a dope-sick SUV thief. A stolen mini bike is uncovered at an uncle's house. A cyclist admits his breakfast of choice is a gram of heroin.

COPS follows police officers, constables, and sheriff's deputies during patrols and various police activities by embedding camera crews with their units. The show's formula adheres to a classic cinéma vérité ethos. With no narration or scripted dialog, it depends entirely on the commentary of the officers and on the actions of the people with whom they come into contact.