NCJ Number
169687
Journal
Telemasp Bulletin Volume: 1 Issue: 4 Dated: (July 1994) Pages: complete issue
Date Published
1994
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This description of the Fort Worth Citizens On Patrol program (Texas) addresses its organization, participants, recruitment, training, responsibilities, budget, equipment, liability, and evaluation.
Abstract
Citizens On Patrol (COP) is a volunteer activity that involves community members who patrol their own neighborhoods. Their primary aim is to reduce Part I property offenses. Using their own cars, the volunteers drive around their neighborhoods looking for crime or potential victimizations. They report potential criminal activity to the police and advise appropriate city agencies of nuisance and safety concerns. Neighborhood Patrol Officers oversee the COP groups in their respective areas. COP groups are organized by neighborhoods, and many work closely with already established neighborhood associations. Since October 1991, 2,091 residents have completed the initial training to become volunteers. An 8-hour training session is conducted by the Fort Worth Police Department. The initial training curriculum covers police and COP operations, including a description of the program, rules of conduct, liability issues, and legal considerations. Ongoing training is also provided. COP is funded through asset forfeitures. During the three fiscal years of COP's operation, $720,000 has been budgeted. Each graduate of the COP training is issued an identification badge, a t-shirt, hat, and jacket. The city supplies 800-megahertz radios that are used by patrolling volunteers and the base station. Although formal program evaluations have not been completed by the Fort Worth Police Department, the city has had a substantial reduction in major crimes since the implementation of the COP program. Rules of volunteer conduct and 8 references