Citizens on Patrol (C.O.P.S.)

What is "Citizens On Patrol" in the Nanaimo area?

The Nanaimo Citizens Patrol is comprised of concerned citizens who volunteer their time, vehicles, energy and expertise to become the extended eyes and ears of their local detachment. In this day and age the police simply cannot "do it all" for the community - they must have community support in making our streets safe for all to use. Citizens On Patrol has its own executive selected from within the patrol. While this group manages the scheduling and routine operations of the patrol, the patrol itself works under the auspices and direction of the RCMP.

What is the Role of a Citizens Patrol Team?

Personnel who participate in the Citizens On Patrol are observers and reporters only. Patrol members are not expected (or allowed) to get directly involved if an offence is witnessed. Their duty is to observe and report the matter via radio. It is the responsibility of the police to deal with offenders. Besides being a good safety policy for Citizens On Patrol members, this enables people of all ages to participate in their local Patrol.

How Can I Help the Citizens On Patrol?

The C.O.P.S. program is looking for people who want to contribute time to their community and the police.

• Are you a resident of the area?
• Are you at least 19 years of age?
• Do you have no criminal record?
• Do you hold a valid BC Drivers license?
• Can you work within a structured environment? Can you work with other people?
• Can you commit one shift per month?
• Do you have good communication skills?
• Have no health or other problems that may impede you working in an office/community environment?

If you can answer "yes" to all of the above questions and can pass the security screening required by the RCMP, you might find Citizens On Patrol rewarding.

For further information about Citizens On Patrol please see the official website at: http://nanaimocops.com