NOVA SCOTIA CITIZENS ON PATROL (C.O.P.P.)

CITIZENS ON PATROL PROGRAM - Volunteers

The Citizens on Patrol Program is a community led, police supported Crime Prevention, Crime Reduction program in Nova Scotia.

This program has been in existence in NS since 1991. There has been a resurgence in interest in COPP as citizens want to contribute to the safety of their community.

All COPP volunteers patrol in pairs with their personal vehicle, and are in direct contact with the RCMP Operational Communications Centre (OCC/Telecoms). They are on the lookout for any suspicious or criminal activity, to record the activity and, where appropriate, to report it to the RCMP. The COPP in another set of eyes and ears for their community and their detachment, which assist in preventing and reducing crime.

Volunteers must be at least 19 years old, not have a criminal record or be involved in an active criminal investigation, and complete and pass a reliability security clearance.

This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute to safe communities, safe homes in your area.

QUALIFICATIONS

* Minimum 19 years of age *Must pass Police background check *Good interpersonal skills and communications skills *Possess positive attitude and ability to work in a team environment * Ability to work responsibly with minimal supervision * Ability to work in a professional manner * Willing to participate in training sessions

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

* Be the "Eyes and Ears" of the community * Patrol the community by vehicle * Identify suspicious or concerning behaviour and report to Police Liaison Officer * Maintain awareness of community crime deterrence activities and initiatives * Assist in increasing awareness and providing crime prevention information to local citizens, businesses and community organizations * Keep and maintain proper records *Follow COP policies nad procedures *Maintain a positive and respectful presence in the community * Treat all people with courtesy and respect *Maintain confidentiality at all times

RECRUITMENT, MEETINGS AND PATROLS

Recruitment: Trade shows, other volunteer organizations, ads in local papers, door to door or word of mouth.

Meetings: COP groups meet on a regular basis. Frequency or meetings are determined by the local group. It is recommended that groups have by-laws dealing with meeting attendance for board members and their AGM. Include trainin as part of your meeting. A liaison from the local RCMP will attend and assist with meetings.

Patrol: Groups set up a patrol schedule depending on the size of the group and frequency / number of hours the group wants their members to patrol. This can be determined in partnership with the detachment.

COPP APPLICATIONS

To apply for membership, or if you have any questions, please send an email to the RCMP Volunteer Coordinator at hdiv.volunteer@rcmp-grc.gc.ca and include Full name, Address, Phone number as well as nearest RCMP detachment.

The Volunteer Coordinator will gladly guide the applicant through the process. Once the individual is a member of the program, the checks must be re-done every two years. Until security clearance is approved, the individual will not be considered a member.

WANT TO REPORT A CRIME BUT REMAIN ANONYMOUS?

Call Crime Stopps at 1-800-222-8477. you can also submit a tip online at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or by using the "P3 Tips" Smartphone application - Available on iPhone and Android devices.