Citizen on Patrol Program

The Citizens on Patrol Program is a community led, police supported Crime Prevention, Crime Reduction program in Saskatchewan. This program has been in existence for decades. 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 or on foot, and are in direct contact with the RCMP detachment Members who are on duty. 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 is another set of eyes and ears for their community and their detachment, which assist in preventing and reducing crime. 
 
Volunteers must be at least 18 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 of 18 years of age
  • In good health 
  • Must pass Police background check
  • Good interpersonal skills and communication 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 behavior 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 COPP policies and 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 - Meetings should be run as per Roger's Rules of Order. Frequency of meetings are determined by the local group. It is recommended that groups have bylaws dealing with meeting attendance for board members and their AGM. Include training as part of your meeting. A liaison from the local RCMP detachment is part of the group and will attend meetings. 
 
Patrol - Groups set up a patrol schedule depending on the size of the group and frequency/number of hours the groups wants their members to patrol. This can be determined in partnership with the detachment. 
 
COPP Application - To apply for membership in COPP, a Criminal Record Search Certificate, as well as a Vulnerable Sector Verification is required. Applicants must apply through their local COPP program coordinator. 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. 
 
 

If this sounds like you and you have a desire to contribute to your community in a positive way please contact the Melville RCMP at 728-1700 and leave your name and number.
 
Once enough volunteers have been identified, a police liaison will be identified and local training scheduled before rolling out the program.