Nearly 50 residents representing Queen Creek-area neighborhoods such as Johnson Ranch, Copper Basin, San Tan Heights, Pecan Creek, Laredo Ranch and others gathered at Walker Butte K-9 June 26th, to discuss formation of a Queen Creek-area Citizens on Patrol program.
An introduction to the program was presented by Pinal County Sheriff Chris Vasquez and PCSO Crime Prevention Specialist Barbara Munoz explained the program, tentatively called COP 400, through a Power Point presentation.
“The key to a safe community is a partnership between law enforcement & the community,” Sheriff Vasquez explained. “With COP, we provide the car & the gas & you provide the time.”
Sheriff Vasquez brought the Citizens on Patrol program to PCSO after the success of his Casa Grande program. The purpose of the program is to provide interested citizens an opportunity to become the “eyes & ears” of their community. Volunteers will patrol Region 4 neighborhoods & business districts in a marked car & immediately report to PCSO any suspicious, criminal or potentially dangerous activity.
Munoz explained COP 400 volunteers initially must complete an application, background check & fingerprinting. Then volunteers undergo orientation & training, after which they can begin organizingthe program.
“Who knows your community better than you?” Munoz said.
Pat Prince, COP Liaison for the successful 2-year-old Gold Canyon COP program, also spoke to the group. Gold Canyon COP has 42 active members and has received national recognition.
If you have any questions or would like to join COP 400, please contact PCSO Crime Prevention Specialist Barbara Munoz at (520) 866-5189.