CITIZENS ON PATROL

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What is Citizens on Patrol?

Citizens on Patrol, or C.O.P. as they are commonly referred to, are organized groups of citizens who volunteer their time to patrol their neighborhoods. To date there are approximately 100 groups patrolling neighborhoods in Baltimore County. They act as additional "eyes and ears", for their local police officers.  They use their own vehicles with signs that identify them as C.O.P.

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What is the purpose?

The Citizen on Patrol program is a very effective Crime Prevention tool for all communities. The presence of C.O.P. acts as a deterrent to crime.  In fact, the majority of our patrols have drastically reduced crime in their neighborhoods and eliminated the suspicious activity associated with crime, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life in the community.
Think about it, if you were a criminal, would you go to a community where people are patrolling. Most of the neighborhoods post C.O.P. street signs at all entrances, advertising their patrol. Having a patrol sends a strong message that residents care about their community and are united. Forming a patrol tends to draw a community closer together, opening new lines of communication, and forms long term partnerships and friendships. Knowing who belongs in the neighborhood is crucial in deterring crime.