An outgrowth of the community oriented policing strategy adopted by the Cincinnati Police Department. Civilian volunteers have been incorporated in the departments operations since 1990.

Citizens on Patrol: First deployed in 1997 in three test neighborhoods, the program has expanded into 22 of the city's 52 neighborhoods with an additional unit patrolling city parks. Volunteers patrol their neighborhoods, acting as the eyes and ears of the police. Patrols concentrate around problem areas aiding the police by increasing visibility. COPP units deter crime by their mere presence and visibility to the general public.

Using police radios and cell phones team members are able to communicate directly with officers and report crimes in progress. Much of the COPP unit's function, however, is the reporting of quality-of-life issues. By locating and reporting issues that contribute to criminal activity, these teams are able to fix the proverbial “Broken Window.”

All members have completed a basic class of 12-hours training and attend additional ongoing training throughout the year.

COPP units have been deployed for special events, such as the Labor Day fireworks, Riverfront Stadium implosion and support duties during other neighborhood events. COPP units were also able to free up officers from fixed-post guard duties during the civil unrest of 2001, allowing as many as 10 additional officers to be fielded for patrol duty.

Volunteer Surveillance Teams: Used as field observers throughout the 1990s, the volunteer surveillance teams were the predecessors of the Citizens on Patrol Program. This program is currently in the rebuilding stage and active in two of the five Police Districts.

Contacts for Citizens on Patrol Units

further information contact the Citizens on Patrol Coordinator at 513.352.2989