Citizens On Patrol (C.O.P.) Program – Owen Sound

What is the C.O.P. Program?

Composed of members of the Owen Sound and area community who believe that safety and good order of our community is NOT the SOLE responsibility of the Police Service, but is, in fact, a responsibility to be shared in a partnership with interested community members along with the Owen Sound Police Service. This volunteer program exemplifies the Owen Sound Police Service’s motto;

“COMMUNITY PARTNERS”

Since 1857

Background of C.O.P.

Members have been active in Owen Sound since 1993

Our volunteers work in partnership with the Owen Sound Police Service and the business community

C.O.P.’s purpose is to reduce crime by being an extra set of eyes and ears for the Police Service

C.O.P. volunteers work in pairs, using private vehicles to patrol the community

C.O.P. volunteers are equipped with police radios and are in constant contact with the communications center

Mission Statement

The Owen Sound Citizens on Patrol is a volunteer civilian organization which operates in cooperation with the Owen Sound Police Service to reduce crime and acts of vandalism within the City of Owen Sound. In personal unmarked vehicles, members conduct random patrols of public buildings, schools, downtown core, and areas which have been identified by the Owen Sound Police Service as highly incident prone. Members report any observed incidents to the Police.

Qualifications

Men and women must be at least 19 years of age. Seniors are welcome to join

Take a sworn oath of confidentiality

Possess a valid Ontario’s Driver’s Licence “Class G” (no more than 6 demerit points) or non-licensed & willing to accompany a licensed C.O.P. member.

Be of good moral character and habits

Have no criminal conviction(s) for which a pardon has not been granted

Be willing and capable of working as an effective member

Duties & Responsibilities

Participate in a minimum of 5 hours of duty each month

Attend a monthly meeting scheduled at the Owen Sound Police Service.

During patrols keep records as required

Patrol from 9:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Thursday, Friday or Saturday

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