The basic philosophy of the C.O.P. is that local resident members of a community need to assist local law enforcement officials in the fight against crime.  This concept is demonstrated by the participation of residents who patrol their own neighborhoods, serving as additional "Eyes and Ears" of the police department.  Each patrol is in constant communication by cellular telephone with the police department.  When assistance is required, the Citizen Observer Patrol member is assured of immediate responsive support from a police officer.

A person appointed by the Chief of Police, as a Citizen Observer Patrol member, who has met the designated application, background check and training requirements, has NO law enforcement power.

A law enforcement liaison officer who will monitor the performance of the units supervises each of the Citizen Observer Patrol units.

The Citizen Observer Patrol program is an effective approach to neighborhood safety, awareness and involvement through the visibility of specially marked vehicles and uniformed personnel.

 The Citizen Observer Patrol serves as a strong deterrent against unlawful actions of potential criminals.  Considerable credit for the reduction of crime rates is attributed to the presence of the motorized Citizen Observer Patrols on the streets, plus the vigilance of individual patrol members.

In order for a community to qualify for a COP program, there must be at least 30 active volunteers. The effectiveness of any neighborhood Citizen Observer Patrol is totally dependent on the efficient management of the program by its patrol leaders, together with the loyalty and dedication shared among the individual members.  Your willingness to serve with the program is a positive indication of your enthusiastic interest in the safety and security of your neighborhood.  Your time and energy will be a most worthwhile investment for the betterment of your community.

WHAT DOES A CITIZEN OBSERVER PATROL DO?

1.         A Citizen Observer's only job function is to patrol a designated area and observe suspicious occurrences, people, vehicles or objects.  If a situation does arise, a C.O.P. member shall report it via cell telephone or hard line telephone to the police department.

2.         Report identifiable or potential hazards.

3.         Contact the police department upon observation of any suspicious situation.

4.         Patrol designated areas in a diligent and professional manner.

5.         Refer all questions to the Citizen Observer Patrol Supervisors.

6.         Complete and turn in all paperwork to the Citizen Observer Patrol Supervisors.

7.         Be courteous and professional in the performance of duties and assigned tasks.

8.         Maintain all equipment in a proper condition.

9.         Maintain good physical ability and appearances in conformity with accepted Boynton Beach Police Department standards.

 Dear Volunteer:

Welcome to the Boynton Beach Police Department's Citizen Observer Patrol Program!  A partnership between the police department and the citizens within the community serves to strengthen our commitment to make the City of Boynton Beach a better place to live in and be proud of.

Citizen Observer Volunteers, working closely with police department personnel, help deter crime within their own communities.  Your involvement in this program will make you the extra "Eyes and Ears" of the police department, as well as improve the quality of life of your neighbors, your community and the City of Boynton Beach as a whole.

Your participation in the Citizen Observer Patrol Program is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,