The Roanoke Rapids Police Department has developed an innovative volunteer program to include community member in crime reduction and community improvement. An extension of the department's Community Watch Program and Citizens Police Academy, Citizens on Patrol is a trained group of volunteer citizens organized to increase safety in our community by patrolling streets to provide a presence and report incidents and problems.
The main purpose of the program is to provide a visible presence on the streets as a deterrent to criminal activity through the assistance of citizen volunteers. Keeping with the philosophies of community watch concept this program will supplement the department regular patrol activities in high-crime neighborhoods, parks, and business districts. Participants are trained to "observe and report" only notifying police of suspicious or criminal activity.
Citizens on Patrol volunteers do not carry weapons or have powers of arrest. They wear a uniform and drive a vehicle issued by the Roanoke Rapids Police Department so they are easily recognized.
Anyone interested in becoming a Citizens on Patrol volunteer must:
Be at least 21 years of age
- Be a U.S. Citizen
- Be of good character and good standing within the community
- Possess a valid drivers license
- Successfully pass a criminal background investigation
- Have never been convicted of any felony, DWI, any convictions involving domestic violence, assault, drug violations, or any misdemeanors
- Successfully complete the Roanoke Rapids Police Department's Citizen Police Academy and Citizens on Patrol training