MADERA COUNTY — The Madera County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a few good people interested in serving their community, to join the Sheriff’s Citizens on Patrol (COP) Team.
COPs is a community volunteer organization created and formed by the Madera County Sheriff Office. The program operates countywide, under the supervision of a Madera County Community Service Officer and Patrol Sergeant who is tasked with coordinating the program.
Trained uniformed volunteers patrol neighborhoods in marked volunteer vehicles to help and assist in deterring criminal activity. They patrol neighborhoods, including school zones, business areas, churches, and parks, as well as assist with traffic control, road closures and community events in the county.
COP volunteers observe and report suspicious and criminal activity to Sheriff’s Dispatch so appropriate law enforcement action can be taken by deputies.
Additional duties include vacation checks on residences and businesses, welfare checks for the sheriff’s “Elder Orphans” program, and assisting other law enforcement agencies on mutual aid requests.
Joining the COP program is contingent upon the completion of a structured 40-hour Citizens on Patrol Academy, conducted by members of Madera County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies.
Some of the training will consist of First Aid/CPR, defensive driving, traffic control, radio communications, safety issues, department policies and other areas. Upon completion of the academy, members must undergo extensive field training before they are allowed to patrol.
Additional qualifications include:
- Must be 18 years of age
- posses a valid California driver’s license
- no felony convictions (misdemeanor convictions subject to Administrative review)
- valid medical waiver completed by physician
Please contact CSO Jo Ann Evans at 559-642-3201 for more information or to obtain an application. Applications must be received by Nov. 30.
Interested parties are invited to a special Meet & Greet on Wednesday, Dec. 6, at 6 p.m. at the Madera County Sheriff’s Office 2725 Falcon Drive, Madera.
