The Citizens on Patrol is a voluntary program developed to meet the changing needs of the community and to further promote the city’s philosophy on Community Oriented Policing. 

First deployed in 2010, volunteers patrol Gainesville neighborhoods, acting as the eyes and ears of the police. Patrol concentrate around problem areas aiding the police by increasing visibility. COP 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 suspicious activity and crimes in progress. Much of the COP units 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 training in geography, radio use, patrol techniques, have ridden with a police officer and attend additional ongoing training throughout the year.