By: Sharon Aron Baron
The Broward Sheriff’s Office offers a Citizens Observer Patrol or COP program which provides volunteer communities a free police car, gas, and all the upkeep. In exchange, certified volunteers who drive around in pairs, observe and report suspicious issues.
As a COP volunteer, residents cannot approach or arrest people. Any activity that looks suspicious must be reported to BSO by phone. Volunteers drive around and cover areas of their community and become the eyes and ears of BSO.
Several times a year, the BSO District Office in Tamarac holds a training class. Their next one is on Tuesday, February 9, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Tamarac BSO offices located at 7515 NW 88th Ave., next to city hall. Becoming a COP volunteer requires a criminal background check and a Florida driver’s license. To sign up, contact Deputy Jennifer Marion at 954-720-2225.
