NCJ Number
121781
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1990) Pages: 125-135
Date Published
1990
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article describes the development and operation of the Victoria Police Department's (Canada) innovative system of community police stations (Co.P.S.), together with a discussion of citizens' roles in the program.
Abstract
Historically, police crime prevention programs have involved citizens in roles under the direct management of police. Co.P.S.'s break this tradition by having citizens play a major leadership role in the determination, design, and delivery of crime prevention programs at the neighborhood level. These programs complement the citywide initiatives already in place. Citizen involvement comes first through a core of volunteers who staff each Co.P.S. during a 4-hour shift. These persons are involved in the daily operation of the station and the delivery of neighborhood-specific programs. Citizen participation also comes through Citizen Advisory Boards, whose primary function is to identify the crime prevention needs within each area and to develop programs to address those needs. The program is in the process of a 3-year evaluation. 6 references.