Recently, residents in the area around Maurie Jacobs Park called Eugene Police to report concerns about suspected criminal activity near the river. Police met with them and the residents provided their observations that the quality of the park was deteriorating due to behavioral-based crimes. Some of the examples they provided were people consuming alcohol, using drugs, discovery of needles and other behaviors. Patrons of the park reported they did not feel it was a safe as they were being approached and intimidated.
As a result, Eugene Police Seniors on Patrol has been deployed to provide extra, visible presence on the south bank bike path between Owen Rose Garden and Maurie Jacobs Park throughout September. You will see them patrolling the area mostly on bikes.
Also, three women and three men just became new members on the SOP team, and recently completed their academy training. Seniors on Patrol address neighborhood crime and safety issues by observing and reporting suspicious activity, and providing a highly visible and mobile community policing function. They serve as extra eyes, ears and helping hands, allowing officers to devote a greater amount of time to performing proactive law enforcement functions that require a sworn officer. The volunteer placement process includes an application, interview, background check and orientation. If you are interested in applying for a volunteer position or would like more information, contact the Volunteers in Policing Program Manager, Carrie Chouinard at Carrie.F.Chouinard@ci.eugene.or.us or by phone at 541-682-5355.
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