Volunteer patrol group help police cover large area www.privateofficer.com
KITTITAS COUNTY WA July 26 2011 — They look like cops, but they’re not. What’s the difference?
“We have no authority,” says volunteer citizen’s patrolman, Ken Titus. “Just eyes and ears for the sheriffs.”
Titus and Bob Allen are spending their retirement keeping a watchful eye on Kittitas County.
“If someone is thinking of doing something, we might detour them,” says Titus.
If it doesn’t detour them, Titus and Allen will call dispatchers to bring a deputy to the scene.
In a time of budget cuts and tight wallets, this citizen’s patrol is a way to increase county safety without adding any costs to you–the taxpayer.
Even money for the vehicle, gas and uniforms is mostly donated.
Still, people told me that you can’t assign a dollar amount to peace of mind.
“They’re making sure we’re all staying safe, and I think it’s a great idea.”
Nick Snyder goes to CWU and says he sees how busy police and deputies often are. And, with a little less than a year under their belt, the sheriff’s office hopes to add more patrols, and subtract worries and fear from the people in Kittitas County.
“To me, it’s a pleasant drive in the county, and if we can do some good, that’s even better,” says Allen.
The minimum amount of volunteer time is 8 hours a month. If you want to be a part of the volunteer patrols, just call the sheriff’s office for more information. No experience is required.
