WHAT IS VIP?
Volunteers In Patrol (VIP) is a neighborhood patrol
program designed to reduce crime through increased cooperation between
citizens and the Dallas Police Department (DPD). Citizen volunteers
donate their time to patrol their neighborhoods by driving their own
vehicles. The vehicles are very visible, being equipped with flashing
amber light and signs attached to the sides, front, and rear. They are
trained by the DPD to observe, recognize, and report suspicious or
criminal activity. Once detected, this activity is immediately reported
to 911.
The program is non-confrontational. The volunteers are
trained to not approach suspicious activity or persons, but to back away
from the situation and, if possible, remain in sight and observe until
the police respond. This program allows citizens to take an active role
in crime prevention by becoming the eyes and ears of the DPD.
The program also brings the neighborhood closer
together by building camaraderie between the residents, which creates a
safer environment and a better quality of life. It also sends a message
that the neighborhood is aware, alert, and will not tolerate criminal
activity.
Additionally, VIP personnel will maintain a vigil to
be alert for situations or activity in the neighborhood that, while not
suspicious, might help to create problems or criminal activity, and to
report such situations to their respective neighbors. For example: open
garage or house doors that would allow unauthorized entry, wandering
unattended children, and open yard gates that allow access to pools by
children.
There must be structure to the VIP group with
officers, rules, and by-laws. It must evolve from and remain part of a
recognized crime watch organization or homeowners’ association. The
group must maintain contact with the DPD Divisional Interactive
Community Policing (ICP) officer.
Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age, be in
good health, have a valid driver’s license, and have no criminal record.
They must complete applications that are submitted to the DPD for
background checks. Once approved, applicants must complete an eight-hour
training program administered by the DPD. The course consists of:
- Instruction in patrol procedure and discipline.
- Safety.
- DPD geographical designations ¾ divisions, beats,
and reporting areas.
- Observation skills.
- Patrol log maintenance and record keeping.
- 911 reporting procedures.
2008 Classes
SATURDAY 8
AM – 2 PM
SEPTEMBER 27
AND
EVENING CLASSES 6 PM - 9 PM
(You must attend both evenings to graduate.)
NOVEMBER 12 and 13
For questions, contact Sgt. Mike Nonnenmacher at 214-670-7247.
Classes fill up quickly, so please RSVP with Miss Paula Van Wagoner
at 972-233-2253 or by email at
pvanwagoner@prodigy.net. Application, waiver and proof of
valid driver’s license must be submitted before class admittance.
You will receive a confirmation letter.
Click here
for the 2008 Class Flyer (pdf).
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