First Civilian Observation Patrol (C.O.P.) In Many, Many Years

Now THAT was fun. Riding around in a cop car with working sirens and lights and loudspeakers, jabbering away with a new friend. Playing Hutch to his Starsky. Or rather, doing nothing but driving around, down Parkside, up Winthrop, down Hawthorne, up Fenimore, down Rutland, up Midwood, down Maple, up Lincoln, down Lefferts, up Sterling, round Ocean, Clarkson, New York, Empire...and as much Flatbush as possible.

Riding Shotgun With Partner

Six of us so far have signed up and got the hour long talking to that's required, that and the fingerprinting. (Convicted Felons Need Not Apply. A couple misdemeanors, hey, everyone makes mistakes). We are absolutely NOT doing any policing. The idea is for us to get to know the neighborhood better, its hangouts and hotspots, and to report anything we see. Most of it will probably be common knowledge to the precinct, but at least we'll be able to hold them accountable for taking notice. Plus, it never hurts to have another vehicle trolling the streets, letting folks know to keep it civil. (There are four basic sounds the cop cars can make, and they are a lot fun. It will take a lot of discipline on the Q's part not to push them. A lot.)

So, we need more recruits! I don't expect you'll do more than drive a three or four hour shift once a month of your choosing (like the Park Slope Food Coop!), or you could do more if you like, of course. Do it with a friend and make it a date! It is most definitely NOT a dangerous job, and you will have no weapon or really any authority to do anything but observe. Is it helpful? We think it will be when it's happening more regularly, and this way we can create a community of concerned neighborhood types who have a regular and meaningful dialogue and trust with the 71st.

So...send me an email if you're up for it and when I get six more, I'll schedule another orientation with Vinny Martinos.