Volunteers In Patrol (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. 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 Wynnewood North VIP program provides daily patrols of the neighborhood. Their visible presence acts as a deterrent to criminal activity and sends a clear message that crime will not be tolerated. 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. Email the crime director at crime@wynnewoodnorth.org for additional information about VIP program. |