Citizens on Preventive Patrol (COPP)

Citizens On Preventive Patrol (COPP) was instituted in 1987 as a volunteer group of private citizens to assist officers of the Beavercreek Police Department. Volunteers are trained in police procedures in classes taught by police personnel, COPP volunteers, and representatives from various agencies connected with law enforcement.

Applying for the Program
COPP Application (PDF) may be downloaded or obtained in person at the Communications Center window at the Police Department, located at:
1388 Research Park Drive
Beavercreek, OH 45432

Any questions about the COPP program should be directed to Sergeant Mike Hummel at 937-426-1225 or by email.
COPP Team
COPP Logo

Training

COPP training lasts approximately 8 weeks and is conducted at the Police Department. The classes are held once a week for 3 hours each session. There is also a Saturday Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training session. In addition, the trainees spend 8 hours riding with officers and 40 hours with COPP members.

Trainees also spend several hours in the Communications Center to observe the dispatchers performing their duties taking 911 calls and dispatching officers and Fire Department personnel.

Upon successful completion of the curriculum, the trainees will graduate and receive their uniforms. COPP volunteers always perform duty in pairs. Prior to graduation, the trainees must establish a partnership with another trainee or a current COPP volunteer without a partner.

COPPs are not armed, nor do they have any powers to arrest or detain.

Duties

Members must volunteer 4 hours per week for patrol. However, a COPP is also expected to assist, when summoned, above and beyond the required 4 hours with emergency call-outs. Volunteers must also be prepared to assist at one or more of the following annual city-sponsored and community events:
  • Memorial Day and Veterans Day Ceremonies
  • Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks
  • Annual Police Department Open House
  • Popcorn Festival
  • Beavercreek High School Homecoming Parade

Requirements

A COPP is required to:
  • Be a resident of the City of Beavercreek, Beavercreek Township or a Beavercreek business owner
  • Possess a valid Ohio driver’s license
  • Be at least 21 years old
Trainees are required to submit to a polygraph and drug screening test prior to starting classes.

Program Awards

In 1988, COPP was designated “Ohio’s Best Crime Prevention Program, Public Sector” by the Ohio Crime Prevention Association, in conjunction with the Governor’s Office of Criminal Justice Services. The COPP members were recognized as the "City of Beavercreek Employee of the Year" in 2015. They  have also received many other awards and commendations from federal, state and local government agencies.