By Jeff B. Flinn
Managing Editor

Kirby has revamped and energized its Citizens On Patrol program, currently schooling 18 residents on the ins and outs of being a police officer.

Cpl. Garry Thompson said 18 area residents are participating in the program and will continue in classes that meet 1-to-2 hours per month until a July graduation.

“We started Feb. 5 with this class,” Thompson said, “and when we finish up in July, (the program attendees) will be able to be on the streets and patrol, do things of that nature.”

The courses, all taught by various Kirby Police Depart-ment officers and patrolmen and women, cover everything from crime prevention to various crimes, civil and juvenile law, how dispatch works, family violence and a unit on drugs.

Most recently, the class reviewed a bevy of Kirby city ordinances, while this month’s class will focus on various aspects of drugs, from recognizing different types of drugs to being able to distinguish the actions of drug users.

“Everyone seems very interested and motivated,” Thompson said. “What’s really great is the citizens getting involved in the community in which they live; we get extra eyes and ears out in the community ... to report back to us if they see anything suspicious.”

Kirby COP graduates do not carry weapons, write tickets or arrest criminals.

“They are not there to get involved in any situation; if they see anything, they report it back to us immediately,” he said. And COP members aid police, on a voluntary basis, with city events, like National Night Out and parades.

One highlight of the program is a ride-along with on-duty officers, Thompson said. “We also have a COP (Citizens On Patrol) car. Usually (COP volunteers)will go for two to four hours, but no more than eight hours.”

Thompson said it takes a particularly caring and active individual to finish the course, but the result is a more informed public.

“They really care about their community, it helps improve the neighborhoods, and helps make the place a better place to live,” he added.