Takoma Park Police Launch Pilot Outreach Program

Takoma Park Police launched Community Outreach Program (C.O.P.), a program meant to strengthen the relationship between police and the community, Takoma Park Police Chief Ronald Ricucci said.

The new program is currently in its pilot phase, during which members and
residents will be introduced to it and new activities/sub-programs will
be integrated into the community.  

The interaction would provide knowledge to officers on how to be more effective in their proactive police work and interaction with the residents as well as improve quality of life by educating them about crime, victimization, how to reduce the chances of becoming a victim, and what the current crime trends are within the city, Ricucci said. 

In addition to meetings, a seminar will be held within the coming weeks, Ricucci said, during which information will be provided specifically to those who live in the city on the programs offered (Neighborhood Watch, Citizens on Patrol, etc) and during which interested participants can sign up for the programs.  

Once groups of residents are created based on their specific neighborhoods, monthly meetings will be held with each specific group to discuss any information the police department would like to pass along and any concerns that residents would like to address.  Another letter will be sent out in the near future addressing, in detail, the seminar and residential meetings, Ricucci said.

Any questions can be directed to the officer in charge, Officer Carla Magnaye, at 301-891-7121 or carlam@takomagov.org.