The world outside our doorsteps can be a threatening place at times. In recent days, we've heard reports of threats made against Jewish institutions nationally, as well as locally. The following news report showcases how these threats have come close to home.
While law-enforcement agencies have responded to these threats, they can not be everywhere, all the time. It's simply impossible. This is where vCOP can step in...and be the eyes and ears for our public safety partners.
Our Institution Watch program puts vCOP vehicles on the road with the specific duty of keeping an eye on our Jewish institutions (synagogues, schools and community centers). This is not a regular patrol; instead, we move from institution to institution, spending several minutes in front of the facilities, as well as on the adjacent streets. We are watchful -in addition to being a highly visible deterrent to crime.
Some points to remember:
- Participants must be pre-selected by supervisors
- An Institution Watch can be "last minute" or scheduled in advance
- Focus on synagogues, schools and religious facilities only
- Complete the special "Institution Watch" checklist during your watch
- Do NOT get out of the vehicle
- As patrollers, we are trained to be observers and listeners only
- Act within the limits of our mandate, training and our need for personal safety
- Do NOT engage any suspicious individuals, but rather keep in visual contact (at a safe distance) and relay information
- If it's suspicious, call Dispatch. If it's dangerous, call 911
