For some time, volunteers have been organizing in troubled areas, workingin concert with the Police Department, other City departments, and neighborhoodgroups to provide a sense of safety and security in their neighborhoods. In communities throughout our area, grassrootsgroups are getting involved, trying to fill the gaps that exist due to thelack of funds for more officers on patrol. The focus of the VOLT Team ison the training and placement of volunteers who offer creative and practicalapproaches to crime problems. Community involvement in the operation of the PoliceDepartment allows for a better understanding of the roles and functionsof the Department. The VOLT Team is looking atmany areas, including functions such as lobby greeters for the Police AdministrationBuilding, a bicycle mechanic to assist in the maintenance of the BicycleFleet, facility tour guides and staffing service centers located in keycommunity centers.
Volunteers take no action beyond reporting incidents.
Theyprovide information requested by police. Volunteers ARE trained toavoid confrontation. They DO NOT attempt to apprehend, search, question or arrest. This Volunteer Team enables private citizens, in partnership with the SanJose Police Department, fight crime in their own neighborhoods. Because public demands for extra police servicesare increasing, and extra funds for these services are not immediately forthcoming,it is imperative that a volunteer team be accepted by the Deaprtment.