Members of the Citizens Police Academy Alumni are volunteering to monitor the Old Town security camera system.
Around 40 volunteers will work in shifts from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. or 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. to monitor activity in Old Town, assisting police in preventing crime in the area. The volunteers have undergone training to understand what their legal obligations are, and to avoid invasion of privacy or violating the rights of individuals and property owners.
The group will be able to communicate directly over the radio with 911 dispatchers in the event of a life-threatening emergency they witness on camera. However, for crimes like auto theft, burglar, or vandalism, they will call 911 to report the incident, to avoid tying up the radio system. Police officers working in the area can also contact the volunteers directly.
“We like that we like that the officers can just call up and ask us for help or to follow crime that is happening that they are able to get to right away.” says volunteer Alma Zepeda.
Wichita Police stress that the cameras will not be used for traffic or parking enforcement. The volunteers will work Thursday through Sunday mornings.
