The RCMP and Alberta Citizens On Patrol Association (ACOPA) have officially teamed up.

An Alberta RCMP release said the two have co-operated for many years, but deputy commissioner Todd Shean and ACOPA chair Beverley Salomons recently signed an official memorandum of understanding (MOU) which outlines their partnership.

Citizens On Patrol is a police-supported, community-led program aimed at reducing crime in the community through the active participation of citizens in crime prevention and patrol activities. When a crime or suspicious behaviour is observed, Citizens On Patrol members will immediately contact their local RCMP detachment.

“Citizens On Patrol members help us see a little farther, hear a little more and ultimately help make our communities safer,” Shean said. “While today’s MOU signing formalizes our co-operation, it’s the countless volunteer hours spent by community-minded citizens that are most vital to this program’s continuing success.”

Citizens On Patrol may also be involved in crime prevention activities relating to the awareness and prevention of community safety issues.

“Today is a step forward in sealing the relationship between the RCMP and ACOPA,” Salomons said in the release, “and the continued opportunity for citizens in communities to volunteer as extra eyes and ears in keeping their communities safer.”