Several years ago, the Roanoke Rapids Police Department developed the volunteer Citizens on Patrol program with the intent to involve community members in crime reduction and community engagement, said Chief Shane Guyant.

“Members of this program are trained volunteer citizens organized to increase safety in our community and to assist with the many community engagement efforts we have each week,” the police chief said.

Citizens on Patrol volunteers do not carry weapons or have powers of arrest. They wear a uniform and drive a vehicle issued by the Roanoke Rapids Police Department so they are easily recognized.

Anyone interested in becoming a Citizens on Patrol volunteer must:

Be at least 21 years of age

Be a U.S. Citizen

Be of good character and good standing within the community

Possess a valid driver's license

Successfully pass a criminal background investigation

Have never been convicted of any felony, DWI, or any convictions involving domestic violence, assault, drug violations, or any serious misdemeanor

Successfully complete the Roanoke Rapids Police Department's Citizen Police Academy and Citizens on Patrol training

If interested in volunteering contact Captain Gorton Williams at 252-533-2810 of This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.