Introducing Community Comfort Patrols: Enhancing Community Safety
During the UNC Government Term in office (2010-2015), led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, a pivotal initiative was launched in 2014 to address community safety concerns: the Community Comfort Patrols (CCP) program. This collaborative effort between the Ministry of National Security and the Private Security Network Commission (PSNC) aims to alleviate both actual crime and the pervasive fear of crime within residential areas and housing developments.
The CCP leverages law enforcement officers from registered Private Security Companies affiliated with the PSNC. These officers, endorsed by the Ministry of National Security, are strategically deployed to patrol neighborhoods, bolstering security measures and fostering a sense of safety among residents. By integrating the CCP with the Rapid Response Unit (RRU), the program aims to synergize deterrence, detection, and emergency response capabilities, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community safety.
One of the primary objectives of the CCP program is to enhance the visibility of law enforcement agencies and emergency responders within communities. Through increased patrols and a concerted presence of state and registered private security personnel, the opportunity for criminal activities is substantially diminished. Moreover, this heightened security presence not only deters criminal behavior but also cultivates a stronger sense of security among citizens, fostering trust and confidence in law enforcement efforts.
By combining the resources and expertise of both public and private security sectors, the CCP program represents a proactive step towards curbing crime and enhancing community safety. Through ongoing collaboration and vigilant patrols, it endeavors to create safer neighborhoods where residents can thrive without the constant specter of crime looming overhead. Together, let us embrace the Community Comfort Patrols as a beacon of hope for safer, more secure communities.