MPI sponsors program designed to reduce crime

The Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP), sponsored by Manitoba Public Insurance, now has 60 active groups and 1,800 volunteers dedicated to reducing crime in their communities. Volunteers provided nearly 30,000 patrol hours last year in Manitoba, with two of the newest groups dedicated exclusively to providing a patrolling presence within Manitoba Housing units in Winnipeg. Part of the initiative’s mandate is to have volunteers look out for abandoned stolen vehicles while conducting regular street patrols. The street patrols also serve as a deterrent to auto thieves.MPI provides funding and co-ordination of the program in co-operation with Manitoba Justice, the Winnipeg Police Service, the RCMP, the Brandon Police Service and other municipal police services.Members will also carry out a number of events, including auto crime vehicle audits, speed-reader board monitoring and community presentations with local police liaison officers on crime prevention.