Community Oriented Policing
Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS)
In January 1995, Sheriff William B. Kolender established the Sheriff's Department's first dedicated Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving Units (COPPS).
What is Community Oriented Policing?
Community Oriented Policing is a philosophy, management style and organizational strategy that promotes proactive problem solving and police-community partnerships to address the cause of crime and fear as well as other community issues. Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS) deputies are special purpose deputies assigned to investigate quality of life issues within the community.
Santee has “Special Purpose Officers” who utilize the COPPS philosophy to promote quality interaction between law enforcement and neighborhood citizens. These deputies serve the public by facilitating a partnership with the Santee community and working with youth, seniors, apartment managers, mobile home managers, homeowners, renters, religious groups, and many other diverse members of the community. Examples include addressing on-going neighborhood issues, working with businesses to reduce crime, and coordinating efforts with the City to reduce vandalism.
COPPS deputies also conduct patrols focused on gang activity, persons on parole/probation, persons with outstanding warrants, graffiti, human trafficking, prostitution, habitual offenders, transient camps and alcohol/tobacco related crimes. COPPS deputies are also active within the community by attending Neighborhood Watch meetings and providing various presentations to youth groups, community groups, schools and businesses.
COPPS is not a program because programs have a beginning and an end.
COPPS is a philosophy that becomes an integral part of the law enforcement agency and the community it serves.
What is a Community Partnership?
A flexible term referring to any combination of neighborhood residents, schools, churches, businesses, community-based organizations, elected officials, and government agencies who are working cooperatively with law enforcement to resolve identified problems that impact or interest them.