"It is difficult getting volunteers to come out.  At 104-COP / G-COP we've been very successful, we've been at it a long time, and we have a lot of people that are used to coming out, doing their patrols each month."  To get an idea of the program Mr. Miller was involved in, check out their website here. 

"As for equipment, we can lend it, you can get grants to buy equipment... it is costly, but you can get the help and assistance to start up," he said.

The conversation began when a resident reminded us about a topic that was brought up the month before, a young woman who spoke about the fears she felt when she stepped off the train at night and had to walk home.  A few days later, in a story that was eerily similar, a young woman was followed as she got off the J Train, stalked along Woodhaven Boulevard, and raped in Forest Park.

From there, we discussed the possibility of having a separate Town Hall meeting to discuss just the Security Patrol (in fact, nearly 20 people signed up to be notified when that meeting is scheduled).  At that point, we called upon Mr. Miller for his advice.  Here's how this all played out:

Please note that being part of a security patrol does not mean that you have responsibilities even remotely similar to a police officer.  You observe and report, that is all.  The idea is to provide that extra layer of security that the police cannot always provide.  Often, just by being visible, a robust security patrol can act as a deterrent, and discourage a criminal from plying their trade here.  Mr. Miller felt that G-COP would be willing to place some experienced members with us during the start-up phase -- essentially a training program.  This is exactly the kind of thoughtful and measured approach that Woodhaven needs in order to build a program that will last. 

Keep your eyes on Project Woodhaven for an announcement when our special meeting will take place, or drop us a line (with your name, e-mail address or phone number) if you'd like to be notified.