The 104th Precinct Civilian Observation Patrol (G-COP), the largest and most active civilian patrol in New York City, is concluding its 2024 community service activities and will resume operations on Good Friday in 2025.
Their final assignment for the year will be providing support at the Kiwanis Club of Glendale’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 1, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Active from March through early December, G-COP played a key role in several major events this year, including the Middle Village Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 10 and the Kiwanis Club of Glendale’s Halloween Parade on Oct. 31. Both events were hailed as successful, with attendees praising the patrol’s efforts to ensure safety and order.
At G-COP’s monthly meeting on Nov. 14, it was announced that the group received a $9,377 grant from the City Council for 2024 and is set to receive a nearly $10,000 reimbursement from the State for expenses incurred this year. Part of these funds will be used to purchase new uniforms, addressing an urgent need for replacements.
Founded over 45 years ago by four Glendale residents committed to preserving their community, G-COP has grown to encompass volunteers from Glendale, Ridgewood, Middle Village, and Maspeth. Members patrol neighborhoods, reporting police, fire, or medical emergencies to the appropriate authorities via radio. As the extended eyes and ears of the NYPD in the 104th Precinct, G-COP provides crucial support amid ongoing police staffing shortages.
The organization is calling on more residents aged 18 to 80 to volunteer and help maintain safety in the area. Eligible participants must live within the 104th Precinct, have no felony convictions, and pass an NYPD background check.
For those interested in joining or donating to G-COP, further information is available at 104cop.org. As the group looks ahead to 2025, its mission to foster a safer and more connected community remains steadfast.
