The Glendale Civilian Observation Patrol (G-COP) is actively recruiting more members ahead of a busy 2025.
G-COP assists the NYPD’s 104th Precinct by extending their eyes and ears and lending a helping hand with public service. It is the oldest, largest, and most active civilian patrol in New York City.
Starting with just four concerned residents 45 years ago, the G-COP has grown into a strong group of volunteers that reside within the borders of Glendale, Ridgewood, Maspeth, and Middle Village.
Members patrol neighborhoods, reporting police, fire, or medical emergencies to the appropriate authorities via radio. They provide crucial support amid ongoing police staffing shortages.
The organization played a key role in several major events last 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.
Due to the cold weather, G-COP doesn’t participate in NYPD details during the winter months but is heavily involved with the community from March through to early December.
However, during the organization’s monthly meeting on Thursday, Jan. 9, President Elizabeth Delacruz expressed a desire to take advantage of these quieter few weeks to engage in more patrols.
She explained that just the presence of a G-COP patrol sends a message to cars and other vehicles to pay closer attention to the rules of the road and can reduce the possibility of accidents.
Automobile crime is also currently high in the area, and Delacruz remarked that “people see the lights, and they respect the law.”
She is also actively encouraging increasing patrol cars from two to three. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, patrols have been reduced to two cars, but there is now “no reason” why three cars cannot take to the streets.
G-COP will resume its activities in April, starting with helping with the local Little Leagues. After Good Friday, the organization’s involvement gathers pace, and it becomes much busier.
One of the main problems with G-COP currently is a lack of personnel. Members are reaching out to their peers, brainstorming ideas to garner more attention to their cause, and hoping that recruitment will pick up this year.
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.
