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Celebrating Two Decades of Community Service
THE PALM BEACH GARDENS POLICE CITIZENS MOBILE PATROL
As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Palm Beach Gardens Citizens Mobile Patrol (CMP), it's an opportune moment to reflect on the origins, evolution, and enduring impact of this invaluable community initiative. Conceived by then Chief of Police Stephen Stepp, the CMP has grown from a visionary idea into a cornerstone of our City's safety and community engagement efforts.
The journey began two decades ago when Police Chief Steve Stepp presented the concept to the Board of Directors of PGA National, a local homeowner association. Among the board members was Tom Murphy, who, drawing on his experience with the Nassau County Police Department in New York, grasped the potential benefits of such a program. Through numerous discussions with Chief Stepp, Murphy and Stepp developed the CMP’s foundational framework.
The CMP launched with six dedicated volunteers: Mr. Tom Murphy, Mr. Alvan Hirshberg, Ms. Martha Eichelsdorfer, Mr. Ernest Volante, Ms. Pat Hughey, and Mr. Alan Patti, a former reserve officer with the Connecticut State Police. Their primary mission was to serve as additional eyes and ears for the community, patrolling the gated neighborhoods of Palm Beach Gardens, and observing and reporting any suspicious activities.
From the outset, the CMP volunteers were committed to fostering a sense of safety and community. They underwent rigorous training to ensure they were well-prepared to handle various situations they might encounter while on patrol. Their presence alone provided a reassuring sense of security to the residents, who appreciated the added layer of vigilance in their neighborhoods.
Over the years, the CMP’s role has expanded significantly. Residents from across the city have joined the patrol, allowing the program to extend its reach beyond gated communities to the entire city, including commercial areas. This expansion was complemented by the introduction of new responsibilities, such as handicapped parking and fire lane parking enforcement. This development alleviated some of the responsibilities on the police force and allowed officers to focus on community policing.
The program’s effectiveness and trust earned over time led to further enhancements. CMP patrol vehicles were equipped with police radios and laptop computers, enabling real-time communication with police dispatch. This technological upgrade has allowed volunteers to report suspicious activities promptly and efficiently, greatly enhancing their support to the police force.
A significant aspect of the CMP’s operation is the monthly meetings attended by all members. These meetings provide an opportunity for volunteers to learn more about law enforcement issues and ongoing problems in the city. The sessions include updates on criminal activities, public safety concerns, and discussions on how volunteers can assist the police in these matters. Additionally, these meetings offer continuous training on various crucial skills, such as radio usage, computer usage, and the criteria for writing summonses. This ongoing education ensures that CMP members remain well-informed and effective in their roles.
Today, the CMP boasts around twenty-five dedicated members who commit to a minimum of one three-hour patrol each week. In addition to their patrol duties, CMP members have taken on various community projects. They have participated in safety awareness programs, assisted with traffic control during special events, and helped in the coordination of neighborhood watch initiatives. These activities have further cemented their role as integral members of the community, working hand-in-hand with residents and law enforcement alike.
The presence of the CMP allows sworn police officers to focus more on law enforcement, knowing that the volunteers are managing non-enforcement duties. This collaboration has undeniably contributed to making Palm Beach Gardens a safer place to live and work. The police department and the CMP share a mutual respect and understanding, which is evident in their seamless coordination and joint efforts to enhance public safety.
The CMP has not only enhanced the safety of our city but has also fostered a stronger sense of community and cooperation among residents. The spirit of volunteerism and civic duty exemplified by the CMP members is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration to all. For those interested in joining this dedicated group of volunteers, the CMP invites you to submit an application. The process includes background checks, interviews, and drug testing as part of the onboarding process. If you are passionate about community safety and want to contribute to making Palm Beach Gardens a safer place, consider becoming a part of the CMP.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the CMP program, please call Officer Bethany Abraira at 561-799-4590.
