Surprise, AZ (November 20, 2024)
– At last night’s City Council meeting, the Surprise Police Citizen Patrol was honored for their exceptional service and recently winning an international award for their contributions to the community. The volunteers were celebrated for their unwavering dedication, and their efforts were recognized with the prestigious Leadership in Volunteer Police Service Programs Award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP).
Police Chief Benny Piña spoke highly of the program’s volunteers, stating, “Our volunteers are the heart of everything we do. Their service and dedication inspire us all to do more, and we are truly grateful for the difference they make every day.”
The Citizen Patrol program has long been a pillar of the Surprise Police Department. Commander Marylene Cayron expressed her pride in receiving the IACP award, describing it as a validation of their collective efforts. “Receiving the IACP award was a great honor for us,” Cayron said. “It reinforced our desire to improve ourselves every day. It reminded us why we volunteer for our police department—we see them as extraordinary people working hard every day, no matter what, for the betterment of our community.”
In 2023, the Citizen Patrol volunteers dedicated nearly 23,000 hours of service, which equates to an estimated $800,000 in cost savings for the city. This remarkable contribution underscores the significant impact these volunteers have on the local law enforcement efforts and the broader community.
Since its inception in 1997, the Surprise Police Department’s Citizen Patrol program has played a crucial role in strengthening police services. Volunteers provide support across a wide range of functions, from routine patrols to assisting with community events, all while upholding a commitment to the safety and well-being of Surprise residents.
For those interested in learning more or getting involved with the program, visit surpriseaz.gov/CitizensPatrol to explore volunteer opportunities.