In partnership with the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station, the City of Malibu purchased a new patrol vehicle for the Volunteers on Patrol (VOP) program, according to a release from the city.
In addition to the new vehicle, a 2015 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor, the city and sheriff’s station are actively seeking new recruits to join the VOP team.
“I applaud the volunteers of the VOP program who dedicate their time to helping make Malibu a safer community, and I encourage any Malibu resident interesting in public service to become a VOP team member,” said Mayor John Sibert in a report from the city. “The new vehicle is a great investment and will increase the service that VOPs provide to Malibu.”
Established in 2010 by the City Council, the VOP program was created to involve more residents seeking further contribution to public safety in their communities, as well as helping improve community relations and providing more eyes and ears for the Sheriff’s Department.
Members of the VOP team are trained by the Sheriff’s Department to assist with traffic control, first aid/CPR, DUI checkpoints and various business and residential patrols.
In addition to helping enforce city parking regulations, team members routinely report traffic conditions and hazards, including dangerous drivers and roadway obstructions.
Between January 2014 and March 2015, VOP members issued 1,524 parking citations and contributed more than 5,000 hours of volunteer service to the city and Sheriff’s Department.
The City Council approved funding for a 2015 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor in May.
For more information about the VOP program, contact Sheriff’s Deputy Mike Woodar at MRWoodar@lasd.org, or visit malibucity.org.
