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Abbotsford Citizens Patrol celebrates 30 years

The organization was launched in July 1984 and has grown to more than 100 volunteers

The Citizens Patrol in Abbotsford is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

The first patrol shift was launched on July 27, 1984.

In the years since, the program has grown significantly and those volunteers have made considerable contributions to public safety, said Const. Ian MacDonald, spokesman for the Abbotsford Police Department (APD).

The program now has almost 100 volunteers serving the community.

MacDonald said these volunteers give an average of 9,500 hours of their time each year, patrol more than 20,000 kilometres, and check over 100,000 vehicles to ensure they are not stolen.

More than 30 volunteers in the last 10 years have gone on to have successful careers in law enforcement, including becoming officers with the APD.

“These volunteers not only patrol our streets, they are also there to support many community events, assist with barricade control for major events and are always there ready to serve and help when needed,” MacDonald said.

More information about volunteer opportunities with the APD can be found at abbypd.ca/Volunteer-Opportunities.