The Chelsea Citizen Observer Patrol (C.O.P.) is an all volunteer organization sponsored by the City of Chelsea and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department.  It is composed of Chelsea citizens who, after receiving training, patrol neighborhoods and business areas in our town to help deter crime and to assist in emergencies such as auto accidents.

The C.O.P. volunteers are not armed, and they do not engage directly in law enforcement. Instead, they observe; and they report appropriate, suspicious activities and problem situations to the Sheriff’s Department for investigation and action.  As such, the members serve as the eyes and ears for this department.

The quality of life and community safety in Chelsea are enhanced as a result of the C.O.P. and the efforts of its dedicated members.

C.O.P. volunteers on patrol duty can be identified by their photo I.D. cards and by their white shirts with the C.O.P. insignia.  These volunteers have received extensive training before receiving certification and going on patrol.  Volunteers patrol in teams of two.  Each member commits to donate a minimum of three hours per week for patrols.

C.O.P. PATROLS

C.O.P volunteers randomly patrol the neighborhoods and commercial areas within the city limits of Chelsea.  Each C.O.P. patrol vehicle is identified with the C.O.P. insignia and green emergency light.  Patrol vehicles are equipped with a cellular phone, police scanner and an equipment bag containing a full complement of support materials.