Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving

The COPPS Unit is part of the Community Services section. COPPS unit officers have a variety of responsibilities and are involved in several programs that include, but are not limited to, Crime Prevention, Nuisance Abatement, and Neighborhood Dispute Mediation.

The Crime Prevention Program provides such services as residential and commercial security surveys, presentations to community groups on crime prevention and related topics, coordinating neighborhood watch programs and providing statistical data to the public on request.

COPPS officers participate in the Community Health Action Team (CHAT) which is a collaborative effort on the part of the City's Building, Neighborhood Preservation, Fire, Public Works, and Police Departments, as well as Alameda County Housing. Working together, CHAT develops creative solutions to issues ranging from blight to other public safety issues or nuisances reported by members of the community.

The COPPS unit is often involved in, and instrumental in resolving neighborhood disputes within the City. These disputes range from chronic barking dog complaints to neighbors disputing over a property fence line. Additionally, the COPPS unit conducts or participates in presentations to various groups and organizations.

The COPPS unit is also responsible for the coordination of the Department's involvement in a variety of community events including, the St. Anne's Festival, Our Lady of the Rosary Festival and the annual Health Science & Earth Fair.

The police officers currently assigned to the COPPS unit are Sergeant Matt Pardo, Officer Ryan Seto, Officer Bruce Vance, Officer Humberto Rodriguez and Officer Chris Lanier.