Community Patrol Takes Shape In Wolf Point
Wolf Point city council member Lance FourStar discussed the role and requirements of a new community patrol during the Wolf Point Community Organization’s meeting last week.
FourStar said the patrol is a possible “solution to the murders and violence happening in Wolf Point.”
According to its mission statement, “Agichita patrol is dedicated to supporting local law enforcement and promoting safety in Wolf Point. Guided by integrity, vigilance and respect for our community, we serve as extra eyes and ears — patrolling neighborhoods, documenting suspicious or criminal activity, and promptly reporting incidents to 911. When emergencies arise, we immediately contact the appropriate services to ensure a swift response. Through collaboration, accountability and a commitment to our people, we uphold our duty to protect and strengthen our community.”
The patrol seeks to assist local Wolf Point law enforcement by:
• Patrolling various areas of the community.
• Observe, witness and capture videos of criminal activity.
• Call police or 911 and request that a report of criminal activity be taken.
• Call for medical assistance as necessary.
• Be good-will role models for members of the community.
• Engage with criminal perpetrator or attempt any physical restraint.
Patrol members will serve in the role as professional witnesses. Physical attire will include a T-shirt, baseball cap, reflective vest and walkie talkies. Agichita patrol will have cell phones, at least two phones per team.
FourStar feels that once the attire can be purchased, the patrol schedule can take place. He is hopeful it begins in the middle of May. He encourages donations and possible fundraisers for the program.
Applicants for the volunteer positions will need to go through a background check.
“The biggest thing is we need to have community members in good standings,” FourStar said.
Schedules will be provided to law enforcement for good communication. One hope is driving vehicles previously used by the Fort Peck Tribes Security Program.
Members will attend a First Aid class. Chat will be developed and used as a communication device for formal communication and professional assistance. Franny Weeks is serving as the Agichita scheduler.
The idea of a community patrol came in association when residents held a March Against Violence in late March. The event sought to reduce the number of violent criminal acts in Wolf Point.
“We need to show the world and community we need to find an end to these unnecessary deaths,” FourStar said at that time.
