We only patrol and let the police respond. Only a clean driving record and reliability are requirements! The Citizens Patrol was founded by Andy Dlinn, CSA, in 1995 and modeled on the Baltimore Citizens Patrol. The Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition sponsors the Patrol. Since the Patrol began, crimes such as burglary, robbery and auto theft in Zone 4, which encompasses Squirrel Hill, Point Breeze and
several other neighborhoods, have dropped more than 40 percent, according to Pittsburgh police crime prevention analyst Ashley Thompson. Citizen patrol volunteers use their own vehicles, but are outfitted with radios, magnetic antennas and magnetic signs, searchlights, and zone maps. Volunteers patrol assigned zones Wednesday through Saturday nights in Squirrel Hill and Point Breeze. If they see anything suspicious, they report it to police and let the professionals take over. Volunteers enjoy some perks, including free refreshments from area merchants. There is also an annual social in June. All you need to volunteer for the Citizens Patrol are a:
Valid Pennsylvania driver's license
Registered and insured vehicle with a working cigarette lighter
Clean driving record
Willingness to only call police if you witness any criminal activity (we do not chase suspects or otherwise become involved in any incidents). We are seeking volunteers to work one night (three hours) per month. Give your community a few hours, and we will continue to enjoy one of the safest neighborhoods in the city! To volunteer, simply call the Coalition office at 412-422-7666 or register on-line. Committee Chair/ Founder/Director: Andy Dlinn
Assistant Director: Mitch Maizlech
