Spirit Lake Police launches volunteer program

SPIRIT LAKE — Spirit Lake Police is enlisting the community to get involved with its police department.

The agency has launched its Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) program that allows citizens to become involved either at the police station or on the street.

"It's an opportunity for citizens to be a part of their city, the police department and their community," said Dennis Sanchez, who was recently promoted to police chief.

Sanchez said the program will also enhance the capabilities of the department and save the city money because some of the duties would otherwise have to be performed by staff.

Volunteers will assist with neighborhood watches, speed trailers, traffic control, clerical work, answering phones, vacation checks and other duties.

"They could provide an extra set of eyes," Sanchez said, adding that volunteers will not be armed but have shirts identifying them as police volunteers.

Outdoor volunteers will also have a VIPS-identified vehicle to use in the future.

Chad Cochran, a veteran who served in Iraq, has stepped forward to be the volunteer coordinator and start the recruitment phase of the program.

"We have a lot of retirees and there's a big interest in people wanting to be a part of the community, so we're trying to facilitate that for them," Sanchez said.

Those interested in volunteering can access an application at www.spiritlakeid.gov or stop by the police station to receive one. For more information, call 208-623-2701.

The background of all applicants will be checked. Applicants will also be interviewed.

"It's important that everyone, whether they are a volunteer, reserve officer or sworn, to meet the high standards of the city," Sanchez said. "There won't be any shortcuts because they are a volunteer."