John T. White Neighborhood Association

All I know is it was three guys in a SUV. 

Remember the City of FW has a budget shortfall so they need the speed traps. If they were to arrest someone then it would cost the city to process those individuals. What happened to all the Natural Gas money the city received? How can they have a shortfall?

Allow me to set the record straight on a few things...

1.  The Citizens on Patrol  (COP) program is not affiliated with the HOA.  It is a strictly a volunteer group that works along side Fort Worth Police Dept. We act as the eyes and ears for FWPD and hopefully prevent a little crime along the way.  We do however, utilize the resources (newsletters) and events that the HOA has available to recruit.

2. As told directly to the past COPs member, River Trails COP will remain non-partial to the whole ATV issue.  I will not volunteer my time, money and wear and tear on my vehicles to try and prevent ATV's from driving on streets or in the woods, etc.  My concern is burglary of a motor vehicle, burglary of a habitat, etc.  Those that have issues with ATV's will need to contact the police department directly. My group will not get involved.

3. I take great offence to the COP group being put down rather the group is 20 strong or just 1 person.  They are volunteers that are trying to make even a slight difference and still juggle work/life.  When you are likely sleeping, these people are driving up and down the streets watching out  for your cars, houses and possesions (garage open or closed) multiple times throughout the night.  Hours of sleep lost (yet still go to work), gallons of gas gone, miles after miles adding up on the cars, etc.

4.  The m line is..we need more Citizens on Patrol.  The few currently volunteering are putting in many hours and it takes a toll on them financially and physically.  If we had more volunteers we could spread it out and then individuals are less likely to feel burdened.  Just one scheduled hour a month. Daytime or night time, you tell me when you are available.  I will plug you in.   I challenge 30 people to join this group.  Give me only 30 people out of 1500 potential residents and you will see what a difference it will make. The next class is July 12th.  The application is available at www.fortworthpd.com under Community Policing. Step up. 

Should anyone take the challenge, please be sure and notify me if you do sign up so I can follow your application thru the process.  My email is mcadomk@yahoo.com.

Melissa McDougall - River Trails COP Captain

817.905.6129