COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services)

COPS, or Community Oriented Policing Services, is a program established by the U.S. Department of Justice aimed at improving public safety through collaborative partnerships between law enforcement and communities. It focuses on building trust, enhancing communication, and addressing the specific needs of neighborhoods. By involving citizens in decision-making and problem-solving, COPS promotes proactive strategies to reduce crime and strengthen community cohesion. This approach seeks not only to respond to crime but to prevent it by addressing underlying social issues, fostering a sense of shared responsibility among police and community members.