Programs and Initiatives

Through various programs and initiatives, our community policing approach fosters collaboration between the police and the community, ensuring that together we can tackle local issues, enhance safety, and build stronger relationships. Community policing is a collaborative approach that brings together the police and the community to identify and address local issues. By working together, we can improve the safety and livability of your neighborhood, tackling problems like crime, disorder, and fear. Building trust between the police and the community is crucial in maintaining effective policing, and we hold meetings with residents, business leaders, and organizations to foster positive relationships and reduce crime. Crime prevention is a top priority, and together, we can create a safer city to call home.

For more information, please reach out to Sergeant Rodger Ollis at [email protected].

The Coatesville Police Department has certified child safety seat technicians available to assist community members with seat usage and installation. Sergeant Rodger Ollis and Officer Joe Norcini can answer questions and check or install child safety seats.

The department also offers a free child safety seat loaner program, provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics and PA Traffic Injury Prevention Project. Seats are available to individuals in need (while supplies last). To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact Sergeant Rodger Ollis at [email protected] or (610) 384-2300.

Coatesville Police Department collaborates with Safe Kids Chester County, led by the Office of the District Attorney, Chester County. They offer programs like car-seat checkups, safety workshops, and sports clinics to prevent childhood injuries.

Child passenger restraint requirements vary based on age, weight, and height. Infants use rear-facing seats, toddlers use forward-facing seats, and older children use booster seats. It’s important to follow state laws and place children in the rear seat whenever possible. Ensure children are properly buckled up in age- and size-appropriate car seats, booster seats, or seat belts. Children aged 12 and under should always ride in the back seat. Avoid placing a rear-facing seat in the front seat or in front of an airbag, as it can be dangerous.

In Summary:

  1. Buckle all children ages 12 and under in the back seat. Airbags can kill young children riding in the front seat. Never place a rear-facing car seat in front of an airbag.
  2. Buckle children in the middle of the back seat when possible, because it is the safest spot in the vehicle.
  3. Buckle children in car seats, booster seats, or seat belts on every trip, no matter how short.
  4. Set a good example by always using your seat belt.

National Night Out (NNO) is an annual event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, aimed at promoting community involvement in crime prevention. Coatesville Police Department actively participates in NNO, rallying residents and officers to join forces and make a positive impact. This campaign, spanning across the United States and beyond, aims to raise awareness about crime and drug prevention, encourage support for local anti-crime initiatives, strengthen neighborhood unity, and send a clear message to criminals that our communities are united against crime. Join us in this celebration of safety and community by participating in various events such as block parties, cookouts, parades, and safety demonstrations. Together, we can enhance community relations and make a difference in our city.

National Night Out (NNO) is an annual event promoting community involvement in crime prevention. Coatesville Police actively participate, uniting residents and officers to make a positive impact. Join us in raising awareness about crime prevention, supporting local initiatives, strengthening neighborhood unity, and sending a clear message to criminals. Together, we celebrate safety and community through block parties, cookouts, parades, and safety demonstrations. Let’s enhance community relations and make a difference in our city.

Graffiti is considered criminal damage, involving illicit markings or paintings on surfaces. It can negatively impact communities through property attacks and urban decay. While the “Broken Windows” theory aims to prevent more serious crimes by addressing vandalism, zero tolerance policies have proven ineffective. To maintain order, the Police Department and community volunteers work together. Please report any graffiti or related issues for a more orderly environment. Remember, graffiti is against the law in Coatesville and punishable by fines and/or imprisonment. For more information, contact Sergeant Rodger Ollis at [email protected].

The Coatesville Police Law Enforcement Chaplain program promotes the well-being of both citizens and law enforcement. Chaplains support the community during crises, offer counseling, and act as a liaison in major incidents. They facilitate effective communication between the Police Department and the community.

Law enforcement chaplains provide religious guidance, counseling, and support to law enforcement personnel and their families, as well as victims and even families of offenders. They are trained to address the unique needs and challenges of the law enforcement community, offering a trustworthy and reassuring presence.

Coatesville Police Department, in partnership with Coatesville Youth Initiative, has installed a Med Return Drug Collection Unit in the police department’s lobby. This 24/7 drop-box provides a safe and anonymous way for residents to dispose of unwanted or expired medications, free of charge and with no questions asked. The Medication Collection Program aims to remove medications from homes and ensure proper disposal. Sharps and needles cannot be accepted.