Crime Prevention Resources

Community Oriented Policing & Problem Solving

The promotion of crime prevention strategies for the city of Coon Rapids is a function of the Police Department's Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS) Unit. The officers assigned to the COPPS unit work with individuals, neighborhoods, and businesses to reduce the fear and incidence of crime through education and training. Their work is dedicated to enhancing the safety practices of citizens, and also to strengthening community and police partnerships.

Dial 911

Although most crime prevention strategies are focused on reducing the likelihood of you or your family being victimized by criminals, it is also important to note there are few more important crime prevention tips than to immediately call 9-1-1 when witnessing suspicious activity. Research has shown that the most important factor in determining whether a suspect is arrested at the scene of a crime is the speed at which a person reports that activity to 9-1-1, not the speed which an officer drives in response to that call.

The Coon Rapids Police Departments encourages you, as engaged citizens, to trust your instincts when something doesn't look right and report all suspicious activity. Remember, you are an expert at recognizing what does and does not look out of place in your neighborhood.

Deter Crime as a Community

Much of the literature presented is exclusively informational. There are, however, important programs sponsored by the police department designed to promote citizen participation in crime prevention activities at the neighborhood level. Programs such as Community Watch Team and Minnesota's Night to Unite offer great opportunities for individuals and families to band together to deter crime where it matters most, at your doorstep. Officers of the COPPS unit encourage you and your families to familiarize yourselves with the information contained within this web page and to make crime prevention an integral part of your life.

For more crime prevention tips see our Crime Prevention Resource page.