Who are the volunteer auxiliary police?
The NYPD’s auxiliary police program is the largest auxiliary police program in the United States, with thousands of volunteer officers contributing more than one million hours of public service each year. Auxiliary officers are trained to observe and report conditions requiring the services of the regular police. Whenever possible, they assist in non-enforcement and non-hazardous duties.
They are civic-minded men and women who volunteer to assist their local police precincts, housing police service areas, and transit districts by serving as the “eyes and ears” of the neighborhood through foot, vehicle, and bicycle patrols.
Duties of an auxiliary police officer
The following are some ways that the auxiliary police assist the Police Department:
- Patrol housing developments, residential, and commercial areas
- Patrol subway entrances and stations
- Maintain order at parades, festivals, street fairs, and other special events
- Patrol houses of worship
- Assist in crime prevention activities
- Perform traffic control at motor vehicle accidents and fire scenes
- Perform various other non-enforcement duties
Training
As part of the auxiliary police training course, candidates are trained in self-defense tactics, CPR and first aid, patrol techniques, the New York State Penal Law, and much more. A written and physical exam is given at the end of training.
Career
The auxiliary program is a great opportunity to get an up-close look at law enforcement. For some, it is a stepping stone to a great career in the NYPD. For others, the auxiliary program provides an opportunity to give back to the community while pursuing other careers. For those continuing their education, some colleges grant credit for training received in the auxiliary program.
Employment requirements
Auxiliary police officers must:
- Be at least 17 years of age
- Be in good health
- Have a good moral character
- Pass a background investigation
- Comply with NYPD’s zero-tolerance drug policy
- Speak, read, and write English
- Be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or authorized to work in the United States
- Live in one of the five boroughs of New York City or one of the six surrounding counties (Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Orange, or Putnam) and work in New York City
- Possess a valid New York State driver’s license or New York State identification card.