How Phoenix Police Harness Reserve Officers — A Global Model for Volunteer Policing
- Aaron Wilson
- 3 days ago
- 1 min read
#VLEOA #VolunteerLawEnforcementOfficerAlliance #PoliceReserve #ReserveDeputies #VolunteerInBlue #Phoenix #PhoenixAZ #PhoenixArizona #PhoenixPolice #PhoenixPD #CommunitySafety #ServeAndProtect #PolicingTV #PolicingInsight #PublicSafety #PoliceVolunteers #LawEnforcementSupport
The 2021 VLEOA International Training Conference Host, Phoenix, AZ Police Department, operates one of the most developed reserve deputy programs in the United States, with a legacy stretching back to a 1918 city ordinance that formally empowered volunteer officers. This recent PolicingTV interview by Dr Iain Britton, highlights Phoenix’s fully sworn and fully certified reserve officers, serving alongside full-time personnel in nearly every unit and rank except chief, from patrol and community engagement to specialized assignments. Last year alone, these volunteers contributed about 48,000 hours, translating into millions of dollars in value and critical frontline capacity for the department.
Led by Assistant Chief Joe Klima and supported by a dedicated administrative team and community foundation, the program welcomes students, professionals, and retired officers alike who are committed to giving back while balancing careers and life — a model of how reserve deputies can enhance public safety through training, diversity, and deep community connection.