City of Perry Police Reserve Officer Program
The Perry Police Reserve unit currently has five officers who augment the effectiveness and capabilities of the police department. The primary function of the reserve officer is to work as a second officer in the patrol car, primarily on weekends and evenings, providing instant back-up for the regular officers when it is most needed.
Another major function of the unit is to provide assistance with traffic and crowd control during parades and special events such as PerryFest, and other summer events. The reserve force also provides the department with extra manpower that can be deployed quickly for critical incidents and other situations that require more officers than would otherwise be available.
Through the years, the reserve officers have proven to be a valuable asset to the Department. Their services have been used for traffic stops, traffic control at accident scenes and providing for security checks of buildings and property.
All applicants for the reserve unit must meet strict requirements, such as a thorough screening and background investigation. Reserve Officers continually receive training in law enforcement and related curriculum each month and are required to meet the same proficiency standards as the sworn officers in use of lethal and non-lethal force. Reserve Officers are required to log a minimum of eight hours a month and attend special events throughout the year. Our Reserve Officers come from different backgrounds and bring a wide range of experience to the department.
Reserve Officers are not paid; they do this because they look forward to helping make a difference. Reserves are those who care about people and the property that they protect but have other full time employment. Some Reserves take what they have learned on the job and while attending college go to a Police Academy.
Reserve Officers make sacrifices every shift they work at the Perry Police Department. They not only take time away from their family to help the community, but also put their lives on the line to help keep this and our surrounding communities safer.