South Maui Citizens on Patrol Seek More Volunteers

Maui Police crime graphic by Wendy Osher.

The Citizens on Patrol, South Maui Chapter, made up of approximately 20 volunteers from the community who aid the Maui Police Department, is seeking additional members, according to MPD and Adele Rugg, a longtime member of the group.

The non-enforcement-type volunteer role includes deterring and reporting criminal activities, according to a press release sent by a Maui Police Department information officer.

Patrols began in September of 1994. At the time, volunteers patrolled South Maui in an Avis rental car.

Now, the MPD provides the volunteers with a vehicle marked with a “Citizens on Patrol” magnetic sign while covering South Maui areas and the scenic lookout along Honoapi‘ilani Highway, MPD said.

“We are the extra eyes and ears of the MPD,” said Rugg. “Our area is from the Pali Lookout to LaPerouse on the South Side of Maui. Over the years, we have been able to help decrease vehicle break-ins in the area.”

Rugg added, “In the past, we had teams going out every day; however, our numbers have decreased and we are not able to be on the road on a daily basis. We need more volunteers.”

“An application and background check are required before a volunteer is accepted in to the program,” said MPD Officer Kamuela Mawae, community relations section.

These individuals dedicated to making Maui a better place to in which to live and visit have been invaluable to the police and community, according to MPD.

Those wanting to make a difference and participate in this program should contact MPD’s Community Relations Department at 244-6380 or email [email protected].