Peoria seeking volunteers to expand Park Watch

The Peoria Police Department is looking for volunteers to expand the city’s Park Watch program.

Police spokeswoman Amanda Jacinto said the program has 13 volunteers at Sunnyslope Park, but is looking to expand the program to other parks.

Jacinto said the volunteers monitor the park for suspicious activity, such as possible graffiti artists, and then contact the authorities.

“We’re not asking our citizens to become involved as far as apprehending somebody or pursuing a criminal,” she said. “Obviously, that would be the part the police or the park rangers would still be involved in.”

Jacinto said the program gives volunteers the opportunity to make a difference in their community.

“It brings together a community,” she said. “It brings neighbors together. It makes parks a more enjoyable place to be because you know it’s safer and you know everyone that’s there with you.”

Volunteers are required to give at least three hours per week to patrol the parks.