Do you have funds and resources allocated for community-based programs?

The Cocoa Police Department began its community policing philosophy in 1998. The Community Resource Unit is currently dedicated to this philosophy. There is currently one community resource officer and K9 handler using a public relations/therapy k9, 2 school resource officers and 1 lieutenant assigned to this unit. Its mission is to execute and support community outreach programs including the Cocoa Police Athletic League, youth leadership training, employment training, after school programs and mentoring, Cops and Kids Summer Camp program, school partnerships in education, safety programs, crime prevention programs, community watch meetings, public education and information, and proactive outreach to connect the police department with the community. The “Lemonade Stand”, is used at many of these outreach events and programs to create goodwill and an approachable way to connect with police officers and personnel. The mission has made a significant impact in creating and fostering positive relationships with the public of all ages and backgrounds. The department also created a non-profit entity to help fund many of the programs that are not currently covered with the city’s operational budget. The financial support from the community has enabled outreach programs to impact hundreds of local families in and around Cocoa.  The Cocoa Police Department also has two victim advocates on staff to serve the community with victim assistance and social services. This is funded through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) federal grant.


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1. Is there a ban on the use of chokeholds and strangleholds?
2. Are there several steps in the de-escalation process?
3. Do you require your officers to warn before shooting?
4. Do you require that your officers exhaust all other means before resorting to shooting?
5. Do your officers have a duty to intervene when they see another officer mishandling a situation?
6. What are you actively doing and what policies do you have in place to stop collusion?
7. Are officers banned from shooting at moving vehicles?
8. Do your officers employ the use of Force Continuum?
9. Do you require comprehensive reporting?
10. Does your department participate in the use of no knock warrants?
11. Do you carry less-lethal weapons as a proven method to curb violent behavior by officers of the law?
12. Do you restrict SWAT teams use for emergency situations?
13. Do you require body worn cameras for police officers?
14. Do you require officers to undergo training - including scenario-based training on at least a quarterly basis and involve the community - including youth of color – in its design and implementation?
15. Do you ensure accountability through civilian oversight boards?
16. Do you have funds and resources allocated for community-based programs?