Atlanta's Innovative Approach to Community Policing: The CARE Unit's Expansion

The Atlanta Police Department (APD) is making headlines with its groundbreaking civilian CARE unit, a program that's proving to be a game-changer in community policing. Initially launched as a pilot program, the unit's remarkable success has prompted city officials to expand its reach across all zones of Atlanta. This innovative approach not only alleviates pressure on sworn officers but also demonstrates a commitment to community engagement and effective resource allocation.

Understanding the CARE Unit's Role

The CARE unit, an acronym for Community Assistant Respondent, is composed of civilians who undergo rigorous 14-week training. These individuals patrol the streets, responding to non-emergency calls, freeing up sworn officers to focus on high-priority situations, including life-threatening emergencies and violent crimes. The initial six graduates began their work in July 2024, quickly proving their effectiveness.

Impact and Efficiency

Within just four months of operation in Zones 2 and 5, the CARE unit had already handled an impressive 1,862 calls for service, generating 1,294 reports. This demonstrable efficiency underscores the program's success in managing lower-priority calls, allowing APD officers to dedicate their time and resources where they're most critically needed.

Addressing Council Concerns and Future Plans

The expansion of the CARE unit hasn't been without discussion. Atlanta's Public Safety committee members raised questions about the selection of Zones 2 and 5 for the pilot program. Chief Darin Schierbaum explained that these zones were chosen based on call volume data, specifically for incidents like car accidents, private property accidents, downed trees, and power lines—types of calls perfectly suited for the CARE unit's skillset. In response to council inquiries about future plans, Chief Schierbaum confidently stated that the goal is to deploy CARE units across every zone in Atlanta by July 2025, pending budget approval. The city is actively recruiting for this expansion, seeking individuals who are at least 18 years old, possess a valid driver's license, can pass a background check, and demonstrate excellent communication skills.

A City-Wide Initiative: Expanding CARE

The APD's decision to expand the CARE unit citywide reflects a thoughtful approach to community safety. The unit’s success in efficiently managing non-emergency calls allows sworn officers to dedicate their skills and resources to responding to urgent and critical incidents. This strategy demonstrates an effective balance between proactive community engagement and a focus on immediate public safety needs. The success of the pilot program, handling nearly 1900 calls in just four months, is clear evidence of the potential this program holds in maintaining a safe and efficient city. The initiative represents an evolution in Atlanta’s approach to public safety, one that prioritizes both proactive engagement and rapid response to high-risk situations.

The Future of Community Safety in Atlanta: A Collaborative Approach

Atlanta's expansion of the CARE unit goes beyond simply increasing the number of personnel. It signals a paradigm shift toward a more collaborative and community-focused approach to policing. By freeing sworn officers from less urgent tasks and allowing them to concentrate on high-priority calls, the program directly enhances public safety and strengthens the bond between the police department and the communities they serve. The program's continued growth signifies Atlanta’s commitment to innovative, efficient, and community-oriented solutions for public safety challenges. The success of the CARE unit offers a replicable model for other cities facing similar issues, thereby improving community safety across the country. This innovative program has demonstrably improved response times and efficiency, ultimately contributing to a safer and more secure Atlanta for its residents.