Assistant Chief Joe Klima of Phoenix Police joins Dr Iain Britton to unpack one of the world’s most developed reserve policing models. From a 1918 city ordinance to today’s fully sworn, fully trained reserve officers, Phoenix shows how volunteers can fill critical gaps while adding specialist skills and deep community connection.

Joe explains who signs up, how the 11-month academy works, the role of a dedicated support team and community foundation, and how 48,000 volunteer hours translate into millions in value and frontline capacity for Phoenix PD.

Takeaways

• Phoenix reserves are fully sworn, fully certified police officers.
• The program dates back to a 1918 city ordinance.
• Reserves serve in almost every unit and rank except chief.
• Volunteers include students, professionals and retired officers.
• A dedicated career staff team runs training and admin.
• A community foundation funds vehicles, kit and extra support.
• Reserves donated ~48,000 hours last year alone.
• Strategic goal: grow numbers and widen roles across the city.

Sound bites

• “We’re a fully certified, full-authority police officer as a reserve.”
• “We’ve had reserves in Phoenix since at least 1918.”
• “We’ll fill any position someone is qualified and willing to serve in.”
• “It’s a great way to give back while keeping your career.”
• “Last year our reserves donated nearly 48,000 hours.”
• “That’s over $5.8 million in value back to the city.”
• “If you’ve always wanted to be a cop, you’re welcome in the reserves.”
• “We’re constantly looking for ways to support the organisation and community.”

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Volunteer Policing in Phoenix
05:02 The Diversity of Reserve Officers
10:13 Support and Structure of the Reserve Program
13:20 Measuring Impact and Value of Reserves
15:11 Future Goals for the Reserve Unit

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