Community Affairs Officers (CAOs) are volunteers who serve as an extension of the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office in a community liaison role. As the ‘eyes and ears’ of the community, CAOs engage in activities that enhance and improve public safety.
Combining Sheriff’s Office training with personal experience, CAOs engage in a variety of activities, including:
- Crime prevention efforts, including Park Tours, Premise Surveys, Graffiti Program, and Speed Reduction Program.
- Community events representing the Sheriff’s Office at open houses, community carnivals, and parades.
- Distribution of crime prevention materials, crime alerts, and community notifications.
- Community public safety programs, such as Night to Unite, Neighborhood Watch, TRIAD, and Kid Print.
- Emergency call outs for natural disasters and community emergencies.
In addition, Community Affairs Officers participate and support the Citizen Academy, and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
Requirements
Community Affairs Officers candidates must be 18 years of age or older, possess a valid Minnesota driver’s license, present proof of valid insurance, pass a criminal background check, and be in good health. Canddidates must attend and successfully complete the Community Affairs Academy, which runs for eight weeks, one evening per week. Academies are typically held each year.
