HPD Community Resource Unit

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Current Size: 80%

HPD Community Resource UnitThe Community Resource Unit (CRU) is assigned to the Special Operations Division of the Harrisonburg Police Department.  CRU is a collaborative effort of crime prevention, education and community engagement to foster a positive working relationship between the Police Department and the citizens that we serve. The CRU is currently comprised of a Sergeant, Community Resource Officer, DARE Officer and School Resource Officers.

The Community Resource Officer acts as a liaison between the community and the Harrisonburg Police Department.  Responsibilities of focus include issues of community safety and business security. The emphasis of this position will be to expand on the knowledge, communication and overall safety of the community. 

The D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) officer represents a collaborative effort between elementary schools and law enforcement with the primary goal of enhancing socio-emotional skills and developing positive decision making efforts which lead to safe and responsible lives for students.

The CRU also works closely with the citizens and businesses in the community by sponsoring events such as the Explorer Program, Community Police Academy and Chief’s Advisory Committee. Also included under the unit are special programs such as Special Olympics Torch Run and National Night Out thereby promoting a positive image of the Harrisonburg Police Department, creating a safer and more secure community and working environment.

Community Resource Sergeant John Hancock
John.Hancock@harrisonburgva.gov
540-437-2645

DARE Officer Rebecca Bechtel
Rebecca.Bechtel@harrisonburgva.gov
540-437-2630

School Resource Officer Unit
Crime Prevention Topics