Chelsea Citizen Observer Patrol Celebrates 27-Years of Service
By Rick McCann
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News
March 10, 2026
CHELSEA, Ala.
A volunteer group has kept a watchful eye on the City of Chelsea for the past twenty-seven years and they’ve made a difference by providing free security patrols.
Known as the Chelsea Citizen Observer Patrol (COP), they were recently celebrated at the 27th annual awards dinner.
Former Birmingham police chief A.C. Roper served as the keynote speaker, highlighting the importance of volunteer patrols and their dedication.
I remember when the group first formed. They had one older patrol vehicle and a couple of retirees that volunteered their time to patrol the small town just off Highway 280.
At that time, the community was policed by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and their fire service was provided by the volunteer fire department.
As of today, the town still does not employ a municipal police force or a paid fire department.
At its incorporation in 1996, there were only 906 residents. Today there are over 16,000 residents. It is a rapidly developing residential area, boasting a median age of 37.6.
In 2025, COP volunteers contributed 8,227 hours of service to keep the city “safe, strong and connected,” the city stated.
“We are deeply grateful for the time, heart, and commitment these volunteers give to Chelsea and Westover,” the city added.
Officials honored COP members who have passed and awarded current members. Allison Couch was awarded Rookie of the Year and Johnna Barnes was awarded Volunteer of the Year.
The COP is sponsored by Chelsea and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. Members receive training and patrol neighborhoods and businesses. Members are uniformed and unarmed. They work directly with law enforcement to report suspicious activities.
“The quality of life and community safety in Chelsea are enhanced as a result of the COP and the efforts of its dedicated members,” the city stated.
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