More on Highland Park’s Guardian Angels

RVANews has a more in depth look at the Gaurdian Angels now operating in Highland Park.

The chapter was started in direct response to a shooting recently heard in Ann Hardy park. City Council representative Ellen Robertson, whose house is next to the park, asked the Neighborhood Watch to brainstorm ways to lower crime in the area. They decided to get together with the Richmond Police Department to form a Citizens on Patrol organization — or a C.O.P.

“I started thinking, ‘Let’s call the professional C.O.P.’s’” said Neighborhood Watch member Jo White, who is now commander of the Richmond Guardian Angels. White got the go-ahead to form the chapter from Curtis Sliwa, founder of the national organization. After three months of still ongoing training, they had their first patrol on September 16th.

I was surprised at how much leeway the Angels have been given and how well they’ve been received by the neighborhood. It should be interesting to see how they grow/change as other neighborhoods have requested their help.

• Read our other posts about the Guardian Angels.