City of Longwood Recognizes Citizens on Patrol Members for Assisting in Safe Recovery of Missing Child

The City of Longwood will recognize Citizens on Patrol (COP) members Karen Gehl and Cherie Sanders during this evening’s City Commission meeting for their attentiveness and calm response during an incident that led to the safe recovery of a young child found wandering alone in a Longwood neighborhood.

While conducting routine patrol duties in the Skylark subdivision near Raven Avenue, Gehl and Sanders  observed a small child wearing only a diaper walking alone in the roadway without an adult nearby. Concerned for the child’s safety, the two volunteers immediately stopped and contacted on-duty Longwood Police personnel via radio to report the situation and provide the child’s location.

The COP members remained nearby and continued monitoring the child from a safe distance until officers arrived on scene. During the incident, it was determined that the child was non-verbal and had a mental disability, making communication difficult and increasing concern for the child’s well-being and safety near the roadway.

Longwood Police officers quickly began searching the surrounding area and were able to locate the child’s father a short time later. The child was safely reunited with the family without further incident.

Citizens on Patrol members are trained civilian volunteers who assist the Longwood Police Department by serving as extra eyes and ears throughout the community. Although COP members do not take enforcement action, their awareness, communication, and willingness to act appropriately in situations like this provide valuable support to officers and help enhance public safety throughout the city.

The City of Longwood extends its appreciation to Karen Gehl and Cherie Sanders for their professionalism, attentiveness, and continued service to the community.