Inside Operation Vigilance

An Innovative Program Developed by the Cranston RI Police Department

Part 2: Logistics & Planning

Using the city's IT department and working together with Cranston School Department, Operation Vigilance starts each school year off safer.

Each of the city's schools, every school bus stop, all playgrounds, and every day care & kindergarten are digitally mapped by their proximity to the residences of registered sex offenders.

Marie Giarrusso, of the City's IT department, updates information in a timely fashion with changes to offenders residency status or additional offenders as they enter the Community.

Only sworn personnel have access to review or update the status of sex offenders living in Cranston.

This includes Level 1-3 offenders residing anywhere in the city. 

Operation Vigilance Database Information is used by patrol supervisors to schedule police presence in areas of concern throughout the city.

This data is also routed to mobile data terminals in patrol vehicles.

Part 2: Visual Deterrence

Law enforcement's ability to accomplish the goals of this program depends on the Police being perceived as a deterrent.

Central to this approach is the apparently random placement of Police Cruisers at different City schools, at different times.

The careful planning of Operation Vigilance empowers both sworn officers and School Department staff.

Crossing guards are briefed at start of school year, as are bus drivers, to prepare them to be observant and to have an action plan in case its needed while performing their normal duties.

The Alliance for Safe Communities praises the city of Cranston, Mayor Allan Fung, Cranston's IT Department, and Cranston's Police Department who are sworn to Protect and Serve.

Through their collaborative effort Cranston is safer because of the communication, practiced skills, and attentive implementation of Operation Vigilance. Cranston residents voiced concerns and city officials and law enforcement worked together to meet crucial needs before them.