Volunteers in Policing (VIP)

The Volunteer in Policing (VIP) Program began in July 2017. The VIPs are well-respected by the SBPD and are a valued member of the police department family. Santa Barbara Police Department’s Volunteer Policing Program enhances the department’s relationship and communication with the public, through an approach known as community-oriented policing.  Our valued VIPs wear gray uniforms and “volunteer” badges.  Each volunteer acts as an ambassador between the community and the police department. 

VIPs have a variety of assignments.  You may find yourself assigned to assist in our front lobby, be a police department liaison on State Street, assist our investigative division, help staff our police officer open-entry testing, attend recruitment events, manage the At-Risk Adult identification program and more!

Our VIP candidates come from diverse backgrounds with a variety of professional experiences, strong character and dedication to public service.

Each candidate will undergo an interview process and a department background investigation.

Interested?  Email our VIP Director Bryan Marshall: bmarshall@sbpd.com or call us: 805-450-4609.

Watch our VIPs in action. Click Here.