Niagara Falls Police are hoping to implement a new public safety program for the tourism season next year. What is being called the "Ranger Program" would employ a civilian force of about 12 trained and uniformed individuals who would patrol the downtown area. These rangers would not carry police authority, but they would be equipped with radios to contact police if the need arises. The hope is that the increased uniform presence will be a deterrent to crime.
The city has studied successful programs of this kind in other cities.
Authorities are waiting for City Council approval and $150,000 in funding to initiate the program for 2014.
