What is a Lot Cop? Role, Responsibilities & More

In the domain of property security, the role of personnel often varies depending on the specific environment; retail establishments frequently employ security guards, while parking facilities utilize lot cops to maintain order. Security companies, such as Allied Universal, provide trained individuals who can fulfill this role. The responsibilities of a lot cop often extend beyond simple observation, encompassing tasks such as enforcing parking regulations and ensuring the safety of individuals within the designated area, similar to the duties performed by a police officer. Understanding what is a lot cop involves recognizing the unique demands of securing parking lots and similar properties, which requires a distinct skill set and approach to security compared to other settings.

Guardians of the Parking Lot: Understanding Lot Security Officers

Parking lots, often overlooked spaces, are critical components of modern infrastructure, facilitating access to businesses, residences, and various establishments. Maintaining their safety and security is paramount, a task increasingly entrusted to dedicated professionals: lot security officers.

These individuals act as the first line of defense against a range of threats, from petty theft and vandalism to more serious criminal activities. Understanding their role and importance is crucial for appreciating the overall security ecosystem of our communities.

The Vital Role of Lot Security Officers

Lot security officers are responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment within parking facilities. Their presence serves as a deterrent to criminal activity, reassuring vehicle owners and patrons that their property and personal safety are being protected.

By diligently patrolling parking areas, monitoring surveillance equipment, and responding to incidents, these officers play a vital role in preventing crime and ensuring a secure environment for all.

Heightened Demand in a Changing Landscape

The demand for lot security officers has been steadily rising in recent years, driven by increasing crime rates and heightened security concerns in parking areas. Factors such as urbanization, economic instability, and a general sense of unease have contributed to this trend.

Businesses, property managers, and individuals are recognizing the value of investing in professional security services to mitigate risks and protect their assets.

A Spectrum of Responsibilities

The responsibilities of a lot security officer are diverse and multifaceted, extending far beyond simply watching cars. They are trained to handle a variety of situations, ranging from routine patrols and traffic management to emergency response and conflict resolution.

Their duties often include:

• Patrolling: Conducting regular patrols to deter crime and identify potential security risks.
• Surveillance: Monitoring CCTV cameras and other surveillance equipment to detect suspicious activity.
• Emergency Response: Responding to accidents, medical emergencies, and security breaches.
• Incident Reporting: Documenting incidents and providing detailed reports to supervisors and law enforcement.

Lot security officers are not merely passive observers. They are proactive guardians, actively working to create and maintain safe and secure parking environments.

Core Responsibilities: A Day in the Life of a Lot Security Officer

Following the increasing demands for lot security officers, it is crucial to explore their daily responsibilities, highlighting the diverse nature of their role in maintaining safety and order in parking facilities. These responsibilities extend beyond simple observation, encompassing proactive measures, emergency response, and customer interaction.

The daily routine of a lot security officer is dynamic and multifaceted, adapting to the specific needs and challenges of their assigned location.

Patrolling: Maintaining a Visible Presence

Regular patrols are a cornerstone of a lot security officer’s duties. These patrols serve as a visible deterrent to potential criminal activity. Officers are trained to observe their surroundings, paying close attention to:

• Suspicious individuals or vehicles.
• Signs of vandalism or property damage.
• Potential hazards, such as spills or obstructions.

The goal of patrolling is to identify and address potential security risks before they escalate into more serious incidents. Effective patrolling requires a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of the parking facility’s layout.

Surveillance: Eyes in the Parking Lot

In addition to physical patrols, lot security officers utilize surveillance technology to monitor parking areas. CCTV cameras provide a constant visual record of activity, allowing officers to:

• Detect suspicious behavior in real-time.
• Review footage of past incidents.
• Gather evidence for investigations.

Direct observation skills are also crucial, allowing officers to identify potential threats that may not be immediately apparent on camera.

Crime Prevention: Proactive Security Measures

Lot security officers play a proactive role in preventing crime. This involves:

• Implementing security measures, such as improved lighting or access control systems.
• Educating vehicle owners about crime prevention techniques.
• Working with local law enforcement to address crime trends.

By taking proactive steps to prevent crime, officers can create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.

Trespassing: Identifying and Addressing Unauthorized Access

Parking facilities are often targeted by trespassers, who may engage in illegal activities or pose a security risk. Lot security officers are responsible for:

• Identifying trespassers.
• Enforcing parking regulations.
• Taking appropriate action, which may include issuing warnings or contacting law enforcement.

Dealing with trespassers requires a combination of firmness and diplomacy.

Emergency Response: Handling Accidents and Incidents

Lot security officers are often the first responders to accidents, medical emergencies, and security breaches. They are trained to:

• Assess the situation.
• Provide first aid or other assistance.
• Contact emergency services.

Effective emergency response requires quick thinking, decisive action, and a calm demeanor.

Incident Reporting: Accurate Documentation is Key

Detailed and accurate incident reporting is an essential part of a lot security officer’s job. Incident reports provide a record of:

• Security breaches.
• Accidents.
• Other significant events.

These reports are used for investigations, insurance claims, and security planning. Accurate documentation helps to improve security protocols and prevent future incidents.

Loss Prevention: Preventing Theft and Damage

A key responsibility is loss prevention, focused on deterring vehicle and property theft. This involves:

• Monitoring for suspicious activity around vehicles.
• Ensuring proper lighting to deter theft.
• Reporting any signs of tampering or damage.

Preventing vehicle theft protects vehicle owners and reduces financial losses for property owners.

Customer Service: Assisting and Informing Patrons

Lot security officers also provide customer service to vehicle owners and patrons. This includes:

• Answering questions about parking regulations.
• Providing directions.
• Assisting with minor vehicle problems.

Providing excellent customer service enhances the overall experience for visitors and helps to build trust and confidence in the security team.

Traffic Control: Maintaining Order and Efficiency

In busy parking facilities, lot security officers may be responsible for managing traffic flow and ensuring orderly parking. This involves:

• Directing vehicles to available spaces.
• Enforcing parking regulations.
• Preventing congestion.

Effective traffic control ensures that parking facilities operate smoothly and efficiently.

Key Relationships: The Network of a Lot Security Officer

The effectiveness of a lot security officer hinges not only on their individual skills and training but also on the strength of their professional relationships. These relationships span various stakeholders, each playing a crucial role in maintaining a safe and secure parking environment.

Understanding these connections is essential for appreciating the comprehensive nature of the lot security officer’s role.

Security Supervisors/Managers: Guidance and Oversight

Lot security officers typically report to security supervisors or managers who provide guidance, direction, and oversight.

The supervisor acts as a point of contact for incident reporting, policy interpretation, and ongoing training. They also ensure that officers adhere to established protocols and procedures.

Effective communication between officers and their supervisors is vital for addressing emerging security concerns and coordinating responses to incidents.

Police Officers: Collaboration in Law Enforcement

Collaboration with local law enforcement is an important aspect of a lot security officer’s duties.

Officers are often required to report criminal activity, such as theft, vandalism, or trespassing, to the police.

They may also assist in investigations by providing witness statements, surveillance footage, or other relevant information. A strong working relationship with law enforcement facilitates a coordinated response to crime and enhances the overall security of the parking facility.

Property Managers: Aligning Security with Property Goals

Property managers are responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of the parking facility.

Lot security officers work closely with property managers to align security efforts with the property’s goals and objectives.

This may involve implementing security measures, such as improved lighting or access control systems, based on the property manager’s recommendations.

Regular communication between officers and property managers helps to ensure that security efforts are tailored to the specific needs of the property.

Loss Prevention Officers: A Retail Security Partnership

In retail settings, lot security officers collaborate with loss prevention officers to deter theft and protect merchandise.

This may involve monitoring parking areas for suspicious activity, such as loitering or vehicle tampering.

They might assist loss prevention officers in apprehending shoplifters or recovering stolen merchandise.

This collaboration is critical for minimizing losses and maintaining a safe shopping environment.

Vehicle Owners/Customers: Assistance and Enforcement

Lot security officers interact regularly with vehicle owners and customers, providing assistance and enforcing parking regulations.

This may involve answering questions about parking policies, providing directions, or assisting with minor vehicle problems.

They may also be required to issue warnings or citations for parking violations.

Providing excellent customer service while maintaining security helps to create a positive experience for visitors and build trust in the security team.

Trespassers: Managing Unauthorized Access

Dealing with trespassers is a common task for lot security officers.

Officers are responsible for identifying trespassers, enforcing parking regulations, and taking appropriate action, such as issuing warnings or contacting law enforcement.

A balance of firmness and diplomacy is often required when interacting with trespassers to de-escalate situations and maintain order.

Criminals (Thieves, Vandals, etc.): Deterrence and Response

Lot security officers play a crucial role in deterring and responding to criminal activity in parking areas.

Their presence serves as a deterrent to potential thieves, vandals, and other criminals.

When criminal activity occurs, officers are trained to assess the situation, provide assistance to victims, and contact law enforcement.

Effective crime prevention strategies help to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.

Operational Environments: Where You’ll Find Lot Security Officers

Lot security officers are not confined to a single type of parking facility. Their expertise is required in a diverse range of environments, each presenting unique security challenges and requiring tailored strategies. From open-air lots to multi-story garages, the specific operational context significantly shapes the officer’s daily tasks and responsibilities.

Understanding these varying environments is crucial for appreciating the adaptability and versatility required of a competent lot security officer.

Parking Lots/Garages: A General Overview

Parking lots and garages represent the most common operational environment for lot security officers. These facilities can vary widely in size, layout, and usage patterns. Open-air lots are typically less complex to patrol, but may be more vulnerable to weather-related incidents and unauthorized access.

Multi-story garages, on the other hand, present challenges related to visibility, accessibility, and potential blind spots.

Effective patrol strategies are essential in both types of facilities to deter crime and ensure the safety of vehicles and individuals. The officers act as a visible deterrent to vehicle theft, vandalism, and other crimes.

Shopping Malls/Retail Centers: Security in a Commercial Ecosystem

Shopping malls and retail centers require a heightened level of security due to the high volume of pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

These environments are particularly susceptible to vehicle break-ins, theft, and loitering. Lot security officers in these settings often collaborate closely with loss prevention officers to address shoplifting and other retail-related crimes.

Maintaining a safe and secure parking environment is crucial for attracting customers and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

Apartment Complexes/Residential Buildings: Security Where People Live

In apartment complexes and residential buildings, lot security officers play a vital role in protecting residents and their vehicles. These officers address issues such as unauthorized parking, vandalism, and potential threats to personal safety.

They work to create a secure living environment by enforcing parking regulations, monitoring surveillance systems, and responding to resident concerns.

Often, a key aspect involves managing access control and ensuring only authorized vehicles are parked on the premises.

Office Buildings: Security for Employees and Visitors

Office buildings require a balance of security and accessibility to accommodate employees and visitors. Lot security officers in these environments are responsible for managing traffic flow, enforcing parking policies, and deterring theft or vandalism.

They also play a crucial role in responding to emergencies and ensuring the safety of building occupants.

Security measures are tailored to the specific needs of the building and its tenants, which may include controlled access points and security checkpoints.

Hospitals/Medical Facilities: Unique Security Challenges

Hospitals and medical facilities present unique security challenges due to the sensitive nature of the environment and the high volume of patients, visitors, and staff. Lot security officers in these settings must be prepared to deal with a wide range of issues, including theft, vandalism, and potential threats to personal safety.

They also need to be trained to respond to medical emergencies and provide assistance to patients and visitors.

Maintaining a safe and secure parking environment is essential for ensuring the smooth operation of the facility and the well-being of its occupants.

Colleges/Universities: Maintaining Order on Campus

College and university parking lots often experience high traffic volumes and a diverse range of users, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Lot security officers in these environments are responsible for enforcing parking regulations, managing traffic flow, and deterring crime.

They also play a role in assisting students and visitors with directions and information about campus services.

Effective communication and proactive patrol strategies are essential for maintaining order and security on campus parking lots.

Core Security Concepts: Strategies for a Safe Parking Environment

The role of a lot security officer is fundamentally guided by a set of core security concepts and strategies. These concepts serve as the bedrock upon which daily operations are built, informing decision-making and shaping responses to a variety of security challenges.

A deep understanding of these principles is essential for creating and maintaining a safe and secure parking environment.

The Overarching Goal: Security

At its core, the primary objective is to establish and maintain a secure environment within the parking facility. This encompasses the protection of individuals, vehicles, and property from harm or loss.

Security is not merely the absence of crime, but rather a proactive approach to risk management and threat mitigation. It requires a comprehensive strategy that integrates various security measures and technologies.

It also necessitates a vigilant and responsive security presence, capable of addressing both immediate threats and long-term security vulnerabilities.

Deterrence: Discouraging Criminal Activity Before it Occurs

Deterrence is a crucial element of any effective security strategy. It aims to discourage potential offenders from engaging in criminal activity by creating an environment of risk and uncertainty.

Visible security measures, such as uniformed officers, security cameras, and adequate lighting, can significantly enhance deterrence.

Effective signage that clearly outlines parking regulations and security protocols can also contribute to deterring unauthorized access and criminal behavior.

Patrol: The Eyes and Ears of Parking Security

Regular and systematic patrol is a cornerstone of lot security. It allows officers to maintain a visible presence, identify potential security threats, and respond promptly to incidents.

Effective Patrol Routes and Techniques

Patrol routes should be carefully planned to cover all areas of the parking facility, including vulnerable zones and high-traffic areas.

Officers should vary their patrol patterns to avoid predictability, making it more difficult for potential offenders to anticipate their movements.

Foot patrols are often the most effective way to deter crime and engage with vehicle owners or customers.

Vehicle patrols can be useful for covering larger areas quickly.

Surveillance: Utilizing Technology for Enhanced Security

Surveillance technology, particularly CCTV systems, plays a vital role in enhancing security in parking facilities. Cameras can monitor activity, record evidence, and provide real-time alerts to security personnel.

The Strategic Placement of Security Cameras

Strategic placement of cameras is essential to maximize their effectiveness. Cameras should be positioned to cover entrances, exits, and other critical areas.

It is vital to ensure adequate lighting to enable clear video capture, especially during nighttime hours.

Privacy Considerations

Adherence to privacy regulations and ethical considerations is vital when using surveillance technologies. Signage should clearly indicate the presence of cameras.

Emergency Response: Preparing for the Unexpected

Lot security officers must be prepared to respond effectively to a wide range of emergency scenarios, including accidents, medical incidents, and security breaches.

Developing Clear Protocols

Clear emergency response protocols should be established and regularly rehearsed. Officers should be trained in first aid, CPR, and other essential skills.

Effective communication systems are essential for coordinating emergency response efforts. Regular drills and simulations can help to improve the preparedness of security personnel.

Incident Reporting: Documenting and Analyzing Security Events

Accurate and timely incident reporting is crucial for effective security management. Detailed reports provide valuable information for analyzing security trends, identifying vulnerabilities, and improving security protocols.

The Importance of Thorough Documentation

Incident reports should include detailed descriptions of the event, the location, the time, and any individuals involved. They should also include any actions taken by security personnel.

Regular analysis of incident reports can help to identify recurring problems and inform the development of proactive security measures.

Vehicle Theft: Targeted Strategies for Prevention

Vehicle theft is a significant concern in parking facilities. Lot security officers should implement specific strategies to prevent vehicle theft, such as monitoring suspicious activity, enforcing parking regulations, and working with law enforcement agencies.

Preventing Vehicle Theft

Visible security measures, such as security cameras and patrol officers, can deter potential thieves.

Regular patrols of parking areas can help to identify vehicles that may be at risk.

Implementing access control measures, such as gated entrances and key card systems, can also help to prevent vehicle theft.

Vandalism: Minimizing Damage and Disruption

Vandalism can cause significant damage and disruption in parking facilities. Lot security officers should implement measures to reduce vandalism, such as increasing lighting, monitoring suspicious activity, and promptly repairing any damage.

Reducing Vandalism

Adequate lighting can deter vandals. Regular patrols of parking areas can help to identify and address potential vandalism issues.

Promptly repairing any damage can help to prevent further vandalism.

Essential Tools and Technologies: Equipping the Modern Lot Security Officer

The effectiveness of a lot security officer is heavily reliant on the tools and technologies at their disposal. These resources not only enhance their ability to monitor and respond to incidents but also contribute significantly to creating a safer and more secure parking environment.

From surveillance equipment to communication devices, these tools are crucial for modern parking security operations.

Security Cameras (CCTV): The Unblinking Eye

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems are a cornerstone of modern parking security.

These cameras provide a constant visual record of activity within the parking area, serving as both a deterrent to crime and a valuable source of evidence in the event of an incident.

The strategic placement of CCTV cameras is essential for maximizing their effectiveness.

Areas such as entrances, exits, and high-traffic zones should be prioritized. Modern systems often incorporate features like motion detection and night vision, further enhancing their capabilities.

Beyond real-time monitoring, CCTV footage can be crucial for post-incident analysis, helping to identify perpetrators and understand the sequence of events.

The Role of Analytics in CCTV Systems

The integration of video analytics with CCTV systems is revolutionizing parking security. These advanced systems can automatically detect suspicious behavior, such as loitering or unauthorized access.

They can also identify license plates and track vehicles, providing valuable insights for investigations. This proactive approach allows security personnel to respond quickly to potential threats, preventing incidents before they occur.

Security Radios/Walkie-Talkies: The Lifeline of Communication

Effective communication is paramount for any security operation, and security radios or walkie-talkies are the primary means of maintaining contact between lot security officers and their supervisors, as well as with other team members.

These devices allow for instant communication in emergencies, enabling officers to coordinate responses and share critical information in real time.

The reliability and range of security radios are essential considerations, especially in large parking facilities or areas with signal interference.

Many modern systems also incorporate features like GPS tracking, allowing supervisors to monitor the location of officers and dispatch assistance quickly when needed.

Lighting Systems: Illuminating the Shadows

Adequate lighting is a fundamental aspect of parking security. Well-lit parking areas deter criminal activity by increasing visibility and reducing the sense of anonymity that offenders often seek.

Strategic placement of lighting fixtures can eliminate shadows and dark corners, making it easier for security officers to monitor the environment and for CCTV cameras to capture clear footage.

Energy-efficient LED lighting is increasingly being adopted in parking facilities, providing bright and reliable illumination while reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs.

Smart Lighting Solutions

Smart lighting systems offer even greater benefits, with features like motion sensors and dimming capabilities.

These systems can automatically increase illumination when activity is detected, further enhancing security and saving energy when areas are unoccupied. Integrating lighting with CCTV systems can also improve the quality of video surveillance, especially at night.

Body Cameras: Enhancing Accountability and Transparency

Body-worn cameras are increasingly being adopted by lot security officers to enhance accountability and transparency.

These devices record interactions between officers and the public, providing an objective record of events that can be used to resolve disputes and investigate complaints.

Body camera footage can also be valuable for training purposes, allowing officers to review their performance and identify areas for improvement.

Policy and Implementation Considerations

The implementation of body cameras requires careful consideration of privacy concerns and legal regulations. Clear policies should be established regarding when cameras should be activated, how footage should be stored, and who has access to the recordings.

Transparency with the public is also essential, with clear signage indicating that body cameras are in use.

Adherence to these guidelines can help to ensure that body cameras are used responsibly and effectively, enhancing both security and public trust.

Organizational Structure: The Role of Security Companies

The presence of lot security officers in maintaining order and preventing crime within parking facilities is often facilitated by security companies. These organizations play a vital role in the security ecosystem, serving as intermediaries between property owners or managers and the individuals providing direct security services.

Understanding the structure and function of these security companies is essential for appreciating the overall framework of parking lot security operations.

The Security Company as Employer and Manager

Security companies primarily function as employers, responsible for recruiting, vetting, and employing lot security officers. This encompasses a range of activities, including background checks, psychological evaluations, and skills assessments to ensure that only qualified individuals are placed in security roles.

Beyond employment, security companies also manage the day-to-day activities of their personnel. They create work schedules, assign officers to specific locations, and provide ongoing supervision to ensure adherence to established protocols.

This management function extends to performance monitoring, disciplinary actions, and other aspects of human resources management.

Training and Professional Development

A critical function of security companies is the provision of comprehensive training to their employees. This training typically covers a wide range of topics relevant to lot security, including patrol techniques, conflict resolution, emergency response procedures, and legal considerations.

Many companies also offer specialized training in areas such as first aid, CPR, and the use of security technology. Moreover, ongoing professional development is often provided to keep officers up-to-date on the latest security threats and best practices.

The quality and comprehensiveness of this training can significantly impact the effectiveness of lot security officers in the field.

Outsourcing Security Services: Benefits and Considerations

The decision to outsource security services to a specialized company is a strategic one for property owners and managers. Outsourcing offers several potential benefits, including access to a larger pool of qualified candidates, reduced administrative overhead, and specialized expertise in security management.

Security companies typically have well-established processes for recruiting, training, and managing security personnel, which can save time and resources for the client.

Additionally, security companies can offer flexible staffing solutions, allowing clients to adjust security coverage based on their specific needs and budget.

Considerations for Choosing a Security Company

Selecting the right security company is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the safety and security of a parking facility. Property owners and managers should carefully evaluate potential providers based on factors such as their experience, reputation, training programs, and insurance coverage.

It is also essential to review the company’s security protocols and emergency response plans to ensure they align with the specific needs of the property.

Additionally, clear communication channels and reporting procedures should be established to facilitate effective collaboration between the security company and the client.

By carefully considering these factors, property owners and managers can choose a security company that provides reliable, professional, and effective lot security services.

Legal and Ethical Considerations: Navigating the Complexities of Security

The role of a lot security officer is not solely defined by physical presence and reactive measures. It is deeply intertwined with a complex web of legal and ethical obligations. These obligations dictate how officers should conduct themselves in various situations.

A thorough understanding of these considerations is paramount to ensuring responsible and lawful security practices.

Understanding Liability in Security Operations

One of the most critical aspects of a lot security officer’s training is an understanding of their potential legal liabilities. Liability, in this context, refers to the legal responsibility for actions or omissions that cause harm or injury to another person or their property.

Security companies and individual officers can be held liable for negligence, inadequate training, or the excessive use of force. Understanding the scope of their authority and the limitations placed upon it is crucial.

Negligence and Duty of Care

Negligence occurs when a security officer fails to exercise the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances. This "duty of care" is a cornerstone of legal liability.

For example, if an officer is aware of a hazardous condition, such as a broken railing, and fails to take appropriate action to warn others or rectify the situation, they could be held liable if someone is injured as a result.

Adequate training, regular inspections, and prompt response to reported issues are essential to mitigate the risk of negligence claims.

Use of Force: A Sensitive Issue

The use of force is a particularly sensitive area of liability for security officers. While officers are authorized to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others from imminent harm, the level of force used must be proportionate to the threat.

Excessive force can lead to civil lawsuits and criminal charges. Clear policies, comprehensive training, and adherence to de-escalation techniques are vital to ensure appropriate use of force.

Body cameras can provide valuable documentation of incidents involving the use of force, offering transparency and accountability.

Trespassing: Balancing Security with Individual Rights

Lot security officers frequently encounter situations involving trespassers. Trespassing generally involves entering or remaining on private property without permission.

However, the legal aspects of dealing with trespassers can be complex and vary depending on local laws and regulations. Security officers must be well-versed in these laws to avoid violating individuals’ rights.

Identifying and Addressing Trespassers

The first step in addressing trespassing is proper identification. Officers must be able to distinguish between legitimate visitors and those who are unlawfully present.

Clear signage indicating that the property is private and that trespassing is prohibited is essential.

When dealing with trespassers, officers should remain professional and respectful. Verbal warnings and requests to leave the property are often sufficient.

In situations where trespassers refuse to comply, officers may be authorized to make a lawful arrest, but only if they have a reasonable belief that the person is committing a crime or poses an immediate threat.

Avoiding False Arrest and Unlawful Detention

False arrest and unlawful detention are serious legal violations that can result in significant penalties for security companies and individual officers.

Officers must have probable cause before detaining or arresting someone for trespassing. Probable cause means that there is a reasonable basis to believe that a crime has been committed.

Detaining someone without probable cause can lead to lawsuits and damage to the reputation of the security company.

Therefore, it is critical for lot security officers to receive comprehensive training on trespassing laws and proper procedures for dealing with trespassers.

By prioritizing legal awareness and ethical conduct, lot security officers can effectively protect property and maintain order while respecting the rights and safety of individuals.

So, that’s the lowdown on what a lot cop does! They’re the unsung heroes of the parking world, keeping things orderly and safe. Hopefully, this gives you a better understanding of what a lot cop is and the important role they play. Next time you see one, maybe give them a nod of appreciation!