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CHARLOTTE – Citizens are taking steps to make sure repeat offenders don't strike again through the Court Watch program, which tracks offenders in various Charlotte neighborhoods in the hopes that they're put behind bars.

Volunteers attend every court appearance, research information and document it online. Judges and even offenders have taken notice. Now, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is asking for more people to join the cause.

The group says they show up at court because they don't want repeat offenders to fall through the cracks of the criminal justice system.

“You have that voice from the actual community coming to court, saying this individual is exhibiting behavior that we do not want in our community,” Capt. Bruce Bellamy said.

Only 20 volunteers are needed to start up a new group. Currently, Court Watch is only available in the Providence and South divisions. Volunteers say with minimal commitment, anyone can make a difference.

“We send a message to them that we're sick and tired of them impacting our communities,” Marcus Philemon, of Court Watch, said.

Volunteers can do anything from administrative work to attending court hearings. The program provides the necessary training. If you are interested, call (704) 989-7045.