This study examines the role of community police officers in Sweden's crime prevention efforts, with a focus on how resource allocation affects their professional practice. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five community police officers from medium-sized Swedish cities, and thematic analysis, together with the routine activity theory and resource dependence theory was used to interpret the findings. The results show that community police officers prioritize visibility and relationship-building, particularly by engaging with at-risk youth, collaborating with schools and social services, and maintaining a community presence through foot patrols. However, resource limitations often force officers to prioritize urgent incidents over long-term preventive measures, challenging their ability to act as "capable guardians" within Routine Activity Theory, which emphasizes their role in deterring crime through consistent presence. The study concludes that while community police officers are committed to fostering safety and trust, their efforts are constrained by insufficient staffing and organizational priorities. To enhance their effectiveness, strategic resource allocation and enhanced support for preventive work are crucial. Future research should focus on inter-agency collaboration and strategies for building public trust in law enforcement.