Decades ago crimes rates across the United States increased at an alarming pace. Citizens and law enforcement agencies focused on developing crime prevention programs to help reduce this growing trend. In 1972 The National Sheriff’s Association organized the National Neighborhood Watch Program. This pilot program was funded by the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration of the U. S. Department of Justice and was designed to enlist the participation of the citizens with law enforcement to reduce and prevent crime. Since then Neighborhood Watch has become one of the most effective means of fighting crime in our communities. This is because you and your neighbors are the ones who really know what is going on in your area, most likely to be the first to see a crime and call for help, and are in the best position to: (1) Report code violations, unsafe street conditions, etc. that degrade the quality of life in your area, (2) Keep your block clean and free of graffiti, and (3) Provide a safe environment for your children.
What Is Neighborhood Watch?
Neighborhood Watch is a crime prevention program that enlists the active participation of residents in cooperation with law enforcement to reduce crime, solve problems, and improve the quality of life in your area. In it you will get to know and work with your neighbors, and learn how to:
- Recognize and report crimes and suspicious activities
- Protect yourself, your family, and your property
- Protect your neighbor’s family and property
- Identify crime and disorder problems in your area and work with the Locust Police Department personnel to solve them.
How to Start and Maintain a Neighborhood Watch Program
The following steps explain how to get a Neighborhood Watch program started and maintained in your area:
- Talk to your neighbors (Gain interest)
- Talk to the Locust Police Department (Receive assistance)
- Talk to your neighbors again (Explain benefits)
- Planning the first meeting (Date/Time/Place)
- First Meeting (Critical part for starting and maintaining)
For additional information or assistances with starting a Neighborhood Watch Program please contact:
Chief of Police Jeff B. Shew
(704) 888-4744
jbshew@locustnc.com