POLICE DEPARTMENT
Neighborhood Watch
The modern-day concept of Neighborhood Watch originated in the late 1960s, at a time when the crime rate had begun to escalate, and citizens and law enforcement personnel alike began to feel genuine alarm. The Los Angeles Police Department enlisted the assistance of citizens in reporting suspicious activities in an attempt to stem the rising tide of property crimes. This was the birth of the modern-day Neighborhood Watch, a revolutionary and yet old-fashioned idea.
Although Neighborhood Watch has been around in its present form for over a quarter century, that does not mean it can't be adapted to today's changing circumstances in our communities and lifestyles. Neighborhood Watch is as vitally important today as it was in the 1970s - or even the 1670s. There are several reasons why this is so:
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Neighborhood Watch is a basic crime prevention program that stresses education and common sense.
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Neighborhood Watch gives citizens an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of their community.
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Neighborhood Watch has helped to restore America's front porch.
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Neighborhood Watch emphasizes cooperation between community members and law enforcement.
Throughout the years, Neighborhood Watch has grown from an "Extra eyes and ears" approach to crime prevention to a more proactive, community-oriented endeavor. Neighborhood Watch groups are now incorporating activities that not only address crime prevention issues, but which also restore pride and unity to a neighborhood.
Great success can be realized by investing a small amount of time and effort in this community-law enforcement partnership. For more information on starting a Neighborhood Watch group or for additional information, please contact Commander Eric Allen at (815)725-1460.