NCJ Number
92835
Date Published
1983
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This slide and tape presentation provides a step-by-step description of the establishment and maintenance of a successful Neighborhood Watch program designed to prevent burglaries and other neighborhood crime.
Abstract
Although data indicate that neighborhood property crime is on the rise, they also document the success of Neighborhood Watch programs in radically reducing crime. Successful programs have been characterized by community and police involvement coupled with citizen education in crime prevention techniques. When citizens act as the 'eyes' of law enforcement agencies and implement the crime prevention measures recommended by police, the risk of detection becomes too great for potential offenders; a high 'deterrence rating' is achieved. The first step in developing a Neighborhood Watch program is to contact the State, county, or local law enforcement agency and inquire about the startup procedure. Assistance should be sought from community leaders in spreading the word about an introductory meeting, at which the program is explained, and at least one representative from each block is selected to act as block coordinator. The block coordinator is responsible for canvassing each house in his/her block to explain the program concept and complete a 'block location sheet,' which lists each address in chronological order, indicating prospective program members, vacant dwellings, and nonparticipants. After the sign-up phase has been completed, the block coordinator should use community resources to obtain speakers with expertise in such areas as locks, alarms, self-protection, and con games. Instruction of program participants focuses on crime reporting, self-protection, burglary prevention, and Operation I.D., which involves engraving numbers on all valuable personal property to facilitate burglary investigations. Keys to success include continual recruitment of new members, holding regular general meetings, and ensuring high participation in crime prevention activities. The kit also includes advice on presenting the slide program, including recommendations for discussion.