NCJ Number
78293
Date Published
1981
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This program guide tells New York residents how to establish a Neighborhood Watch program.
Abstract
Established by the National Sheriffs' Association in 1972, Neighborhood Watch is a self-help anticrime program in which police and citizens work together for neighborhood safety. The guide describes the role of law enforcement officials and residents in setting up the program and outlines the different functions of both groups. For example, the law enforcement agency should act as initial organizer, and law enforcement personnel should attend meetings and train Neighborhood Watch groups in general crime prevention and security techniques. Neighborhood Watch members should report suspicious persons, accept deliveries for vacationing neighbors, and keep neighbors' keys. Some solutions for such possible problems as lack of resident involvement or enthusiasm are given, and the uses of evaluation are outlined. Evaluation can serve as an accurate gauge of success or failure, build member motivation and incentive, and help meet the requirements of funding organizations. A list of program materials from the State Office of Crime Prevention is given, and descriptions of additional programs such as Operation Identification and Direct Deposit are supplied.