Crime and fear of crime threaten the well being of a community. People become afraid to use streets and parks, suspicion erupts between young and old, and businesses gradually leave. Crime, in turn, feeds on the social isolation it creates. Modern life styles, with the increasing number of families with working parents and greater job mobility, contribute to this isolation and lack of community ties. You and your neighbors can prevent or break this vicious cycle and in the process, build your community into a safe, friendly, caring place. Neighborhood Watch is a crime prevention program that enlists the active participation of citizens in cooperation with law enforcement to reduce crime in their communities.
Revitalizing Neighborhood Watch
The San Diego Police Department is revitalizing Neighborhood Watch in all of its communities. Our mission is to build upon the original concepts of Neighborhood Watch, utilizing all available resources to create a proactive community-police partnership for crime prevention and problem solving in each community. Why is this important? Since there cannot be a police officer on every corner, citizen involvement is essential to combat crime. You and your neighbors are experts who really know what is going on in your community and by cooperating with each other and the police, you can help fight crime the most effective way -- before it begins.
Successful Community
A successful Neighborhood Watch should result in a sense of ownership by members of each community. A true community-police partnership develops, resulting in reduction in police service calls and reduction in crime or the fear of crime. Awareness is increased, and when a community perspective or support is needed, Neighborhood Watch groups serve as a valuable resource.
Starting a Neighborhood Watch
If you are interested in starting a Neighborhood Watch group in your community, contact a Community Relations Officer at a storefront in your neighborhood.
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