Neighborhood watch groups have been around a long time in the United States. Neighborhood Watch aka Crime Watch groups have always had a stigma attached due to the potential for Vigilantes, both from police and the community. Not all law enforcement agencies offer assistance with these groups and those that do, some are mediocre at best. The proper Mindset is required to have a successful program.

Vetting and training required: A successful Crime Watch can be started ideally by private citizens that have a background in law enforcement that know how to work well both with the community and law enforcement. A vetting process should be done on anyone wanting to participate in one, including asking for volunteers that can help in various ways, based on their skills. Having a Concealed Firearm License to carry is ideal when screening potential members, including an interview to assess the character of the individual, to ensure a good fit for the program.

Crime watch attitudes should be focused not only on crime prevention with a hands-off policy but limited to observing and a reporting to police whenever possible.

In person meetings will focus on identifying problems, brainstorming how to deter and prevent crime, training sessions and assignments.

If you would like to start a Neighborhood Watch Program in your neighborhood, please sign up for our newsletter and EMAIL us of your interests. We will contact you to discuss the next available meeting for your area.

Retired Salt Lake County Deputy Sheriff and Unified Police Officer Phil Snyder has thirty years of training and law enforcement experience and will be the Coordinator for this free voluntary program.

Stay Safe,

Phi Snyder
(Retired) Unified Police Officer
of Salt Lake City, Utah.