The Primary mission of a Neighborhood Watch is to increase neighborhood awareness in the area of crime prevention so that potential crime risks and current crime problems can be quickly identified and combated in the most efficient manner. It is one of the most effective and least costly ways to prevent crime and reduce fear. Neighborhood Watch fights the isolation that crime both creates and feeds upon.

Anyone can get involved, even the busiest of people. It is a simple matter of keeping our eyes and ears open. The nosey neighbor is our Neighborhood Watch. We may not like that in our neighbor however; this goes way back to when everyone knew his or her neighbors. A time when Neighborhood Watch was not needed because they knew who lived in their neighborhoods and where they worked, when vacations were taking place, the general coming and going of each other. This bond made a safe and secure neighborhood. Today we have become a private society therefore creating once again the need for neighbors helping neighbors.

What does a Neighborhood Watch do?

• A Neighborhood Watch is a neighbor helping neighbors. Extra eyes and ears.
• Members meet their neighbors, learn how to make their homes more secure, watch out for each other and the neighborhood, and report activities that raise their suspicions to the police.
• Special events. These are crucial to keep the program going and growing. Hold safety talks, block parties, and picnics in a park or hold a block party.

What will the police department do for Neighborhood Watch?

• The Charlottesville Police Department’s Crime Prevention unit will assist neighborhoods with support by providing the necessary training for getting started and maintaining their Neighborhood Watch.

If you are interested in starting a Neighborhood Watch in your neighborhood or to rejuvenate an already existing program please feel free to contact The Charlottesville Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit at 970-3578 or 970-3544.