Neighborhood Crime Watch

About the Program

The basic idea for the Neighborhood Crime Watch Program is for neighbors to watch out for each other. By looking after a neighbors property as if it were your own, you will more likely contact the police if you observe something suspicious. Citizens act as extra "eyes and ears" for the police department so that calls to the police will be made when criminal activity is suspected. An alert and cooperative neighborhood is the greatest single defense against crime. By getting to know your neighbors and their vehicles, you will most likely be alert to suspicious people, vehicles, and/or sounds that could indicate criminal activity.

The Crime Prevention Unit of the Baytown Police Department will help you organize a Crime Watch Area. Once the area is organized, officers will send Crime Watch Reports to Areas on an as-needed basis. This information is sent regarding crimes of a serious nature, or when a suspects description is available. This information, coupled with the two basic principles of Crime Watch, can help citizens become a part of reducing the overall crime rate in their neighborhoods.

How does a Neighborhood Crime Watch Work

It works by showing residents they are not powerless against crime.  It does this through:

Crime-prevention training

A Watch group can help residents learn ways to keep their homes and neighborhood secure.  For example, the group can invite police or security experts to speak.

Improving conditions

Neighborhood neglect invites crime.  To turn the situation around, a Watch group can:

1. Lead a drive to clean up the neighborhood
2. Work through local government to get abandoned buildings and vacant lots fixed up.

Have a Texas Night Out block party

Texas Night Out is a perfect opportunity for neighbors to get to know each other.  More information on the National Night Out.