Hocking County Sheriff: Neighborhood Watch

The Hocking County Sheriffs Office stands ready to assist and support the residents and businesses of Hocking County. Several deputies have been trained in the proper application of the NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH. The training, sponsored by the National Sheriffs Association and the USA Onwatch National Neighborhood Watch presented deputies with training on assisting volunteers with establishing neighborhood watches and training volunteers.

The purpose of the NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH program is to make you aware of the steps you and you’re neighbors can take to make your home more secure against crime, to show you how you and your neighbors can help each other protect your entire neighborhood, and make local law enforcement agencies more effective in the fight against crime through YOUR involvement and participation.

To combat the increase in crime in today's society, law enforcement needs the eyes and ears of our citizens. To help law enforcement protect your property from criminals you must get involved. To help you help yourself, your community, and the Hocking County Sheriff’s Office, the Neighborhood Watch Program was established.

The Hocking County Sheriff’s Office would like you to start or join Neighborhood Watch, and learn what you can do to reduce your chances of becoming a crime victim. A Neighborhood Watch is easy to start and effective when implemented. By starting a Neighborhood Watch in your area, you are taking the first step towards making your home, your neighborhood, and your community a safer place to live.

• Deters criminal activity;
• Creates a greater sense of security and reduces fear of crime;
• Builds bonds with neighbors; people look out for one another; it stimulates neighborhood awareness;
• Reduces the risk of becoming a crime victim; it reduces the physical, financial and psychological costs of crime;
• Instructs residents on how to observe and report suspicious activities in your community; and
• Addresses quality of life issues and mutual interests in your community.

Several local communities have expressed an interest in the Neighborhood Watch Program and anyone wanting additional information about how to start a neighborhood watch is asked to contact the Sheriff's Office at 740-385-2131.