Crime Prevention Unit

In recent months, President George Bush and Attorney General John Ashcroft have encouraged the public to direct its energies toward community involvement, specifically the Neighborhood Watch Program.

The Crime Prevention Unit at the Encinitas Sheriff's Station can help neighbors establish such a program and offers a number of other services, all available at no charge. Crime Prevention Specialists comprising the unit conduct both residential and commercial security inspections. They will determine vulnerable areas and make recommendations about improving security on the premises.

The unit also gives presentations to schools, senior citizen groups, churches, youth organizations and civic groups. Included are such topics as:

• Personal Safety
• Internet Safety for Schools and Parents
• Security Consultations for Residential and Commercial Properties
• CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) Evaluations
• 9-1-1 Emergencies
• Vehicle Theft
• Identity Theft
• Robbery
• Crime Prevention for Senior Citizens
• Cons and Frauds

McGruff, the internationally revered crime dog, also makes public appearances at schools and public events. McGruff offers information to young children about what to do if they are lost, how and when to dial 9-1-1 and stranger danger. A uniformed deputy sheriff often participates to answer questions from enthusiastic youngsters.

For more information about all of these free services offered by the Crime Prevention Unit, please call 760-966-3587.

To schedule a presentation or to make an appointment for a security inspection or for a Neighborhood Watch Program, please contact Heather Clark at 760-966-3587.