Crime Stoppers of Halton (CS) announced today, Oct. 22, 2024, the launch of a new Community Watch pilot program in South-East Oakville, and specifically in Ward 3.
This new Watch program is being created in partnership with the Halton Police Board and Halton Regional Police Service.
"As many homeowners in Halton express growing concerns about increasing incidents of auto theft, home and business break-ins, vandalism, and an overall sense of diminishing safety," CS said in a statement, "Crime Stoppers provides the community with an opportunity to stay informed, learn effective strategies for protecting valuables, and engage with their local neighbourhoods."
"We invite members of the community to sign up for the Community Watch newsletter, or register as volunteers, and play an active role in promoting this modernized version of neighbourhood watch."
In the coming months, the following initiatives are planned for launch:
- Free community watch signage for your home and street
- Free community seminars on safety and crime prevention
- Free home safety inspections
- Discounts through local security businesses
Crime Stoppers say they also work in close collaboration with the Halton Regional Police Service, media partners, and the community to provide crime awareness and safety tips.
Signs ups for the Community Watch Newsletter can subscribe at this link here, while volunteer sign ups are now open at this online application portal.
Halton Police board chair Jeff Knoll says now is the right time for an authorized community watch because "community members are increasingly seeking timely information and practical strategies for crime prevention. Community Watch, an evolved version of Neighbourhood Watch, aims to empower residents with tools to actively protect their homes and neighbourhoods."
"Our primary goal is to equip the community with resources, information, and meaningful connections to prevent crime in local neighbourhoods."
Knoll also says this initiative leverages "the expertise, resources, and governance of Halton Crime Stoppers, supported by its trained staff and police-cleared volunteers."
With over 35 years of service in Halton, the CS team consists of "dedicated data analysts, community-focused board members, a detective constable liaison, and over 100 volunteers and co-op students, all working together to make our region a safer place to live and work."
CS also operates an anonymous tip line at 1-800-222-TIPS, where residents who provide information leading to a suspect's arrest are eligible to receive up to $2,000.
Knoll says the Ward 3 pilot will serve as a testing ground to "fine-tune the program" before expanding in other areas of Halton.
He continues that the goal is to refine and optimize the program based on feedback before, "a broader roll out across Oakville and other areas within Halton for greater impact and community acceptance." No timeline has been discussed for any expansions.
If you are interested in learning more about the Community Watch program or would like to get involved, you can contact Crime Stoppers or learn more about the new pilot program online here.
Crime Stoppers of Halton is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting safety awareness across the region.