Residents needed for Neighborhood Watch

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Police Department has seen success in recent years with several block watch and Neighborhood Watch programs and they're looking for more residents to get involved.

"We need a few people to want to start it and we can help from there," Crime Prevention Officer Olivia Martinez said.

Martinez said she received several calls from residents who were interested in starting a program following the recent shootings at the Larson Housing area.

There are three watch programs in Moses Lake, including the Crestview Drive area, which experienced a string of mail theft in recent years. Martinez said the residents in the area are able to look out for each other.

"People know what their neighbors drive, they know who's there, so when they know there's something not right, they can report it," Martinez said. "They're able to communicate with each other now and get the word out faster."

The Neighborhood Watch program has been successful in reducing the risks of home burglaries, vandalism, personal assault and fraud. The program has also increased the number of arrests and convictions by serving as a link between law enforcement and the community, Chief Dave Ruffin said. Arrests and prosecutions in several high profile cases were aided my residents who came forward with information.

Martinez said the department can provide the necessary resources for anyone wishing to start a watch program, including a letter to let neighbors know about the program. Martinez said she and another officer usually meet with residents to get everyone connected.

"We've had lots of interest from people wanting to get it going," she said. "We have all the tools they need, it's just getting everyone together."

A new social media networking site could make it easier to keep neighbors connected. Nextdoor.com allows residents to register a neighborhood online and quickly share useful information for that particular neighborhood.

The department can provide Neighborhood Watch signs and window decals for the homes, Martinez said.

The biggest issue is letting people know it's OK to call in any suspicious activity.

"Most people don't report something suspicious," she said. "It's really just getting people knowledgeable that they can call."

Anyone wanting to start a watch program or to learn how to get involved can contact Martinez at 509-764-3914.

More information on the Neighborhood Watch program and crime prevention tips can also be found on the Moses Lake Police Department's section on the city website at www.cityofml.com.