Business Watch
In 2003, in house records showed that 41 out of approximately 185 businesses had been victimized, with eleven crimes including breaking and entering. There were a total of 53 incident reports filed, thus, repeat victimization occurred. A plan of action was developed to alleviate this problem. A “Business Watch Program” was implemented. Literature, decals, and other supporting materials were obtained to support this crime prevention program. The Sheriff’s Office hand delivered an information packet to each business in the county. A meeting was set to discuss the needs and/or concerns of the businesses and to participate in the Business Watch Program. The information packet included a letter from the Sheriff, a brochure detailing the program, a questionnaire, and a return addressed stamped envelope. During the meeting there were two major concerns (1) identify fraud/check cases and (2) robbery prevention. As a direct result from the input gathered, window decals and height strips were distributed to each business. The information gathered from the business was also used to up-date the emergency contact information for 911. This program was funded through Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Funds (LLEBG).

