An alert and cooperative neighborhood is the best defense against crime.
Neighborhood Watch is a group of neighbors working together to reduce and prevent crime.

Neighborhood Watch is not a group of vigilantes taking the law into their own hands, nor do Neighborhood Watch groups take the place of the Sheriff's Office in enforcing the law or arresting criminals.

Why does Neighborhood Watch work?

Nationally, there is about one officer for every 2,000 citizens. Neighborhood Watch increases police effectiveness by having neighbors report suspicious or criminal activity to the Sheriff's Office. Officers don't recognize abnormal activity in a neighborhood nearly as well as neighbors do.

Members of Neighborhood Watch get to know their neighbors, learn how to make their homes and property more secure, watch out for each other and their neighborhood, and report activities that raise their suspicions.

Neighborhood Watch leaders are in close contact with Sheriff's deputies who alert them when there is a rise in crime in their area.

What can I do to keep my neighborhood safe?

• Educate yourself by reading the Home Safety Handbook and crime prevention literature.
• Be informed and aware of area and community crime activity.
• Teach your children, grandchildren, or babysitter how to handle a stranger at the door or on the telephone.
• Use crime prevention tips by lighting up your residence, locking your home and vehicles, and avoiding displaying your property in your vehicle or home.
• Work together with your neighbors — communicate.
• Note license plate numbers and descriptions of suspicious vehicles and people.
• Report crime and suspicions to the Sheriff's Office and your Neighborhood Watch leader.

How do I get a Neighborhood Watch started in my neighborhood?

If you live in Eagle, Kuna, Star, or any unincorporated area of Ada County, contact the Community Resource Unit of the Ada County Sheriff's Office for help in organizing your group. Contact Community Service Officer Myrna Harris at (208) 577-3775 to get started.

Each group decides where, when and how often to meet. Deputies are available to help with those meetings and to give information about specific topics of interest to your group.
Click here for specific Neighborhood Watch responsibilities.

Questions? Contact Myrna Harris at (208) 577-3775 or email mharris@adaweb.net.