Staff Report
OSWEGO, NY – Over the past several years, there has been an increase in crimes, vandalism, and other quality of life issues in Oswego’s residential neighborhoods.
Recognizing these issues, members of the Common Council (and other elected officials), Oswego Police Department Personnel and concerned citizens met on a regular basis over the past three years discussing how to improve the quality of life for the city’s residents.
Thus began several Neighborhood Watch groups throughout the Port City.
“The Oswego City Police Department is proud to partner with citizens in the community regarding the Neighborhood Watch Program,” said Police Chief Michael Dehm.
Neighborhood Watch isn’t a group of vigilantes and doesn’t take the place of your police department, Dehm noted. You are asked to report crimes and suspicious activities to the Oswego Police Department.
A Neighborhood Watch involves a group of concerned citizens who work together by looking out for one another, he added.
By becoming a member, you will get to know your neighbors, learn how to make your homes and property more secure, and help reduce and prevent crimes in your neighborhood.
“The Neighborhood Watch program is an excellent way to get to know your neighbors and to work hand-in-hand to help better our communities,” the chief said. “Citizens of the city of Oswego have been well known for their hospitality and friendliness. We, as a community, can use those qualities to help identify, deter, and reduce crime in our neighborhoods. I look forward to a great working relationship with our Neighborhood Watch partners.â€ÂÂ
If you have an emergency or you are witnessing a crime in progress, call 911, he stressed.
If you would like to join or learn more about the city’s Neighborhood Watch Program, contact Betty Gray, Neighborhood Watch coordinator, at 342-9388 or your alderman.
You may also contact the Oswego City Police Department at 343-1212 or visit the National Crime Prevention Council website at: www.ncpc.org/topics/neighborhood-watch for additional information.
To report criminal activity or drug activity in the city, people can call the Criminal / Drug Activity Tip Line at 342-8131. Those wishing to remain anonymous may do so.
Citizens are also encouraged to report suspicious activity to the newly created Criminal / Drug Activity Tip email at: [email protected]
In emergencies, or to have an officer respond to in-progress calls, call 911.
To speak with an officer directly over the phone, call 343-1212.
Information regarding the Neighborhood Watch program has been placed on the city’s website: www.oswegony.org so that everyone in the community can stay better informed about what they can do and how they can get involved.
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