Neighborhood Watch

Neighborhood Watch is a crime prevention program that enlists the participation of residents in cooperation with law enforcement to reduce crime. A sense of well-being is established by watching out for each other. The Neighborhood Watch Program is a highly successful effort that has been in existence for more than thirty years in cities and counties across America. The National Sheriffs’ Association implemented the program in 1972. The Modesto Neighborhood Watch program has the National Crime Prevention Association (NCPA) Certification. 

These are small groups of neighbors coming together within CANA that are organized through the Crime Prevention Unit of the Modesto Police Department.

A resident or two become captain/s and organize, maintain, and distribute a list with contact information to those who participate in the neighborhood watch (it can include a couple of blocks on each side of the street, or the size can be determined by the captain/s). The groups build a spirit of community that enhances safety by watching out for each other and their property. 

In 2013, our area had approximately 8 registered groups with the Crime Prevention Unit. Today, we have 25, an increase of 32%. Thanks to all of you for getting your neighbors interested. By knowing each person's first name creates more interest in watching out for each other. Modesto now has 200 registered groups, and Modesto places high in the number of National Night Out gatherings nationwide and in California. Let's keep up the good work! Thank you.

How to Start a Neighborhood Watch

For information on how to start a Neighborhood Watch Group, or find out if one exists in your area contact:

The Crime Prevention Unit 
600 10th Street
Modesto, CA 95354

Lauren Galvez: galvezl@modestopd.com (August 2020)