New Police Program Will Help Residents Form Block Watches

The Cleveland Heights Police Department will begin a six-month trial program to help residents set up block watches in their neighborhood.

Many neighborhoods already have block watches, but this program will assist those that don't or those that want to learn how to more effectively run a watch, said Sgt. Ernest Williams, who supervises the department's community response team.

Williams said the point of a block watch is to create a "two-way street" between neighborhoods and the police.

"Basically, it's neighbors getting together and talking to each other," he said. 

Williams said that many neighborhoods form block watches because of a particular issue -- say, a rash of bicycle thefts -- and once that issue resolves the watch fades away. This program will help these groups learn how to sustain the watch.

The program is set to begin June 17. Residents or neighborhood groups looking for more information should contact the Community Response Team at 216-291-4225. 

For information about scheduling a block party or a street meeting please contact Community Relations at 216.291.2323 or email comrel@clvhts.com.