The prevention of crime in Ste. Genevieve County - particularly the prevention of residential burglaries - is a shared responsibility between law enforcement officials and private citizens. No number of officers, squad cars or close patrols can effectively combat the problem alone. It is absolutely essential that a concerned citizenry join hands with law enforcement in an active joint campaign to reduce residential burglaries. And that's where Neighborhood Watch enters the picture. Very simply, Neighborhood Watch involves:

Neighbors getting to know each other and working together in a program of mutual assistance. Neighbors being trained to be more alert in recognizing suspicious activities in their communities.

Implementation of other crime deterrents such as participation in the Operation Identification property marking program and other basic home security measures. The citizens of Ste. Genevieve County can play a major role in the role of reduction of residential burglaries through their active participation in Crime Watch. If you're a potential victim of crime - and you certainly are - then you are a potential member of Neighborhood Watch.

All citizens of Ste. Genevieve County, those living in houses and apartments alike, are encouraged to participate in the Neighborhood Watch Program.