DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nev. – The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) encourages residents to start new Neighborhood Watch groups or strengthen existing programs to promote safer neighborhoods throughout Douglas County, Nevada.

“Neighborhood Watch is one of the oldest and most recognized programs to help neighborhoods fight crime through organized groups who observe unusual activity in their neighborhoods,” said Sheriff Dan Coverley. “Residents then simply report the activity to the Sheriff’s Office.”

Neighborhood Watch is a community-based crime prevention program that encourages residents to work with law enforcement by staying aware of their surroundings and reporting suspicious activity. The program allows neighbors to take an active role in community safety.

DCSO Citizen Patrol member Tom Spencer is helping Neighborhood Watch programs throughout Douglas County. Spencer has served as a Citizen Patrol member for nine years and is a former sworn deputy sheriff in California.

Spencer is available to speak with residents interested in starting or strengthening a Neighborhood Watch group. He can provide information about local crime statistics, when and how to report suspicious activity, and how to organize a neighborhood meeting.

Residents interested in participating can contact Spencer at 775-901-6722 or tom.p37.dcso@gmail.com for more information.