(File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

RCMP on neighbourhood watch

Melfort RCMP supportive of extra eyes in fight against crime

Apr 18, 2024 | 1:00 PM

Melfort’s RCMP Detachment Commander is weighing in on the potential start of a neighbourhood watch program in the city.

A Melfort Neighbourhood Watch Facebook group has well over 100 members and has organized an information meeting on Tuesday, Apr. 23 at 7 p.m. at the Kerry Vickar Centre.

Ryan Case told northeastNOW there is value in having organizations like a neighbourhood watch in a community.

“For us as the detachment what we always say is any type of rural community crime watch or neighbourhood watch program that the community sets up, it’s got to be a community initiative and community-driven as well,” Case explained. “We’ll always support any type of program that a community deems…is necessary for their needs or their concerns or for their community.”

A neighbourhood watch can take different forms, and Case said the RCMP will support whatever is decided. He added the force is always encouraging people to look out for each other, look after their neighbours, report any crimes or anything suspicious, and try to help prevent crime before it happens.

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“There’s value in any type of these programs that are put in place,” Case said.

Watch-type organizations are often the eyes and ears of the community, but it’s important to leave it at that. Case said anyone involved in these groups should report to the RCMP and not try to take matters into their own hands, as it could lead to danger.

“It’s just not safe, you don’t know who you’re dealing with.”

There have been several videos and surveillance images on social media about people entering yards, trying to break into buildings and damaging property. The videos and images lend credence to more property crime and theft in the area. However, Case said it’s hard to say whether there’s been a statistical increase or an increase in public awareness with more people installing home surveillance cameras and technology in general.

“Everybody knows what’s happening immediately because of cellphones and because of social media and stuff like that,” said Case.

He said there are advantages of people using that technology for identifying suspicious behaviour.

Meanwhile, the Melfort Trade Alliance Chamber of Commerce is hosting a discussion on the Citizens on Patrol Program, as part of their Chamber Chat speaker series.

That event will be held May 6, 7 p.m. at the Melfort Legion, and it’s free to attend.

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Cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @northeastNOW_SK