The Fredericton Police Force is proud to support the launch of a new Community Watch program, designed to help residents take an active role in keeping their neighbourhoods safe.
Based on the long-standing principles of neighbourhood watch initiatives, the Community Watch program provides residents with tools and guidance to prevent crime, build stronger neighbourhood connections, and work collaboratively with police.
Community Watch is led by residents and supported by the Fredericton Police Force. Police serve as partners and advisors, offering safety tips, guidance, and coordination assistance, while the program’s success relies on strong communication among neighbours.
“Community Watch is a truly community-led initiative that empowers residents to take an active role in keeping their neighbourhoods strong and safe,” said Inspector Bobbi Simmons-Beauchamp of the Fredericton Police Force. “Preventing crime works best when police and community members work in partnership to build trust, strengthen relationships, and make our communities safer places to live.”
Residents interested in starting a Community Watch in their neighbourhood are encouraged to begin by connecting with neighbours to gauge interest. Once a group is formed, the next step is to organize a community meeting and invite representatives from the Fredericton Police Force to share information about the program and answer questions. A Community Captain will be chosen by the group to help coordinate local efforts and will serve as the point of contact with police’s community watch coordinator.
The launch of Community Watch follows Recommendation 14 of the City of Fredericton’s Community Safety Task Force (CSTF) Report, focused on enhancing neighbourhood watch programs and strengthening community-based crime prevention efforts. This initiative represents another important step in the Fredericton Police Force’s ongoing commitment to public safety and partnership with the community.
For more information on how your neighbourhood can get involved, or how to become a community captain, visit Community Watch Program | City of Fredericton.
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Media contact:
Sonya Gilks
Public Information Officer
Fredericton Police Force
506-460-2777
Fpf.media@fredericton.ca