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Roanoke Police Department
Crime Prevention Unit
The Crime Prevention Unit is responsible for establishing, managing and maintaining programs and initiatives related to crime prevention. The unit is dedicated to preventing and reducing the opportunity for crime to occur. Crime problems and trends are addressed through a cooperative effort from various government agencies, private corporations and the community. In addition, the unit remains in constant contact with neighborhood watch groups and the Star City Business Watch. The unit’s duties associated with these groups include conducting requested training and making presentations. Various officers within the department conduct presentations. Presentations often include the following topics:
· Child Safety
· Fraud Prevention
· General Personal Safety
· Personal Safety for Women
· Rape Aggression Defense System (RAD, 8 hour women's self-defense course)
· Workplace Violence
· Shoplifting Prevention
· Drug Awareness for parents and adults
· Vacation Safety
· Child Internet Safety
The Crime Prevention Unit also conducts security assessments for home and businesses owners, conducts security checks of homes and businesses when the owners are away for an extended period of time, and installs child safety seats. Officers outside the Crime Prevention Unit can assist with these duties, and also attend regular meetings of neighborhood watch groups as often as possible. To request additional information on any of the services listed above contact the Northeast Satellite Office of the Roanoke Police Department at 853-2132.
Project Lifesaver
Another responsibility of the Crime Prevention Unit is maintaining Project Lifesaver. The Roanoke Police Department launched the program in September 2002. Project Lifesaver uses technology to assist caregivers of people who suffer with Alzheimer’s, Downs Syndrome, Autism and other related mental dysfunction disorders. Those utilizing the program wear personalized radio transmitters. The Crime Prevention Unit can track individual transmitters, allowing officers to quickly locate someone who is lost or has wandered away. The program is free of charge. The Roanoke Police Department also allows citizens in near-by jurisdictions to obtain transmitters.
National Night Out
The Crime Prevention Unit also participates in National Night Out, which is held in August each year. The annual event allows neighborhood watch groups throughout the city to take a public stand against crime. Nine neighborhood watch groups throughout the city held night watch celebrations during this time.
Memory Ride
In addition, the Crime Prevention Unit takes part in the annual Memory Ride. This year the event will be held on August 30, 2008. For more information, or to pre-register contact Officer B.L. Lawrence at 853-2132. All proceeds will benefit Roanoke Valley Project Lifesaver and the Autism Society of America Greater Roanoke Valley.
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