Presentation by Officer Scott Mathis
Officer Scott spoke to our community about what we can do to keep safe. These are a few highlights from his presentation.
1) If you hear a gunshot, see a crime in progress or feel that you are in danger, call 911.
2) The more people that call 911 for a gunshot the more likely there will be a response. If only one person calls it gets low priority.
3) To report crimes and suspicious activity call the non-emergency number: 719-444-7000
You don't need to be hesitant about reporting a crime, there is a felony charge for any criminal attempting to intimidate a witness. Additionally there are anonymous channels to report crime. Either you can phone in your crime report or enter it online if its a minor offense. For more details on crime reporting visit: "How to Report a Crime"
4) Officer Scott said most crimes committed in our area are done by juveniles. The teenagers target Kias and Hyundais because they are easy to steal. Both makes have done upgrades in the software that make it more difficult to steal but by the time the teens recognize the upgrade they've already done $1500 in damage. Teens get arrested and brought to their parents, parents say they can't control them and 5 minutes later they're back on the street doing the same thing.
5) In the month of June 28 guns were stolen from vehicles. This is a huge problem.
6) HOT stands for the Homeless Outreach Team. This specialized patrol unit compassionately serves the homeless population of Colorado Springs while improving the health, safety and wellness of both those experiencing homelessness and our community as a whole.
The homeless outreach team has done a great job of helping people that want to be helped, however there are the recalcitrant homeless that don't want help, they continue to rob and be a nuisance. If you see a homeless person that you know would like help or think might be a good candidate for help contact HOT at: 719-444-7666 or email: CSPDHot@coloradosprings.gov
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
Specifically in our community trimming trees and shrubs so that no one can sleep or hide behind them would be helpful. Keeping-up the property is of vital importance, the broken gate and graffiti are an issue. The broken gate is an invitation for more trouble. The graffiti on the fence has been reported, the graffiti removal team is only 2 people, so it may take awhile before they get to it.
• The proper design and effective use of the physical environment which may lead to a reduction in the incidence of and fear of crime and improved quality of life
• CPTED strategies rely upon the ability to influence offender decisions that precede criminal acts
• Based upon the theory that the proper design and effective use of the environment can reduce crime, reduce the fear of crime, and improve the quality of life
• By working with the Police Department developers gain ideas to utilize natural
surveillance, access control, and territorial reinforcement for business and homes
• From there, homeowners can make further “improvements” to their property and structures to safeguard against criminal activity
• Through the collaborative effort of developers, home owners and police we strive for a more secure community
For more information on environmental design click here.
Neighborhood Watch
Officer Scott suggested that we might consider a Neighborhood Watch program. Neighborhood Watch extends one to two blocks away and ideally within eyesight.