Crime Prevention

The Essex Police Department currently provides the Essex Community with various prevention programs and is committed to Community Policing, a concept promoting an active partnership between the Essex Police Department, citizens, businesses and the various agencies that affect a community’s safety and well being. The responsibility for the prevention and reduction of crime rests not only with law enforcement, but also with the individuals that make up the Community we live in.

Community involvement with law enforcement enhances the relationship between the police and community. This involvement increases cooperation, understanding and trust, and creates a solid foundation for a healthy exchange of fears and concerns, as well as the confidence that together, we can solve our community’s problems. The programs provide information on personal safety and the physical security of property, and also attempt to provide a healthy and positive relationship with the Police Department. In the Essex Community, many of our programs emphasize interaction with the Community’s children. We can provide our children with an education that will allow them to be confident and secure in their ability to prevent their becoming victims of crime. 

The following is a list of the programs we provide: Neighborhood Watch and National Night Out.

Property Crimes

Property crimes are generally considered crimes of opportunity. Therefore anytime you can reduce a "would be" thief's opportunity you increase the chances that you will not be the victim of such a crime. Great examples of reducing opportunities are:

• Locking and securing your home when you are away
• Locking your vehicle
• Keeping valuables safely stored and out of sight
• Engaging in activities where you and your neighbors watch out for one another, and each other's property. When suspicious behavior or activity occurs call the police.
• Well placed lighting and careful consideration to where trees and shrubs will be placed can play an important part in reducing your vulnerability.
• Mark your property and record a description that will provide you and the police with identifiable information in the event that your property is stolen.
• Do not leave pocket books or wallets unattended in your vehicle or in a shopping cart.
• Never provide credit card information to strangers for unsolicited purchases.
• Review all monthly statements and charges for legitimacy.

Other Programs Include

The National Crime Prevention Council On-Line Resource Center offers crime prevention tips for self, home, and family; community policing; neighborhood building; plus information on McGruff the Crime Dog and his nephew, Scruff. Find out how you can help Take A Bite Out Of Crime!

Guide to Home Automation This guide includes security tips and routine checks families can do to keep an eye on their homes and make it safe no matter where they are.