COBB, Calif. – In response to a reported increase in crime, Cobb residents are forming a ne Neighborhood Watch group.
The first meeting will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 27, at the Monterrey Mexican Grill at Cobb Mountain Golf, 16451 Golf Road.
Cobb residents forming the Neighborhood Watch cite increased crime and slow response times from the sheriff's department.
According to organizers, crime in recent years has gotten more frequent and dangerous.
“We made fliers and passed them around,” said organizer Inez Wenkus said, “Monterey Grill volunteered their place. They're happy to accommodate us”
Annemarie Hosch, who perceives increased criminal activity in her neighborhood, believes a Neighborhood Watch program is needed.
“It is important to me that we do something,” she said. “I am tired of being afraid.”
According to Hosch, law enforcement response times are measured in hours, if response arrives.
Wenkus confirmed that observation and explained that part of the process is to contact local law enforcement. “Technically your supposed to have the sheriff involved when you do a Neighborhood Watch,” she said.
But after contacting the sheriff's office about the Neighborhood Watch plan, they have not received a response, according to Hosch.
According to the Web site www.USAonwatch.org – which is the face of the Neighborhood Watch program in conjunction with the National Sheriff's Association – there are five steps to setting up a Neighborhood Watch.
- Recruit and organize as many neighbors as possible;
- Contact your local law enforcement agency and schedule a meeting;
- Discuss community concerns and develop an action plan;
- Create a communication plan;
- Take action: Hold meetings and events.
With or without the sheriff, “We're going to have a meeting,” said Wenkus.
To inquire about this inaugural meeting of the Cobb Neighborhood Watch group call 707-355-1110 or 707-295-7446 for more information.