The Crime Prevention Unit of the Prince William County Police Department is set to host a virtual Community Watch presentation on Monday, July 22, 2024, at 6 p.m. This informative session, which will last approximately one hour, aims to equip residents with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance community safety.
To participate in the virtual meeting, interested individuals must register by visiting this link and entering the session password “safe.” The Crime Prevention Unit can be reached at (703) 792-7270 for further inquiries.
Topics Covered
The upcoming training session will focus on three critical areas:
1. Situational Awareness: Enhancing the ability to identify and avoid potential dangers.
2. Crime Reporting: Instruction on effectively reporting incidents to the police to contribute to a safer community.
3. Home Security: Practical strategies to improve home safety and reduce crime risk.
Community Watch in Prince William County
Prince William County boasts over 400 recognized Community Watch groups, each playing a vital role in maintaining neighborhood safety. These groups vary in participation levels but collectively contribute to a safer environment for all residents.
How to Form a Watch Group
Residents interested in forming or joining a Community Watch group are encouraged to attend one of the monthly training sessions. These meetings, alternating between in-person and virtual formats, provide essential education on situational awareness, crime reporting, and home security. Detailed information about these sessions can be found on the police department’s website and social media platforms.
The Importance of Community Watch
The Community Watch program has been a cornerstone of public safety in Prince William County since the 1970s. Recognizing the challenges of modern life, the program is evolving to serve the community’s needs better. The police department is transitioning from the traditional “Neighborhood Watch” to the more inclusive “Community Watch.” This rebranding emphasizes collective responsibility and aims to foster greater community engagement.
One significant change in the program is the shift from relying on a single group coordinator to a more direct communication model. Information will be sent directly to each Community Watch member, ensuring timely updates and improved coordination. This structural change and the new “Community Watch” branding reflect a commitment to inclusivity and collective effort in crime prevention.
Recent Stories
If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, look no further than Aria Mia, a sweet little kitten currently up for adoption at Prince William County Animal Services. This brave little one arrived as a stray with injuries to both of her eyes. Aria Mia has already undergone surgery on one eye and will need follow-up treatment for the other. Despite her challenges, she’s shown incredible resilience and is ready to start a new chapter with a loving family.
Aria Mia has already proven that she’s not just a cat lover but a dog lover too! During her recovery at Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic, she showed how well she gets along with dogs. So, if you’re looking for a kitten who can coexist with your furry canine companions, Aria Mia might just be the perfect fit for you.
Come meet Aria Mia today and see for yourself what a sweet, loving companion she can be. She’s eager to find her forever home and start the next phase of her life in a caring and compassionate environment.
Deuntay Diggs, Chair of Stafford County’s Board of Supervisors, indicated Tuesday evening that he is prepared to take legal action should some of his colleagues continue to ask for an amendment to the Code of Performance that “adversely affects my career, my calling,” reports the FXBG Advance.Â
A report from the Federal Railroad Administration requested by Fredericksburg City Council and Mayor Kerry Devine on this past summer’s freight car derailment blames human error for the mishap, reports the FXBG Advance.Â
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is progressing toward finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Department of Economic Development.
The draft MOU aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both entities in promoting economic growth and business attraction within the county. However, concerns raised by some Board members suggest that the document may need further refinement before it can be adopted.
During a work session on January 28, 2025, Liz Barber, the county’s Director of Economic Development, presented the draft MOU, highlighting the extensive process that led to its creation. The document was developed over the past year, with input from both county administration and EDA members. Its goal is to establish clear guidelines and expectations for the EDA and the Department of Economic Development, particularly regarding the administrative processes, division of duties, and collaboration between the two bodies.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.