Hertfordshire: Sniffing out crime in Welwyn Hatfield Dog owners urged to sign up to new scheme

September 26, 2012, 9:18 am

Dog owners are being encouraged to enrol their four-legged pets in Dog Watch – an initiative to help fight crime and anti-social behaviour – in Welwyn Hatfield.

Dog Watch invites dogs and their owners to be the eyes and ears (and wet noses) of their community, reporting suspicious activity back to the authorities.

A launch event is being held at the Royal Veterinary Colleges Dog Olympics at Hatfield House on Sunday 14^th October.

Police Community Support Officers Sam Griffin, Christina Cooper and Louise Luxford will be at the event enrolling dog walkers. Those who sign up will be given a free goodie bag and some dog treats. Dog Watch mascots, ‘Dog Watch Douglas and ‘Bella on the Beat (pictured), will also be at the event.

Police Community Support Officer Sam Griffin said: “Wed encourage people to come along to sign up to the scheme. Being part of Dog Watch is really easy and it wont take up large amount of your time.

“A dog walker can be out and about at all times of the day so can be the eyes and ears of our community, as they often see or hear suspicious behaviour and they notice things out of the ordinary. So we ask our members to keep us informed of anything they think is suspicious. They are also encouraged report graffiti or damage to street furniture to the council.

“I would encourage anyone who walks their dog to get involved.”

 Borough Councillor Lynne Sparks was successful in her application for £500 of the County Councils locality budget which has helped to fund the scheme. Lynne will also be at the event.  The scheme has also been funded by the Welwyn Hatfield Community Safety Partnership.

Lynne said: “Dogwatch will be beneficial to the communities where it operates and will help residents to feel safe. Along with Neighbourhood Watch, it will contribute positively to our local community and we are happy to support its launch.”

Members will be given regular updates about how their information has helped improve the areas where they live. Theyll also be given crime prevention advice

To find out more or to join Dog Watch, ring PCSO Sam Griffin via the non-emergency number 101 or email her at: Samantha.griffin@herts.pnn.police.uk

View full article on Crime And Justice