Laguna Niguel Police Services offers a program known as Business Watch that is modeled after Neighborhood Watch. It takes the “neighbors looking out for neighbors” concept and applies it at the commercial level. This creates the opportunity to build a partnership between businesses and law enforcement.
As part of this program, Police Services connects with business owners to obtain emergency contact information in case a situation happens after hours where deputies need to reach the business. Participants in this program receive a “Business Watch Program In Force” decal to display in their front window. Participants will also receive tips and recommendations on crime prevention, business and employee safety, and they will have the chance to ask questions and share concerns with Police Services.
In 2022, the Business Enhancement Team (BET) program was relaunched and is included in the Business Watch program as an extension. This piece of the equation utilizes the Police Auxiliary Citizens (PACT) team volunteers to act as a liaison representing Police Services within the business community. The City has been separated into quadrants, and our volunteers are assigned to specific areas to build a foundational relationship as well as educate our local businesses and their staff on ways to deter crime, ultimately making the businesses safer.
Helpful Hint: When BET volunteers visit your business, they may ask for emergency contact information for the business owner or manager. Please help advance the program by filling out this paperwork and returning it to the volunteers.
For more information, contact Michelle Conlin at mconlin@ocsheriff.gov; 949-362-4365 or Maddi Simmons at msimmons@ocsheriff.gov; 949-362-4305.
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