DeLand, FL - The DeLand Police Department has launched a campaign to connect with and notify residents of any suspicious conditions that may put them at risk for a crime.
The campaign is called Operation Vigilant Protector, and it is implemented by the DeLand Police Department to anticipate, recognize, and prevent a crime from occurring. The way it works is that whenever officers observe an unsafe condition, such as an unlocked vehicle, unsecured property, or an accumulation of mail at a property, the officers will attempt to make contact with the property owner. If they are unable to make contact, then a card will be left to notify the property owner of the unsafe condition.
"It's a proactive measure that Chief Umberger has implemented. It's one that gets officers in touch with citizens around the city," says Chris Graham, Community Information Specialist for the City of DeLand. "Of course, right now, police officers are always on the lookout for things that might present a problem for residents or property owners, but now with Operation Vigilant Protector, we're getting out into the community communicating with those residents and telling them about conditions that may put them at risk for being the victim of a crime."
Below is an example of the cards the DeLand Police Department will be handing out to notify residents of unsafe conditions:
“Operation Vigilant Protector is an example of our commitment to excellence in policing. It aligns with our Police Department’s new mission statement which reads in part that we will safeguard the lives and property of the people we serve, reduce the incidence and fear of crime, and enhance public safety,” says Police Chief Jason Umberger.
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