The vitality of our city depends on how safe we keep our homes, neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities because crime and fear diminish the quality of life for all. Crime and fear destroy our trust in others and in institutions, threatening the community's health and property.

People of all ages must be made aware of what they can do to prevent themselves, their families, neighbors, and co-workers from being harmed by drugs, violence, and other crime. Personal injury, financial loss, and community deterioration resulting from crime are intolerable and require action by the whole community.

Financial Crimes: Don't become a victim of credit card fraud or identity theft! Also be sure to protect your bank checks from getting into the hands of the wrong person. The Financial Crimes Unit of the Office of Criminal Investigations provides some helpful information on preventing these crimes.

Adults must invest time, resources, and policy support in effective prevention and intervention strategies for youth, and teens must be engaged in driving crime from their communities. Effective crime prevention programs excel because of partnerships among law enforcement, other government agencies, civic groups, schools, faith communities, businesses and individuals as they help to nurture communal responsibility and instill pride.

The West Sacramento Police Department urges all citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, and businesses to recognize the power of prevention and work together for the common good.

For more information about Crime Prevention, Neighborhood Watch and Business Watch, please contact the West Sacramento Police Department at 617-4937.