The Structure and Operations of Neighborhood Watch Programs in the United States

Abstract

Neighborhood Watch is one of the most popular community crime prevention programs in the United States. This article focuses on the typical Neighborhood Watch model—the model that has been accepted and implemented in hundreds of communities across the nation. Drawing on information from a national study of the “state of the art” in Neighborhood Watch, which was conducted in the mid-1980s, this article describes the basic characteristics of Neighborhood Watch programs. Then the possibilities of Neighborhood Watch achieving substantial reductions in crime and a rebirth of community spirit in American neighborhoods are discussed critically. Finally, some more limited, but often overlooked, benefits of Neighborhood Watch are noted.