Tarpon Springs Police Department
Nominated by John Ulrich, The Tarpon Springs Police Department’s School Resource Unit developed a crime prevention program for their local high school. The high school was an open campus with 38 separate buildings. The campus was monitored by video, but more than half were not working. The crime rate on the campus was very high with thefts, batteries, criminal mischiefs and trespassing. The school acted upon the unit’s recommendations and secured the campus by restricting access, repairing existing cameras; along with adding cameras and lighting.
Once the campus was secure, it was decided to start a crime watch. The focus was on the seniors, preparing them for the “real world”. The school did not want the program to be open to all. It was decided to choose students thru an application process, just as they would have to apply for a job (to get them used to the application process). A background check was initiated, including school attendance and school disciplinary files. Letters of recommendation from teachers were required. Out of 1800 students, only 28 students were chosen for the program each semester. After the students were chosen they were trained to monitor halls for tardy students, conduct patrols of the campus, report violations to the SRO, monitor security cameras and assist staff with lockdowns and fire drills.
The positive Campus Crime Watch philosophy spread from the participating students outward throughout the student body. In doing this the attitude in the school now is don’t do it you will get caught, go to class and be productive. The crime rate at the High School has dramatically decreased since the inception of the program. The school went from a “D” school to an “A” school. The parents and students believe that this program had a lot to do with the change of the school grade and has promoted a positive learning atmosphere with the students.
