Ann Arbor Bill of Rights
Defense Committee

Text of Chief Dan Oates' Crime Watch Letter

From the Desk of Chief Oates ...

On behalf of the Ann Arbor Police Department, I would like to thank and congratulate you on your decision to continue to be part of the Neighborhood Watch Program. The success of this program is determined by the commitment you and your neighbors have made to be eyes and ears for the police department in the community. It provides a unique structure that brings together law enforcement and citizens for the protection of the community.

Neighborhood Watch programs across the country got a new mandate from Attorney General John Ashcroft, who announced an expansion of the community crime prevention program to include the participation of ordinary citizens in detecting and preventing terrorism. In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, the need for strengthening and securing our communities has become even more critical. President Bush has announced that, with the help of the local law enforcement, the Neighborhood Watch Program will be taking on a new significance. Every citizen can assist local law enforcement by playing an active role in his or her community and neighborhood. Neighborhood Watch deters criminal activity and helps protect American families. The heart of prevention is watching out, helping out, reporting suspicious activity or persons and creating neighborhoods and communities in which citizens are active and contributing.

It is your dedication to protecting your family and neighbors that will truly make the difference. Thank you for answering the call to make this commitment. Together we stand united and make Ann Arbor a stronger community.

See also: "AmeriSnitch" by Bill Berkowitz in The Progressive and "Sheriffs Rounding Up Neighborhood Leaders for Counterrerror Watch Patrols" by Alice Lipowicz from CQ Homeland Security.