"Neighborhood safety is up to the neighbors not the police," says resident

Security camera gets view of front building area

"It is extremely important for people to be aware and involved in the community. Neighborhood safety is up to the neighbors not the police," emphasizes George Matwyshyn, long time Ukrainian Village resident and Chicago Alternative Policing (CAPS) leader in the 13th Police District.

George Matwyshyn points to a camera on the side of a residence

"Be aware of your surroundings. Be a good observer. Know the height of a fence or post on your property or on the street. If you see someone up to not good, you can tell the police the person's height based on those objects.

"Notice license plates, clothing and its color, any other physical description. Post 'Beware of Dog' signs even if you don't have a dog. Put your street number on the outside of your back fence or garage so police and fire can more easily find an address they are looking for.

"I came home one day and some guy had a huge ring of keys that he was going thru to open a car door. It didn't look right. I called the police. They caught a car thief!

A type of roof camera

"A year or so ago, a woman screamed in the middle of the night and the police got about six calls with a description of the offender's clothing. Neighbors made the phone calls. The police were able to catch the attempted rapist a few blocks away. If you see or hear something that does not seem right, call the police.

Warning signs can be a deterent

"Several of us in the neighborhood have put up security cameras.We have done that for our properties but also for the good of our neighbors and the community. As has been proven in other cities, private security cameras can aid police with cases. You can buy the security camera kits in stores and online.

Perched on top of a buiding, this also shows what is happening in the alley

"Criminals are like cockroaches they disappear when there is light. They do not like being observed, so when they know they are being watched, they disappear. Property crimes by graffiti taggers is another battle. It is the same. Identify them and call the police. Then make sure that the property owners show up in court. If they don't, the taggers win and walk free."

Since Matwyshyn and a few neighbors worked on increasing the participation of neighbors in the 1312 CAPS Beat, the attitudes of the neighbors and police have changed. "They are like a team working together."

He urges everyone to attend their local CAPS meetings. "Our officers really care about our community and they respond to our concerns and efforts," Matwyshyn concluded.

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