Like McGruff the Crime Dog, the South Norwood Committee is hoping to get the public to take a bite out of crime.
The committee and the Police Department are co-hosting a Citizens Educational Forum July 30, 6:30 p.m., at the police and fire station.
Community police officer Peter Curran is scheduled to speak about crime prevention, securing personal property, and how to have effective communications with the Police Department.
South Norwood Committee Chairwoman Patty Bailey said the idea to hold a forum didn't generate from specific incidents, but a general feeling that the public should be more involved in policing.
Bailey said the South Norwood Committee has periodically invited Police Chief Bartley King to its meetings to discuss what is happening in the neighborhood and keep the lines of communication open. The idea behind next week's forum is to extend those lines even further.
"We really want to encourage people not to look the other way when they see something happening," said Bailey. "If they see something inappropriate going on, they should call the police."
Bailey said previous discussions with the department have often centered on common issues like vandalism or noise and loitering, as well as sex offender laws.
"It's really about keeping the lines of communication open," said Bailey.
Selectwoman Helen Donohue said the South Norwood neighborhood had a community watch effort started in 1986 and it worked well.
"We just need more eyes to keep a watch out for things," said Donohue.
During that effort, Bailey said the neighborhood was split into different zones and residents organized watches.
"My understanding is it was very organized," said Bailey.
But the effort fizzled out over time and now the group hopes to rekindle the effort.
Although the South Norwood Committee is organizing and sponsoring the event, Donohue hopes residents throughout town will get involved.
"This isn't just a South Norwood issue," said Donohue. "That's why we wanted to invite people from all over town."
Daily News staff writer Brian Falla can be reached at 781-433-8339 or at bfalla@cnc.com
