Ruapehu Lions fight crime

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 290, 13 June 1989, Page 1

Ruapehu Lions fight crime

Ruapehu Lions Club members have joined the ranks of crime-fighters.

Lions recently launched a community - wide Neighbourhood Watch scheme in Ohakune that has already proved successful. Ohakune Police Sergeant Russell England, said police made an arrest following a resident's report of suspicious activity. Sgt England said they recovered property stolen and were able to return it to its rightful owner. Sgt England said Lions members working closely with the police, are aiming to instill more community spirit through the scheme. "It encourages people to look after one another and to know where their neighbours are" he said. "Neighbourhood Watch isn't solely for crime prevention. It amounts to a community caring for itself." Sgt England said neighbourhood watch schemes in large cities such as Auckland are an effective means of curbing petty crime. The scheme can also

mean the difference between life and death for someone who may suffer an injury in their home and are unable to go for help. Lions members have taken on the responsibility of co-ordinators for their respective streets. A street co-or-dinator will be appointed if there is no resident member. The community will eventually be split into four 'zones', with coordinators appointed to work closely with local police. Lions will be turning their attention to the neighbouring township of Raetihi, once the scheme is established. Sgt England said Neighbourhood Watch stickers and information pamphlets are available for distribution. Planned for the Bulletin is a regular feature of 'crime maps', pinpointing break-ins and thefts from information supplied by the police.