PROSPECT PARK, Pa. – “I am out three, four times a day, and I see everything,” pet owner Mary DeFeo said.
Mary DeFeo is exactly the type of person Prospect Park police are looking to recruit as they roll out a Dog Walker Watch program. Always out with her pups Arlo and Katie Perry, Mary doesn't miss a thing.
What we know:
Dog Walker Watch is a neighborhood-based crime awareness program developed by the National Association of Town Watch. Since dog walkers are often out at all hours with their pups. They could spot something suspicious that might otherwise go unnoticed.
What they're saying:
Officer Nick Denton said, “We are looking for them to be the eyes and ears of the community so we the police can be the hands and feet of the community.”
He continued, “We've already had a previous incident where someone is out front letting their dog out and even in those 30 seconds saw something.”
Dana Nattress, of Prospect Park, is often out with her dog, Willow. She said, “I do notice some weird stuff, especially at nighttime, especially with tracks here. Some people walk down the tracks, but you don't know who they are. Could be kind of creepy.”
Big picture view:
Prospect Park Police would provide in-person training, so dog walkers know exactly what it entails.
Officer Denton explained, “We would teach them what kind of suspicious activity to look out for, pay attention to the sixth sense where they say, ‘Something is not right here.’ We're looking for people who truly know the community better than anyone to be a part of this.”
Dog owners in the neighborhood are onboard, including Sean Koppisch, who is always out walking his rescue pup, Penny.
Sean says, “I think I could see myself getting involved in something like that. I definitely like a nice safe neighborhood. I'm sure my neighbors do as well. I think it's a great idea.”
Mary DeFeo is also super interested, “I would absolutely participate, whatever was required.”
What's next:
Prospect Park Police are asking interested dog owners to reach out to the police department and once they've gauged the dog community's interest, they will set up training sessions for folks and their four-legged friends.
