ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times
DATE: Wednesday, January 22, 1997 TAG: 9701220021
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-2 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
DATELINE: PULASKI
The Pulaski Police Department started a crime prevention program this week targeted at older citizens.
Sandy Wilhoit, crime prevention officer, will be contacting senior citizens (people 60 and older) to make an appointment for a home visit. During the visit Wilhoit will interview citizens about their safety or crime concerns for their neighborhood.
"It's like a Neighborhood Watch program, but I'll be watching over them," Wilhoit said.
Wilhoit, a uniformed officer, said her goal is to contact every citizen who qualifies for the program and build a network of information to prevent crime in older citizens' neighborhoods. One aspect of her interview includes gathering information that would be valuable to emergency workers if there is a call at that person's home. The information will become part of the Police Department's computer-aided dispatch system that displays a name and street address on a computer screen when a 911 call is made from a residence.
Wilhoit will also offer home safety checks and an opportunity for older residents to voice any concerns about their personal or the community's crime problems during her visit.
So far, Wilhoit said she has contacted the town's Agency on Aging and senior center to make contacts with residents, but she encouraged people to call her directly at 980-1220, ext. 59, if they are interested in the program and would like to schedule an appointment.
LENGTH: Short : 35 linesby CNB