ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — The top cop in Elizabeth City is taking steps to restart a community watch program meant to tackle crime and bridge gaps.
It faded away a couple years ago because of lacking attendance, dwindling interest and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the initiative has recently made a comeback.
Police Chief Phil Webster said he knows this type of strategy can work, citing other places he has served in the past. Plus, he thinks neighbors taking ownership of where they live can reduce crime and boost reporting to the agency.
Residents said at this point, anything can help.
"It's gotten really bad. It's nothing unusual to sit out on the front porch and hear gunshots," said resident Donna Pate.
Researchers with the Gun Violence Archive tally 20 people shot in Elizabeth City, so far in 2023. Three were homicides. At least 13 shooting victims were under the age of 18.
"If they're a part of something, they won't turn to crime," said 13-year-old resident Jeron Hill. That something Jeron mentioned could be community watch initiative.
Webster, who transitioned from an interim chief to permanent basis in the role back in May, is looking to strengthen relations with neighbors through the program.
"With us involved in the watch meetings, it builds trust, it builds in transparency within the police department. We can explain why we can do things, why we can't do things," the chief said.
In monthly meetings with participants, the chief encourages them to install home security cameras, act as good witnesses and be concerned neighbors.
"Just taking ownership in their own neighborhoods and of course, wiring us into that, bringing us on board to report issues in the community and allow us to help them," said Webster.
Residents said they believe involvement will play a critical role.
"I think it would help if people speak up and agree to do it. If the community joined together, I think it would help a lot," said resident Sabrina Williams.
"I think it's important if everybody works together, then more things can get done. There's more eyes, more visibility," Pate added.
That would mean more eyes for a department not immune from a nationwide staffing trend; they're 23 officers short, according to Chief Webster. He said he has 35 officers among the rank and file with several in academy.
"Not only is it an eyes and ears piece, but also, it's a recruiting piece. We may catch somebody in a class who wants to become a police officer or have a family member interested in law enforcement," said Webster.
The chief said he wants people in the community to eventually take the lead on the program and host meetings.
The hope is different neighborhoods, apartment complexes, churches or businesses can partner with the police department to create their own subgroups.
Webster said the next community watch meeting is scheduled for November 28 at 6 p.m. at Knobbs Creek Recreation Center.
If you are interested in joining Elizabeth City's community watch, you can email jwebster@elizabethcitync.gov or call the police station at 252-335-4321.