A comparison of Lake Highlands crime statistics in 1997 and 2001 boasts a 24 percent decrease, thanks in part to the Lake Highlands Volunteers in Patrol (VIP).
Founded in 1996 with just 12 members, the Lake Highlands VIP is now 57 members strong and patrols the neighborhood of 499 homes. They log in more than 100 hours per month of patrolling.
“It relieves the policemen to do more important work that we’re not a part of,” says Lake Highlands VIP Chair JC Reneau.
Once members are trained, they go out on two-hour patrols with a partner. Each member patrols at least two times a month, and the patrols can be at any time of day or night.
Members, which Reneau says is a good mix of men and women, drive their own cars and have magnetic signs to put on the doors so they are easily recognized.
However, the group is non-confrontational. They only observe and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
“We’re not police people. If we see crime, we call 911,” Reneau says.
The patrollers also contact people if they observe oversights at a home — such as a gate or garage door left open — which might leave its occupants susceptible to a crime.
The group was started as a result of the VIP program approved by the Dallas Police Department. VIP members must undergo a seven hour training program before they can participate.
With crime down 16 percent as of May 2002 from the same time last year, the crime watchers can clearly see the fruits of their efforts.
The VIP members are honored each year in the Lake Highlands Fourth of July parade, in which they have their own float. Reneau says they also feel appreciated when people express unsolicited interest in helping out.
“It makes you feel good when they volunteer, because it shows they recognize what we’re doing.
“It’s a community effort, a contribution of time. We assist policemen, keep order in the neighborhood, and keep crime down,” Reneau says.
