Volunteer Network General Guidelines
Neighborhood Watch General Guidelines
Things to do as a volunteer when responding to help requests:
Observe suspicious activities: Neighborhood Squatch volunteers should note any suspicious activities they observe in their community. This might include things like individuals loitering in an area, people carrying items that appear to be stolen, or vehicles driving slowly through the neighborhood.
Collect specific details: It is important to collect as much specific information as possible about any suspicious activities. This might include details about the person's appearance, the make and model of a vehicle, or the time and location of an incident.
Respect privacy and civil liberties: Neighborhood watch groups should respect the privacy and civil liberties of individuals in their community. They should avoid making assumptions or accusations based on race, ethnicity, or other personal characteristics.
When unavoidable use of force could be appropriate:
The use of force is only justified when it is necessary to protect oneself or others from immediate harm, and when it is proportionate to the threat faced.
It is important to note that volunteers are not law enforcement officers and do not have the same authority or training.
If a member of a volunteer feels that they are in danger or witness a crime in progress, they should call the police immediately rather than taking matters into their own hands. If a physical confrontation does occur, individuals should only use force that is necessary to defend themselves or others from harm.
Ultimately, the use of force should be a last resort and individuals should always prioritize the safety and well-being of themselves and others. It is also important to be aware of the legal implications of using force and to consult with local laws and regulations before taking any action.
What to not do as a volunteer responding to a help ticket:
Do not take the law into your own hands. Unless you or others are facing immediate danger, volunteers should not engage detaining suspects or use force to resolve a situation.
Do not discriminate: Neighborhood watch groups should not discriminate against individuals based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any other personal characteristic. All members of the community should be treated with respect and fairness.
Do not invade privacy: Neighborhood watch groups should respect the privacy of individuals in their community. They should not invade someone's privacy by trespassing on private property or spying on individuals.
Do not use excessive force: volunteers should avoid using excessive force when dealing with suspicious individuals or situations. It is not recommended to carry weapons. Do not use physical force to restrain someone unless you or someone else are in immediate danger.
Do not operate outside the law: Neighborhood watch groups should follow all applicable laws and regulations when reporting suspicious activities or working with law enforcement. They should not engage in vigilante activities or take actions that are illegal or unethical.
Suspicious or criminal activity in progress: If you observe criminal activity in progress, such as a burglary or robbery, it is recommended to call the police immediately. It is important to provide a detailed description of the suspects and their behavior, as well as any other relevant details.
When approaching a suspicious person, it is not recommended to corner them.. They may act unpredictably or attack you to get out of the situation. Let them know that you see them, and ask that they leave. Document the interaction.