Not only was the opportunity there to train the group on neighborhood watch tips and tools used , we also found that the realtor group had very important questions regarding fraud , as well as how to spot and avoid internet and real estate crimes . This cross-training and information sharing session was used by our police department as a basis of obtaining a Real Estate Fraud Grant from our local District Attorney ’ s Office and we were able to expand our outreach efforts with the Board of Realtors .
The intent of Realtor Watch was to train this group of 600 + members to be another crime fighting partner in Laguna Beach . Not only have they helped us identify and prevent crime , but on many occasions they have assisted us in locating wanted people or vehicles . Our Code Enforcement staff have also been able to learn about various types of illegal activity involving daily , weekly and illegal rentals . The partnership is stronger than ever and the Laguna Beach Board of Realtors continue to desire more training and opportunities to be ambassadors for the police department . As with any new program , we did have a couple of growing pains and unanticipated experiences .
Here are a couple of lessons learned if you are thinking of starting a similar partnership :
• Realtors strongly desire contact with local law enforcement because they encounter strange situations each day . As police officers we enter homes when the law permits . Realtors on the other hand enter vacant properties on a daily basis . They often encounter trespassers , burglars , and people trying to commit fraud . This can be scary and threatening and they may be unsure as to whether they should report something out of place or something that just doesn ’ t seem right .
• Never underestimate how often realtors are out “ farming ” neighborhoods . They tend to know most of the residents and their habits . They are an untapped wealth of information .
• Realtors tend to be involved in several service and charitable organizations . Once they meet your staff , you can guarantee you will be invited to speak and give the same presentation for other groups . It is amazing how connected they are with the community and region . Much like regional Police Departments ,
SPRING 2016 | California Police Chief 27
Not only was the opportunity there to train the group on
neighborhood watch tips and tools used, we also found
that the realtor group had very important questions
regarding fraud, as well as how to spot and avoid internet
and real estate crimes. This cross-training and information
sharing session was used by our police department
as a basis of obtaining a Real Estate Fraud Grant from
our local District Attorney’s Office and we were able to
expand our outreach efforts with the Board of Realtors.
The intent of Realtor Watch was to train this group of
600+ members to be another crime fighting partner in
Laguna Beach. Not only have they helped us identify
and prevent crime, but on many occasions they have
assisted us in locating wanted people or vehicles. Our
Code Enforcement staff have also been able to learn about
various types of illegal activity involving daily, weekly
and illegal rentals. The partnership is stronger than ever
and the Laguna Beach Board of Realtors continue to desire
more training and opportunities to be ambassadors for
the police department. As with any new program, we
did have a couple of growing pains and unanticipated
experiences.
Here are a couple of lessons learned if you are thinking of
starting a similar partnership:
• Realtors strongly desire contact with local law
enforcement because they encounter strange
situations each day. As police officers we enter homes
when the law permits. Realtors on the other hand
enter vacant properties on a daily basis. They often
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