Community Policing Unit
The Community Policing Unit was formed in 1995 as a result of the COPS AHEAD program. The unit consists of four members who are responsible for assisting communities in identifying and addressing problems/concerns that are unique to that community. The unit also provides community-based support in the form of Neighborhood Watch programs, crime prevention programs, and drug awareness programs. This unit operates from three regional satellite facilities, each of which was donated by various businesses or organizations that support the efforts of the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.
For more information on specific programs offered by the Community Policing Unit click on the link HERE.
Neighborhood Watch
(Working Together Towards Safer Communities)
Neighborhood Watch is a Program designed to reduce criminal opportunity and prevent crime through awareness, education, and cooperation between the community and the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.
Neighborhood Watch is not a citizens on patrol group. It’s objective is to increase awareness and cooperation, but does not require nor are community members expected to apprehend or confront suspects.
If you are interested in starting a Neighborhood Watch or joining an existing Watch group in your community, contact the Harford County Sheriff’s Office Community Policing Unit at neighborhoodwatch@harfordsheriff.org.
Children's Safety Program
(Presented with the support of McGruff the Crime Dog)
This program is designed for children between the ages of four and eight. A Deputy Sheriff and McGruff the Crime Dog cover safety tips such as dealing with strangers, gun safety, home safety, telephone use and bicycle safety. There is no charge for this safety program and it is available to schools, daycares, church groups and other organizations that work with children.
Reservations for the McGruff Safety Program can be made by emailing communitypolicing@harfordsheriff.org. Reservations should be made as far in advance as possible due to the popularity of this program.
Personal Security
(Women and seniors)
This program discusses personal security measures that a citizen may use at home or on the street. The program focuses on understanding the risks and learning how to reduce them, making the student a less likely target for crime. The Personal Security Program is designed with crime prevention in mind and is not a self-defense course. The program is available to schools, churches organizations, women’s groups and senior citizens groups. For more information or to schedule a program contact the Harford County Sheriff’s Office Community Policing Unit at communitypolicing@harfordsheriff.org.
Drug Awareness
Heroin Awareness
The Heroin Awareness program walks viewers through the facts, myths and ravages of heroin use. This hour long power point presentation shows graphic images of heroin use, effects on the body and the aftermath of this terrible addiction. This program is designed to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
Methamphetamine Awareness
The Meth Awareness program provides a graphic depiction of the wildfire crossing our country. Methamphetamines have quickly become the number one problem in many communities across the country. The program depicts the horrors of addiction and the effects of the toxic labs the addicts use to manufacture this drug. Meth is unlike other drugs the community has faced and this program educates communities to combat this epidemic.
Reservations can be made via e-mail communitypolicing@harfordsheriff.org.