Don't miss the HBA Home & Outdoor Living Show, April 12 - 14, 2024 Wilson Logistics Arena  |  Ozark Empire Fairgrounds  |  Springfield, MO
Don't miss the HBA Home &
Outdoor Living Show
April 12 - 14, 2024
Wilson Logistics Arena
Ozark Empire Fairgrounds
Springfield, MO

Crime prevention at the commercial level

SPD-Business-WatchModeled after Neighborhood Watch, Business Watch takes the “neighbors looking out for neighbors” concept to the commercial level, creating a partnership between businesses, law enforcement and other organizations that represent business interests. The Business Watch philosophy is straightforward: take control by focusing on proactive measures that can reduce and deter criminal activity.

The Springfield Police Department has recently added a crime prevention specialist specifically assigned to assist businesses Citywide. Officer Matthew Lilly assesses worksites and teaches business owners and management how to implement improvements that will make their business safer and more secure for patrons and staff.

“We have begun working with owners and management of establishments such as convenience stores and banks–places that are generally vulnerable to robberies,” said Lilly. “We want to empower them with the knowledge that we have to prevent their business and employees from becoming future victims of crime.”

Business Watch goals can be accomplished through specific facility and grounds modifications, proper training, and building relationships with surrounding business entities and the community. Generally speaking, criminals are less likely to commit crimes that seem too risky or difficult. If your place of business can make criminals think it will be too difficult to “do business with you,” chances are they will not attempt to commit crime on your property and move on to an easier target. Criminals tend to commit crimes of opportunity, and you can reduce the chances of your business being victimized by taking proactive measures to make the criminal think that it is too risky to commit crime on your property.

Crime prevention officers also assist business owners by providing site surveys and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) analyses. If you are interested in joining Business Watch and would like more information on these services, please call 874-2113