March 23, 2006

Teaming up for safety

Police, fire take aim at community safety

Get involved, know your neighbors, be prepared

By Lorraine Gabbert
Staff Writer

With an eye toward community safety, members of the police and fire departments recently held court at a community forum on safety, which was hosted by Councilmember Nancy Pyle at the Almaden Winery Community Center.

From left, SJPD Capt. Jack Farmer, Deputy Chief Dan Katz and Chief of Police Rob Davis care about their community. Photos by Lorraine Gabbert

With a population of almost 1 million, the city of San Jose is the tenth largest in the country, yet maintains the safest big city rating.

“What we are able to accomplish, not just as a police department, but as a city working collaboratively together, is phenomenal,” said San Jose Police Department Chief of Police Rob Davis, “and it is attributed to the hard work of our men and women.”

The police department’s three-prong approach to solving crime—prevention, intervention and suppression—has led to their success in many areas, including working with gangs.

“We don’t just arrest gang members,” said Davis, “but try to prevent kids from getting involved with gangs to begin with and reach out to current members as well.”

However, keeping the community safe isn’t without its challenges. Due to budget cuts, and the war in Iraq, their department is shorthanded, which sometimes results in a longer response time to citizens’ calls. “We’ve expanded the area of San Jose and the demand, while our number of officers is stagnating,” said Davis. “Bear with us.”

In his 24 years with the police department, Deputy Chief Dan Katz sees this as one of the more challenging times. “Everybody is working harder than we ever have before,” he said. “We’re straining, but we’re up to the challenge.”

“What we are able to accomplish, not just as a police department, but as a city working collaboratively together, is phenomenal,” said San Jose Police Department Chief of Police Rob Davis

Among others, Katz took a moment to publicly thank Capt. Jack Farmer, who oversees officers assigned to Almaden Valley. “Jack pours his heart and soul into this division,” said Katz, “and works tremendously hard for you. He really believes in the cause.” He also appreciates the work of Lt. Santiago Trejo, Sgt. Larry McGrady and Lt. Rich Saito. “I cannot say enough for what they do for you, for the city, and for us,” said Katz.

Farmer makes a point of knowing the residents who make up his division. He appreciates community partnership and encourages residents to call him (his number: 277-5530) regarding community safety concerns. “Together we can make a difference,” he said. “Together we’ll make this the best city in the country.”

As the head of the Foothill Division of the Neighborhood Watch Team, SJPD Crime Prevention Specialist Tamara Davis urged residents to get involved in their community. “Report suspicious activity, crimes you’re aware of, or things you hear of,” said Davis, who compares crime solving to completing a puzzle. “Unless you have all the pieces in the right places, it’s not complete,” she said, “and oftentimes that last bit of information comes from residents.”

Neighborhood Watch is a program in which groups of residents meet to discuss safety concerns and become better connected with the people in their community. Davis and other members of the Neighborhood Watch Team attend these meetings to encourage residents to report suspicous activities and avoid becoming a victim. “We go over the crime in your neighborhood,” said Davis, “how to protect yourself, who to call and what information to give to a dispatcher.” As an added crime deterrent, participating neighbors also receive informational brochures and Neighborhood Watch signage.

In helping to secure neighborhoods, Neighborhood Watch brings neighbors together. “You have free security on your street,” she said, “and that’s your neighbors.” Davis pointed out that the more comfortable people are with those around them, the more they are likely to help each other. “Your neighbors become your family,” she said, “and you wouldn’t want anything to happen to your family.”

Almaden resident Ben Angileri shares information about Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers.

The Neighborhood Watch program has proven highly effective. Since its start about 30 years ago, burglary rates have dropped 80 percent. “This is a very attractive area as far as theft,” said Councilmember Nancy Pyle, “so it really serves us all to be aware of our surroundings.”

With a 97 percent conviction rating, Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers is another extremely successful program. Working with the SJPD, they take anonymous tips in exchange for cash prize rewards all while keeping the caller’s identity secret.

If an arrest is made following a tip, cash is left for the caller at a local bank’s driveup teller. In 25 years, Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers has assisted in solving 676 cases, making 800 arrests and recovering $5 million in both narcotics and property. They can be reached at 947-7867.

“The reason the conviction rate is so high,” said Almaden resident and CrimeStoppers point person Ben Angileri, “is that when someone calls in a tip, it’s reliable. It’s an outstanding program, but needs public awareness.”

Gracie Corral of the San Jose Fire Department focused on earthquake preparedness. Corral recommends having a disaster plan in place, including practicing “Drop, Cover and Hold,” and designating a meeting place outside the home. “Let friends and neighbors know if you have any special needs,” she said, “and keep extra medications in a grab-and-go kit.” In addition, according to Corral, it is also important to have a fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, flashlight and portable radio with working batteries, blankets, water and non-perishable foods available in case of an emergency.

Corral outlined what to do if an earthquake strikes. “Drop, Cover and Hold!” she urged.
“If you’re indoors, stay away from windows and if you’re in bed, protect your head with a pillow.” She suggested that if someone was outside during an earthquake, they should drop to the ground in an area away from buildings, trees and power lines.