87th SFS implements new hotline to prevent crime

Published Sept. 20, 2012
By 2nd Lt. Alexis McGee
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst security forces members are providing the joint-base community with another option to help prevent crime.

The 87th Security Forces Squadron recently introduced a crime prevention hotline, 754-COPS, through which community members can report concerns of suspicious activity.

"Our overarching-crime prevention-program includes DARE, The National Citizens' Crime Prevention Campaign with McGruff the Crime Dog, military working dogs, selective enforcement and the neighborhood watch," said Tech. Sgt. Antone Baillie, 87th SFS NCO in charge of police services. "The hotline is the newest element we added to the program."
This program encourages service members, families and the entire JB MDL community to join law enforcement in crime-prevention efforts.

"The hotline is important because preventing crime is more than a single focus or effort," said Baillie. "Effective crime deterrence requires interaction among all base community members."

Concerned community members can call the hotline for issues such as bullying, suspicious activity, possession of weapons and use or sale of illegal drugs or threatening acts, but should continue to use 911 to report crimes in progress or other emergency situations.

"If people witness crimes like robberies or domestic abuse, they should always call 911," said Baillie. "People should use this new hotline if they are reluctant to become involved with security forces who have witness questionable behavior or want to report a crime and wish to remain anonymous. If community members see someone in their neighborhood acting questionably or prowling, for instance, but the individual isn't necessarily committing a crime, the community member should call the hotline."

The service enables community members to voice concerns directly to law enforcement.
"This hotline provides an additional avenue for the community to share suspicions with law enforcement," said Baillie. "We are trying to use this program to get residents involved. Our squadron only has a certain number of cops and we can't be everywhere; the more the community is involved, the better."

Calls made to the hotline are confidential which can provide a sense of comfort to some community members when they are reporting suspicious behavior.

"We are aware people may call in anonymously, but the more information we have, the better," said Staff Sgt. Ashley Taylor, 87th SFS confinement NCO. "People are often hesitant to call 911. This hotline gives them the opportunity to voice their concerns before a crime is committed or a situation escalates."

The 87th SFS also recommends community members take it upon themselves to be smart in crime prevention.

"We recommend the joint base community lock their car doors and secure their windows," said Baillie. "People should also lock anything of value including sheds, garages and their homes prior to leaving the premises."

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