Excessive foot traffic to and from a house and loitering may be signs that illicit activity is occurring. Another suspicious pattern is the presence of many cars that stop at the house for a short period of time and then leave. Other possible signs of drug activity include graffiti and gang activity in the area, although these are not always linked.
If you find evidence of drug paraphernalia, don’t collect it or look around for additional materials. Take note of where you found it, what type of paraphernalia it was, what time of day you discovered it, and on what date, and report those details to the police.
If you observe suspicious traffic activity, take notes of license plate numbers, car models and colors, and approximate times of visits. If you are concerned about a particular individual, write down a detailed description including height, build, hair color, and any identifying features. Also include the circumstances that have caused your suspicion. If you feel that the situation is dangerous, be cautious. Do not openly collect information, take photographs, or do other things that might provoke a hostile dealer. Remember: if they are operating in your neighborhood, they may know who you are.
Call from a safe place. Don’t place a call where potential dealers can hear or see you. Don’t tell suspected dealers that you will call the police. Always contact the police and allow them to handle drug activities. Attempting to stop these crimes yourself may cause you or others harm. It may also cause difficulties in prosecuting criminal cases related to the activity later.
Post signs and publicize the presence of your Neighborhood Watch. Knowing that the area is under observation will often persuade dealers to move out of your neighborhood to an area that is less patrolled. Never attempt to apprehend a drug dealer yourself. This only creates a situation where people could be seriously harmed or even killed.
Get together with neighbors and arrange for “positive loitering,” where members of the club do things like sweep the streets, pick up litter, and do other activities near where drugs are sold. The constant presence of people may dissuade drug dealers that operate in public places. Go to community meetings together. Many communities have safety training meetings, police meetings, and other events and activities where you can learn more about how to keep your neighborhood safe.
Definitely avoid having meetings at any one individual’s house, as this could provide dealers with a target for revenge.
If you don’t know who is in charge of the property, your local tax office can usually provide you with information about the owner, landlord, or property manager.
Hosting activities such as community cook-outs, block parties, and other events will help you get to know your neighbors and strengthen your community. [8] X Research source
Work with local churches, businesses, social services, and police to provide resources and training. Young people can be very effective peer anti-drug educators.
