Local politicians praise rural crime watch program
A crime watch initiative started by a concerned cabin owner has garnered support from local politicians.
Organizer Elaine McMillan said she started the crime watch group after she saw numerous property crimes and break-ins reported on Facebook. McMillan, a resident of Christopher Lake, said she wants to “go back to the old days where neighbours look out for neighbours.” The group’s first meeting, held in Christopher Lake Oct. 19, was attended by more than 130 concerned citizens as well as law enforcement representatives and local politicians.
One of the local politicians in attendance was Chris McShannock, councillor for the Village of Christopher Lake. McShannock told paNOW he thinks the crime watch program could be effective in cutting down on break-ins and opportunistic thefts.
“I believe it’s a good step for community members to watch out for their neighbours,” McShannock said. “If the criminals know that people are looking and watching for that stuff, I think it’s going to help.”