Arizona Public Records

Freedom of Information Act allows the public access to documents that are maintained by governmental agencies.

The Arizona public records law includes any public organization or agency that is state-funded.

Even though there are no exemptions to Arizona public records law, other factors such as office hours make obtaining information harder than it should be.

Requests for public documents are different depending on the agency. If your public records request is rejected, you will need to resubmit it in writing.

Arizona public records include criminal records, inmate records, court records, and vital records.

What does the Arizona public records law say?

Arizona public records law states that anyone that lives within or outside the state can request public information.

However, there isn’t a specific time frame that agencies must respond to a request. The courts define the word “promptly” as quickly as possible. Failure to respond promptly is considered a denial by Arizona.

Arizona doesn’t require an appointment of a records custodian for the state or each agency. However, the law states that a government agency will maintain proper records and assist with documents for any and all requests.

Agencies can charge fees for all records, and there aren’t any fee waivers.

However, those seeking records on behalf of a government are a government division. Insurance or other types of benefits are exempted from fees.

Arizona has no formal appeals process should a request be denied. Requesters can take the agency issuing a denial to court.

For information on public access to records in the state of Arizona, visit Arizona.gov or the Arizona State Library, 

How can a person access public records in Arizona?

Some Arizona public records are available online, while others require a formal request.

If a request is necessary, it can be delivered by mail, email, or phone to the record-holding government agency.

Every department is different, so expect some variation in processes, procedures, and prices between agencies. A public records request can be done by email, mail, or phone, depending on the government agency where you need to submit the request.

In general, a public records request should include:

  • Your contact information, including an email, phone number, and mailing address
  • The name of the document and details of the document you are requesting
  • A date that you’d like to receive the documents
  • Method of delivery, email, or mail

Office hours differ from department to department. You should always call the office of the agency before arriving.

Arizona Criminal Records

The Arizona Department of Public Safety public criminal records include the basics of a person’s interactions with law enforcement and the courts.

It can include arrests, charges, and court action. Depending on the state, it typically doesn’t have traffic offenses and sometimes won’t include misdemeanors.

  • Date of arrest
  • Charge
  • Prosecution date
  • Guilty Pleas
  • Convictions
  • Felony or misdemeanor charge

Criminal records are often accessed by employers who want to conduct a background check on a possible hire.

Arizona criminal background checks could also be used in certain business dealings if there is a merger or partnership.

What’s on a criminal record in Arizona?

An Arizona public criminal record reflects a persona’s interactions with local police departments, courts, and the state prison system.

The information listed on a criminal record may vary between jurisdictions, but most public criminal records contain:

  • First middle and last name of the offender
  • Offense(s) committed and law violated
  • Case number
  • Physical descriptions such as race, height, eye color, hair color, tattoos, etc.
  • Date of birth
  • Pending charges
  • Acquitted or dismissed charges

Where can a person find Arizona criminal records?

The Arizona Department of Public Safety maintains criminal records and background checks.

The Criminal History Records Section is the Central State Repository for Arizona’s criminal records. All law enforcement agencies in Arizona are required by law to report all arrest and disposition information into the repository.

You can access criminal records by using the Arizona Department of Public Safety records search.

However, copies of criminal records are restricted to only authorized people and agencies.

Employee background checks can be done for authorized agencies, including agencies submitting fingerprints with proof of authorized entity requiring it.

However, Arizona does not allow the release of criminal history to private companies for employment.

Arizona inmate records

The Arizona Department of Corrections maintains state prison records.

Every state maintains records on its prison population. For people interested in an inmate’s location, prison term, and pending transfers, inmate records are the best source of information.

What’s on an Arizona inmate record?

An Arizona inmate record contains the following information:

  • Inmate’s name
  • Date of birth
  • Charges, including domestic violence
  • Sentence
  • Location of the inmate, including police department or state government prison
  • The term of imprisonment
  • Physical descriptions
  • A photograph of the inmate

Where can a person find Arizona inmate records?

You will search the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation, Reentry website for Arizona inmate records.

You will need the following information about the offender:

  • Last name and first initial
  • Gender
  • Type of incarceration – active, inactive, on supervised parole, or an absconder

Arizona has one exemption to an inmate search. An inmate cannot use the prison database to conduct a search on another inmate.

Inmates get an automatic status update on their information once a year.

Arizona Department of Corrections:
1601 W Jefferson St
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Phone number: 602-542-5497

Arizona Court Records

Court records can be vitally important in some instances.

  • Vetting a public or private position
  • Using the information in another legal case
  • Adoption or custody cases
  • Gaining a government clearance

You must contact the specific court that has the public record. The Arizona judicial branch includes:

  • Justice of the Peace Courts
  • County Superior Courts
  • Tax Courts
  • Municipal Courts
  • Tribal courts
  • Federal District Courts
  • The State Supreme court
  • The State Court of Appeals

What’s on an Arizona court record?

Arizona public court records include all aspects of a court case beginning with the initial arrest or civil court filing.

Arizona criminal records also include:

  • Court transcripts
  • Depositions
  • Dockets
  • Case files
  • Case information
  • Court minutes
  • Court orders
  • Jury records
  • Sentencing
  • Judgment information
  • Witness documentation

You will have printing fees, and court records are long and detailed. Ask the clerk’s office for the price before submitting a request form and other pertinent court information.

Where can a person find Arizona court records?

You will conduct a case search in Arizona using the Clerk of Superior Court Maricopa County. 

You will need to know which court the case occurred and the case number in to properly make a public records request.

  • Family Court
  • Probate
  • Civil
  • Criminal
  • Tax Court

You can search the Arizona Supreme Court database to access the Supreme Court public records. You can also contact the Clerk of Court’s office by phone or in person.

Arizona Supreme Court
1501 W. Washington
Suite 402
Phoenix, AZ  85007

Phone number: 602-452-3396

Arizona Vital Records

The Arizona Department of Health Services maintains vital records that include:

  • Birth Certificates
  • Marriage Licenses
  • Divorce Decrees
  • Death Records

What information is needed to request an Arizona birth certificate?

The Bureau of Vital Records Request for Copy of Birth Certificate will ask for the following information for a birth certificate request:

  • The date of birth
  • Gender
  • First, middle, and last name
  • Place of birth
  • Mother’s full name before marriage
  • Father’s full name

Where can a person find an Arizona birth certificate?

You can order an Arizona birth certificate online using the Arizona Vital Records website or by completing the Bureau of Vital Records Request for Copy of Birth Certificate and submitting it by mail or in person.

You can find a complete list of Arizona Health Departments.

Mailing Address:
PO Box 6018
Phoenix, AZ 85005

A copy of an Arizona birth certificate is $20.

What information do I need for a death certificate in Arizona?

The Bureau of Vital Records Request for Copy of Death Certificate will ask you the following information to access a public death record:

  • Date of death
  • Gender
  • First, middle, and last name on the death certificate
  • Place of death
  • Date of birth

Where can a person find an Arizona death record?

You can access a death record online using the Arizona Vital Records website or by completing the Bureau of Vital Records Request for Copy of Death Certificate and submitting it by mail or in person.

You can find a complete list of Arizona Health Departments.

Mailing Address:
PO Box 6018
Phoenix, AZ 85005

A copy of an Arizona death certificate is $20.

What information is needed to request a marriage certificate in Arizona?

The Clerk of the Superior Court handles all public requests for marriage certificates in Arizona.

You will need to know the following information when requesting marriage records in Arizona:

  • The full legal name of both spouses before the marriage
  • The year of the marriage
  • The Arizona marriage license number

Where can a person find an existing Arizona marriage record?

You can access an Arizona marriage record at the County Clerk’s office in the jurisdiction the marriage took place.

Example – Maricopa County
Maricopa County Superior Court
201 W Jefferson St
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Phone number: 602-372-5375

You can find a complete list of Superior County Courts.

What information is needed to request a divorce certificate in Arizona?

The Clerk of the Superior Court handles all public requests for divorce records in Arizona.

You will need to know the following information when requesting a divorce certificate in Arizona:

  • The full legal name of both spouses before the marriage
  • The year of the marriage
  • The year of the divorce
  • The Arizona marriage license number

Where can a person find an Arizona divorce record?

You will request an Arizona divorce record at the County Clerk’s office in the jurisdiction the divorce took place.

Example – Maricopa County
Maricopa County Superior Court
201 W Jefferson St
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Phone number: 602-372-5375

You can find a complete list of Superior County Courts.

Arizona Property Records

County Assessors maintain Arizona property records. Public property records can contain a wide variety of information.

  • Residential or commercial purpose
  • Liens
  • Titles
  • Property deeds
  • Mortgages
  • Property tax assessment records
  • Zoning information
  • and Other related documents

What information is needed to request property records in Arizona?

Each County Assessor may require different information for a property records request.

Where can I find an Arizona property record?

You will submit a property record request to the County Assessor in the jurisdiction where the property resides.

Example – Maricopa County
Maricopa County Assessor Office
301 W Jefferson Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Phone number: 602-506-3406

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents in Arizona?

Whether you live in Phoenix or San Diego, any United States citizen can request public documents in Arizona.

Is there a records custodian in Arizona?

Arizona does not have a formal custodian of public records.

Agencies must maintain their own records and handle public records requests in a timely manner.

How long does Arizona have to respond?

The Arizona Revised Statutes, or ARS, do not designate a time limit on a public records response. However, they do state it must be done ‘promptly’.

Is there an appeals process in place in Arizona?

Arizona does not have an administrative appeals process.

In many states, requesters can file a complaint with the attorney general, but that’s not so in Arizona.

Instead, a request can take court action if a state agency denies a request or is unresponsive.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Arizona?

Every agency charges its own processing fees.

Call the office of the department you are making the request with for the proper instructions and pricing.

Who maintains public voter records in Arizona?

Your local County Recorder maintains public voter records in Arizona.

New Hampshire Public Records

New Hampshire public records laws are complicated and cumbersome. However, you have a right to public information.

To access public records in New Hampshire, it helps to understand the state law and the process used to request them.

Those needing to access records have a right to submit a request through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Every state has different processes, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

Table of Contents

What does the New Hampshire public records law say?

The Right to Know Law in New Hampshire has two clear points. First, it specifies a time frame for government agencies to respond to requests, which is five days.

New Hampshire has a restriction that forbids charging processing fees, so obtaining public information in New Hampshire can be cheaper than in other parts of the country.

The law applies to documents as “any information created, accepted, or obtained by, or on behalf of, any public body.”

The state doesn’t have a formal appeals process, so requesters are forced to file court action if the agency doesn’t reply within the five-day window or provide the requested paperwork.

It is unclear whether you must be a resident to request information. The law states “citizens” can request, but there is confusion about whether that means a New Hampshire citizen or an American citizen.

How can I access public records in New Hampshire?

You can find some online to access public records, while others require a request form.

If a request form or a release form is necessary, it can be sent via mail, email, or phone to the record-holding department.

Each department may interpret the citizenship clause differently and exempt the public record law differently.

Every department is different, so expect some variation to the rules if you’re accessing records from multiple places. This can be done by email, mail, or phone, depending on the department where the request is submitted.

In general, a public records request should include:

  • Your name
  • Contact information
  • The name of the document
  • Details about the document
  • A time frame that you would like to receive the materials by
  • Document delivery method, mail or email

New Hampshire Criminal Records

Typically, the most common use of a criminal record, or criminal history, is for employment, but there could be other reasons.

More charities, churches, and other volunteer agencies require background screenings before approving applications for volunteering.

People seeking to adopt or foster children will also undergo a background check.

In some cases, those seeking a business partnership will also require mutual background checks.

The New Hampshire State Police Justice Information Bureau Criminal Records Unit maintains criminal records in the state.

What’s on a New Hampshire criminal record?

A criminal background lists all interactions a person has with a law enforcement agency. The details are pulled from many sources, such as local police departments, courts, and the state prison system.

Traffic violations and misdemeanors are not always listed in a criminal record.

More specifically, a criminal record or a background check will provide the following information:

  • Date of birth
  • Driver license number
  • Photograph/mugshot
  • Fingerprints
  • Current and past addresses
  • Former arrest records
  • Current and past warrants
  • Sex offender status

Where can a person find New Hampshire criminal records?

People seeking information about a person’s criminal history can get them from the New Hampshire Department of Safety State Police within the criminal records unit.

Requesters can also request their criminal history records.

A notary or Justice of the Peace signature with a date and seal is requested to do this.

Requesters, in this instance, will need valid photo identification when ordering at the public counter.

The state charges a $25 fee payable to the State of New Hampshire.

The fee can be paid in cash, check, money order, or significant debt or credit card. However, payments must be exactly $25 as change is not given.

Volunteers for a public or private, not-for-profit entity have a reduced fee.

If you decide to obtain a criminal record from another company, New Hampshire adopted the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which provides an accuracy of public records that stem from a consumer reporting agency.

New Hampshire Inmate Records

Research shows that New Hampshire has 2,701 inmates being held within its jails and prisons. There are reasons to request inmate records, including an employment screening or clearing up past legal irregularities after being cleared of a crime.

Crime victims also find it helpful to know the status of an offender and pursue possible civil court action where needed.

The New Hampshire Department of Corrections (DOC) maintains records in the state.

What’s on a New Hampshire inmate record?

New Hampshire, like many states, contains basic information on inmate records. Record checks can provide the following information:

  • Name and aliases
  • Date of Birth
  • Height and weight
  • DOC ID
  • Booking photo
  • Assigned location
  • Sentence summary

Where can I find New Hampshire inmate records?

You will use the New Hampshire Department of Corrections Inmate Locator to access an inmate record.

Information is pulled from the DOC Offender Records Office in Concord, New Hampshire.

It has active sentencing information under the law in which the conviction occurred. It also displays the minimum and maximum release dates, pending consecutive sentences, tech parole violations, and New Hampshire incarcerated inmates housed in state facilities.

To conduct an inmate search, those requesting information will need all or part of the inmate’s last name and all or part of their first name.

There is no fee for this online service.

New Hampshire Court Records

Court records can provide much information for those looking at a specific case.

The files are typically quite large as they contain copies of all legal action, plus depositions and other testimony. There could be several reasons for wanting a copy of court records, but the most common is to tie it to ongoing litigation in another case.

What’s on a New Hampshire court record?

Court records have an enormous amount of information. They typically pull together information from several courts into the one case file that includes all the action on the case.

Most people find the following documents the most helpful:

  • Court minutes
  • Case files
  • Dockets
  • Court opinions
  • Orders of the court
  • Judgment documentation
  • Jury records and files
  • Witness documentation
  • Case information

Where can I find New Hampshire court records?

You will need to contact the New Hampshire Judicial Branch where the court record is maintained.

New Hampshire Vital Records

The New Hampshire Division of Vital Records Administration (DVRA) maintains vital records in the state.

New Hampshire vital records include:

  • Birth Certificates
  • Death Certificates
  • Marriage Licenses
  • Divorce Decrees

Public record requests for vital records in New Hampshire will vary depending on the document you are requesting.

Division of Vital Records Administration
Division of Vital Records Administration
Archives Building
71 South Fruit Street
Concord, NH 03301-2410

Phone number: 603-271-4651

What information do I need to request a New Hampshire birth certificate?

The Application for a Certified Copy of Vital Record will ask for specific information when ordering a birth record.

  • Full name on the birth record
  • Gender
  • Birthdate
  • Place of birth
  • Parents’ full names before marriage

Where can I find a New Hampshire birth certificate?

You can request a certified copy of a New Hampshire birth record by completing the Application for a Certified Copy of Vital Record and submitting it by mail or in person to the DVRA or your local City or Town Clerk

The cost of a certified birth certificate in New Hampshire is $15, and $10 for every additional copy.

What information do I need for a death certificate in New Hampshire?

The Application for a Certified Copy of Vital Record will ask for specific information when ordering a death record.

  • Full name on the death record
  • Gender
  • Date of death
  • Place of death

Where can I find a New Hampshire death certificate?

You can request a certified copy of a New Hampshire death record by completing the Application for a Certified Copy of Vital Record and submitting it by mail or in person to the DVRA or your local City or Town Clerk

The cost of a certified death certificate in New Hampshire is $15, and $10 for every additional copy.

What information do I need for a marriage certificate in New Hampshire?

The Application for a Certified Copy of Vital Record will ask for specific information when ordering a marriage record.

  • Full names before marriage.
  • Date of marriage.
  • Place the marriage took place.

Where can I find a New Hampshire marriage certificate?

You can request a certified copy of a New Hampshire marriage record by completing the Application for a Certified Copy of Vital Record and submitting it by mail or in person to the DVRA or your local City or Town Clerk

The cost of a certified marriage certificate in New Hampshire is $15, and $10 for every additional copy.

What information do I need for a divorce certificate in New Hampshire?

The Application for a Certified Copy of Vital Record will ask for specific information when ordering a divorce record.

  • Full names before marriage
  • Date of the divorce decree
  • Place the divorce was granted

Where can I find a New Hampshire divorce certificate?

You can request a certified copy of a New Hampshire divorce record by completing the Application for a Certified Copy of Vital Record and submitting it by mail or in person to the DVRA or your local City or Town Clerk

The cost of a certified divorce decree in New Hampshire is $15, and $10 for every additional copy.

New Hampshire Property Records

The Registry of Deeds Office maintains all property transaction maintains property records in the state.

The property records you can access include:

  • Liens
  • Land records
  • Titles
  • Property deeds
  • Real estate information
  • Mortgages
  • Property tax assessment records
  • Zoning information
  • Probate

For data, parcel, and tax maps, you will need to contact the Geographic Information System(GIS) to ask about public access.

What information do I need to request property records in New Hampshire?

You will need basic information to access a public property record in New Hampshire.

Forms, fees, and office hours will vary depending on the County Clerk’s Office.

Where can I find a New Hampshire property record?

You will need to contact the New Hampshire County Registers of Deeds Office where the property record is maintained.

Example – Hillsborough Register of Deeds
Hillsborough Register of Deeds website
19 Temple St
Nashua, NH 03060

Phone number: 603-882-6399

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents of New Hampshire?

New Hampshire law states you must be a citizen, but it is unclear whether that means a citizen of New Hampshire or the United States.

Public officials in different agencies have different interpretations. In other words, it may make a difference if you live in Manchester as opposed to Miami when it comes to requesting records.

Is there a records custodian in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire does not mandate a public records custodian.

What exemptions exist for public records in New Hampshire?

The New Hampshire Right to Know Law lays out exemptions including grand jury and petit jury records, personal information, school records, preliminary drafts, and other documents deemed to be an invasion of privacy.

How long does New Hampshire have to respond to a public records request?

All New Hampshire government entities have up to five days to respond.

Is there an appeals process in place for public records requests in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire does not have a process available to appeal a public records decision.

If you feel that an agency has violated Freedom of Information laws, contact the New Hampshire Attorney General.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in New Hampshire?

There are different fees for different types of records and public record searches. For instance, death certificates are $15 for the first copy and $10 per copy.

New Hampshire also charges a non-refundable search fee, but there is a restriction against charging processing fees.

  • Updated April 28, 2022
  • States

Top School Districts in Wyoming, 2021

wyoming_top_school_district_banner_2020

Many know Wyoming as a rugged, expansive natural playground, sparsely populated and home to a number of vast, beautiful state and national parks. Yet, few are aware that the Cowboy State is one of the best in the nation for education, with well-funded schools characterized by high performance in academics and standardized testing. Here’s a look at Wyoming’s five best school districts. 

Albany County School District #1 is the best public school system in Wyoming. Comprising fifteen schools with an enrollment of over 4,000 in the southeastern part of the state, ACSD#1 boasts a math proficiency rate higher than state and national averages, and 105 students of the graduating class of 2018 received the Hathaway Scholarship. 

Wyoming’s 2nd best school district is Sheridan County School District #2, made up of ten high-performing schools with a considerable list of accolades, including a remarkable eight National Blue Ribbon Award honors.

Placing 3rd is Park County School District #16, a single-school district based in Meeteetse with an enrollment of 121. Students of the district graduate at a rate of 92.3% and over 70% are proficient in mathematics.    

Natrona County School District earns Wyoming’s #4 spot. An expansive district based in the city of Caspar and serving around 13,000 students, NCSD is the largest employer in Natrona County and plays a central role in the lives of many of its residents.

Rounding out the list of Wyoming’s best school districts is Fremont County School District #2, consisting of a single K-12 school in the small town of Dubois. Despite its modest size, FCSD#2 offers an extensive, wide-ranging curriculum that gives students plenty of opportunity to specialize in their subjects of interest. 

Top School Districts in Wyoming, 2020

RankDistrict
1Albany County School District #1
2Sheridan County School District #2
3Park County School District #16
4Natrona County School District #1
5Fremont County School District # 2
6Lincoln County School District #2
7Sweetwater County School District #1
8Teton County School District #1
9Campbell County School District #1
10Washakie County School District #2
11Fremont County School District #24
12Sheridan County School District #3
13Sweetwater County School District #2
14Sublette County School District #1
15Sheridan County School District #1
16Laramie County School District #1
17Converse County School District #1
18Park County School District # 1
19Uinta County School District #1
20Carbon County School District #2

Methodology

The following variables contributed to the ranking: number of students (K-12), graduation rate, school funding per student, student to teacher ratio, percent of students scoring above proficient in standardized state Math test, percent of students scoring above proficient in standardized state Reading and Language test. Data from a total of 10,247 public school districts were used to compute a score for each school district. The following states were omitted due to lack of sufficient data: Hawaii, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Utah, and Virginia. Note that high schools in some states have their own independent districts.

Did your district make the list? Share the good news!

wyoming_top school_district_badge_2020

How to Start a Neighborhood Watch Program

how to start a neighborhood watch

When you see a neighborhood watch sign on a street corner–you know the one–with a big red line slashing across the dark silhouette of a man in a fedora and trench coat, you automatically feel safer. Why? Because you know inhabitants of the neighborhood are banding together to take an active stand against crime and vandalism in their local community.

Since its beginnings in the early 70’s, the National Neighborhood Watch program, a branch of the National Sheriff’s Association, has been motivating citizens to rally together and work with local law enforcement to prevent neighborhood crime. While a neighborhood watch isn’t a vigilante task force, it can be empowering for residents of a community that often feel helpless. Does your local area lack a neighborhood watch program? Now’s the time to start one, and we’ll help you through it, step-by-step.

Why start a neighborhood watch?

There’s several key reasons for starting a neighborhood watch program in your neighborhood. Let’s go over them here.

  • A neighborhood watch helps reduce crime and deters criminals from operating in your neighborhood.

This is the big reason for starting a watch, and they do work to lower neighborhood crime. While there is a lack of recent studies on neighborhood watch programs, a 2008 U.S. Justice Department meta-analysis of U.S., U.K. and Canadian research done between 1977 and 1994 found that there was a 16% average decrease in crime compared to control areas that lacked a neighborhood watch. There is no more effect step that residents of a neighborhood can take to reduce crime in their area.

  • Participating in a neighborhood strengthens the bonds within a community and bolsters civic pride.

These days, with fewer neighborhood residents knowing and having relationships with their neighbors than in the past, according to a recent Pew study, a neighborhood watch is a perfect way for residents to increase interaction with those that they live amongst. When residents of a community cooperate towards a common goal, they develop lifelong bonds and a renewed sense of trust in one another. A watch also grants a community a stronger sense of self-identity and responsibility to do well by their neighbors.

  • A neighborhood watch raises the level of cooperation between residents and local law enforcement, while increasing faith in the police.

The first step in kicking off any neighborhood watch is contacting the local police, and they should play an active role throughout a watch’s history. Despite their role in protecting the neighborhood, watch members are always encouraged to call the police in the event of suspicious activity, rather than personally intervening. This cooperative relationship puts a human face on the local police force and enhances the community’s faith in them.

  • Your local neighborhood watch positive influences the youth of the community, teaching them the importance of playing an active role in community programs.

When kids witness their parents and neighbors putting an effort towards keeping the neighborhood safe, it motivates them to follow suit when they come of age. Children learn best by example, so showing them that you care about their safety and the greater good of the community points them in the right direction.

  • Residents of a community live a happier life.

A neighborhood watch helps local residents to feel safe and secure, increasing their quality of life. When people worry less about becoming a victim of crime or vandalism, they can focus on the important things in life, i.e., their professions, their favorite pastimes, and their loved ones.

Checklist: Starting a neighborhood watch

The following are the key steps anyone committed to enacting a neighborhood watch should follow:

  • Step 1: Notify the local law enforcement agency.

The local police department in your community will play an integral role in your neighborhood watch program, so informing them of your intention to start a program, before all else, is key. You’ll want to secure their support and commitment to participation. If possible, request that an officer be present during the first meeting of a neighborhood watch to answer questions and demonstrate support.

  • Step 2: Hold an initial meeting.

Since it’s likely the most important meeting your neighborhood watch will hold, make sure that your first neighborhood watch meeting is scheduled at a date and time when residents of the neighborhood will be able to attend, such as a weekend afternoon or evening during the middle of the week. Hold the meeting in a convenient, well-known location like a community center, or library.

The keynote meeting is your chance to demonstrate why a neighborhood watch will be effective and beneficial towards the community, so come well-prepared with guidelines and goals in place. Be ready to answer any and all questions members of your community may have, and have a police officer present to assist in guiding the meeting.

  • Step 3: Put the word out.

Do everything in your power to let residents–and potential criminals–know that a neighborhood watch is in effect. The best way to do this is by distributing flyers in the mailboxes of every home in the community detailing the goals of your program, and providing phone numbers that residents may call with questions or concerns. Signs and decals posted around the neighborhood that indicate that your neighborhood is protected by a watch is another key element of spreading the word. Additionally, please note that you can create your own flyer using editable flyer templates.

  • Step 4: Organize and assign roles.

Being well-organized and staffed is an important element of an effective program. Have an action plan in place. Know the schedules and availability of participating neighborhood watch members. The most enthusiastic members can be assigned as block captain. Be aware of members’ strengths: if one volunteer is particularly web-savvy, put them in charge of the internet and social media arm of your program.

  • Step 5: Lead by example.

If you’re the one kicking off a neighborhood watch, you have a responsibility to fulfill your duties and motivate others to participate. If something happens at any point that prevents you from participating at a level appropriate for a community leader, then elect someone better suited to the task.

  • Step 6: Stay committed.

A neighborhood watch is hard work, and it requires a level of commitment from all involved. Don’t start strong and slack off, keep things moving and make sure volunteers remain communicative and on board. Regular meetings are a key part of an active, effective watch program.

Neighborhood safety tips

Take a look at these tips that will help make your neighborhood watch more effective in keeping your community safe:

  • Know what crime occurs in your neighborhood.

By gathering information on the local crime rate, and the types of crime common in your neighborhood, you and other watch members will know what to keep a lookout for.

  • Participate in neighborhood cleanup activities.

A clean community is a safe community. Organize neighborhood cleanup events to beautify the area, clean up vacant lots, and request that local business owners keep their storefronts in good condition.

  • Ensure that your members are well-educated on their responsibilities, as well as their limits.

Members of a neighborhood watch can patrol the area for suspicious behavior, but rarely should they become directly involved with an ongoing crime, which could lead to larger problems for everyone involved. Make sure they know that they ought to call the police, rather than attempt to stop a crime on their own.

  • If your neighborhood has a large hispanic presence, translate reading materials and signs into Spanish.

Don’t leave community members in the cold: if your neighborhood has a large hispanic population, make sure that your signs and flyers reflect this.

  • Encourage residents unable to take an active role in the watch to participate in any way they can.

Even if residents are too busy, or physically unable to take an active role in the program, let them know that they can help by being “window watchers”, and alerting the police if they ever witness suspicious activity outside their homes or from their vehicle. Another way they can help is enhancing their own home security with a security system, which helps to dissuade burglars from operating in the neighborhood.

Summary

Now that you have a firm understanding of why a neighborhood watch is important, and how you can take a leading role in starting one up, the rest is on you. You are about to begin one of the most challenging, yet rewarding projects in your lifetime. We wish you good luck in keeping your community safe!

Safest Cities in North Carolina, 2021

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Although it’s around the middle of the pack of U.S. states in terms of overall crime rates, North Carolina is home to a large number of very safe communities. We gave each North Carolina city (with a population above 10,000) a score on our Safety Index, which combines FBI crime statistics and law enforcement employment numbers to calculate the safety of a given city, and 24 cities in the state earned a 0.24 or above, indicating a high level of public safety well above the U.S. average. 

Of these 24 North Carolina cities, 6 achieved a 0.5 Safety Index score or above, placing them in the upper echelon of safe cities in the country. Let’s take a closer look at these cities to see what makes them so safe.

Pinehurst, a village in Moore County, is North Carolina’s safest community. Renowned as home to Pinehurst Resort, a historic golf resort designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the pioneer of American landscape architecture, Pinehurst earned a 0.6 Safety Index score on the strength of a very low property crime rate that is less than half of the U.S. average.

In terms of safety, #2 Archdale is not far behind. The cozy city of 11.6K 15 miles outside of Greensboro is home to wine vineyards as well as the John Deere Vintage Tractor Museum, which should be on visitor’s short list of North Carolina tourist destinations. 

Sharing the #3 spot are Holly Springs and Mount Airy, two North Carolina cities that earned a 0.54 Safety Index Score, owing to low crime rates and favorable ratios of police officers to residents. Holly Springs, in particular, has received acclaim as a great town to live in, on account of its great public school system and many public parks. Currently boasting a population of around 35,000, Holly Springs has more than tripled its population since the year 2000.

With it’s 0.51 Safety Index score, Elon, a town in Alamance County best known as home to Elon University, just edges out Apex (Safety Index score: 0.5) for North Carolina’s #5 spot. However, both are great family-friendly communities to settle down in.  

Safest Cities in North Carolina, 2019

RankCitySafety Index
1Pinehurst0.6
2Archdale0.58
3Holly Springs0.54
4Mount Airy0.54
5Elon0.51
6Apex0.5
7Knightdale0.47
8Mount Holly0.45
9Davidson0.44
10Boone0.42
11Clayton0.42
12Stallings0.41
13Kings Mountain0.39
14Waxhaw0.39
15Wake Forest0.39
16Mooresville0.38
17Concord0.36
18Cary0.36
19Leland0.35
20Morrisville0.31
21Fuquay-Varina0.31
22Kannapolis0.28
23Huntersville0.27
24Chapel Hill0.27
25Lenoir0.16
26Southern Pines0.16
27Carrboro0.15
28Havelock0.15
29Matthews0.11
30Newton0.08
31Hendersonville0.07
32Mint Hill0.07
33Tarboro0.05
34New Bern0.04
35Kernersville-0.03
36Lincolnton-0.04
37Jacksonville-0.11
38Garner-0.15
39Belmont-0.22
40Mebane-0.33
41Smithfield-0.33
42Albemarle-0.37
43Rocky Mount-0.39
44Eden-0.39
45Hickory-0.42
46Thomasville-0.44
47Elizabeth City-0.49
48Wilmington-0.49
49Asheboro-0.56
50Asheville-0.6
51Greenville-0.62
52Charlotte-Mecklenburg-0.68
53High Point-0.7
54Fayetteville-0.7
55Greensboro-0.73
56Hope Mills-0.87
57Reidsville-0.88
58Durham-0.9
59Goldsboro-0.93
60Roanoke Rapids-0.98
61Burlington-1
62Gastonia-1
63Henderson-1.42
64Kinston-1.73

Methodology

We used the most recent FBI crime statistics to create state rankings. There were initially 7,430 cities in the data set. After filtering out the cities with populations of less than 10,000, 2,929 cities remained. We then calculated violent crime rates and property crime rates by dividing the crime numbers by the population to get rates per 1,000. We also calculated the ratio of law enforcement workers to per 1,000. These were weighted with -50% for the violent crime rate, -25% for the property crime rate, and +25% for the law enforcement rate. The resulting metric gave us a the safety index score. The higher this number more safe the city is.

Did your district make the list? Share the good news!

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Safest Cities in North Dakota, 2021

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While North Dakota’s population has grown by a considerable 12.77% since 2010, it’s managed to do so without a spike in crime rates: the state is a respectable 21st in property crime and 14th in violent crime. 

Let’s take a look at the four North Dakota cities (with a population greater than or equal to 10,000) that earned favorable scores on our Safety Index, which factors in FBI crime statistics and law enforcement employee numbers to judge the safety of a community.

Dickinson and West Fargo share the title of North Dakota’s safest city, with each earning a Safety Index score of 0.33. Both logged violent and property crime rates below state and national averages, although West Fargo’s violent crime rate of 1.45 per 1,000 and property crime rate of 13.49 per 1,000 best Dickinson in both categories. Dickinson makes up for it by posting a higher law enforcement employees to resident ratio.

Trailing slightly behind is North Dakota’s #3 safest city, Minot, of Ward County. The city of over 50,000 recorded a violent crime rate of 2.67 per 1,000, which is considerably below the national average.

At number four, Williston is the final North Dakota city in our ranking to log a favorable Safety Index score. The city’s property crime rate of 23.34 per 1,000 is on par with the national average, though its violent crime rate is slightly below the national average. 

Safest Cities in North Dakota, 2019

RankCitySafety Index
1Dickinson0.33
2West Fargo0.33
3Minot0.09
4Williston0.05
5Mandan-0.05
6Jamestown-0.09
7Grand Forks-0.22
8Bismarck-0.24
9Fargo-0.44

Methodology

We used the most recent FBI crime statistics to create state rankings. There were initially 7,430 cities in the data set. After filtering out the cities with populations of less than 10,000, 2,929 cities remained. We then calculated violent crime rates and property crime rates by dividing the crime numbers by the population to get rates per 1,000. We also calculated the ratio of law enforcement workers to per 1,000. These were weighted with -50% for the violent crime rate, -25% for the property crime rate, and +25% for the law enforcement rate. The resulting metric gave us a the safety index score. The higher this number more safe the city is.

Did your district make the list? Share the good news!

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Safest Cities in Wyoming, 2021

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Good news for Wyoming residents: the Cowboy state is among the top ten safest in the country based on its low violent and property crime rates. This is reflected in the performance of Wyoming’s cities on our Safety Index, which utilizes FBI crime statistics and law enforcement employee data to calculate the safety of a community. 

Just 2 of Wyoming’s 10 cities with a population over 10K received negative Safety Index scores (Cheyenne and Rock Springs), indicating higher than average crime rates, meaning that the other 8 performed very favorably. Of the 8 Wyoming cities to earn a positive Safety Index score, 4 truly distinguished themselves, earning a 0.5 or higher. Let’s take a closer look at Wyoming’s 4 safest cities.

Our pick for the safest city in Wyoming is Sheridan, a community in the northern part of the state located halfway between Yellowstone Park and Mount Rushmore that is known for its strong rodeo and cowboy culture. The city logged just 8 violent crimes in 2017, which amounts to a very low 0.44 per 1,000 violent crime rate, less than a quarter of Wyoming’s already low state average.

Placing #2 in the list of ranking of Wyoming’s safest cities is Green River, of the wonderfully named Sweetwater County. The mining and energy hub recorded a terrific 1.63 per 1,000 violent crime rate along with a property crime rate below 10 per 1,000. At #3 Jackson, county seat of Teton County and gateway to the Grand Teton National Park, fared nearly as well, posting violent and property crime rates below the national averages in both categories.

Laramie is the 4th of our 4 Wyoming cities to achieve that lofty goal of a 0.5 Safety Index score or higher.  The city of over 32K recorded just 30 violent crimes in 2017, for a violent crime rate of less than 1 incident per 1,000 residents. 

Safest Cities in Wyoming, 2019

RankCitySafety Index
1Sheridan0.57
2Green River0.55
3Jackson0.54
4Laramie0.52
5Gillette0.44
6Evanston0.4
7Casper0.14
8Riverton0.03
9Rock Springs-0.14
10Cheyenne-0.28

Methodology

We used the most recent FBI crime statistics to create state rankings. There were initially 7,430 cities in the data set. After filtering out the cities with populations of less than 10,000, 2,929 cities remained. We then calculated violent crime rates and property crime rates by dividing the crime numbers by the population to get rates per 1,000. We also calculated the ratio of law enforcement workers to per 1,000. These were weighted with -50% for the violent crime rate, -25% for the property crime rate, and +25% for the law enforcement rate. The resulting metric gave us a the safety index score. The higher this number more safe the city is.

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Safest Cities in Wisconsin, 2021

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Among the 50 states, Wisconsin does pretty well in terms of safety, recording the 13th lowest property crime rate and 22nd lowest violent crime rate. However, Wisconsin’s safety record is much more impressive when you look at its individual cities: 45 of the state’s cities scored a 0.2 or higher on our Safety Index, which indicates low violent and property crime rates below national averages. Furthermore, 6 Wisconsin cities scored a 0.6 or above on the Safety Index, placing them among the safest in the country. 

Cedarburg is Wisconsin’s safest city. A modestly-sized suburb of Milwaukee located in Ozaukee County, Cedarburg logged remarkably low crime rates, including a near non-existent 0.09 per 1,000 violent crime rate, and a property crime rate about one-third of the Wisconsin state average.

At second place, Monroe is not far behind. The famed “Swiss Cheese Capital of the USA” recorded just 16 violent crimes in 2017 which calculates into a 1.49 per 1,000 violent crime rate, which is under half of the state average. 

Sharing the #3 spot are Grafton, of Ozaukee County and New Berlin, of Waukesha County. Both cities earned a high 0.68 score on the Safety Index based on remarkably low violent crime rates below 0.35 per 1,000, along with very respectable property crime rates.

Two more Wisconsin cities distinguished themselves through Safety Index scores above a 0.6: Mequon and Muskego. Both cities have populations around 25,000 and recorded violent crime rates a mere fraction of the U.S. national average. 

Safest Cities in Wisconsin, 2019

RankCitySafety Index
1Cedarburg0.78
2Monroe0.76
3Grafton0.68
4New Berlin0.68
5Mequon0.61
6Muskego0.6
7Middleton0.59
8Burlington0.58
9Oconomowoc0.55
10Menomonee Falls0.53
11Oregon0.52
12Marshfield0.51
13Marinette0.5
14Whitefish Bay0.48
15Greendale0.46
16Waupun0.46
17Ashwaubenon0.45
18Waunakee0.45
19Kaukauna0.44
20Franklin0.44
21Town of Menasha0.43
22Fox Valley Metro0.42
23Cudahy0.41
24Sun Prairie0.41
25Port Washington0.41
26Hartford0.35
27Waukesha0.35
28Verona0.35
29Whitewater0.33
30Fort Atkinson0.32
31Brookfield0.31
32Pleasant Prairie0.31
33Hobart-Lawrence0.3
34Watertown0.3
35Caledonia0.3
36Oak Creek0.3
37De Pere0.28
38Plover0.27
39Shorewood0.26
40Beaver Dam0.26
41Mount Pleasant0.25
42Stevens Point0.25
43West Bend0.24
44Hudson0.23
45Neenah0.2
46South Milwaukee0.18
47Two Rivers0.18
48Chippewa Falls0.17
49Stoughton0.17
50Portage0.15
51River Falls0.15
52Baraboo0.14
53Onalaska0.13
54Glendale0.13
55Everest Metropolitan0.13
56Wauwatosa0.13
57Platteville0.1
58Greenfield0.08
59Menasha0.08
60Appleton0.08
61Wausau0.06
62Fond du Lac0.04
63Sheboygan0.04
64Menomonie0.04
65Oshkosh0.02
66Fitchburg-0.01
67Eau Claire-0.03
68Wisconsin Rapids-0.03
69Manitowoc-0.04
70Superior-0.07
71Kenosha-0.08
72West Allis-0.11
73Madison-0.11
74Janesville-0.16
75Brown Deer-0.17
76Grand Chute-0.21
77Green Bay-0.22
78La Crosse-0.22
79Beloit-0.28
80Racine-0.35
81Milwaukee-1.78

Methodology

We used the most recent FBI crime statistics to create state rankings. There were initially 7,430 cities in the data set. After filtering out the cities with populations of less than 10,000, 2,929 cities remained. We then calculated violent crime rates and property crime rates by dividing the crime numbers by the population to get rates per 1,000. We also calculated the ratio of law enforcement workers to per 1,000. These were weighted with -50% for the violent crime rate, -25% for the property crime rate, and +25% for the law enforcement rate. The resulting metric gave us a the safety index score. The higher this number more safe the city is.

Did your district make the list? Share the good news!

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