Terrorism Awareness for Citizens

The Shelby Police Department, like other police departments, federal agencies and the nation as a whole had to adjust to the circumstances of September 11, 2001.  We entered into a new arena--dealing with terrorism at the local law enforcement level.  The police department maintains liaison with our state and federal counterparts to ensure information is shared freely and in a timely manner.  As citizens and guests of our community, we ask that you report any unusual activity in our community to the police department.  The following are some suggested guidelines on ensuring information is transmitted in a beneficial and timely manner.

REPORTS CAN BE MADE ANY TIME BY DIALING 9-1-1

Describing Possible Incidents

 

When recording the essential details utilize the following guide:

• Who did I observe?
• What specifically did I see?
• Where did I observe the suspicious behavior?
• When did I observe the suspicious behavior?
• Why do I think the behavior is suspicious?

There are three elements in reporting a description to the police:

• Accuracy (most important)
• Speed
• Completeness

Tips on Giving a Description

 

For a Person:

• Sex
• Race
• Age (approximate)
• Height (approximate; use 2 inch blocks)
• Weight (approximate; use 10 lb. blocks)
• Build (medium, heavyset, thin, etc.)
• Hair (color, length, include facial hair)
• Complexion (light, dark, ruddy, olive)
• Eyes (color, glasses)
• Peculiarities (scars, tattoos, missing limbs)
• Clothing (from head to toe, style, defects)
• Weapons (if any)
• Method of escape (direction, vehicle, etc.)

For a Vehicle:

• Year, make and model
• Body type (2 door, 4 door, van, SUV, etc.)
• Passengers (number of people in vehicle)
• License Plate (most important)
• Damage or anything unusual (logos, etc.)

Community Support

We need you to:

• Remain alert and aware of everyday activities in your neighborhood.
• Encourage the involvement of family, friends, and neighbors.
• Assume responsibility to observe and report activities that appear out of place or unusual.

Suspicious Activity

In the event you become aware of suspicious activity:

• Do not take direct action;
• Do not confront the individual; or
• Do not reveal your suspicions.
• Do record as many details as possible; and
• Do notify the appropriate authorities as soon as possible.

Terrorist Indicators

• Terrorists are trained to "blend in" and assimilate to their surroundings.

• Most terrorist acts are well organized and well planned. Terrorists will conduct training, surveillance, and "dry runs" prior to the commission of a terrorist act.

• They like to strike at government and civilian targets in an effort to instill fear.

How You Can Assist the Police Department in Countering Terrorism?

The security of our city depends greatly on citizen involvement. No police department can effectively protect life and property without the support and cooperation of the citizens it serves.  The Shelby Police Department needs your help to assist us in countering terrorism. We ask you to be our eyes and ears. 

Become involved in a Community Watch Organization.

Neighbors work together with police and other emergency personnel, observing and reporting incidents, conditions and crimes in their neighborhood.  For more information on joining or creating a neighborhood watch in your community, contact Officer Mark Wampler at (704) 482-2066, or email by clicking here.

For more information on Homeland Security related issues, feel free to contact an officer with our department at (704) 484-6845.