PCSO announces launch of new crime prevention programs

The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office has begun a groundbreaking new initiative to combat criminal activity in residential areas, with a special focus on rental properties and in commercial and retail businesses, by collaborating with the International Crime Free Association, a non-profit, law enforcement-based organization.

Piloted by the Mesa Police Department in 1992, the Crime Free Programs have spread through the International Crime Free Association to more than 2,000 cities in the United States, Canada and several other countries. The training provided to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office and citizens of Pinal County is provided at no cost.

Timothy Zehring, founder and executive director of the International Crime Free Association, retired from the Mesa Police Department in April 2008, after 22 years of service. PCSO Chief Deputy Jeff Kirkham once supervised the Crime Free Programs Unit at Mesa Police Department and facilitated the spectacular growth of the programs internationally.

Chief Kirkham has brought the Crime Free Programs to Pinal County to benefit residents, business owners and Sheriff’s Office deputies with advanced crime prevention training in C.P.T.E.D. (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design), Crime Free Rental Housing and the newly released Crime Free Business Program. C.P.T.E.D. and the Crime Free Programs are time-tested and proven to be highly effective at reducing criminal activity throughout the United States and internationally as well.

Training programs are currently being scheduled for law enforcement and government employees throughout Pinal County for Nov. 12 and 13. Programs are also being scheduled for business leaders and property managers who want to partner with local law enforcement to reduce crime and the fear of crime, while improving safety and the quality of life for the citizens of Pinal County. Zehring will also be giving a brief program overview to the Gold Canyon Business Association on Sept. 23.

Please contact PCSO Public Information Officer Vanessa White at (520) 866-5217 or [email protected] for more information about class dates and locations. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended.

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