JCPD program aims to curb crime at rental units

A program to help rental property owners curb crimes in their areas is being offered again by the Jefferson City Police Department.

The Crime Free Multi-Housing Program has been offered in Jefferson City since 2006, and another training event is scheduled Nov. 20 in the Police Department classroom at 401 Monroe St.. It will go from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

The program uses a three-part approach authorities said ensures the crime prevention goal while remaining tenant-friendly.

The first part is the eight-hour program, which focuses on what property owners and their employees need to look for as far as suspicious activity. Since drug activity is one the biggest crimes dealt with at these properties, samples of drugs such as marijuana are shown so property owners know what these drugs look and smell like. They also go through civil law for such things as how to word a lease to allow for removal of problem tenants if there is a drug problem on their property.

The next phase has officers go to properties to check on things such as landscaping and locks on doors.

The final phase gives tenants of these rental properties manuals regarding the rules and regulations their landlords have.

Depending on the property owner, the completion of the three phases could take anywhere from a month to a year.

For registration information or more information about the class, call JCPD Officer Shawn Dumsday at 573-634-9682.