Local police department bringing ‘Dog Walker Watch’ program

LIBERTY BOROUGH, Pa. — A local police department is launching a national awareness program aimed at training citizens to recognize and report suspicious activity.

Liberty Borough Police Sgt. John Mayernik is encouraging residents to get involved in “Dog Walker Watch,” which is part of the National Association of Town Watch.

“No one knows a neighborhood better than the people who live in it,” Mayernik said. “So it’s very important that they give us feedback as to what’s going on.”

The program helps neighbors become extra “eyes and ears” for police by teaching them to recognize behaviors like trespassing and canvassing, and to detect signs that a vehicle may be suspicious.

Mayernik hopes to hear from interested residents and ultimately teach an hour-long class to get the program started. People who want to participate can email the department at libertynno@gmail.com, call 412-678-3286 or stop by the borough building during business hours.

Residents we spoke with on Thursday expressed interest and support for the program.

“I think every neighborhood should have it,” said Emma Kruczek.

Mayernik said the program is one of several innovative ways they’re looking to build community relations.

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