January 27, 2008

Take a drive down almost any neighborhood and you can't miss the Neighborhood Watch signs posted in the area.

You see the signs but you're never quite sure who's doing the watching. But thanks to the dedication and motivation of one Shreveport man, that's about to change.

Sam L. Harrison, of Shreveport, is heeding the words of Mayor Cedric Glover: take back our neighborhoods.

Harrison, moved to action following the shooting death of his 29-year-old son in December, has vowed to be the face for all locals hurt by crime. "A lot of times when citizens see you taking a tough stand, they'll go with you," Harrison said.

That Harrison is taking on a challenge most of us would shy away from after experiencing such a tragic loss is commendable.

Harrison's organization, Citizens Fighting Crime, will assist local Crime Stoppers organizations. Crime Stoppers awards up to $1,000 for tips that lead to an arrest. The amount of the reward depends upon the type of crime, whether a fugitive is involved, the risk the caller is taking and the number of arrests.

Through public appearances, a Web site and signs, Harrison hopes to bring in more tips on suspects and illegal guns.

Harrison sees his work as a way to help keep his son's spirit alive and to help others. "Crime has gotten out of hand. Things are never going to get any better until we, as citizens, do our part," Harrison says.

He's right. Although the mayor and Police Chief Henry Whitehorn are to be commended for taking an aggressive stance on crime, it takes commitment from the whole community to help curb crime in the area.

But understandably so, most people are afraid of retaliation.

"People are scared to call in because they're afraid they will be found out, Harrison said. "But I can assure you, those calls are anonymous."

Harrison even credits an anonymous tipster for helping to ensure his son didn't become one of the unsolved homicides of 2007…


Harrison also is working to establish the group as a nonprofit. By doing so, any money collected will be used to encourage residents to be the eyes and ears for the Shreveport Police Department.

That Harrison is poised to work with officials and community leaders is a plus for both the group and the city.

Impressed with efforts to take back the streets through town hall meetings and neighborhood walks, Harrison is looking forward to attending some of those gatherings and also meeting with neighborhood associations.

For sure, taking back our streets is no easy task. That's why Harrison applauds Shreveport City Councilwoman Joyce Bowman for her efforts. She was instrumental in organizing a community meeting after the shooting death of a 9-year-old honor student in October. The meeting focused on violence and ways to help keep criminals off the streets and out of neighborhoods. She said at the time: "It's going to take the community to run them out."

And as Harrison works toward that goal, residents are encouraged to get on board to help make his vision come to light.