The Strategic Neighborhood Awareness Program (S.N.A.P.) program originated at the Weber County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) when then-deputy Mark Wian (now with SLCPD), came up with the concept for his Community Policing Project. The program was developed as a way to educate the public when an officer observed conditions that contribute to crimes of opportunity on a resident’s property, in a vehicle, or for other tips to keep from becoming victimized. The S.N.A.P Card was adapted by the Harrisville Police Department in 2021 after consulting with the WCSP.
When an officer observes things like unattended property or open garage doors at a residence, or high dollar items in an unattended vehicle; Officers are encouraged to try and contact the resident in person to advise the resident of the issue. If the officer cannot contact the resident, that officer can leave a S.N.A.P Card for the resident so the resident can correct the situation (if they choose to).
The S.N.A.P Card can also be utilized during routine premise checks, extra patrols or even alarm calls if we cannot get in touch with the key holder when no alarm cause was found. We always prefer to contact the owner if possible, and if a problem is found we will make every attempt to contact the owner before leaving a S.N.A.P Card if this is the case.
The S.N.A.P Card is not a citation or notice of violation. Most people want to minimize the likelihood of becoming a victim. The S.N.A.P Card is just a reminder.
When a S.N.A.P Card is issued, the office then documents that in the report system for statistical purposes. These statistics can assist the city in tracking crime trends as they occur.