Text Size: Print

Quick Links 86th District Court Bond Payments86th District Court Traffic/Criminal PaymentEmploymentHolidaysOnline RecordsPublic FormsRequests for BidsGIS Interactive Mapping

Citizens Involvement

Click here for the Citizens Guide on the Homeland Security Advisory System. (need Adobe reader)

Citizens Involvement

Every citizen can do their part to ensure the security of their home, community, and our Great State. Being involved in your community’s security efforts means being alert and aware of your surroundings, and reporting any suspicious activity to local law enforcement agencies. Citizens can also involve themselves by taking the time to learn basic first aid or volunteering to assist in their community’s emergency response efforts.

Remain Vigilant and report suspicious activity

While Grand Traverse County law enforcement does everything in its power to ensure the safety and well being of our citizens, every citizen must do their part and help out. You, the citizens of our county, can serve as the eyes and ears of our law enforcement agencies and help to bolster their homeland security efforts. As you go about your day, remember to be alert and aware of your surroundings, if you should encounter anything suspicious be sure to inform local law enforcement immediately. Providing law enforcement with a brief, accurate description of events, vehicles, and people can make a tremendous difference in apprehending a potential criminal. Be sure to report any activities or unusual circumstances that seem suspicious or potentially dangerous.

Some examples:

• An individual (or individuals) showing unusual interest in utilities, government buildings, historic buildings, or other similar infrastructure. Pay particular attention to anyone photographing, videotaping, inquiring about security, drawing diagrams, or making notes about such facilities.
• Any suspicious or abandoned packages, luggage, or mail in a crowded public place, such as an airport, office building, or shopping center.
• A stranger loitering in or around your neighborhood, or driving a vehicle down the same streets repeatedly.
• An individual who appears to be peering into parked vehicles or the windows of a home.
• A high volume of foot or vehicle traffic going to and coming from a residence on a continual or daily basis.
• An individual seen loitering around schools parks or secluded areas.
• The presence of strange or offensive odors emanating from a residence or building.
• Open or broken doors and windows at a closed business or an unoccupied residence.
• Any individual seen tampering with electrical, gas, or sewer systems without an identifiable company vehicle and uniform.

Reporting Suspicious Behavior

If you have information regarding suspicious or criminal activity, please contact local law enforcement.