LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY)- Due to the recent increase in home and vehicle burglaries throughout St. Landry Parish, Sheriff Guidroz is asking the public to help create additional Neighborhood Watch Programs in their neighborhood.

“We urgently need your assistance to apprehend the criminals that are breaking into homes and vehicles around the parish,” Guidroz said. “Law enforcement cannot be everywhere, we need you to be the eyes and ears in your neighborhood then report it to us.”

There are mobile apps like “Nextdoor-Neighborhood” residents can download to alert only neighbors in your “group” on suspicious things around the area.

Sgt. Ashley Barbier is the liaison between our department and the groups for all their non-emergency needs.

During each meeting, Sgt. Barbier discusses sharing tips on how to make their Neighborhood Watch efficient and safety tips for self protection and property.

Major Eddie Thibodeaux who serves as the St. Landry Crime Stoppers coordinator also is asking citizens to download the P3 app on any mobile device to submit your anonymous tips or you can call 337-948-TIPS (8477) to report any crime information you have.

Anyone wishing to create a Neighborhood Watch program in your area is urged to call Major Thibodeaux at (337) 457-4115. Sheriff Guidroz will personally attend the meetings that are organized in the parish.