How does a Flashlight Walk work?
“Walks are initiated by the residents themselves,” Wiggins explained. “Usually walks are scheduled twice per month by the residents. The information is disseminated via a neighborhood newsletter, and the police department is notified of the date and time. We make sure that Officers from the Patrol division, Community Policing Team, and the Code Enforcement office are scheduled to attend. We have even had Anaheim City Council members join our Flashlight Walks, which provides a real boost to residents.” During the course of a Flashlight Walk, residents and officials discuss particular problems and needs, including gang and narcotic activity, graffiti, building code violations, street lighting, abandoned cars, public drinking, traffic and parking issues. “It’s the best way to learn first-hand about the concerns of residents, and observe first-hand the problems and locations they are talking about,” said Wiggins. “Just as importantly, it brings residents together, creating a powerful netwo
