The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Gresham Police Department have partnered to launch a new crime fighting initiative to protect businesses and reduce property crimes during this unprecedented health emergency.
Starting Thursday, April 23, MCSO and GPD will offer complimentary business premises checks for businesses that are closed due to the Governor’s Executive Order. This new program includes periodic property visits, and physical and visual checks of all business doors and windows. Anything suspicious in nature will be reported and a business’ emergency contact will be notified.
Since March, Both MCSO and GPD have noted a slight increase in non-residential burglary reports.
“We recognize this is a difficult time for many of our businesses,” Sheriff Mike Reese said. “This new program, in partnership with Gresham Police, provides peace of mind for business owners while reducing crime in our communities.”
Gresham Police Chief Robin Sells added, “we are committed to reducing crime and ensuring public safety, and this creative crime fighting initiative, keeps our city’s business and neighborhoods safe.”
Businesses that are closed due to the Governor’s order and located within the city limits of Gresham and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office patrol districts, including its four contract cities, Fairview, Maywood Park, Troutdale and Wood Village, are eligible for the Business Premises Check program. To determine if your business is located in a MCSO patrol district, use this tool. For businesses located in MCSO patrol districts, sign up for this service online, here. For businesses located in Gresham, click here. The Business Premises Check program will function in both jurisdictions until the order is lifted.
Sheriff Mike Reese and Police Chief Robin Sells are available today for media interviews between 11 a.m. and noon. Please contact respective PIOs for scheduling.
Additional crime prevention strategies for your home or business:
- Install a security system and/or alarm
- Keep a record of valuable items and/ or property
- Maintain a well-lit property
- Monitor mail and newspaper delivery
- Secure doors and windows