Crime Prevention Programs

Active Shooter Survival
Unfortunately due to the climate of today’s society, Active Shooter Survival is the most requested presentation in Highlands County.  The Active Shooter Survival and Situational Awareness Presentation is approximately one hour.  This PowerPoint presentation provides relevant statistical data on active shooters from years past to present date.  Additionally, participants learn the FBI methodology of Run, Hide, Fight to mentally prepare you if you find yourself in an active shooter situation.  During the instruction, practical and tactical forms of Cover vs. Concealment are discussed as well as situational awareness.  At the conclusion, all participants are provided with an informational pamphlet regarding the material learned throughout the presentation.

AG Watch
This program utilizes a sign similar to that of a Neighborhood Watch sign except it states No Trespassing by order of the Highlands County Sheriff's Office and also incorporates a four digit identification number on it. With placement of the sign, the grove or ranch owner makes the Sheriff's Office an agent of the property thus giving deputies approval to make immediate trespass arrest.

Bank Robbery Prevention & Awareness
The Bank Robbery Prevention is a presentation specific to our community.  The presentation is roughly 45 minutes and discusses key components such as prevention techniques, procedures during a bank robbery, and post-robbery procedures and preservation.

Frauds & Scams
This presentation goes over the most current frauds and scams.  Scams can occur a number of different ways from in person, online, to over the phone; it is important to understand how to identify the elements of a scam to prevent becoming a victim.  In addition to the presentation, pamphlets are provided with additional resources and phone numbers to contact if you think you may have compromised your identity.

Human Trafficking Awareness
Due to the growing concerns of human trafficking across the country, the Highlands County Sheriff’ Office started an initiative to bring awareness to this national issue.  This two-hour PowerPoint presentation discusses all the facets of human trafficking; from the myths vs. facts of human trafficking, recruitment methods of human traffickers, elements of human trafficking per Florida State Statute, and the different types of human trafficking.  Participants will learn the different red flag indicators of human trafficking and know what resources are available if they identify a human trafficking victim. Participants are provided with informational pamphlets regarding the material encompassed in the presentation. The pamphlet also includes resources and contact information to report human trafficking.

Pharmaceutical Disposal
In an effort to keep pharmaceutical controlled substances out of the wrong hands, the sheriff’s office has a permanent drop box at the sheriff’s office headquarters.  You can drop off any prescriptions in the drop box to properly dispose of medications that is not only safe for the community, but the environment too. 

Related Programs
Business and Residential Security Programs: Security Assessment Surveys for residential and commercial properties are available by appointment. A specially trained Crime Prevention Practitioner will come to your home or business and complete a survey of the property.  You will receive an evaluation and practical recommendations to enhance the security of your property and surrounding area. 

Neighborhood Crime Watch
In Highlands County, we have over 130 designated communities which have some form of a digital neighborhood watch (Nextdoor App) or live neighborhood watch program.  Neighborhood Crime Watch is a great way for communities to take an active park in making their neighborhood a safer place to live. 


Click here to visit the Seniors vs. Crime page.