These statistics are amazing when one considers that Echo Park is a low income, central city community. The statistics clearly indicate something unique is going on in Echo Park. Crime did not just go away on its own accord. I believe the unique force operating in Echo Park that is responsible for a significant part of Echo Park s success is citizen involvement or community based policing. Echo Park citizens have a close working relationship with their police officers and especially their Senior Lead Officer Writer.
Communication flows freely between the police and the citizens.
Regular monthly meetings are held at the local LAPD Stop-In Location to review problem areas. A large network of citizens has been taught how to report crime to the police and do not hesitate to do so. The Echo Park Security Association, which is the largest Neighborhood Watch program in the city, has played a significant role in the crime reduction process. The 560 members of EPSA provide direct support to community based policing, and its 43 Block Captains provide a strong leadership base. EPSA also hires a private security patrol, Select Patrol, to serve as the eyes and ears of the community.