Community members take action against drugs

Pictured: Jerry Lister, Cumberland Neighborhood Watch, and Melinda Yerian, speaker host.

 

Byesville Rotary learned how one person can make a big difference in the fight against drugs. Jerry Lister, guest speaker at the club meeting, stated that he, “…wanted to do something about the drug problem in the local community.” His response was to establish a neighborhood watch group in Cumberland.

Cumberland now has 60 people involved in the neighborhood watch group. They serve as the eyes and ears of the police. Lister explained that each neighborhood group is private; each is recognized by the federal government; and each member of the group is exempt from prosecution.

The Cumberland neighborhood watch was established in 2016. Lister said that the because of the efforts of friends and neighbors, there has been, “…a big change in Cumberland.” Drug dealers have changed their attitude from “What are you going to do to me,” to “We’re leaving. It’s too much trouble to do business here.” Lister reported that the neighborhood watch actions have reduced the number of drug houses in Cumberland from 9 down to 2.

Lister explained that notices for meetings are delivered to members’ homes. Community members are provided with codes for the sheriff’s department, an observation sheet to record their observations of illegal activity, and a phone number. The organization is set up so that people reporting illegal activities remain anonymous. Some members also put decals in their window indicating that they are will provide a “safe house” to people escaping abusers.

Lister’s motto is “Take back our community. See something; tell someone.” His goal is to get 500 community members involved in neighborhood watch organizations throughout the county. He has recently started organizing in Buffalo. Derwent, Pleasant City, Valley Township are taking steps toward organizing groups. Lister stated he has requests from Byesville and Cambridge who are interested in his efforts.

Shana Fair, chair of the Stuff Santa’s Stocking activity announced that the club will be holding a fundraiser at the main intersection in Byesville on Saturday, October 7. Funds raised will be used to support the club’s annual Christmas basket program which serves 150-200 families in the Rolling Hills School District. Volunteers are needed to help collect donations.

Fair also announced that sing-ups for the Christmas food baskets will be held October 17 and 18 from 9:00-am-12N and October 19, 4:00pm—7:00pm at the Main Avenue United Methodist activity center in Byesville.