Our community is made up of a multitude of businesses, both large and small, that are an integral part of Stafford County. The SCSO Shield program is the platform we use to connect our different Watch programs, such as Worship Watch. and Neighborhood Watch. Within this is the Business Watch program; with the goal of ensuring the safety and security of the Stafford County business community. Business Watch takes the "neighbor looking out for neighbors" concept to the commercial level. It is a partnership that focuses on the exchange of information between businesses, the Sheriff's Office, and other organizations that represent business interests. The Business Watch philosophy is straightforward - Take control of what happens in your business community and lessen your chances of becoming a victim.

A sub-group within Busines Watch is also our Hotel Watch. This is a watch program that follows the same approach as Business Watch but with a more detailed focus on the many hotels and motels within our community. With the nature of these establishments providing temporary lodging to both citizens of our community and visitors; we have found that a more connected and communicative partnership for these businesses and the Sheriff's Office yields a safer and more welcoming community to those that stay within our county. 

     When you join Business Watch, you become a partner in the SCSO Shield program. This means you will be notified, as you see fit, for any and all information and alerts that come from the Sheriff's Office, focusing on our business community. In addition, there are several security-oriented opportunities offered to you as a partner.  These include but are not limited to:

• Crime trends around businesses
• Upcoming events in the business community
• Security assessments upon request
• Active Shooter/Critical Incident/Staff Security training upon request
• Monthly bulletins focused on our business community

     Designed as a partnership, the SCSO Shield program and Business Watch is a mutual exchange of communication and trust. Your participation is vital to make this an effective and efficient resource. As a partner, here are some things you can do to help accomplish this goal.

• Report any and all suspicious activity, individuals, or vehicles
• Check your business to ensure it is as secure and safe as possible, with a focus on larceny deterrence
• Explain to staff and members how the program works and encourage the same reporting and vigilance of suspicious activity
• Communicate with the Business Liaison to set up security assessments and up to date training
• Keep one another and our community safe

To become a partner with Business Watch, follow the steps below to sign up for SCSO Shield program:

     1. Click to become a partner
     2. Select Business Watch as one of your programs.
     3. Feel free to reach out to Deputy Shannon for any assistance or support.

Deputy Frank Shannon
Crime Prevention Unit
fshannon@staffordcountyva.gov
540-658-4706