Houston Police Department

March 21, 2006 -- The Blue Star program is designed to help apartment managers identify and reduce elements of crime in their properties. The program encourages apartment communities to work cooperatively with the police in building safer and
healthier communities.

The Blue Star program is strictly voluntary and is directed towards those willing to implement initiatives to reduce calls for service, and enlist residents in living a crime-free lifestyle. The commitment must be made from all participating parties.

The program consists of three phases:

Phase I - Training phase for apartment managers (applicant screening, legal overview, civil liabilities, eviction procedures, etc.)

Phase II - C.P.T.E.D. (Crime prevention through environmental design) compliance phase

Phase II - Social celebration with all parties involved for the successful designation
as a Blue Star Property.

After the property is designated as a Blue Star Property; owners, managers and residents, know what is expected from them. The residents will commit to act in a responsible manner and refrain from illegal activity. New residents will receive an appendix to their rental contract advising them that criminal activity on the property will not be tolerated and that any violation to their lease agreement is good cause for immediate termination of tenancy. This creates the sense of ownership in the community among residents and allows management to run properties, which experience low numbers of calls for service.

The Houston Police Department conducted a Blue Star Training Program for apartment managers on March 16, 2006 from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Grace Community Church located at 14505 Gulf Freeway. The presentation included members of the Houston Police Departments' Vice, Narcotics and Gang Divisions.
See photos attached. Click here to view a photo of the training class and here to view a photo of the training instructors.

This program also works in conjunction with the HPD Positive Interaction Program (PIP) where neighborhood leaders work with the police department to identify crime in their areas.

For further information or to request a CPTED survey or presentation, please contact the Houston Police Department Blue Star Program at (713) 308-3200.

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.