The analysis shows that different and contradictory expectations about citizen participation in the prevention and control of crime and disorder may result in tensions and even conflict within local communities. It is important, therefore, that in an early stage of a local security network the expectations regarding citizen involvement are clearly defined. This analysis also shows that the form of citizen participation is often heavily dependent on the police. Citizens will often readily participate in informal social control activities or more structured programs such as neighborhood watch only if they are convinced that the police will provide guidance and practical involvement. This dependence on the police prevents local security networks from becoming totally distinct from and unrelated to police services. Active and sustainable citizen involvement in the prevention and control of crime and disorder requires that the police create an institutional setting that promotes and supports citizen participation in well-defined and effective activities in cooperation with police. This requires that police agencies include such efforts in the job descriptions and daily activities of managers and frontline officers. Citizens more easily participate in local crime prevention and control efforts when there is an existing structure of objectives and responsibilities that have been designed by security professionals familiar with what does and does not work. This implies that professional law enforcement personnel must initiate and persuade citizens that there are specific activities that can be performed by citizens, with the assistance of police that can make a difference in preventing and controlling crime in their communities. 3 tables and 29 references