This paper attempts to give authorities a handbook that clarifies the purpose, aims and use of offense surveillance centers; the primary sources of information available; and the outcomes expected. Also, this paper poses some recommendations regarding design, implementation and operation of such surveillance centers. The paper is divided into five sections: the first clarifies what a surveillance center is and its functions; the second exhibits the factors that favor its creation and sustainability; the third focuses on its design and implementation; the fourth develops and exemplifies the information management chain and suggests some basic indicators about coexistence and security of all citizens; and the fifth proposes some conclusions and suggestions for the entities encouraging such surveillance centers.