NCJ Number
76813
Date Published
1979
Length
46 pages
Annotation
An assessment of crime prevention activities as reported by local jurisdictions in seven southeast Michigan counties is presented; existing programs and resources are discussed, and an evaluation of future needs is highlighted.
Abstract
The crime prevention approach generally involves public education, community organization, and crime analysis. In addition to meeting crime reduction objectives, crime prevention provides important secondary benefits, including positive impact on neighborhood revitalization efforts. A regional crime prevention survey of the seven counties revealed that all were well represented in terms of population size. The survey also revealed a wide variety of crime prevention programs ranging from small neighborhood watch groups to multijurisdictional crime prevention organizations throughout the counties. However, there is a notable lack of comprehensiveness in present efforts. Smaller jurisdictions were least active in crime prevention programs. Additional findings showed that Operation I.D. and building security programs received the highest success ratings throughout the region. In terms of participation, the police role in these activities throughout the region is significant. Citizen participation in such activities on a communitywide basis is evidenced in only a few select communities. The development of a seven-county crime prevention committee is recommended. Development of a regional crime prevention resource center, neighborhood revitalizatization strategies, and crime prevention planning on a regional level should be encouraged. Two tables, 13 figures, and appendixes are provided. (Author abstract modified)