NCJ Number
81234
Date Published
1976
Length
47 pages
Annotation
Findings are presented from an evaluation of the crime prevention security survey (CPSS).
Abstract
The CPSS is an onsite examination of a physical facility and its surrounding property to determine its security status, identify deficiencies or security risks, define the protection needed, and make recommendations to minimize criminal opportunity. Evaluation studies of security survey programs, although limited in number, have tended to verify that the technique has a measurable effect in reducing burglary among those who comply with the survey recommendations. This National Evaluation Program Phase I Study found that 40 percent of the 206 programs surveyed were locally funded, while 80 percent of the programs currently funded by LEAA indicated their activities would continue after the termination of Federal support. Although 80 percent of the agencies believed their CPSS's have had some effect, the evaluation found the programs to have a number of shortcomings. They lack sufficient program structure, which impedes sound evaluation. The size of the target populations are generally too large for the available program staff to service effectively. The study, in addition to reviewing prior evaluations, examined such aspects of the security survey as its history; its relationship with other crime prevention activities; the assumptions, goals, and objectives which undergird the program; available data and methods used in measuring program impact; and factors that hindered or contributed to successful program implementation. A bibliography of about 70 listings is provided. (Author abstract modified)