Crime Prevention Strategy in Canada

• NCJ Number: 70694
• Journal: Revue internationale de criminologie et de police technique Volume: 33 Issue: 1 Dated: (January-March 1980) Pages: 9-20
• Author(s): A Normandeau; B Hasenpusch
• Date Published: 1980
• Length: 12 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: French
• Country: Switzerland

Annotation

Current crime prevention projects in Canada are described and evaluated.

Abstract

Preventive strategies in Canada are designed to help potential victims protect themselves against crime and to involve the community in efforts to control crime. A publicity campaign on crime prevention launched by the Solicitor General in collaboration with the Commission of Canadian Police Chiefs provides brochures on security measures for commercial establishments and steps to be taken to prevent thefts of various types, personal attacks on women, and check fraud. In the Operation Identification program, police place engraving tools at the disposal of citizens so that they can mark their valuable objects. Not only are marked goods difficult to steal and to fence, but citizens become aware of how to protect their interests. The program's effectiveness has been hindered by a lack of public participation. However, insurance companies are now cooperating in publicizing the program and even offer discounts to clients who take part. The Councils of Justice of British Columbia have been created by individuals working in the criminal justice system and by private citizens. These councils seek to determine public needs and resources, to solve problems facing the justice system, and to inform the public. They have succeeded in coordinating the activities of local justice agencies and related organizations. Because of direct connections to the Public Prosecutor, the councils have been effective in promoting a number of programs. Further evaluation of program costs, effects, and limits are needed. Such evaluation must cover program theories and objectives, program administration, type and quality of services, and conformance to professional norms; achievement of goals; and desirable and undesirable secondary effects of programs. References (23 items) are supplied.