NCJ Number
107936
Date Published
1985
Length
53 pages
Annotation
This report summarizes the results of a series of experiments undertaken in Houston and Newark, N.J., in 1982 to reduce fear of crime, improve the quality of neighborhood life and increase community satisfaction with police.
Abstract
In both cities, programs tested included a police community newsletter containing crime prevention advice, crime data, and efforts to thwart crime; a police-community multiservice center; and contacts with local residents to identify and address local problems. In Houston, police also initiated telephone contacts with victims (to provide assistance and demonstrate concern) and undertook an effort to create a neighborhood organization. Additional programs in Newark included a coordinated effort to provide information, increase the quantity and quality of police-citizen contacts, and reduce the social and physical signs of disorder and crime. Findings clearly show the value of increasing the extent of police-citizen contacts both in improving satisfaction with police and reducing crime. Results suggest that some strategies, such as organizing and communicating efforts, are more effective with some groups (white, middle-class homeowners) than with others (minority groups, renters). Finally, the importance of a proactive strategy and careful planning, training, and supervision were highlighted. 18 references.