NCJ Number
184259
Date Published
September 1999
Length
85 pages
Annotation
In January 1998, the Metropolitan Enforcement Group (MEG) in Kankakee, Illinois, was significantly changed to include a problem-solving unit charged with responding to the daily concerns of residents about crime and disorder associated with drug dealing.
Abstract
Bolstered by a new chronic nuisance abatement ordinance, the unit provided an immediate response to neighborhood problems by focusing on landlord management, tenant screening, and lower-level drug problems than those traditionally tackled by the MEG. The unit was evaluated based on ride-alongs, interviews with law enforcement and community leaders, and a review of MEG data. Findings from a 5-month evaluation showed the MEG successfully engaged in problem-solving activities; garnered the support of elected officials and community residents; and generated higher levels of arrest activity in the areas of drugs, gangs, and firearms. Appendixes contain information on the organization and approach of the MEG, the Chronic Nuisance and Nuisance Abatement Ordinance, and supporting data. 4 references and 8 figures