NCJ Number
103902
Date Published
1986
Length
134 pages
Annotation
This report describes a model for municipal crime prevention programs developed by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) and evaluates the model's implementation in two pilot sites, the city of Easton and Warminster Township (Bucks County).
Abstract
The model's purpose is to provide communities with a blueprint that enables them to establish, operate, and evaluate a citizen-focused and citizen-supported strategy against crime. Field tests were conducted between August 1982 and October 1984. Evaluation results indicated that the model was a valuable resource for each municipality. Moreover, support services and technical assistance provided by the PCCD contributed significantly to the final outcome in both communities. The demonstration project also revealed that crime prevention was accepted as a worthwhile strategy in both sites, despite considerable differences between the two communities. Both programs focused on neighborhood watch, personal security, operation identification, and security surveys. Citizen volunteer leaders played a key role in developing and implementing the program. The endorsement of policymakers allowed each program to reach its potential. The report suggests that crime prevention be incorporated in a larger community improvement initiative. Other recommendations address time frames, training, and technical assistance. Tables, maps, diagrams, and references. (Author summary modified)