NCJ Number
225719
Journal
Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management Volume: 31 Issue: 4 Dated: 2008 Pages: 674-693
Date Published
2008
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study examined the determinants of the distribution of concealed weapons permit holders across neighborhoods, specifically, what effects policing and social cohesion had on differential rates of permit-holding across neighborhoods.
Abstract
After examining two hypotheses, three key findings were identified: (1) level of police service affected concealed pistol license (CPL) rates negatively through its suppressive effect on fear of crime; (2) police service level, however, also had strong positive direct effects as well; and (3) social cohesion had a strong, positive direct effect on CPL levels. Each finding and its implications for theory and policy are discussed. One of the big debates in criminal justice research and practice is whether or not concealed handgun carrying reduces crime and how often people use handguns in self-defense. The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of the interplay between neighborhood-level police activity, social cohesion, fear of crime, and concealed handgun permit holding. Specifically, the study tested the relative impact of trust in police, social cohesion, and fear of crime on neighborhood-level rates of CPL holding. The dynamics of both formal and informal social control were hypothesized to affect neighborhood CPL concentrations. Data for the study were taken from three sources: a survey; the State Department of Licensing; and the local police department. Tables, figure, notes, and references