NCJ Number
160130
Date Published
1995
Length
56 pages
Annotation
This report proposes ways in which Neighborhood Watch might be developed in Great Britain.
Abstract
The report discusses the way in which the definition of Neighborhood Watch has developed from its initial inception as "the eyes and ears of the police" to a more community-based movement that operates with police support. It then provides a brief review of the research literature on the effectiveness of Neighborhood Watch as a crime-reduction measure and then considers the many other effects Neighborhood Watch can have on community life. The review shows that the activities implemented as part of Neighborhood Watch are variable, and it has been implemented in widely differing contexts, but most commonly in areas of relative affluence and low crime rates. There is some evidence that in certain circumstances, Neighborhood Watch can reduce crime, notably burglary. Areas with high crime rates pose particular problems in introducing and maintaining schemes. In some areas, Neighborhood Watch has helped enhance a sense of community. The report suggests that the police should adopt a strategic approach to developing Neighborhood Watch and proposes how this might be done. The proposals vary according to whether the neighborhoods are "low crime areas," "medium crime areas," and "high crime areas." Appended review of the published literature on the effectiveness of Neighborhood Watch and 36 references