NCJ Number
162195
Journal
Gazette Volume: 58 Issue: 3 Dated: (March 1996) Pages: 20-24
Date Published
1996
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes a project implemented by the Hamilton-Wentworth Regional Police, Hamilton, Ontario, to deal with residential break and enters.
Abstract
The objective of this project was to reduce the number of residential break and enters and thereby reduce the fear of crime. The project name was chosen because it identified a method criminals were using to determine that no one was in a home so they could enter. The technique was well known to the police, and when the media explained this in their summaries of the project, the public was also provided information on criminal behavior. Project organizers completed a crime analysis study to determine personnel required and how best to use staff. They decided what equipment was mandatory, such as vehicles and pagers, and what was less critical but still useful, such as cellular phones. To ensure maximum media coverage at the end of the project, organizers contacted various media outlets when large seizures were made, and furnished photographs or film to accompany media releases. While media attention was short in duration, its effects were lasting. Many people called to express their thanks and encouragement for the project, and fear of crime was reduced because the public was now aware the police were attacking the problem.