NCJ Number
120534
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 31 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1989) Pages: 487-506
Date Published
1989
Length
20 pages
Annotation
Crime prevention works because of a two-track approach that reduces opportunities for crime and builds neighborhood and community cohesion.
Abstract
Effective community crime prevention recognizes the need to reduce criminals' opportunities to commit crime through techniques such as block watch, target hardening, and citizen behavior and attitudes designed to reduce crime opportunities. An array of evaluation studies indicate that reducing opportunities for crime reduces crime, lessens the fear of crime, and builds stronger neighborhoods. Evaluations also show the interrelatedness of crime prevention and community stability and quality of life. Evaluations and anecdotes likewise provide evidence that projects for better housing, employment opportunities, improved education, and better social services can prevent and reduce crime. This article briefly describes effective crime prevention programs throughout the United States. 20 references.