NCJ Number
79505
Date Published
1980
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This British paper examines the problem of vandalism in order to determine if areas for new initiative exist to reduce its impact and save resources.
Abstract
Statistical information compiled by the Hampshire Police (England) was analyzed, and a literature search was performed. Official data vastly underestimate the size of the vandalism problem, as illustrated by the fact that only 3 percent of vandalism occurring in Liverpool was reported or noticed by the police. Public attitudes toward vandalism can be characterized as apathetic acceptance. With few exceptions, the public makes little effort to either stop or report vandalism. The report notes that both arson and criminal damage offenses show steep increases, even taking into account the unreliability of the data. It is estimated that the total loss to the community in Hampshire from damage alone is probably about 15 million British pounds. Some approaches to deterring vandalism might include exploitation of community and individual potentials, an increase in territorial sense, and community participation in planning and management of resources. Remedies for vandalism also should include good lighting and visual acuity, removal of rubbish as a target material, regular maintenance and repair of property, careful design and lay out, patrols, and use of vandal-proof materials in high-risk areas. The paper recommends that a committee, comprised of officers of each county council department, should be convened to evolve an integrated corporate policy aimed at reducing vandalism. Data tables and 10 references are appended.