NCJ Number
130380
Journal
Criminology Australia Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (October/November 1990) Pages: 2-5
Date Published
1990
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The causal factors for the higher incidence of crimes of violence, particularly homicide and serious assault, in the Northern Territory (NT) are examined as well as respective policing strategies.
Abstract
The high rate of alcohol consumption, overrepresentation of males, low median age, transient population, architecture style of housing, climate, lack of opportunity for employment and leisure activities, and cultural disintegration among Aborigines are cited as contributing factors to the higher incidence of violent crime in the NT. Because of the failure of traditional policing strategies to deal with the increase in violent crimes, the NT police have moved toward a professional partnership style of policing involving strategies, problem solving, and community policing. Crime prevention strategies and police training in conflict resolution and liaison skills as well as intervention strategies, community involvement, and welfare of victims of crime are also marked for reorientation of policing. With the new dramatic changes in attitudes, practice, and procedures of policing, it is hoped that the incidence of violent crime in the community will be reduced, the levels of fear of crime will be minimized, and the quality of life in the NT will be enhanced. 3 figures, 3 tables, 1 photograph, and 10 references