NCJ Number
210242
Date Published
August 2005
Length
112 pages
Annotation
This manual is a guide for communities in implementing a Weed and Seed strategy, which is a broad strategy for preventing and controlling crime as well as improving the overall quality of a community's life.
Abstract
The Weed and Seed strategy is based on a two-pronged approach. First, law enforcement agencies and criminal justice officials cooperate with local residents to "weed out" criminal activity in a designated area. Second, social service providers and economic revitalization efforts are introduced to "seed" the area so as to ensure long-term positive change and a higher quality of life for residents. The strategy focuses on reducing violent and drug-related crimes, along with gang activity in designated high-crime communities. Following a description of the features of the Weed and Seed strategy and its components, a chapter describes the composition and responsibilities of the steering committee. This is followed by a chapter that suggests factors and procedures related to the selection of target sites for the implementation of the Weed and Seed strategy. A chapter on the assessment of resources and needs outlines steps for conducting an assessment of the designated community. A chapter then discusses the planning process at the local level, a process designed to ensure that the planned strategy reflects the features of the national strategy that characterizes Weed and Seed. This is followed by a chapter on the management of the Steering Committee as it oversees implementation of the site strategy. Remaining chapters provide guidance on the implementation of specific components of the Weed and Seed strategy: community mobilization; law enforcement in general; community policing in particular; prevention, intervention, and treatment; neighborhood restoration; and evaluation of the implementation process. 22 exhibits and appended references, resources, sample forms and formats, and supplementary information