NCJ Number
218136
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 76 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2007 Pages: 14-17
Date Published
March 2007
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the features of a program of the La Mesa Police Department (California) that is designed to reduce arrests and calls for service at crime-prone motels in its jurisdiction.
Abstract
The Motel Crime Prevention Measures Program is a collaborative effort with the city attorney's office. It is designed to gain the willing compliance of the motel's property owner and management in implementing specific crime prevention measures. Motels targeted for this program have experienced a decline in the number of arrests and calls for service after 1 year of the program's operation. Compliance is often gained by warning the motel owners of the potential for civil abatement procedures that can result in substantial costs to both the motel owner and the government. Components of the program are an analysis of the motel and its problems, an examination of the property, a meeting between representatives of the police department and city attorney's office and the motel owner and managers, an appointment of officers to conduct high-visibility enforcement at the property, and an assessment of the program's effectiveness. Proven crime prevention measures that may be mandated include the posting of signs at the entrance to the motel property and in the lobby that indicate the motel's participation in an ongoing partnership with the police in countering all suspected criminal activity. Other crime prevention measures that may be required are the employment of a night security officer and the management's commitment to implement a zero-tolerance policy regarding drug use, prostitution, trespassing, underage drinking, gangs, and violence. Other measures pertain to fencing the property, installing high-intensity lighting, and installing closed-circuit surveillance cameras in all hallways.