NCJ Number
206325
Date Published
2004
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This report presents evaluation findings concerning the impact of the Reducing Burglary Initiative projects across southern England and Wales.
Abstract
The Criminal Policy Research Unit at South Bark University evaluated 20 Strategic Development Projects (SDP) implementing the Reducing Burglary Initiative. Evaluations focused on what worked in reducing domestic burglary and examined whether interventions were based on sound theoretical principles and how intensively they needed to be implemented to achieve their intended impact. The SDP’s were expected to cover between 3,000 and 5,000 households and focus on reducing burglary rates of at least twice the national average. The 20 SDP’s consisted of 122 planned interventions, 89 of which were implemented to varying degrees. However, only 13 interventions were implemented in a way that could plausibly impact the burglary rate of the area within the evaluation period. Of these, 10 interventions showed a plausible impact on burglary rates within the first 12 months. Six were focused on situational measures, three on police enforcement, and one on property marking. SDP’s were more successful when interventions were based on sound underlying theory and when structures were in place to ensure implementation. Moreover, both theory and implementation should be relevant to the local community, policing, and offender characteristics. The dosage of interventions should also consider the availability of funding and personnel. Finally, combinations of short- and long-term complementary interventions were most effective. Strong and experienced project leaders are necessary to chose and adapt appropriate interventions that avoid duplication of other local efforts. Tables, figures, boxes, references