NCJ Number
74253
Date Published
1980
Length
17 pages
Annotation
The major ideas and practical applications of crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) are outlined.
Abstract
CPTED incorporates physical, social, law enforcement, and management techniques to achieve its goal of reducing crime and the fear of crime. It aims at reducing opportunities for crime that are often inherent in the structure of buildings and the layout of neighborhoods and streets. CPTED involves the close cooperation of agencies, organizations, and individuals at all levels. Several projects have been initiated across the country to examine the relationship between environment and crime, and many are funded by the Federal Government in conjunction with State and local agencies. This report centers around eight demonstration projects including those in a commercial setting in Portland, Oreg:, residential settings in Minneapolis and Hartford, Conn. and an education setting Broward County, Fla. The purpose of all projects was to adapt the idea of CPTED to different communities; they were aimed principally at crimes such as homicide, rape, robbery, burglary, arson, and vandalism. Strategies included creating an environment in which a potential criminal could be detected, apprehended, and punished; placing physical obstacles in the way of potential offenders; and eliminating criminal motives. These crime prevention tactics were achieved in four ways -- access control, surveillance, activity support, and motivation reinforcement. The eight projects with mass transit, public works departments, city planning agencies, street lights, and schools. Throughout the projects, the role of the citizen was emphasized. Their active participation in the design and development of CPTED activities should be encouraged. A list of selected readings is provided.