NCJ Number
240742
Date Published
2011
Length
160 pages
Annotation
This project identified evidence-based crime-prevention interventions appropriate for implementation by local governments in New South Wales (Australia).
Abstract
The targeted crimes are non-domestic violent assaults, residential breaking and entering, stealing from houses, stealing from motor vehicles, malicious damage, robbery, and theft from retail stores. Findings are presented from the Australian Institute of Criminology's (AIC's) comprehensive review of the research evidence pertinent to the prevention of the aforementioned crime types. After reviewing the features and contexts for each crime type, the report outlines the most common intervention types identified among those strategies supported by evidence of effectiveness. A common theme across a significant proportion of evaluated strategies is the use of situational approaches to crime prevention. The situational crime prevention literature provides guidance on how to implement effective crime prevention strategies by local governments. A number of common factors were identified among the strategies that were successfully implemented. First, a systematic analysis of a range of data sources is conducted to identify significant crime problems, along with their causes and risk factors. Second, community engagement and consultation are important in the development of the strategy, including residents, business operators, and local service providers. Third, strong interagency partnerships are critical; they are led by a driver responsible for maintaining project momentum and implementation. Fourth, access to appropriate expertise, technology, and resources are essential. Also discussed in this report are the research review methodology, the limitations of systematic reviews, and how to improve the evidence base for local government crime prevention. 21 tables, approximately 260 references, and appended discussion of linking interventions and mechanisms