NCJ Number
211694
Date Published
2005
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This introductory chapter summarizes the most important conclusions of the book under seven headings.
Abstract
First, products play an important part in crime; generally, products can be used as tools for crime or as targets for crime. Second, modifying criminogenic products can be highly effective; although relatively few product changes have been evaluated, some changes so directly reduce crime opportunities that their impact is self-evident. Third, most products have been modified for commercial reasons. These include products that have been modified to prevent vandalism, to prevent theft of service, to prevent fraud, and to prevent robberies. Fourth, manufacturers have been reluctant to change products in the public interest. They have been particularly reluctant to change products for the public's benefit when they profit from the crime; are busy developing new products; when the changes are too costly, inconvenient, or of unproven value; when the crimes are considered trivial and of little concern to the public; and when solutions are controversial. Fifth, design professionals have an unexploited role in product change. Designers might be more open to crime-prevention considerations if their professional associations would provide design models. Sixth, governments have rarely taken the initiative in promoting product change, preferring a more reactive strategy. Seventh, governments must develop research and development capacities in order to have a more active role in modifying criminogenic products. 1 note and 3 references