NCJ Number
112727
Date Published
1988
Length
97 pages
Annotation
In 1985, a project was initiated to reduce the high level of residential burglary in a local authority housing estate in Rochdale, England.
Abstract
To analyze the extent of the crime problem, interviews were conducted with local offenders, burglary victims, and victims' neighbors. Priority was accorded to victims of multiple burglary victimizations. A variety of preventive measures were devised, including improving physical security of houses, removing coin-operated fuel meters (a major burglary target), introducing property marking, and setting up mini-neighborhood watch schemes. A computerized monitoring and evaluation system was implemented that uses data from police crime reports, security surveys, and victim and neighbor questionnaires. These actions were accomplished through cooperation among the local housing authority, gas and electric utilities, local victim support agency, officials of the Manpower Services Commission, and the local community. Preliminary results show a substantial drop in the level of residential burglary, with no sign of displacement to other nearby areas or to other forms of crime. A reduction in multiple burglary victimization rates appears to have made a significant contribution to the overall decline in the burglary rate. Further action is under way to build on this initial success, but this time aiming to reduce motivation for crime. Focus will be on reducing the linked problems of alcohol and drug abuse, debt, and unemployment. Guidelines for neighborhood selection are appended. 2 tables, 3 figures, and 20 references.