NCJ Number
198302
Date Published
2001
Length
54 pages
Annotation
This report identifies the lessons learned from a pilot project in Queensland (Australia) that tested strategies for reducing the risk of repeat residential burglaries.
Abstract
The pilot project, entitled the Beenleigh Break and Enter Reduction Project, was a 12-month project designed to enhance the police response to residential burglaries, with a focus on reducing the risk of repeat victimization and the number of offenses in identified "hot spots." The project was implemented in Beenleigh, a predominantly lower income community with a residential burglary rate well above the Queensland average. The project was conducted between November 1, 1998, and October 1999. The project developed a three-tiered response to residential burglaries. In the first tier, police conducted a security assessment of residences that experienced a burglary, and the victim was given a folder of crime prevention material; immediate neighbors were encouraged to improve their own home security. During the project period, 623 residences were given burglary-prevention guidance by police. In the second component of the project, police visited residences that had been victimized by a burglary within the past 12 months. A specialist project officer provided specific advice on preventing repeat burglaries, and residents were loaned security devices. Extra police patrols were arranged for the area, and near neighbors were given a kit that contained burglary-prevention advice. In the third component of the project, areas with very high rates of burglaries were identified, and every resident in these areas (both victims and non-victims) was offered free home-security assessments and help with property marking. The project was evaluated by asking victims about their experiences with the project and comparing burglary rates during the 12 months of the project with the preceding 12 months in Beenleigh and two comparison areas. During the period of the project, the number of repeat victimizations in the area declined by 15 percent compared to the previous 12 months. In addition, the risk of a victimized household being revictimized decreased in the trial area; whereas, the risk increased in both comparison areas. This is evidence that the project was effective in reducing the risk of a repeat burglary. 22 tables 53 references