NCJ Number
148748
Journal
Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 63 Issue: 6 Dated: (June 1994) Pages: 8-12
Date Published
1994
Length
5 pages
Annotation
A spiraling crime rate in Mesa, Arizona, apartment communities prompted the police department to develop the Mesa Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program.
Abstract
The program uses a three-level approach to eliminate crime in apartment developments and to reduce police service calls. This is accomplished through a comprehensive training program for property managers, strict security requirements for participating properties, and crime prevention training for residents. Crime prevention specialists from the Mesa Police Department conduct each phase of the program. The 8- hour training seminar for managers covers such topics as creating, explaining, and enforcing rental agreements; identifying illegal activities; and working with the police. Property managers learn how to screen applicants and to implement the eviction process. The concept of crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) gives managers the knowledge they need to protect their properties against crime. CPTED includes natural surveillance, access control, the idea of territoriality, and security activity support. To provide crime prevention training for residents, police officers address crime-free zones, illegal activities, benefits of a safe residential environment, and general safety and crime prevention techniques for specific offenses (automobile theft, sexual assault, and burglary). Benefits of the Mesa program for property managers and the community are discussed. 1 endnote