NCJ Number
169504
Date Published
1996
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the features of a multiagency approach to preventing crime.
Abstract
As the science of victimology has evolved and concern for victims grown, a range of strategies intended to reduce the incidence of victimization and support, perhaps empower, victims has been developed. Of all forms of victimization, criminal victimization has probably attracted the most interest. A major obstacle to prevention of criminal victimization is the lack of cooperation between and within government and non-government agencies. This paper argues that the responsibility for prevention must be shared. Strategic alliances will also enhance the prospect of devising creative measures to reduce criminal victimization and actually achieve a real reduction in crime, erasing fear of crime and minimizing revictimization. In attempting to prevent victimization, those in positions of power must act as an enabling force or catalyst to bring about change; service providers such as the police must become problem solvers; and agencies must engage in a concerted intersectoral effort to better deliver justice. The emphasis should be on social integration and social relationships. The key ingredients in this approach are: (1) determining actual problems through critical analysis; (2) establishing the reasons for initiatives in close consultation with the target group; (3) a comprehensive knowledge of theoretical and humanistic perspectives; (4) identification of key stakeholders and potential client groups; (5) open lines of communication; (6) activities directed towards collective rather than individual goals; (7) methods conducive to client rather than organizational needs; (8) a client-oriented network; (9) constant monitoring and evaluation; and (10) recognition that there are both direct and indirect costs and they are not simply monetary. References