Surveillance for Crime Prevention in Public Space: Results and Policy Choices in Britain and America

• NCJ Number: 207042
• Journal: Criminology and Public Policy Volume: 3 Issue: 3 Dated: July 2004 Pages: 497-525
• Author(s): Brandon C. Welsh; David P. Farrington
• Editor(s): Todd R. Clear
• Date Published: July 2004
• Length: 29 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

In examining surveillance for crime prevention in public space, this study assessed the comparative effectiveness of two forms of surveillance: formal surveillance with the use of closed circuit television and natural surveillance with the use of improved street lighting.

Abstract

In order to assess the effects of closed circuit television (CCTV) and improved street lighting on crime, this study brought together the findings of two separate systematic reviews which used rigorous methods for locating, appraising, and synthesizing evidence from prior evaluation studies. These systematic reviews incorporated meta-analytic techniques. Based on the research evidence, both CCTV surveillance cameras and improved street lighting represent effective situational measures for reducing crime. Specifically, the research showed that CCTV and improved street lighting were effective in reducing crime, with one exception, in each of the four settings in which they were evaluated, the largest effect on crime was CCTV in car parks. In city centers, improved street lighting was found to be more effective in reducing crime. Evidence also showed that CCTV and improved lighting were more effective in reducing property crimes than in reducing violent crimes. An important issue from the findings of these two situational crime prevention measures is the potential benefit that may come from combining them. An interesting finding emerged from this research where both forms of surveillance were found to be far more effective in reducing crime in Britain than in America. Future research is recommended in examining the monetary costs and benefits of CCTV and street lighting programs and investigating some of the more subtle qualitative aspects of street lighting, such as lighting levels and styles. Overall, the results lend support for the continued use of CCTV and improved street lighting to reduce crime, suggesting that they need to be targeted more narrowly on property crimes. Tables and references