NCJ Number
198732
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Dated: January/February 2003 Pages: 13-23
Editor(s)
Kent B. Joscelyn
Date Published
January 2003
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This study examined broad crime trends and patterns, conditions under which crimes flourish, the crime incidence rates per 1,000 of population, and crime among the areas of four police divisions of Accra, Ghana.
Abstract
This study examined the trends, patterns, and distribution of three broad categories of offenses across time and space in an urban setting: those against the person, those against property, and those crimes against public order and morality. Official police data from the period of 1980 to 1996 were used to determine when some crimes were committed and where the crimes clustered the most. It was found that crime in Accra was accentuated by rigid centralization of government bureaucracy, the nature of Ghana's economy, routine activities, lifestyles, and opportunities fostered by social change. Overall, the Accra Central Police Division recorded the highest volume of crimes, followed by the Nima, Kaneshie, and Kpeshie Divisions. The highest property offenses were recorded within 12 miles of the city center, and the most congested area contained the heaviest concentration of socio-economic and routine activities. Calls for the adoption of situation crime prevention methods and strategies to reduce the incidence of crime in Accra have been made. In conclusion, it is recommended that instead of a need for high technology, the removal of situational cues, such as putting extra locks on doors, installing burglar alarms, and improving lighting and surveillance techniques can aid residents in regaining control of their neighborhoods. A source list of references is included.