NCJ Number
147843
Date Published
1993
Length
52 pages
Annotation
An evaluation of the ability of Vehicle Watch programs in England and Wales to prevent car thefts indicates that the programs may be effective in local areas experiencing high theft rates but may not reduce thefts across the board.
Abstract
After the introduction of Vehicle Watch in Gwent in September 1991, car thefts declined in the first few months but rose sharply at the beginning of 1992. Nonetheless, Vehicle Watch in Gwent appeared to decrease the risk of becoming a car theft victim. Vehicle Watch members tended to have slightly more security features on their cars, and relatively few persons who became Vehicle Watch members reported their cars had been stolen during the previous 4 years. Vehicle Watch was well-received by members and nonmembers alike. Primary advantages of Vehicle Watch were similar to those of Neighborhood Watch; the programs made people feel more secure and improved police-community relations. Appendixes contain supplemental data on motor vehicle thefts in England and Wales, car theft questionnaires, and information on the parking habits of Vehicle Watch members and nonmembers. 10 references, 5 tables, and 3 figures