A study reported on MSNBC in the journal "Science" shows that grafitti in a neighborhood triggers crime and littering. To quote from the story:
"The theory suggests that signs of disorder, such as broken windows, graffiti and litter, can open the door to individuals breaking other social norms and rules. In New York's 'Quality of Life Campaign,' adopted in the mid-1990s, city filth, including graffiti, street litter and signs of vandalism, were removed. And petty crime rates did drop. "
This is the theory behind numerous anti-crime effort, including the community policing initative recently begun in Allentown. Looking at it from a reverse perspective, it is also the theory behind programs like Properties of Merit and Facade Programs (similiar to the ones run by the BBRP).
At the same time, the study demonstrated that policing itself is not enough. Instead, you have to "make a link between a sanction and the norm" while making people "feel part of their community."
Easier said than done.
Friday, November 21, 2008
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1 comment:
most students of the success in nyc credit aggressive police action called zero tolerance. the litter and graffiti are signs that such action is needed. the 'broken window' theory, "weed and seed" etc., are justifications used by the grant-masters.
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