NCJ Number
191972
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 49 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2001 Pages: 112-115
Editor(s)
Peggy Wilkins
Date Published
October 2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the strategies utilized by the Knoxville Community Development Corporation (KCDC) in reducing public housing crime through partnering with the Knoxville Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit.
Abstract
In 1989, the Knoxville Community Development Corporation (KCDC) formed a partnership with the Knoxville Police Department, Crime Prevention Unit to develop strategies to reduce crime in public housing developments. Strategies included: (1) provision of off-duty police officers utilizing on-site security methods such as photographing and videotaping non-residents and residents engaging in vandalism, narcotic trafficking, and other illegal activities; (2) development of a no-trespass policy, beginning with posted signs around the property, oral warnings, and finally arrest; (3) utilization of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) through placing fencing and lighting to create ownership of the property by residents; (4) awarding of Federal grant funds for the implementation of the Public Housing Drug Elimination Program; and (5) training of officers in drug interdiction. The KPD and KCDC cooperative effort made major changes in police response and the reduction of crime. Strategies continue to be developed as problems are identified. Tables