Local crime reflects the underlying dynamics of a community and its capacity to support or hinder individual and collective well-being. Understanding the nature of these dynamics is vital for local leaders and systems stakeholders seeking to address crime and build thriving communities. This article examines a range of ways that people can become knowledgeable about their neighborhoods’ safety landscape, from accessing online crime maps to collaborating with police in local meetings. It also highlights how these efforts empower citizens to participate in local crime analysis and foster a sense of collective responsibility for public safety.
Nearly three-quarters of Americans say they get news about their local crime environment on a regular basis, including 22% who see this information daily. Black and older adults are the most likely to report seeing this information frequently, with 47% of both groups saying they regularly get news about violent crime and 45% about property crime.
These heightened levels of vigilance over crime are driven by many factors, including concern about the safety of family members and neighbors, concerns about local policing practices, and the perception that local government is failing to adequately respond to violence or the conditions that give rise to it. However, the underlying causes of crime are complex and often multifaceted.
For instance, a lack of education and access to jobs, health care services, healthy food options, and housing that supports a strong and stable life can lead to poor outcomes, including higher rates of criminal behavior. Strategies for improving accountability must therefore focus not only on punishing wrongdoers, but also on addressing these common underlying issues.
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