Crime Prevention

What is "Crime Prevention"?

Crime prevention is any initiative or policy which reduces or eliminates victimization or the risk of individual criminal activity.  It includes government and community based programs to reduce risk factors correlated with criminal participation and the rate of victimization, as well as efforts to change public perception of crime. 

A Community Approach to Crime Prevention

Internationally there is a growing trend for communities to take a partnership-based approach to crime prevention involving local authorities, community organisations and the private sector working alongside traditional law enforcement agencies. These approaches encourage the use of 'knowledge-based prevention' - based on research evidence of what does and does not work - as well as a greater focus on the causative risk factors that influence crime. Approaches that consider the causes of crime are seen to be more cost effective and have greater social benefits in the longer term.

Crime prevention in New Zealand is guided by the national Crime Reduction Strategy (CRS) - a cross-government strategy that outlines seven priorities for preventing and reducing crime. At a local level there is currently no formalised collaborative overseeing crime prevention activities. However, the the New Plymouth District Council plays a lead role in applying for, and administering, crime prevention project funding on behalf of the national Crime Prevention Unit.

For more information on Crime Prevention in New Plymouth please contact:

Craig Campbell-Smart

New Plymouth District Council (Community Development)

Ph: 06 759 6060

Email: campbell-smartcraig@npdc.govt.nz