Sustaining Crime Prevention at Scale: Transforming Delivery Systems Through Prevention Science

Abstract

In this chapter, we argue that to achieve sustained reductions in crime, violence, or injuries on a large scale, it is necessary to transform prevention delivery systems so that they conform in their practices, on a continuing basis, with scientific evidence. We explain and defend our proposition, drawing on examples and case studies from our own research and that of others. Although we highlight two very successful innovations (random breath testing in Australia and the Evidence-based Prevention and Intervention Support Center (EPISCenter) in Pennsylvania), we take the view that failures are as instructive as successes and include some brief examples of the former in our discussion. We also touch upon some of the lessons about Type 2 Translation from crime prevention initiatives that have been designed and implemented on the basis of contrasting theoretical models and empirical methods, including criminal justice approaches, situational initiatives, and community-based developmental interventions.