“Staying out that public housing”: examining the role of security measures in public housing design

Abstract

Much research exists to demonstrate that strategies related to situational crime prevention are important for reducing opportunities for crime. Despite evidence for these strategies, many municipalities and developers do not implement them consistently or appropriately. The current study explores the impact of disregarding such research in a housing development in the southern USA. The failure of proper security measures may lead to higher levels of property and violent crime. Alternatively, surrounding developments, with better site management and access control, may experience fewer police calls for service. The results have implications for crime prevention practitioners, property managers, and liability concerns.