PCpl. Bryan B.

Rellama July 16, 2021

Broken Windows Theory

Broken windows theory links disorder and incivility within a community to subsequent
occurrences of serious crime. In the broken windows theory, researchers theorized that graffiti,
abandoned buildings, and other signs of disorder in neighborhoods create an environment that leads
people to commit more crime. Such characteristics convey the message that these places aren’t
monitored and crime will go unpunished. Disorder is not directly linked to serious crime; instead,
disorder leads to increased fear and withdrawal from residents, which then allows more serious crime to
move in because of decreased levels of informal social control. They saw serious crime as the final result
of a lengthier chain of events, theorizing that crime emanated from disorder and that if disorder were
eliminated, then serious crimes would not occur. This led the police to crack down on minor crimes with
the idea that this will prevent more serious crimes. The police can play a key role in disrupting this
process. If they focus in on disorder and less serious crime in neighborhoods that have not yet been
overtaken by serious crime, they can help reduce fear and resident withdrawal. Promoting higher levels
of informal social control will help residents themselves take control of their neighborhood and prevent
serious crime from infiltrating

This is where community policing and neighborhood watch comes into play. Community policing
has a positive impact on reducing neighborhood crime, helping to reduce fear of crime and enhancing
the quality of life in the community. It focuses on creating a stronger bond between officers and the
citizens they serve. Instead of responding to crime only when it occurs, police regularly patrol and
engage with community members. Thus, it helps build a good relationship between officers and citizens.
In return, people warm up to law enforcement and are more willing to help them with investigations or
reporting. This leads to safer neighborhoods for both residents and officers. Also, community policing is
a way to increase police access. It’s focused on close collaboration with residents and law enforcement.
While police continue to handle crime fighting and law enforcement responsibilities, the police and
community work together to modify conditions that can encourage criminal behavior.  The adoption of
Neighborhood watch groups that are made up of residents are also significant in this theory. Citizens,
meet regularly to discuss community issues, go over general safety guidelines, introduce security
practices and discuss home security equipment. The police rely on citizens to report crime. This
improves the safety of the entire community and also helps enhance the actions of law enforcement.