Historical Methods for Controlling Urban Crime Rates: Learning from the Past
Historical Methods for Controlling Urban Crime Rates: Learning from the Past
Understanding Crime Rate Trends
Crime Rate Trends Over Time
The first step to understanding crime control is to know how crime rates have changed over time. From the 1960s to the 1990s, crime rates in most urban areas rose significantly. However, since the 1990s, there has been a steady and significant decrease in crime.
Philadelphia System
In the early 1800s, Philadelphia began using a centralized system where police, municipal courts, and prisons worked closely together. This aimed to discourage repeat offenders through a consistent, agreed-upon approach to punishment.
The London Method
In London, a different approach was emerging. The creation of formalized police forces, such as the London Metropolitan Police in 1829, helped retain order in urban spaces and reduce crime through visible and constant presence.
These police force members were unarmed and tasked with preventing crime rather than solving crimes that had already occurred. This strategy was based on the belief that public safety was better maintained through preventing crime altogether.
This strategy was largely successful and has been adopted worldwide in one form or another. Many believe this stemmed the rise in crime much earlier in England than in many other countries.
The Chicago School
Sociological Approach - The Chicago School
By the mid-20th century, sociologists interested in crime began applying a more sociological approach to crime prevention. The Chicago School, for example, focused on the social and economic problems that lead to crime.
This perspective argued that addressing underlying societal issues like poverty, educational inequality, and racial discrimination could reduce crime. These theories led to growth in social programs aimed at preventing crime at the root.
These methods are more preventative and long-term and have had varied levels of success, with more success noted in areas with stronger social supports.
Community Policing
More recent methods include community policing, where law enforcement works closely with community members to solve local problems. This approach can lead to lower crime rates by fostering a sense of trust and cooperation between the community and the police.
Lessons for Today
Applying Historical Lessons to Modern Crime Control
Controlling urban crime continues to be a challenge. However, history reveals that innovative, collaborative, and community-focused strategies can work. Long-term solutions seem to lie in addressing societal issues and fostering trust within communities.