Crime as Pollution: Exploring the Regulatory Framework for Addressing Crime Hot Spots

• In Event: Policing Hot Spots

Abstract

Eck and Eck (2012) proposed a place-based framework that considers crime as a form of pollution. This approach advocates for a shift away from offender-centric policies toward a focus on crime at place. The framework, which is grounded in routine activity and crime pattern theory, substantially expands the repertoire of crime reduction and prevention strategies available to police. Place managers become centrally important, and crime-generating places are treated as “source polluters.” This framework, while intriguing, has not been tested empirically. The current study explores the “Crime as Pollution” framework using call for police service data at all 65 convenience stores in Glendale, Arizona from 2008-2013. The Glendale Police Department and researchers from Arizona State University determined that crime occurred disproportionately at Circle K stores (source polluters), and the team applied a series of crime reduction strategies that are consistent with the regulatory framework outlined by Eck and Eck. The authors employ interrupted time series analysis to test the impact of these crime reduction strategies, and as a result, to explore the utility of the “Crime as Pollution” framework. The paper concludes with a discussion of the theoretical and policy implications.

Authors

• Lisa M. Dario, Arizona State University

• Michael D. White, Arizona State University

• Charles Katz, Arizona State University