Alcohol Outlets and Street Robbery: Considering Time of Day and Property Use Covariates

• In Event: Alcohol and Crime

Abstract

This study examines the unique effects of alcohol outlets on street robbery in a Southeastern city in the United States between 2010-2011. Previous studies generally support the criminogenic effects of alcohol outlets. However, two theoretical and methodological issues limit the scope of such findings. Using routine activity theory and environmental criminology, this study demonstrates the need to consider time of day and various covariates of alcohol outlets (such as other property uses near the alcohol outlets) in the relationship between alcohol outlets and crime. Using the census block groups as the unit of analysis (N=232), a series of spatially lagged negative binomial regression models are estimated controlling for social disorganization and other factors. The results here support the criminogenic effects of five types of alcohol outlets. Some alcohol outlets also show time-varying effects on street robbery (crimes committed at different times of day). The results also reveal that bars and restaurants are associated with one another, and with other land use variables, supporting the need to consider covariates of these alcohol outlets.

Authors

• Riku Kawaguchi, North Carolina State University

• William R. Smith, North Carolina State University