Curb Appeal: Exploring the Influence of Housing Diversity on Residential Burglary

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

Opportunity theories of crime suggest that burglary offenders use environmental cues to guide their target selection. Some residential properties have physical characteristics that make them more vulnerable than others, and thus more attractive to offenders. Properties that have been burglarized are at an increased risk of being burglarized again, and this increased risk of victimization can extend to nearby properties as well. Previous studies suggest that the risk of near-repeat burglary is greater in areas where housing is less diverse and visually more similar. However, this research has focused on areas outside the United States. This study explores the influence of housing diversity on residential burglary in an American context using data on Cincinnati, Ohio.

Author

• Natalie Martinez, University of Cincinnati