Helping Create Safe Communities & Neighbourhoods

Vandalism, graffiti, loitering and other forms of nuisance crimes are usually the first symptoms of a community at risk.

The big question of course is how to approach these issues. Do we place sole responsibility on the police, social agencies, communities or the government? There is always more than one way to solve a problem. Relying on one group or organization is not reasonable or fair. Criminological issues are complex and to “solve” these issues we need a wide-range of expertise and talents from a larger group of professionals.

I remember seeing an article in the Edmonton Sun in January of this year. This article was about the community’s fight against social disorder and it brought back some real memories for me. Last fall I was traveling through Hobbema (Native Reserve south of Edmonton) and I was quite shocked at what I observed. The images of this community, burnt out homes, loitering gangs and graffiti everywhere reminded me of my UN peacekeeping tour in Croatia….the same landscape. How can this exist in Canada!

Last year, Hobbema was racked with gang violence which culminated in the murder of a young adult struck by random gunfire. The community had enough and began working closely with the RCMP, Government and they engaged the youth. Social disorder would not be tolerated…was the message. Graffiti was promptly removed, gang members were identified and counseled and some were even arrested. Everyone got involved!

A year later there had been a dramatic improvement. Cultural public art is now seen throughout this community, and the youth are kept busy. The community should be recognized for their efforts. By tackling the small issues one at a time they took care of the larger issues. A community that does not tolerate petty crimes will mitigate bigger problems. New York is another excellent example on a large scale; Petty crimes will not be tolerated.

Communities must give careful consideration to nuisance crimes, loitering, trespassing, vandalism and graffiti. Early intervention in these types of crimes WILL help mitigate the more serious crimes of assault, theft and homicide.

Spring has, somewhat, arrived in Alberta. In the crime prevention world the season of nuisance crimes has also arrived. We must not let social disorder take over. Our community’s must work closely with the police and municipal bylaw services. We must deal with such things as illegal parking, late night partying, vandalism and graffiti.

The City of Edmonton has ramped up their Capital City Clean Up program. This is an effective City Organization that is an excellent resource for home and business owners to deal with graffiti. Literature, phone numbers, strategies and cleaning kits are readily available. You can find many resources by exploring the City of Edmonton Graffiti Management Program and be sure to view the video clip and other related documents that can help you.

Dealing with petty crimes is not just a Police problem…it’s our problem! Get involved, enjoy your summer and remember that Alberta Crime Prevention Week is from May 9th – 15th.

Greg Smith is a leading CPTED expert located in the City of Edmonton.  For more information on Greg click here.

Filed under Community Crime Prevention, Education & Awareness, Graffiti