Stamp Out Crime Through Environmental Design

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Monday, January 31, 2000

LAPD SHOWS HOW ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN
CAN ACTUALLY REDUCE CRIME

Los Angeles – Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a set of extremely effective crime prevention design strategies provided by the Los Angeles Police Department which can be applied to both new and existing structures. CPTED strategies can be adopted by architects building skyscrapers as well as homeowners looking to improve their security. The objective of CPTED is to make structures aesthetically pleasing for the community yet unattractive to the potential criminal.

"I encourage everyone to take a look at the Environmental Design strategies," states Commander David J. Kalish, Department spokesperson. "It is amazing how a small, inexpensive change such as a landscaping addition can actually reduce your risk of becoming a crime victim."

January has been declared "Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Month," by Chief Parks. Marking this month’s Crime Prevention message, circulars and videos on CPTED will be available at all 18 Los Angeles Community Police Stations.

Some Simple Design Strategies:

Define your space! Do not allow portions of your property to appear unattended. Provide clear border definition with fences, hedges, paving patterns and low walls.

Be proud! Create a sense of ownership to foster behavior that challenges abuse or unwanted acts in your space. People who have a vested interest are more likely to challenge intruders or report them to the police.

Don’t ignore the obvious! Locks, lights, walls, gates and security systems with signs are all tried and true crime deterrents.

Avoid blank spaces! A large blank wall may be an invitation for graffiti vandals. Plant a crawling vine to cover the wall and don’t forget some thorny plants nearby!

There are many more strategies outlined in the LAPD’s "Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design" Circular. For more information, or to obtain copies of Crime Prevention Circulars, contact the Media Relations Section, Los Angeles Police Department, at 213- 485-3586.

For Release 3:20 pm PST
January 31, 2000