3 Crime Prevention Strategies

Keeping a business secure is not a straightforward task. The motivations for crime can be complex, therefore, preventing crime can also be complicated.

We have put together these 3 crime prevention strategies to help you create a more comprehensive security plan. One that not only prevents an offence from occurring but also looks at the root cause of an offence – the offender.

Because those companies that are successful in looking beyond just preventing the offence, can save enormous sums of money in security budgets. In addition, they are happier and more productive business enterprises, often with more stable workforces.

And what business doesn’t want that?

So, without further ado…

1. Direct

The direct method of crime prevention is by far the most popular amongst businesses. The main aim here is to prevent an offence from occurring.

Direct methods deal with where you place the targets of crime, better environmental design and improving security measures. The aim is to deter an offence from occurring, or presuming it does occur, intercepting the perpetrator before he/she reaches their target.

Businesses favour this method because they are more tangible and quantifiable. The cost of potential loss can be measured against the cost of countermeasures.

2. Indirect

Indirect crime prevention methods turn their attention from the offence to the offender. By focusing on the root causes of crime, they seek to prevent the conditions that encourage criminal activity to occur.

Indirect methods within the workforce can include employee screening to filter out those applicants with a tendency towards dishonesty, for example. Or employee assistance programmes to support those employees with problems that may lead to criminal behaviour.

Other methods include creating and building a strong culture in the business. Where a company seeks to encourage strong ethical values and brand loyalty and sets out what is acceptable and unacceptable behaviour.

In addition, community development projects are a great way of supporting the local community. The aim here is to become part of the community, success for the business is success for the local community – a win/win.

Such measures as funding a local playpark, or employment engagement days for the local community where they can get involved with the business first-hand.

3. Punishment

The most controversial of the crime prevention strategies, the final strategy deals with the offender after they have committed an act. Once an offence has taken place, an offender must believe that they will be punished for the crimes they have committed.

However, this approach is not without its problems. Careful thought needs to go into exactly how to punish wrongdoers. A lack of punishment, however, will only encourage wrongdoers and sends out the wrong signal.

To summaries this blog, those companies that are successful in looking beyond just direct crime prevention, can save enormous sums of money in security budgets.

They are happier and more productive business enterprises, often with more stable workforces.

If you would like help or advice with your business security, please get in touch.