Crime Mapping

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CRIME MAPPING

Crime Mapping

Crime Mapping

Burglary Dwelling continues to be among the priority crimes that we aim to tackle as a Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership. In recent years the Wigan borough has significantly reduced burglary dwelling offences. Between 2003/04 and 2007/08 there has been a reduction of more than 37% in burglary dwelling offences. However, over the same period the proportion of burglary dwelling offences where the offender has gained access via an unlocked or open door or window has remained at a stable level. On average, 35% of burglaries per year are facilitated through an insecure dwelling. In November 2007 a pilot scheme was introduced to the Wigan borough which sought to raise awareness among residents who were at risk of becoming a victim of an insecure burglary.

Research suggests that once an insecure burglary has taken place the probability of a further insecure burglary occurring within the immediate vicinity within the following weeks is highly likely. In the event of an insecure burglary taking place, GIS software was used to identify the location and select a buffer area around the property of between 100 and 200 households that would be at an increased risk of further burglaries in the following days and weeks. Suitable target areas were identified by tailoring the buffer area to best fit the natural boundary lines of the housing estates where the initial burglary had occurred. Each household was sent a letter warning them that a burglary had taken place. Details of how and when the offender gained entry were provided, as well as information on how to improve the security of their household. In the event of a second burglary occurring within the buffer area in the following 3 months, a further post card was sent to the same residents in an attempt to further endorse the key safety messages.

In the event of a third burglary occurring, more aggressive tactics were employed which included increased patrols during the peak time periods and the use of a portable electronic billboard to convey the message the wider community. Although 3rd stage insecure burglaries have been extremely rare during the pilot period, any increase in the number of 3rd stage insecure burglaries could also lead to partner agencies targeting additional resources against known offenders in the area. Near Repeat Calculating software (J.H.Ratcliffe Version 1.0) was used to analyse the effect of the scheme on additional burglaries in ...
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