Preventing Repeat Victimization

Abstract

Revictimization or repeat victimization of people and places represent a large proportion of all victimization. Preventing revictimization may prevent a large proportion of all offenses. Repeat crimes are disproportionately likely in high-crime areas and in the period shortly after a crime-suggesting that efficient crime prevention might be achieved through rapid, transitory responses to victimization. The extent of revictimization is typically underestimated. Knowledge of revictimization patterns may provide bases for more effective prevention of domestic violence, burglary, car crimes, and other offenses. Quick response alarms, loaned to "high-risk" targets on a temporary basis, are one possible way forward for efficient crime prevention and offender detection.