Discusses the dimensions of the arson problem in the United States and the failure of law enforcement by government agencies. Describes three forms of community response to arson in Boston: auxiliary organizations, vigilante groups, and popular justice organizations. (Author/JAC)

Explains what security officers do, how to hire and utilize them, and how they can help schools. (JM)

Suggests the use of scenario analysis in assessing some of the options offered as interventions to adolescent crime prevention, including child protection policies and guardianship, and parent licensing. Also explores the problem of racism and other social concerns in implementing some interventions. Finally, the influence of IQ on sociopathy is…

Colleges and universities may be held legally responsible for some of the crime occurring on their campuses. Campus decision makers should be familiar with the principles of liability being applied in courts, and take indicated steps to reduce risk of litigation. These steps will also help avoid unwanted, negative publicity about the institution,…

A British follow-up study of 25 convicted perpetrators of child abuse compared group and individual treatment outcomes. Results found some evidence for positive change in the group condition in terms of greater honesty in reporting normal and deviant sexual outlets, in addition to the improvement in attitudes toward women. (CR)

Examines the attitudes of Texas junior high/middle school and high school principals (n=207). Focuses on the severity of four school problems and the possibility of five criminology and criminal justice concepts. States that these are important for students to learn about to deter school crime. Includes references. (CMK)

Summarizes broadly representative research and promising practices in school systems aimed at reducing discipline problems and school crime. Advises that disciplinary strategies and procedures should be developed in collaboration with school staff and students and be administered fairly and consistently. (15 references) (MLF)

In 1985 the Illinois Legislature revised its Juvenile Court Act and sections of the criminal code to get tough on juvenile crime and school-related crime. The Illinois Supreme Court rejected a challenge to the act. Greater legislative and judicial support is a national trend to control school violence. (MLF)

Regarded as the nation's gang violence capital, Los Angeles' politicians and law enforcement and school administrators are using knowledge from lost battles to win the war. Solutions include targeting younger children, teaching self-esteem and communication skills, as well as organizing group graffiti cleanups. (SI)

Managing the issues associated with gang activity is prioritized in Minneapolis parks. A strong commitment to interagency cooperation and teamwork has effectively addressed the root causes of gang formation and prevented some criminal behavior. The article examines public safety enforcement, summer programs for Minnesota youths, positive role…

Analysis of national crime data, 1973-90, indicates that central-city residents have the highest crime risk, although rural residents are more likely to be victimized by acquaintances or relatives. Other factors associated with differential vulnerabilities are age, educational attainment, income, marital status, gender, and race. (TES)

Recidivism of first-time offenders sentenced to a "boot camp" program is compared to traditional prison sentences and probation; Variables such as age, race, and type of offense are included in cross-tabulations and multivariate analysis. A survey of 83 participants studied attitudes toward the experience. Discussion of findings points…

An evaluation is presented of "Changing Lives Through Literature," a program designed as an alternative to jail. The study followed up the first 32 men to complete the program and compared them to a matched group of 40 probationers. Reconviction rate was favorable. Interview information and other influences on recidivism are considered.…

Contends that the source of school violence is children's insensitivity to others' feelings. Explains that young children should experience sensitivity training, while older children must learn about the "social contract," including topics on determining criminal blame and the issue of punishment. States that educators and the juvenile justice…

Describes the various components of an effective campus security program, including the master plan/needs assessment, law enforcement staffing, security technology, access control, closed circuit television systems, and emergency planning. (EV)