This summary report highlights the results of a study that examined the effects of the first phase of a nationwide, multimedia, crime prevention campaign featuring a trench-coated, animated dog named McGruff. Following an introduction explaining the purpose of the two surveys that comprised the study, the eight remaining sections of the report…

To identify applicants with past criminal records, 22 states have passed laws making F.B.I. checks mandatory for teacher certification. Because many teachers are affronted by background checks and fingerprinting, unions often block this type of proposed legislation. Insets provide tips on avoiding defamation and negligent hiring charges and on…

The susceptibility of colleges and universities to computer crime is great. While insurance coverage is available to cover the risks, an aggressive loss-prevention program is the wisest approach to limiting the exposures presented by computer technology. (MLW)

Presents some recent developments in the evaluation of crime prevention and control programs, including the increased use of process evaluation models. Describes the nature, methods, and advantages of the idiographic (or single subject) model as used in social work. (JAC)

This study of Muncie, Indiana, during the years 1891-93, when the older marshal/constable system of law enforcement was replaced by a modern municipal police force, shows the tensions faced by that community as a result of a late but sudden industrial growth. (RM)

Theft of valuable educational equipment can be reduced by marking the equipment so well and so hideously that it cannot be readily sold, keeping records of who has access to the equipment, and using affordable state of the art security devices. (MLF)

Evaluates the first 57 offenders who participated in an electronic monitoring (EM) program and compared them to offenders who went to jail. Analysis revealed no difference between the groups with respect to rearrest, revocations, and detainers filed. The overwhelming majority of EM offenders completed their period of supervision without incident.…

Provides an overview of physical and chemical castration and its use in controlling sex offenders. Discusses castration and sexual aggression, then focuses on the use of therapeutic physical castration in dealing with those who display unacceptable sexual behaviors. Details legal and ethical issues and the efficacy of testosterone-lowering…

Considers possible options for public librarians dealing with problem patrons. Highlights include considering the safety of the patrons and staff; general considerations of library security, including security guards, legal responsibility for patrons and staff safety; and working through possible options ahead of time to be more prepared. (LRW)

A task force, charged with uncovering weaknesses in existing security school systems in Knox County, Tennessee, developed a checklist survey and sent it to each of the 85 building principals. Displays some of the questions but advises involving community members in the process of creating a security survey. (MLF)

Describes the Texas School Safety Center, established by the Texas legislature to provide interdisciplinary resources to promote school safety statewide through activities such as regional training institutes, youth leadership training, and technical assistance. Provides an example from the "Proactive Guide for Threat of Terrorism in Schools,"…

Study uses a grounded theory approach to the qualitative analysis of the descriptions of thoughts and feelings of 26 incarcerated child molesters describing a recent or typical offense. The resulting model was applied to the offense descriptions of an independent sample of 12 incarcerated child molesters to ascertain its cross-sample validity and…

Ninety-one child sex offenders were interviewed about the methods they used to target children, the age range of their victims, how they selected children and maintained them as victims, and what suggestions they had for preventing child sexual abuse. Nearly half the offenders reported no bad feelings about sexually abusing children. (Author/DB)

Discusses the rise of juvenile crime in the United States, explores the failure of the juvenile justice system to stem the tide of youth crime, and examines the issue of prevention. The author argues the need to always hold youth offenders accountable for the crimes they commit and suggests several means by which restitution may be made. (GR)

More U.S. young people have been gunned down during the past 13 years than died in the Vietnamese War. Crimes against juveniles are increasing; also, the intensity of today's youth violence is increasing. Over 3 million crimes (11% of all crimes) occur each year in America's 85,000 public schools. Sources, predictors, and solutions are discussed.…