Sanvi Ghorpade

To what extent do laws such as Prop 47 and more local, action-based community interventions such as surveillance cameras aim at reducing petty theft effectively comparing and contrasting the crime rates 6 months after the intervention passed address the root causes and lead to lower recidivism rates among offenders?

Started Sept. 25, 2023

Abstract or project description

The pressing issue of petty theft and its increasing rates is a big concern in California even after legal efforts aimed to curb such issues . Addressing this main issue of petty theft helps maintain a sense of security within communities, creating a more stable environment. Tackling petty theft can serve as a prevention for more serious criminal activities, contributing to overall prevention efforts. This research will compare and contrast the effectiveness of community based programs and interventions in mitigating the act of petty theft and its consequences. The goal of this study is to see a change in crime rates and reduced recidivism after 6 months since the program has taken place exploring the factors that make the community actions successful, such as a certain percent decrease in crime rates, in combating the root causes of petty theft. This research will analyze studies to explore the impact of these programs on petty theft reduction and recidivism. Additionally, this study will conduct interviews with experts in criminology, psychology, etc to gain a better understanding of the petty theft subject and its impacts. This study will guide policymakers, law enforcements, and even social service providers in making decisions to fight against the issue of petty theft and its prime causes. For instance, if community-based programs are to be found effective in tackling the root causes of petty theft, it could increase the funding towards improving such initiatives.