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Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the Crime Prevention
Through Environmental Design (CPTED) approach in reducing robberies.
CPTED evaluations were obtained through a comprehensive search mechanism. Two sets
of inclusion criteria were used: 16 primary studies evaluated a CPTED program with
a comparison period; 12 secondary studies presented some evidence of CPTED effects
but were not required to have the same level of scientific rigor. The percentage change
in pre- and post-intervention events was the outcome examined. Studies were stratified
by programs implementing multiple components, a single component, and through ordinances.
All primary multiple-component CPTED programs experienced a percentage change in robberies
ranging from -84% to -30%. Single-component program effects ranged from -83% to +91%,
and ordinances ranged from -65% to +130%. Secondary studies reported robbery changes
ranging between -92% and +7.6%. Robbery reductions were larger for interventions comprising
basic store design, cash control, and training components compared to those including
equipment systems. No associations were found between robbery decreases and either
the follow-up period or the number of program components. Studies examining nonfatal
injuries found a median pre-post change of -61%; those examining homicides found changes
ranging from 0% to +11%.
The broad nature of the CPTED approach allows its adaptation to any setting, and results
indicate that it is an effective approach to reducing robbery. However, most interventions
were not evaluated independently of other factors contributing to robbery risk. More
research is needed on individual components and effects in various business settings.