Auto Theft: A site-survey and analysis of environmental crime factors in Atlantic City, NJ

Abstract

Recent environmental criminology literature has indicated a need for criminologists to focus on site-level, as well as community-level, variables that influence property crimes. The current study involves the use of this approach to take a closer look at environmental characteristics of single and repeat victimization auto theft locations in Atlantic City. A random sample of single auto theft locations were matched to repeat locations based on proximity, zoning (commercial or residential) and size of the parking structure. Five variables were measured using indices, Watchers, Activity Nodes, Location, Lighting and Security. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted using the W.A.L.L.S. variables. Findings indicate that in commercial areas, locations that had poor environmental designs and those located near activity nodes were more likely to suffer repeat auto theft victimization.