The first step is to understand the nature of crime; this complex and fragmented phenomenon must be broken down to determine which regions or neighborhoods are particularly affected. Although property crimes in England and Wales have decreased, violent crimes and drug-related crimes are increasing. Two key aspects of the new anti-crime strategy involve innovative crime prevention measures and punishment schemes. Anti-crime measures, which must balance prevention and detection, have included community action; this article describes the Kirkholt Project, the Five Towns Initiative, and the Safer Cities Program. The community is involved in crime prevention through "watch" schemes, crime prevention panels, and diversion programs. The use of community based corrections is rapidly expanding; other sanctions gaining wide credence are police cautioning, diversion, fines, probation orders, and community service orders. A government Green Paper has recommended the implementation of a new type of sentence, the Intensive Supervision Order, which would include victim compensation, community service, residence at a hostel, prescribed activities, curfew or house detention, and electronic monitoring. 7 references