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Gang Problem in Chicago's Public Housing: A Special Report of the National Gang Crime Research Center

NCJ Number
171585
Journal
Journal of Gang Research Volume: 4 Issue: 4 Dated: (Summer 1997) Pages: 49-65
Author(s)
G W Knox; E D Tromanhauser; J A Laskey; T F McCurrie
Date Published
1997
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study was part of Chicago State University's "Violence Reduction Initiative" for the Altgeld-Murray Homes public housing complex on Chicago's far south side.
Abstract
The study was based on a survey completed by 695 residents, more than one-third of all households, in the Altgeld-Murray public housing complex. Based on respondents' exposure to murder, sexual assault, robbery, theft, and other victimization, the study concluded that the residents of this complex have experienced more than their national share of crime and violence, much of it attributed to gangs. However, many of the residents believe they could do something about the public safety problem if they were provided the right resources. Residents are willing to get involved in programs to prevent, ameliorate, control, suppress or reduce an assortment of problems. The study recommends additional research and analysis on the geographical variations of crime and violence in the complex. Law enforcement personnel operations and hard security devices could then be allocated to those areas as preventive measures. The study further recommends establishment of a dispute/conflict resolution center for the residents.