A radio link is a radio communication system that allows people facing similar crime risks to talk to and listen out for each other. Over the last 7 years, the introduction of radio links in towns and cities throughout the United Kingdom has occurred with little comment from academics and security practitioners. Consequently, the author discusses the national debate about crime reduction, police patrol, and public reassurance in the United Kingdom within the context of radio links. The development of three radio link systems, primarily in the West Midlands police area, is reviewed. The effectiveness of radio links is discussed in relation to the Crime and Disorder Act and criminological theory, and further research on radio links is recommended. 18 notes