Comparing Wilson And Kelling's Broken Window

224 Words1 Page

Wilson and Kelling authors of “Broken Window” assume that community disobedience is the precursor to major crime. Panhandling, public drunkenness, loitering and other disobedient behavior will pave the way for more serious offenders. Wilson and Kelling write, “The unchecked panhandler is, in effect, the first broken window.” (Wilson 5) This will convey to other criminals that they are less likely to be apprehended for more serious crimes. Another assumption made by Wilson and Kelling about community policing is that community disarray leads to more crime. This is the foundation of the broken window theory. If a community accepts vacant lots, broken windows, and graffiti then criminals will find this an easy mark. These conditions

Open Document