This can be attributed not only to increased police visibility in the neighborhoods, but to the citizens themselves for becoming more involved in what happens in their communities. The past decade has been punctuated by numerous social changes affecting our communities. Increases in crime, especially drug related crime, additional demands by citizens, and constraints on resources are some of the problems facing police organizations today. Alternative methods and new strategies must be developed if we are going to enhance the quality of life in our neighborhoods. The fear of crime alone can be detrimental to communities.
People become distrustful of each other as well as of the police.
They feel the police are ineffective and unable to maintain order. Fear often affects the city's image and becomes a key factor in its economic development. When citizens are queried about neighborhood problems, they talk less of crime and more about social disorder and physical decay. Crime is merely a symptom of strong social forces. Abandoned houses, inadequate lighting, drunks, litter, parking problems, and loitering, not just criminal activity, are just as important to citizens.