Crime prevention : better protection for the community : crime prevention strategy for the Maltese Islands 2017-2021, public consultation

Abstract

In synthesis, the proposals emanating from this strategic document aim at streamlining the activities of a number of entities in conjunction with a focus on the phased approaches required for the eventual implementation of the strategy requirements. A risk-factor approach guided by academic research findings is proposed in view of crime prevention and the reduction of recidivism. The focus is being set on addressing actual risks and the need to be committed towards the needs of offenders, victims and their respective families. A number of specialised initiatives such as community policing and target policing have been outlined whilst highlighting that crime control goes beyond policing as has been experienced to date. Such entails the active collaboration of residents, government and private organisations together with NGOs as stakeholders, which partnership is forecasted to pave the way to enhanced trust and public safety. Schools have been identified as the ideal places to reach children and youths through cost-effective initiatives expected to divert criminal career development. This will be enhanced through proposals related to youth justice services that will inject a flexible approach to reducing the rate and severity of offending.