Teens and Crime Prevention

TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION Lesson goal To improve students’ understanding of the impact of crime on teens and strategies for crime prevention.

Students will learn: The impact of crime on young people TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION Students will learn: The impact of crime on young people Strategies for personal safety and security What teens can do to help prevent crime in their school and community

What is crime prevention? TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION What is crime prevention? Reducing the chances for criminals to victimize you, your family, and your neighbors. Protecting property and teaching people to be alert and aware.

Why should teens be concerned? TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION Why should teens be concerned? Teenagers experience both property and personal crime more frequently than other age groups. Teens and young adults experience the highest rates of violent crime.

Why should teens be concerned? TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION Why should teens be concerned? According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics: More than 1.5 million teens become victims of violent crime each year. Although teens are 14 percent of the general population, they are 28 percent of victims of violent crime. Teens are twice as likely as adults to become victims of crime. Young people ages 12 to 17 are far more likely to be victims of property crimes than adults, and most of the crimes occur on school grounds.

Who does crime hurt? The first person hurt is the victim. TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION Who does crime hurt? The first person hurt is the victim. The next victim is the community.

How can I avoid being a crime victim? TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION How can I avoid being a crime victim? National Crime Prevention Council recommends: Don’t bring valuables to school Avoid calling attention to your valuables Never leave your valuables unattended Secure your locker at all times Protect valuables that you leave in your car

How can I avoid being a violent crime victim? TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION How can I avoid being a violent crime victim? The National Crime Prevention Council advises: Tell someone where you are going and when you will return. Stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. Trust your instincts. Know the neighborhoods where you live, go to school, and shop. Stick to well-traveled streets; avoid short-cuts. Carry only the money you’ll need on a particular day – don’t display large amounts of cash.

How can I avoid being a violent crime victim? TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION How can I avoid being a violent crime victim? The National Crime Prevention Council advises: continued Do not use automated teller machines (ATMs) at night. If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street – don’t be afraid to yell for help or blow your horn. Park in well-lighted areas. Make sure you have your key out as you approach your door. Always lock your car. If someone tries to rob you, give up your property – don’t give up your life. If you are robbed or assaulted, report the crime to the police.

How can teens prevent crime? TEENS AND CRIME PREVENTION How can teens prevent crime? To prevent crime in your school and community, look into: School Watch Program Youth Safety Corps Project Teens, Crime and the Community (TCC)

Review and recap You have learned: TEENS AND VIOLENCE Review and recap You have learned: Teenagers experience both property and personal crime more frequently than other age groups. Strategies for reducing the likelihood of your becoming a victim of crime by protecting your personal safety and property. Things you can do to help prevent crime in your school and community.