Research by Author & Topic

Publications by Caterina Gouvis Roman on Crime Prevention

Overcrowded jails and more spending for incarceration aren't predestined. In a Philadelphia Daily News commentary, two Urban Institute researchers explain how programs to help repeat offenders return successfully to society can cut crime and save money.

This report investigates the relationship between alcohol availability, type of alcohol establishment, distribution policies and violence and disorder at the block group level in the District of Columbia. We test whether density of alcohol outlets influences: (1) aggravated assault incidents, (2) calls for service for social "disorder" offenses, and (3) calls for service for a domestic incident, and examine variation in outcomes by time of day/day of week. Spatial econometric regression models are estimated using an information theoretic approach. The findings indicate that on-premise outlets, but not off-premise outlets are a significant predictor of aggravated assault.

This policy brief presents findings from interviews with stakeholders-specific persons or organizations-familiar with issues affecting individuals transitioning from prison to the community in Cleveland, Ohio. We interviewed service providers, local government officials, criminal justice practitioners, and civic leaders. The brief expands the prisoner reentry dialog to incorporate the voices of those in the community who are dedicated to improving reentry for men and women returning home. We discuss their perceptions of barriers and issues affecting successful reentry, solutions and suggested changes to policy and practice, and the role that government agencies can play in successful reentry.

The falling rate of violent crime in the United States is not likely to reduce the need for effective policies and programs to address youth gun violence. The rate of firearm deaths among American youth is still one of the highest in the world. In the coming years, all levels of government, the private sector, and communities will require sound information and practical guidance as they try to reduce gun violence among young people. Funded by the Joyce Foundation, this report reviews recent trends in youth gun violence, policy responses to gun violence, and the growing variety of data resources for research on the effects of gun laws. The report is designed to inform discussions about these issues and to aid in the development of future research efforts.

The report presents findings from a nationwide survey of programs aimed at preventing and controlling decay and crime. Included are a description of program goals and strategies, a systematic framework for examining approaches to revitalization, and an analysis of ways in which activities are used in community programs. The report also examines such program features as type of organization, funding and staffing, and program effectiveness. One chapter covers the most popular approaches and activities used by the programs surveyed.