The positive perception of reduced gang violence through a public safety initiative. (June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gahunia, Shaveta; McConnell, Keiron; Bain, Andy
• Is Part Of: Police journal. Volume 92:Number 2(2019)
• Page Start: 167
• Page End: 188
• Publication Date: 2019-06
• Subjects: Gangs -- intervention -- gang violence -- problem-oriented policing -- gang suppression; Police -- Periodicals; Police -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 363.205
• DOI: 10.1177/0032258X18780920
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-258X

Abstract

Gang violence poses a significant concern for the police and the public. In response, in 2008 policing agencies in British Columbia introduced Restaurant Watch, a targeted strategy aiming to deter unwanted gang-involved patrons from attending participating restaurants. In response to a lack of research, the present study examines the perceived success of the programme, through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders participating in the programme. The findings suggest the programme has value based on three important themes: (1) impact on public safety; (2) importance of partnership and open dialogue; and (3) ability to deter inadmissible patrons from participating establishments.