A crime prevention specialist works with a police department, independently
or with a variety of organizations such as The Boys and Girls Clubs of America.
The main function that crime prevention specialists have is educating average
citizens about how to prevent crimes from happening to them. They may also
be involved in intervention programs with youth to prevent them from turning
to crime as a way to solve their problems.
Crime prevention specialists also "act as a liaison between sworn officers
and the public," says Marlee Chapman. She is a crime prevention supervisor
in Encinitas, California. "For example, if someone has been burglarized, we
visit them and look at the point of entry.
"We talk with them about what could have been done to prevent the burglary
-- what locks, alarm systems or lighting could have prevented the burglar
from getting in. Deputies don't have time to do the handholding that we do.
We teach people to be safe."
The average working day for crime prevention specialists is hardly average.
Schedules are flexible, so they might work during the day or the evening.
And duties are just as varied. One day, they might be working in the office.
The next, they might be out in the community at meetings, workshops or other
activities.
The physical requirements for becoming a crime prevention specialist depend
on what area you wish to work in. People with handicaps can take a very active
role in the community as a crime prevention specialist.