The Impact of Situational Crime Prevention on Crime Rates in Starehe Constituency

Abstract

This study explored the application of Situational Crime Prevention (SCP) strategies in Starehe Constituency, Nairobi. It examined how environmental design and community-based interventions influence crime reduction. Grounded in rational choice and routine activity theories, the study viewed offending as a product of opportunity structures rather than fixed offender dispositions. A case study design was employed using a mixed-methods approach. Surveys, interviews and direct observations were conducted with a sample size of 400 respondents including residents, security officials and community leaders. The findings indicated that SCP measures such as improved street lighting, CCTV surveillance and access control increased the perceived risks and effort of offending. These strategies also reduced potential rewards for offenders. However, the effectiveness of these interventions was constrained by inadequate funding, vandalism of infrastructure and political interference. Awareness and participation among residents were moderate leading to the opinion that people engaged with the interventions but not consistently. The study concluded that SCP offers a practical and adaptable framework for addressing urban crime. Its success in Starehe Constituency requires greater investment, inter-agency collaboration and stronger community ownership. The study recommends enhancing public awareness, safeguarding installed infrastructure and ensuring political goodwill to strengthen the sustainability of SCP initiatives.