CRI

 [ABSTRACT]

This study aims to analyze the practical issues of the voluntary crime prevention in Chungcheongbuk-do to improve realistic issues and propose systematic support measures. 

The Volunteer Crime Prevention Unit is a community-based volunteer organization formed autonomously by local residents to carry out various crime prevention activities for public safety in their neighborhoods. The enforcement of the Act on the Establishment and Operation of Volunteer Crime Prevention Units on April 27, 2023, has further highlighted the importance of these organizations. Accordingly, the Volunteer Crime Prevention Unit has established its legal status as a statutory organization, and its members now play a key role in maintaining local safety in cooperation with the police.

However, despite the enactment of this law, the support system concerning the treatment and working conditions of Volunteer Crime Prevention Units remains insufficient. Therefore, this study seeks to analyze the operational conditions of such units in Chungcheongbuk-do, identify existing challenges, and propose systematic support measures as follows.

First, members of the Volunteer Crime Prevention Units should be able to feel a sense of respect and fulfillment within their communities. The conditions should be created to enable them to gain psychological and social satisfaction through their contributions to crime prevention and the respect they earn from families and neighbors.

Second, the budget supporting education and public relations for the Volunteer Crime Prevention Units should be expanded. Adequate funding for training and promotional activities will strengthen members’ capabilities and encourage greater participation from local residents.

Third, the recruitment and selection processes for unit members need improvement. In the future, it will be necessary for the Chungcheongbuk-do Autonomous Police Committee and local governments to actively promote the units’ activities, recruitment opportunities, and selection procedures through official websites and other channels.

Fourth, the Autonomous Police Committee should establish various incentive programs to encourage voluntary participation of residents in the Volunteer Crime Prevention Units. 

Commendations and recognition for outstanding members can foster pride and honor in their service.

Therefore, the Volunteer Crime Prevention Units should strengthen inter-agency cooperation and establish an institutional foundation that supports continuous and proactive engagement based on residents’ voluntary participation to realize effective community-based crime prevention.