Criminal Justice

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Crime in Mtunzini
(1974) Ndabandaba, Gabriel Lindumusa; Gouws, H.T.
The present investigation is a result of the following considerations which are of interest to the researcher: In the first. place, not much research has been conducted on the problem of crime among the Africans in South Africa. There is thus very little published material on this subject. Furthermore, the problem of crime among the Africans has up till now mostly been investigated by white• researchers, and in urban areas. While their efforts are highly commendable, one problem facing white researchers conducting research of this nature is that they have in most cases interpreted the criminality of the Africans in terms of their own standards. 1 Proximity to the area of research (Mtunzini) is another factor that has prompted the investigator to undertake this project.
Die rol van oorskakelingsoorde in die herinskakelingsproses van die gevangene in die gemeenskap
(1992) Urbani, G.; Potgieter, P.J.
The prisoner, and especially the "board prisoner", is confronted with the possibility of becoming institutionalised. While being incarcerated in the conventional prison, his life world is of necessity institutionally ruled and governed- Upon release he is confronted with a world where he once more has to make his own decisions; he has to be prepared for his reintroduction into a free society and for taking up his responsibilities and obligations as a free citizen. This entails much more than finding accommodation or employment - the question arises whether the conventional prison is the appropriate place for this process of reintegration into community life. The establishment and efficient functioning of transitional havens may be instrumental in preparing the prisoner, who is still under sentence and whose treatment programme makes provision for admittance to such an institution, for reintroduction into free society. The objective of this study was to undertake an investigation of existing research literature relating to transitional havens, in order to describe the origin and development as well as the structure and functioning of these institutions. Arising from the "reintegration model" with its emphasis on community treatment and community integration, the prisoner is assisted and supported towards returning to society as Cx5 a responsible and accountable person- As a community-based release preparatory approach, transitional havens offer a unique opportunity towards addressing the needs of the prisoner. The creation and development as well as the structure and functioning of transitional havens are described. The rapid expansion of transitional havens was originally based on the theoretical assumption that these havens would lower residivism, ensure more humane treatment and reduce expenditure. Apart from different names given to transitional havens by different countries, or even states within countries, it appears that control of these havens may rest with the state or private welfare organisations. Transitional havens controlled by the state are run at lower cost that those controlled by private institutions. State controlled havens utilise the services of personnel, who also serve in conventional prisons, on a rotating basis. It has been found that, with regard to the selection of residents, different criteria is adopted. The intervention programme includes, inter alia, personal counselling, family and marital therapy, reality therapy and social ski1Is training. The transitional haven is regarded as the focus point for the mobilisation of community members and community sources towards addressing the needs of ex-prisoners by facilitating co-operation with existing organi- sations, such as training centres, businesses and service centres. The haven encompasses Cxi> the very important possibility that convicted persons may be transferred there directly, allowing them to continue with professions held prior to conviction. The creation of transitional havens will therefore serve two important objectives: firstly, it wil1 counteract institutional dependency amongst prisoners who qualify for admittance and secondly, it will contribute considerably towards the prisoner's reintegration into community life- > Based on this study it is recommended, as a matter of priority, that the creation of transitional havens by the Department of Correctional Services, be considered-
Die rol van oorskakelingsoorde in die herinskakelingsproses van die gevangene in die gemeenskap
(University of Zululand, 1992) Urbani, G.; Potgieter, P.J.
Hierdie studie poog om 'n studie van bestaande navorsingsliteratuur in verband met oorskakelingsoorde te onderneem ten einde die ontstaan en ontwikkeling van sulke inrigtings as 'n struktuur te beskryf en die funksie van die inrigtings uiteen te sit. = The establishment and efficient functioning of transitional havens may be instrumental in preparing the prisoner, who is still under sentence and whose treatment programme makes provision for admittance to such an institution, for reintroduction into free society. The objective of this study was to undertake an investigation of existing research literature relating to transitional havens, in order to describe the origin and development as well as the structure and functioning of these institutions. Arising from the "reintegration model" with its emphasis on community treatment and community integration, the prisoner is assisted and supported towards returning to society as a responsible and accountable person.
A criminological investigation into the treatment of juvenile offenders at Vuma Reform School
(1992) Mqadi, Langalibalele Prince; Potgieter, P.J.
The investigation aims at analyzing, describing and explaining the treatment of juvenile offenders committed to Vuma Reform School by various South African juvenile courts. The analytical method of research is used to describe methods and programmes of treatment in order to gain insight into the treatment programme of Vuma Reform School. The documentary study technique, supplemented with an unstructured interview technique is used to analyse data consisting of one-hundred juveniles and sixty-six officials - The farmer were committed to the reform school between January 1988 and May 1990, and the officials are in employment by June 1990. Two institutions form the basis of treatment of juvenile offenders, namely the juvenile court and the reform school. Findings of the investigations are as fallows :— (a) The juvenile court has a significant role in adjudicating a convicted juvenile. The legal provisions of dealing with such juveniles and presentence investigation reports presented by social workers lay the foundation on which treatment should be based. (b) The majority of juvenile offenders under investigation were convicted of property re1 ated offences and, to a lesser extent, offences against persons and administration of justice. (c) Vuma Reform School's Internal structure consists of four divisions namely, the management, professional, administrative and auxiliary divisions. (d) The majority of personnel at Yuma Reform School are unqualified to carry out the treatment functions of the Reform School. Further, there is no psychological division to carry out psychological methods of treatment and psychological tests; and hence no vocational training programme is provided for. (e) The treatment programme of Vuma Reform School falIs into three phases, namely: admission, treatment and education and preparation for release. Each of these phases has individual programmes. For example, the admission phase has the reception and orientation programme; the treatment and education phase has academic and educational programmes, recreational, religious instruction, food and clothing, and discipline and control programmes. Lastly, the preparation for release phase has leave of absence, family units and correspondence and reconstruction services within the scope of treatment. Recommendations of the investigation are as follows :— (a) The status of the juvenile court should be upgraded, conditions of parental and legal representation of juveniles be reviewed and presentation of the presentence investigation report be made obligatory to all juvenile court trials. (b) Alternative sentences other than whipping be employed more oftenly by juvenile courts. (c) The composition of the Board of Management be broadened and training of personnel be adopted as a matter of policy. (d) The treatment programme of Vuma Reform School be improved by employment of clinical psychologists; provision of literacy classes for juveniles who need functional knowledge; provision of vocational training, improved recreational faci1ities and employment of a chaplain and active involvement of juveniles into the religious instruction programme.
Juvenile courts : problems and dilemmas
(University of Zululand, 1993) Pienaar, Petrus Jacob Johannes.; Potgieter, P.J.
This investigation examined certain problems and dilemmas in the juvenile court. Three problem areas were included: The accusatorial - inquisitorial view as the main approach in the juvenile justice system. The rehabilitative - retributive approach and its application to juvenile offenders. (Magistrates' sentencing objectives and their application to juvenile offenders. The possibility of the application of the pre-trial judicial investigation in the juvenile court. In addition, a number of items were simultaneously included in the investigation and, where applicable, are included in this report The research questionnaires were delivered by hand to a number of magistrates in the Eastern Cape, Orange Free State and Transvaal. After a few weeks the questionnaires were collected and unstructured interviews were conducted with some of the magistrates. A total of 39 questionnaires were collected and use was made of the descriptive statistical technique to summarize and condense the data to measurable units. Because of the explorative-descriptive nature of the investigation the results can only be generalized to Eastern Cape, Orange Free State and Transvaal The following are the more significant findings: 1. Adjudication of Juvenile Offenders • 10,3% of magistrates accepted the accusatorial, 25,6% the inquisitorial, 33,3% the accusatorial - inquisitorial, and 30,8% the inquisitorial - accusatorial approaches. • 82,1% of magistrates agreed that in no country would one find a system which is purely accusatorial or inquisitorial. • a substantial record of previous convictions is to 74,4% of magistrates on aggravating circumstances. • The majority 89,7% of magistrates would feel justified in making allowance for mitigating circumstances if they had a particular sentencing objective in mind. • 89,7% of magistrates would regard mitigating circumstances as a juvenile's right to have sentence reduced. 2. Sentencing of Juvenile Offenders • 74,3% of magistrates rated reformation as a sentencing objective for juvenile offenders, as Very important'. • 743% of magistrates rated the need to expose the juvenile offender to treatment • 64,1% of magistrates rated the sentencing principle of protecting society from juvenile crime and helping the juvenile offender's development as complementary. • The most important factor which influences magistrates in reaching a sentence of community service is where the offender will benefit, 84,6%. • 61,5% of magistrates kept punishment in mind for assault on police. The results demonstrate that the rehabilitative - treatment objective and the retributive - punishment objective are the main objectives of sentencing in the juvenile court. 3. Pre-trial judicial investigation in juvenile courts • Approximately 74,4% of magistrates were in favour of pre-trial judicial investigation. • 71,8% of magistrates agreed that probation officers, and 71,8% agreed that criminologists can be helpful in the juvenile court. • Finally, one can accept that the majority of magistrates in this investigation support the implementation of a pre-trial judicial investigation in the juvenile justice system.
Penalization of traffic offenders in the Magisterial District of Lower Umfolozi
(1993) Khoza, Vukayibambe Isaac; Potgieter, P.J.
This research is based on the penalization of traffic offenders in the magisterial district of Lower Umfolozi- For purposes of collecting data, a structured, pre-coded (content analysis) information schedule has been implemented to capture data on traffic offences and traffic offenders- Unstructured interviews were also implemented to supplement official data collected at the magistrate's court at Empangeni. The chief magistrate, presiding judicial officers, public prosecutors, clerk of the court and traffic officers were interviewed. The voluminous number of traffic violations in South Africa necessitated the enactment of road traffic legislation. Traffic legislation applicable to drivers of motor vehicles include the Road Traffic Ordinance No. 21 of 1966 (which was in force up to 31 May 1990) as well as the Road Traffic Act No. 29 of 1989. The comprehensive function of traffic legislation is to bring about a state of equilibrium in traffic safety and to discourage (deter) by means of penalization further commission of traffic offences. The classification of traffic offences is the actual focal point of the consideration of penalization of traffic offenders. For purposes of this research, traffic offences have been arbitrarily dichotomized into three discrete categories: * driving offences; * vehicle-related offences; and * document offences. Traffic offenders are consequently classified according to the commission of the three categories of traffic offences. The causation of traffic offences can be explained in relation to individual-human and social environmental factors. Correlation analyses of 4771 traffic offenders have been effected in relation to the three identified categories of traffic offences including traffic dynamics. Correlation analyses are based on demographic variables such as race, sex, age and occupation. Data are portrayed in tabular form. Traffic control in the magisterial district of Lower Umfolozi is effected by three traffic organizations: * Natal Provincial Administration (based at Empangeni); * Empangeni municipal traffic department; and * Richards Bay municipal traffic department. The primary aim of traffic law enforcement is to maintain traffic order by reducing traffic offences. Traffic officers perform the following important functions: administrative, executive and supervisory acts of authority. Penalization of traffic offenders follows the violation of traffic laws. The Road Traffic Act (Act 29 of 1989) prescribes penalization of traffic offenders, while the Criminal Procedure Act (Act 51 of 1977) prescribes the range of sentences that must be imposed on (traffic) offenders. Disparities with regard to penalizing traffic offenders were discovered by means of this investigation which brought to light many issues reflected as key findings. It has been established that Whites featured predominantly in driving offence commission, while Blacks featured predominantly in the commission of vehicle-related offences. Asians and Coloureds committed traffic offences to a lesser extent. Most traffic offenders paid an admission of guilt fine. This accounts for the fact that the majority of traffic offenders did not appear in court. Recommendations have been made which are not prescriptive. The ultimate aim of penalization of traffic offenders in the magisterial district of Lower Umfolozi should be aimed at the prevention of traffic offences.
Juvenile delinquency among secondary school children with reference to the influence of the family : a socio-criminological study
(1994) Mqadi, Langalibalele Prince; Potgieter, P.J.; Sibaya, P.T.
The study aims at studying and analyzing juvenile delinquency among secondary school children in Kwa-Zulu and the influence of the family thereupon. Through the use of a self-report survey the study seeks to establish the following - * sex and age differences with regard to juvenile delinquency; * family influence on juvenile delinquency by analyzing differences in family structure, family size and family economics; * the relationship between age, family controls and self-reported delinquency; and * nature and extent of juvenile delinquency through self-report data thereby bridging the gap between what is officially known and otherwise hidden forms of delinquency. Research techniques employed in the study include the following:-* * Literature study through which approaches to juvenile delinquency by other researchers were reviewed. * A self administered questionnaire consisting of personal particulars, family data and a delinquency check-list. * Sampling techniques through which three secondary schools and 560 respondents were selected. * Statistical techniques to test reliabi1ity of the measurement instrument and thirteen formulated hypothesis. The findings of the study indicate the following:- (a) Significant differences between male and female respondents with reference to self-reported delinquency. (b) Insignificant differences among age-group categories and delinquency; but positive relationship between age and juvenile delinquency. (c) Insignificant differences between family structure, family size, parental economic activities and juvenile delinquency. (d) Significant differences in the application of family controls in respect of male and female respondents and those from intact and broken families. This is, however, not the case with age-groups, family sizes and mother's economic activity. (e) The hypothesis relating to the relationship between family control and delinquency, in respect of family religiousness and parental discipline is supported. However a partial support with regard to parental supervision and affection is observed. The following recommendations are put forward:- (a) The family as a primary socialization unit be empowered by removing all factors that may contribute to family tensions, for example, unemployment and other related social pathologies. (b) The school is a secondary socialization agent, be revitalized. This can be achieved by means of upgrading the curricula and encouragement of close cooperation between the parents and the teachers. (c) The church and recreational facilities be used to improve the welfare of Black families by linking leisure activities to the youths' interests. The study succeeds in revealing the existence of "hidden" delinquency among Black secondary school children and important relationships between family and juvenile delinquency.
A criminological investigation into University campus protection in Southern Africa : a comparative study
(1995) Rademeyer, Gert Charles.; Potgieter, P.J.
Any tertiary campus is a place composed of unique people requiring atypical law enforcement in comparison to other communities. Conflict between commonweal interests and proprietary responsibility calls for an unbiased discretionary and non-repressive approach to policing (protection) in a calm atmosphere that is conducive to learning for a tranquil environment sought in academia. Law enforcement agencies, including university campus protective systems, share the broad and sometimes vague mandate to enforce the law and keep the peace and order among their respective communities. Although a few studies have been conducted into overseas campus protective systems, no similar research has previously been undertaken in Southern Africa. This scientific research is thus the first of its kind in Southern Africa. The objectives of this study are therefore primarily - • to address the short-coming in knowledge about campus law enforcement in Southern Africa. Consequently, this research is aimed to analyze and define the organization and administration of campus protection at selected Southern Africa universities; • to render a clear account of the role and functions. There of by campus law enforcement personnel by means of breaking down their daily duties and activities, and • to account for the nature and extent of campus crime during the year I January to 31 December 1992. The exploratory, descriptive and comparative research is positivistic in nature. On the other hand the analytical research method followed, explored and examined overseas and limited local literature available. The survey-procedure was followed for the purpose of data collection. Pre-structured and coded questionnaires were adopted as measuring-instrument in order to obtain information regarding aspects of diversity relating to organizational and functional campus protection. Ten arbitrary and selected Southern Africa universities were involved in the investigation. Conclusions and recommendations are vested in statistical information derived from these ten universities. The findings indicate that - • substantial and noteworthy progress has been made among campus protective systems in Southern Africa. New and improved facilities, modern equipment, beneficial budgets and reformed standard of personnel have afforded a position to the betterment of university campus protection. While some campus protective systems have enhanced the quality of their performance, many fail to efficaciously utilize these benefits in reaching their imminent objective; • the organizational and administrative functioning of university campus protection constantly show a typical para-military bureaucratic tendency cast in the same mould of the Max Weber's rationalism theory; • cooperation between higher-learning, campus student personnel and campus protection is a matter of course and augmenting the necessity for a particular framework of a cooperative disciplinary programme in order to prevent apprehensiveness of campus crime; • although no national or institutional obligation exists for reporting campus crime separately, the research indicates that the overwhelming preponderance of campus crime prevailing, is a contravention of university disciplinary regulations and criminal offenses against private and institutional property and persons (students and personnel). All aspects of campus jurisdiction must therefore be addressed by purposeful campus protective programmes.
The image of traffic policing in Transkei
(University of Zululand, 1995) Kabingesi, Mlulami Goodenough; Potgieter, P.J.; Mqadi, L.P.
This research aims at investigating the image of traffic policing in Transkei. To achieve this goal, questionnaires were distributed to a purposive sample of 600 respondents. Five towns whose people are exposed to traffic policing were targeted, namely: Umtata, Butterworth, Engcobo, Qumbu and Libode. The researcher personally collected the questionnaires. A total of five hundred completed questionnaires were collected. To achieve reliable results, Chi-square, F-test and t-test have been implemented to test for significant differences. The attitudes of the respondents have been measured with regard to two traffic institutions in Transkei, namely: Municipal and Provincial traffic institutions. Traffic order cannot be achieved in Transkei if a sound partnership between the traffic police and the public is lacking.
Perceptions of the role and function of the Venda police
(University of Zululand, 1995) Makibelo, Mabel Maphuti.; Potgieter, P.J.; Mqadi, L.P.
The police role appears to be a controversial issue since the evolution of modem policing in Great Britain with the establishment of the Metropolitan Police under the leadership of Sir Robert Peel in 1829. The South African Police Service. and in particular the erstwhile Venda police. are no exceptions to the rule. The primary aim of this investigation revolves around the statistical measurement of the perceptions and attitudes of respondents pertaining to the role and functions of the Venda police. For this purpose. a sample group of 406 respondents. Arbitrarily selected from four areas. namely : Thohoyandou, Makwarela, Sibasa and Shayandirna, were subjected to a closed. structured questionnaire regarding various aspects of the role and operational function of this independent police force. Statistical tests, such as the F-test, were implemented to test for significance and reliability of data obtained from questionnaires. The statistical results only represent the perceptions and attitudes of the research group towards the Venda police. The findings indicate: • that the majority of the respondents perceive the role and function of the Venda police as an important social service; • that both male and female respondents have significant different perceptions of the police role as it relates to the operational rendering of this social service function; •. insignificant differences between the various educational qualification groups pertaining to police partiality. abuse of power and authority, lack of knowledge and imperiousness on the part of the police are observed; • an unwillingness among the sample group to report crime to the police due to, inter alia. the inability of the police to effectively solve criminal cases, an arrogant attitude among police officials. etc.; and • that in general. the global image of the Venda police is somewhat negatively evaluated by the total research group. Recommendations are as follows: • the cultivation of a better understanding of the police role by means of facilitating closer contact and co-operation with the public; • to provide an improved social service to the public by means of rapid responses to calls for assistance and complaints; • establishing a police-citizen partnership in crime prevention by means of implementing a community style of policing; • improving the educational qualifications and training procedures of policemen.
Harbour policing : a criminological investigation
(1995) McIntyre, Robert Peter.; Potgieter, P.J.
This research project which is the first of its kind in South Africa, entails a criminological study of harbour policing in South Africa. Firstly, it is primarily concerned with the historical development of harbour policing prior to its inception in 1916 in terms of the proclamation of The Railways and Harbours Regulation, Control and Management Act, Act 22 of 1916, as well as the period following 1916 which paved the way for the dawn of the reorganization of Harbour Policing as an official police force on 1 July 1934 and thereafter. Secondly, this investigation aims at describing maritime jurisdiction by means of emphasizing the existence of different conventions, such as the Hague Convention of 1930, the Geneva Convention of 1958 and the Law of the Sea Convention of 1982, as no Parliament exists to pass laws pertaining to the sea. It appears from this investigation that maritime fraud, theft of cargoes on the open sea, piracy and the illegal sinking of ships, oil pollution, etc. are matters of great concern for harbour policing. Functional harbour policing seems to be dependent upon various role players, such as : * The- Sea Fishery Act (Act 12 of 1988), for the protection of our sea resources; The Merchant Shipping Act (Act 57 of 1951); The Department of Transport (Maritime section) to ensure a clean and safe sea; The Defence Force (Navy} whose main task is to defend; The Natal Parks Board for conservation of fauna and flora; Customs and Excise Control to protect state funds; The National Sea Rescue Institute to assist people in distress at sea: and The South African Police service tor execution of the law and law enforcement. Proactive functional harbour policing is based on short-term crime prevention techniques such as visible role-fulfilment by means of patrolling l while reactive harbour policing entails the investigation of crimes committed on the sea, in the harbour and areas adjacent to the seal such as crimes mala in se and crimes mala prohibita. This investigation rests on documentary studies I personal interviews and an empirical analysis and description of all types of crimes and functional activities handled by the Water Wing of the South African Police Service. Recommendations include, inter alia, the following : * Follow-up research on harbour policing to keep abreast with overseas development; The role of the South African Narcotics Bureau (SANAB) with regard to the smuggling of dangerous producing and habit forming substances such as drugs as well as the illegal smuggling of weapons and other material; Closer co-operation between different units of the Water Wing and other "stakeholders" with regard to creating a sound knowledge of legislation pertaining to the sea: Education of criminal justice practitioners on the one hand and the general public on the other hand with regard to legislation applicable to the sea and adjacent areas; and The upgrading of security measures in South African harbour
A criminological perspective of juvenile crime at Emondlo
(1997) Gibson, Mandlakayise Buthelezi; Mqadi, L.P.; Khoza, V.I.
This study is based on the problem of juvenile crime in Emondlo. Statistics show that between September 1991 to end of August 1992, three hundred and seven (307) male juvenile offenders were arrested at Emondlo Township. This is against only 18 female offenders who were arrested during the same period. The investigation aims primarily at describing and explaning attitudes of residents to the aetiology of juvenile delinquency. It explores the attitudes of respondents towards the family, school, leisure time and peer group influence on delinquency. This study engendered the following findings: • gender does not influence the attitudes of respondents towards family on delinquency. • gender has a significant difference towards attitudes of respondents in school influence on delinquency. • gender has no significant difference towards attitudes of respondents in leisure time influence on delinquency. • gender has no significant difference towards attitudes of respondents in peer group influence on delinquency. • marital status has no significant difference towards attitudes of respondents in family influence on delinquency. • marital status has significant difference towards the attitudes of respondents in school influence on delinquency. • marital status has no significant difference towards attitudes of respondents in leisure time influence on delinquency. marital status has no significant difference towards attitudes of respondents in peer group influence on delinquency. language groups have significant differences towards the attitudes of respondents in family influence on delinquency. language groups have significant differences towards the attitudes of respondents in school influence on delinquency. language groups have no significant differences towards the attitudes of respondents in leisure time influence on delinquency. language groups have no significant difference towards the attitudes of respondents in peer group influence on delinquency. occupational categories have significant differences towards attitudes of respondents in family influence on delinquency. occupational categories have significant differences towards attitudes of respondents in school influence on delinquency. occupational categories have significant differences towards attitudes of respondents in leisure time influence on delinquency. occupational categories have significant differences towards attitudes of respondents in peer group influence on delinquency. age group is related to the attitude of respondents towards family influence on delinquency. age group is significantly related to the attitude of respondents towards school influence on delinquency. • age group is not significantly related to leisure time influence on delinquency. • age group is significantly related to peer group influence on delinquency. • educational qualifications towards the attitudes of respondents are not significantly related to family influence on delinquency. • educational qualifications towards the attitudes of respondents are significantly related to school influence on delinquency. • educational qualifications towards the attitudes of respondents are not significantly related to leisure time influence on delinquency. • educational qualifications towards attitudes of respondents are significantly related to peer group influence on delinquency. Recommendations are based on the role of the family, school, leisure time and peer group influence in crime prevention.
Fear of crime : a socio-criminological investigation
(University of Zululand, 1998) Van Velzen, Frances Anne; Potgieter, P.J.; Mqadi, L.P.
Each individual's personal security is basic to the quality of life of a community. If the quality of life is affected by crime or the fear of criminal victimisation, then both crime and the fear of crime should be viewed as a social problem. The fear of crime is the focus point of this study as it produces changes in the lifestyle of the individual and the functioning of the community. Fear of crime generates feelings of anxiety, general mistrust, alienation and suspicion. At a social level, it can lead to a break down of social cohesion, the curtailment of normal activities and an unwillingness to help others. The study aims at bridging the gap in our substantive knowledge regarding the fear of crime. Through the use of a questionnaire, the study further seeks to establish the following: * Statistically measure and describe the nature and extent of fear of crime. * Determine the factors affecting fear of crime. * Account for the differences and variations in the fear of crime according to age, gender, household composition and type of housing, previous victimisation, crime as a social problem, role of the police and community neighbourhood involvement. * Make non-prescriptive recommendations for the prevention of criminal victimisation that might directly influence the quality of life. Research techniques employed in the study included the following: * Literature study of research done on the fear of crime covering the 1970s, 1980s and early 1990s. * A structured questionnaire consisting of demographicai information and questions pertaining to the factors influencing fear of crime. * Non-probability sampling techniques. * Statistical techniques to test the reliability of the measuring instrument and ten formulated hypotheses. The findings of the study indicate the following: (a) Age is related to fear of crime. (b) Gender is the strongest predictor of fear. (c) Household composition* is related to the fear of crime. (d) No significant differences were found between the type of housing respondents live in and fear of crime. (e) In general, people who have been previously victimised are more fearful of crime then those who have not. (f) Concern about crime and fear of crime are related issues, as people who are concerned about crime, generally fear crime. (g) The role of the police has not proved to be a significant factor influencing the fear of crime of respondents. (h) Neighbourhood involvement tends to reduce levels of the community's fear of crime. The following non-prescriptive recommendations are made: * Improvement of the image of the South African Police Service (SAPS) is a necessity to foster confidence in and respect for policing. * Increased role visibility of the police. * Promotion of effective Neighbourhood Watch Programmes. * Active involvement of citizens in community policing forums.
Motor vehicle theft: a comparative study
(1999) Steenkamp, Douw Gerbrand; Potgieter, P.J.
This investigation entails a study of motor vehicle theft and hijacking in KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape for the period of 1 January till 31 December 1995. The present study is empirically founded and for this purpose an information schedule has been implemented to capture data from police case dossiers for statistical analysis and description. Data forthcoming from a previous Honours study in the Westem-Cape have also been incorporated for comparison purposes. The sample consists of 1331 cases of motor vehicle theft and hijacking in KwaZulu-Natal, while 372 cases in Western Cape were included in this investigation. Key findings emanating from this investigation are as follows: (1) White male victims in the age category 31-35 years were the most victimised through motor vehicle theft and hijacking in both Provinces. (2) The profile of the average offender of motor vehicle theft and hijacking comprises an unemployed African male person between 21-40 years. (3) The temporal frequency indicates that most people in KwaZulu-Natal were victimised during March, August and October, while October, September and May caused the most suffering for victims in the Western Cape. Thursdays and specifically early mornings in KwaZulu-Natal seems to be the most popular for motor vehicle theft and hijacking. In the Western Cape this tendency peaked in the early mornings of Fridays. (4) Toyota followed by Mazda, Nissan / Datsun and Ford sedan vehicles were the most popular objects for motor thieves and hijackers. The following recommendation have been made: (1) Greater community involvement in the prevention of these types of crime has become inevitable. In this regard empowerment of local communities through Community Police Forums could play an important role. Such involvement could stimulate greater crime awareness among the community. Shared responsibility as far as the security of people and their property is concerned, could positively influence successful order maintenance. (2) Security measures which including the installation of anti-theft devices should be prioritised by the public. (3) Specialised Vehicle Theft Units should, in the light of the low percentage motor vehicle theft cases referred to courts, be more efficient - considering the availability of modern technology. (4) Police involvement in crime syndicates should receive serious attention and, were applicable, be totally eliminated (5) Progress without research is futile. Greater liaison between the police and tertiary institutions (Criminology departments and the Technikon SA) will do much to stimulate scientific research in the interest of successful policing.
The role and image of the police in a post apartheid era
(1999) Manzi, Lungisa Henry; Potgieter, P.J.
Almost impregnable and insurmountable, however, is the invisible wall which separates many police departments and the citizens they serve. This wall, although not topped by barbed wire and embedded sliver of glass, still accomplishes the undesirable effect of thwarting communication between police and their communities."
Fear of crime in Ulundi
(2000) Zondi, Lawrence Musa.; Munnik, Dr; van Velzen, F.A.
Fear of crime has become a much documented crime related problem. It can lead to avoidance behaviour, for example when normal social activities are curtailed and certain areas are avoided. Lewis and Salem (1986:3) conclude that "fear of crime [has become] as much of a social problem as the crime itself. Fear of crime is escalating in most parts of South Africa. In black urban as well as rural areas, it is so high that it seriously affects lifestyles and quality of life. The impact of crime can be noted in the changes in lifestyle that are made as a result of the threat of crime. People restrict their normal activities and alter their behaviour in response to the fear of crime. Many countries in the western world have been grappling with the reality of high levels of crime for a number of decades. The crime problem is closely related to the general stability and economic position of a country. This is a well known fact that in South Africa people tend to restrict their normal activities and alter their behaviour in response to fear of crime. The consequences of fear of crime are varied and numerous: psychologically, fear of crime generates feeling of anxiety, genera! mistrust, alienation, dissatisfaction with life and in some cases, mental illness (Glanz 19B9:54). Socially the fear of crime may lead to: — a breakdown of social cohesion and solidarity; — curtailment of normal activities; — avoidance of sites and situations associated with crime; — disappearance of sociability, mutual trust, willingness to support or assist other people; and — the avoidance of strangers (Smith & Glanz 1989:54).
Juvenile diversion
(2002) Zondi, Clarice Zimbili.; Potgieter, P.J.; Munnik, D.
The present study entails a statistical description of juvenile diversion in Durban, KwaZuIu-Natal. The handling and treatment of juvenile offenders remains a considerable problem to governments across the world. South Africa is no exception to the rule. In the past, thousands of teenagers who committed crime ended up in gaol and have been kept there for months - in most cases together with adult prisoners - awaiting their trial. Whenever they appeared in criminal courts they were seldom legally represented. For centuries, imprisonment and whipping of juvenile delinquents have been standard sentences handed down by the courts. Lately, diversion of juvenile offenders as an alternative form of dealing with problem youth outside the forma! justice system gained increased momentum. TTie National Institute for Crime Prevention and Reintegration of Offenders (NICRO) was established and instituted as a South African Prisoners Aid Association, charged with the treatment of juvenile offenders diverted to it by the Youth Court with the primary objective of successfully treating and reintegrating such offenders back into the community as worthwhile citizens. This study is based on a statistical analysis of 275 cases of diversion at NICRO's Durban office during a six-month period, namely 1 July to 31 December 2000, for which purposes a specially devised information schedule was developed and used as a data capturing instrument. The study aims were as follows: • To render a theoretical exposition of the nature and extent of juvenile justice in South Africa. • To render a theoretical exposition of juvenile diversion as an alternative to formal treatment and handling of juvenile offenders as well as the role of the National Institute for Crime Prevention and Reintegration of Offenders (NICRO) in this regard. • To provide statistical information regarding juveniles diverted to NICRO in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. Data show that - • Durban youth court diverted the largest number juvenile offenders to NICRO (69.45%). • Most diverted juvenile offenders resided at Umlazi (32.0%), just south of Durban. • Only 23 juveniles live| with either one or both their biological parents. • Sixty-one juveniles came from a four-child family. • In 30 cases investigated were the juvenile offenders a "first child" in the family. • Theft seems to be the most popular crime committed by most diverted juveniles (80.0%), followed by drug offences (7.0%). • Two-hundred and forty out of275 juveniles diverted to NICRO were in fact "accepted" for treatment and rehabilitation by this institute. • The fact that juveniles did not want to accept responsibility for their criminal actions was the most popular reason for not having been accepted by NICRO. • About 76.0% of the juveniles diverted to NICRO were accommodated under the Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES). • Just over two-thirds of the juveniles were from incomplete families. • In 48.0% of the cases was only one of the parents employed. Recommendations that were put forward are firmly based on statistical information forthcoming from this investigation.
The role of private security in crime prevention
(2002) Steenkamp, Douw Gerbrand; Potgieter, P.J.
Protection of life and property is an age-old need of human beings. Through the ages, territoriality and personal interest played an important role in the protection of life and property. The historical development of private security throughout the world displays a colourful history - from ancient to modem times. The birth of modem policing originated as a result of private security during the beginning of the 19th century. Since then, private security developed into a formidable entity - to such an extent that since the beginning of the seventies in America private security surpassed public policing. Presently, private security in South Africa has also outgrown public policing. The present study aims at narrowing the gap in our substantive knowledge about the role of private security in crime prevention by means of two structured questionnaires - one for public and one for private security respondents. The study aims at the following: > to record the evolution of private security from ancient to modem times > to compare the perceptions of both public and private security respondents in regard to the role and function of private security in crime prevention > to establish how respondents feel about security measures aimed at eliminating crime opportunities > to establish which precautionary measures respondents take to protect themselves. Research techniques implemented in this study are the following: > A literature study regarding a wide range of aspects pertaining to the role of private security in crime prevention. ** Structured questionnaires reflecting the demographic (independent variables) of the respondents as well as their responses on the dependent variable. > Non-probability techniques. > Frequency distributions and cross-correlation of statistical information intended to provide a greater clarity about the dependent variable. The findings of the study indicated that: > The role of private security in society in general and in crime prevention in particular have been rated very important by both sampling groups. > Specific functions of private security have been favourably evaluated by the respondents. > Specific security measures in crime prevention have also been rated as very important. > Aspects relating to the role of private security in society have been favourably rated by both sampling groups. The following recommendations have been formulated: > Special police status for private security officers. > Tax credits for individual security expenditures. > Transfer of specific public police duties to private security. > Academic and basic training for the development of private security officers. > Greater public police - private security co-operation.
Deviant driving behaviour : an epidemiological study
(2004) Khoza, Vukayibambe Isaac; Potgieter, P.J.
This research is based on an epidemiological study of deviant driving behaviour. The data collection phase implemented a self-report survey to capture data on deviant driving behaviour. The study seeks to establish: • Differences between deviant driving behaviour and respondents' demographic characteristics: gender, race, marital status, occupation, regularity of driving and type of motor vehicle usually driven. • Relationships between deviant driving behaviour and respondents' age, education, income, duration of passing a formal driving test and the period a motor vehicle has been driven. • Whether aggressive and anxious drivers do commit traffic offences more regularly than other drivers. • The differential rating of selected aspects of traffic policing. Research techniques implemented, include: • A literature study of deviant driving behaviour, reflecting various theoretical approaches to the referent object • A measuring instrument (questionnaire), capturing various theoretical constructs and, as such, makes provision for a checklist of deviant driving behaviour in the form of seven statistical scales. • Non-probability sampling through which 722 respondents were selected and included in the study. • Statistical tests of reliability of the measuring instrument and four hypotheses. Statistical findings indicate the following: • Sisnificant sender differences in self-reported deviant drivins behaviour. Male respondents reported the highest scores of aggression; females reported the highest scores of anxiety in driving activities. • Deviant driving behaviour differs significantly according to respondents' race and marital status. • Professional drivers featured predominantly in aggressive and offensive driving behaviour, document offences and the operation of defective vehicles. • Deviant driving behaviour differs significantly according to respondents' driving experience (regularity of motor vehicle driving and type of vehicle). • Significant relationships exist between deviant driving behaviour and respondents' age, education, income, duration of passing a formal driving test and the period a vehicle has been driven. Relationships assume both positive and negative directions. The correlation between anxiety and number of years a vehicle has been driven, is not significant • Drivers who display signs of aggressive and anxious driving behaviour, do commit traffic offences. Positive relationships exist between aggressive-anxious approaches and informal driver training. Positive correlations exist between traffic (driving) offences, document offences and the operation of defective motor vehicles and aggressive behaviour. • No significant correlations have been observed between deviant driving behaviour and informal driver training. Differentiai rating of traffic policing according respondents' education, race, occupation, income, etc., is also observed. Traffic officers' susceptibility to bribery creates a particular problem for authorities. The following non-prescriptive recommendations are entertained: Enhancement of formal driving tests, driver training and traffic education. Disposal of convicted deviant drivers by criminal courts. Pedestrian education. Surcharge. Periodic inspections of motor vehicles. Provision for. more traffic officer employment Prevention of corruption (bribery) in the traffic situation. Establishment of a Road Traffic Infringement Agency. Road engineering. Future research. The study succeeded in revealing "hidden" deviant driving behaviour among respondents who reside in the jurisdiction of the uMhlathuze Qty Council and adjacent areas.
Juvenile delinquency among secondary school pupils in the Mthatha District of Education: a self-report survey
(2008) Zenzile, Enoch; Potgieter, P.J.; Zondi, C.Z.; Ras, J.M.
The self-report survey study conducted in Mthatha District of Education (Eastern Cape) revealed interesting results pertaining to juvenile delinquency. The study concerns itself with a sample of 451 respondents randomly selected from seven secondary schools. The main aim of this exploratory study was to uncover the root causes of juvenile delinquency in the most rural and semi-urban areas of the Eastern Cape. The survey was carried out through a pre-coded questionnaire, administered to Grade 10, 11, and 12 pupils with the assistance of the educators at the identified schools during spare periods in class. It transpires that female (263 or 58.3%) respondents are the most dominant gender group in the sample. Results indicate that they are more or less outnumbering their male counterparts with regard to many cross-correlated delinquent acts, for example dagga smoking, dealing in dagga with the aim of earning extra income, scratching of teachers’ motor car, etc. Considering the age category, a large number of respondents is within the age of 17 years. The statistical results reveal that 114 of the respondents between 16-17 years have written mean things on school desks in the past twelve months. It also transpires that 132 (29.3%) respondents in the same age group have objected once to three times against the disciplinary measures employed by their mothers or significant other people. Furthermore, it is noticeable that the majority of the respondents come from intact families. The study reveals that over half of the respondents indicated that both their parents are economically inactive. It also transpires that the majority of families have three to four and five to six children to care for. Based on the statistic outcome it has been postulated that mothers play a more significant role in the socialisation process. Considering the area of residence it appears that Mqanduli respondents slightly outnumbered Mthatha respondents in most delinquent acts cross-correlated in the study. The statistical results also reveal that 134 Mqanduli respondents compared to 93 Mthatha respondents bought liquor in the past twelve months without the knowledge of their parents.

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