Factors Affecting the Likelihood of Reporting Property Crime to the Police in Gilgil Ward, Nakuru County, Kenya

Abstract

Crime underreporting significantly hampers effective crime management and justice administration, particularly in developing regions. This study explores the factors influencing the likelihood of reporting property crimes to the police in Gilgil Ward, Nakuru County, Kenya, utilizing a mixed-method research design. The study integrates quantitative and qualitative approaches to assess how variables such as incident location, the relationship between victims and offenders, and crime severity impact reporting behaviours. Data from 96 respondents revealed that the relationship between the victim and the offender greatly affects reporting rates, with 42.9% of respondents indicating they would not report robbery if the offender was known to them, and 73.1% reporting "not at all" for burglary under similar circumstances. Crimes involving strangers were more likely to be reported, with 50.6% indicating they were "likely" to report such incidents. In contrast, incidents involving acquaintances were less frequently reported. Additionally, crime location was a significant factor; 78.6% of respondents indicated "not at all" for reporting robberies in familiar locations. Recommendations include implementing community policing programs, raising public awareness about the importance of reporting crimes, improving police training, developing alternative reporting channels, offering victim support services, and continuously monitoring reporting trends to enhance overall crime reporting practices and community safety in Gilgil Ward.

Keywords: Crime Reporting, Property Crime, Victim behaviour

DOI: 10.7176/PPAR/14-3-03

Publication date: September 30^th 2024