Early Intervention and Crime Prevention Perspectives from the Frontline

Abstract

In this critical review and social innovative narrative, the author details their perspective on early intervention and prevention in relation to terrorism, radicalization, and extremism. Drawing on over 10 years of frontline experience as a teacher, police officer, and registered social worker, the author discusses the interdisciplinary approach that is crucial in preventing and resolving criminal behaviors especially as it relates to terrorism, radicalization, and extremism. While the paper focuses on this global act of violence, the discussion does not only apply to terrorism and radicalization. There are a multitude of psycho-social factors that may cause one to become vulnerable, making them susceptible to being recruited and/or engaging in criminal activity especially for women who have historically and currently been disadvantaged. The following will discuss why the current approach in crime prevention and detection follows a more reactive model. Ultimately it will consider whether the current approach, that is largely driven by law enforcement and security who are at the forefront in resolving these issues, is the most effective approach in crime resolution.