The effects of foreclosure-driven vacancies on crime in Trenton, NJ

Abstract

Our project investigates the relationship between foreclosure-driven vacant properties, and crime in Trenton, New Jersey. Using crime and foreclosure data from 2012 to 2015, we analyze if foreclosure-driven vacancies lead to higher rates of criminal activity in the blocks the vacancies are located. Our preliminary regression results show a significant increase in robberies associated with increases in foreclosure-driven vacancies.