Study: Big trees means less crime | Crime

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - The next crime-fighting superhero might be a big tree.

A U.S. Forest Service study finds less crime in neighborhoods with big trees in the yards and on the streets and more crime at homes with little trees.

Researchers from the Pacific Northwest Research Station took crime data from the Portland Police Bureau and compared it to information showing the tree cover.

Forester Geoffrey Donovan says large trees may be a signal to crooks that a neighborhood is well cared for, making it more likely they will be caught.

He adds that small trees may increase crime by providing hiding places for criminals and obstructing views.

The study will appear in the journal Environment and Behavior.
      
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