THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PUBLIC LEGAL AWARENESS AND POLICE LAW ENFORCEMENT ON THE DECLINE OF STREET CRIME IN WEST JAKARTA AREA

Abstract

Street crime is a form of criminality that often occurs in urban areas, including West Jakarta, where crime rates are still relatively high. One of the main contributing factors is the low level of public legal awareness, which has led to increased cases of theft, robbery, and physical violence in public spaces. This research aims to analyze the effectiveness of public legal awareness and law enforcement efforts by the police in reducing street crime rates in West Jakarta. This research uses empirical legal research type with inductive method. Primary data was collected through interviews with police officers and a survey of West Jakarta residents, while secondary data was obtained from legal documents, crime statistics, and related literature. A multidisciplinary approach was used, including sociological, legal, and comparative (with a case study in Singapore). The results show that low public legal awareness is a significant factor in the high rate of street crime. Consistent law enforcement, legal education, and intensive policing by the police proved effective. The research recommends a holistic and collaborative approach between the government, police, and community to increase legal awareness and reduce street crime rates in West Jakarta.