The Influence of Alcohol Outlet Density on Crime in Eau Claire, WI

Abstract

The density of alcohol outlets in proximity to college campuses may be associated with unhealthy drinking and alcohol involved crimes among college students. Alcohol outlet density is defined as the number of physical locations where alcohol can be purchased based on population or area. This is of particular interest in Eau Claire, Wisconsin where outlet densities occur throughout the city, including one area that is close to the local university. Understanding the role of alcohol outlet density is especially important given that: 31% of driving deaths in Eau Claire, WI involve alcohol and 20% of emergency calls involve alcohol. In this study, we applied geospatial analyses to compare the relationship of alcohol involved crimes with alcohol outlet density in Eau Claire, WI. Two areas of Eau Claire were identified as “hot spots” and explored in depth. One area is adjacent to the local university and the second area is approximately one mile from campus.