New research from Temple University is challenging a long accepted convention and offering tips that could aid in the prevention of assault, robbery and other crime. Abundant, well-maintained greenery may help deter some crime, says Jeremy Mennis, an associate professor of geography and urban studies at Temple. "The first idea is that when you have well-maintained vegetation in places like parks or other kinds of natural settings, that it encourages people to come outside and interact with one another," he said.