Tall trees help protect houses from crime? Researchers say yes, commenters express doubt - Portland, OR

Tall trees help protect houses from crime, says study conducted in Southeast Portland | OregonLive.com:
Tend a tree, prevent a crime?

That's the upshot of a new study by U.S. Forest Service researchers who looked at the effect of trees on Portland crime statistics.

Among conclusions:

-- Houses with tall trees had less crime because trees made the area look more desirable. 'Trees may indicate that a neighborhood is more cared for' and under watch by authorities, the study says.

-- Street trees, a bigger tree canopy and more trees were all associated with less crime.

-- But not all trees are crime-fighters. Shrubs and short trees that block first-floor windows or are next to a house can create hide-outs for criminals.