The Illinois Crime Prevention Association was formed in 1973 as the Illinois Crime Prevention Officer's Association. The name was changed in 1986 to encourage more participation from citizen and business crime prevention practitioners. The I.C.P.A. provides crime prevention practitioners with a forum where they can share ideas and receive training in the area of crime prevention.

In 1975 an executive board was established and bylaws were adopted. The association obtained it's state charter in 1977, giving it not-for profit status. The I.C.P.A. is divided into regions with regional chairpersons serving on the board of directors.

• To establish crime prevention and community policing as a partnership between law enforcement, citizens and the business community.
• To provide information and education on the most current and advanced crime prevention techniques that are available.
• To encourage law enforcement agencies and citizen groups throughout the State of Illinois to adopt and utilize the various crime prevention programs that are available.