NCJ Number
105158
Date Published
1987
Length
49 pages
Annotation
This booklet describes the underlying rationale, design, and results of a citizen survey administered by the Lansing Police Department (LPD) (Michigan) asking residents to prioritize police services and provide input into policy development.
Abstract
The Lansing survey asked residents how they would prioritize specific crimes, where they felt the police should concentrate investigative efforts, which community-oriented police services deserved the highest priority, what role citizens should play in assisting police, and how they would rank five activities within the LPD. Residents were also asked if they would be willing to vote for a tax increase to maintain a foot patrol program. The 2-page questionnaire was mailed to 5,462 residents and completed by 2,328 individuals, a 47-percent response rate. The booklet first reviews typical community surveys which usually ask citizens to rate police performance. Highlights of the Lansing survey show that residents ranked burglary and robbery as deserving the most police attention, were more concerned about crimes that hurt people rather than property, and were particularly sensitive to needs of the elderly and young children. Residents also demonstrated a high commitment to participating directly in efforts to combat crime. Almost half were willing to support a tax increase for foot patrols. Survey questionnaire, press release, and 33 footnotes.