Experimenting With the Problem-Oriented Approach to Improving Police Service - A Report and Some Reflections on Two Case Studies, Volume 4

• NCJ Number: 91295
• Author(s): H Goldstein; C E Susmilch
• Date Published: 1982
• Length: 179 pages
• Grant Number(s): 80-IJ-CX-0041
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute of Justice (NIJ); US Dept of Justice NIJ Pub
• Corporate Author: University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison Police Dept
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Project on Development of a Problem-Oriented Approach To Improving Police Service

Annotation

An experiment with developing a problem-oriented approach to improving police service produced a collaboration with the police department in Madison, Wis., in the conduct of two case studies of two problems; drinking drivers and repeat sexual offenders.

Abstract

The project aimed to focus primary attention on the behavioral problems the police must handle by developing a capacity within the police to examine the specific behavioral problems with which they must deal. The most experimental aspects of the study process were designing an appropriate form of inquiry; using various data sources; adopting a broad, fresh perspective in researching each problem; and internalizing the process within the police agency. The studies gave the police information which was not previously available and which provided a solid basis for evaluating current police responses and for developing alternative recommendations. The extensive data collection effort resulted in accuracy in defining each problem. It also produced many side benefits in the police agency. Detailed descriptions of the methodologies used in each of the studies are included. For related volumes presenting the case studies and discussing the problem-oriented approach, see NCJ 91292-4.