NCJ Number
120832
Date Published
1989
Length
37 pages
Annotation
An analysis of staffing needs in the Colorado Springs (Colo.) Police Department concluded that 26 more patrol officers and 13 more traffic officers are needed.
Abstract
The research used data from the computer-aided dispatch system together with a computer model called Patrol/Plan, based on the recognition that the staffing requirements rest mainly on the patrol workload. The model assumed that patrol officers would conduct random, routine patrol for 20 minutes each hour, that an average of 3 units would be available for calls at all times, and that the probability that all units would be busy when a call was received would be 5 percent or less. It also assumed response times of 8 minutes or less for high-priority calls and delays of no more than 3 minutes. Adding the recommended staff would improve response times and the time available for routine patrol and community-oriented policing. Additional supervisory and other positions were also recommended. Tables and appendix describing the computer program are included.