NCJ Number
191781
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 49 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2001 Pages: 72-75
Date Published
April 2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses how Neighborhood Watch programs can benefit from computer-aided crime analysis and crime mapping by police departments.
Abstract
Crime analysis and the related mapping techniques can assist in preventing and suppressing crime. Crime analysis, pie charts, and crime mapping data can help Neighborhood Watch members visualize and assess the extent of their community's crime problem. While crime mapping information may be too technical for Neighborhood Watch members, adaptive versions of computer mapping may be more appropriate. Police officers have the option of screening and selecting the most appropriate information. They can focus on relevant issues that require immediate attention and feedback from residents. Police officers can map the problem and discuss the results with Neighborhood Watch members. Police officers can also map related interconnected offenses that can be correlated and examined with event analysis techniques. Event flow analysis is a visual charting and description of criminal events. Charts can reveal methods of drug distribution, street sales, and related offenses that are connected to other activities. Police officers should discuss the event analysis with Neighborhood Watch members, involve the guardians and partners, and develop solutions or responses. The planning process includes pre-assessment, responses, and post-assessment. One activity Neighborhood Watch police leaders may encourage is the publication of an anticrime newsletter that can provide crime prevention tips, local crime news, citizen recognition, and information on community events.