NCJ Number
209526
Date Published
April 2005
Length
72 pages
Annotation
This guide offers advice on how to quickly and efficiently research a police problem using the Internet and a public or university library.
Abstract
Problem-oriented policing focuses on specific crime and disorder problems that require police attention. Chances are, particular crime and disorder problems encountered by police agencies have been encountered in the past and solutions have been tried and perfected. The purpose of this guide is to offer advice on how to quickly access information on best practices and research that can help guide problem-oriented policing projects. The guide presupposes access to the Internet and a public or university library. One of the most important factors in conducting research is to tightly define the problem while avoiding Internet searches that are too narrow in scope to produce findings. The use of phrases, Boolean operators, and truncation symbols for Internet searches are described. The five most useful Web sites for police researchers are identified as well as a host of other helpful research-related Web sites. The guide also offers tips for getting expert advice from others, such as crime analysts, university faculty, and nationally renowned experts. Research services available at public and university libraries are reviewed and a discussion is offered on how to evaluate primary sources of information, including academic articles and police project reports. Finally, guidance is presented for how to use the information uncovered during the research. References, recommended readings, resources