Strategies to Address Gang Crime: A Guidebook for Local Law Enforcement

• NCJ Number: 224256
• Author(s): Scott H. Decker Ph.D.
• Date Published: April 2008
• Length: 56 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2004-CK-WX-K036
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS)
• Corporate Author: Institute for Public Safety Partnerships
• Sale Source: Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS)
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Technical Assistance
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Downloaded October 1, 2008

Annotation

This guidebook provides information intended to assist local law enforcement agencies in developing and improving their responses to gangs.

Abstract

The guidebook focuses on the use of problem solving strategies in which agencies select the interventions most appropriate for the circumstances of their jurisdictions. It promotes the SARA model (Scanning, Analysis, Response, and Assessment) as a strategic problem solving process that local law enforcement can apply to its gang problem. There is growing evidence that the application of the SARA model significantly improves the response to gangs. The four steps in the SARA model are the organizing concepts for the guidebook. “Scanning” involves defining the various facets of the local gang problem based on available and collected data. “Analysis” involves completing a detailed analysis of the dimensions and causes of the problem. “Response” consists of designing ways to counter the causes of gang problems. “Assessment” requires an evaluation of the impact of the responses to the identified gang problems. 7 figures and 189 references and resources, including Web sites