NCJ Number
242845
Journal
Police Quarterly Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: December 2012 Pages: 331-357
Date Published
December 2012
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This study built upon previous reviews of the police effectiveness literature to categorize strategies and tactics based on what police should and should not be doing.
Abstract
The authors build upon previous reviews of the police effectiveness literature to categorize strategies and tactics based on what police should and should not be doing. The authors also provide relevant information on what police agencies should be doing to implement effective strategies. The authors argue police should be focusing on hot spots policing, problem-oriented policing (POP), focused deterrence approaches, directed patrol to reduce gun crime, and using DNA in property cases. Police should also recognize the importance of efforts to enhance legitimacy. In contrast, police should be avoiding standard policing tactics such as random preventive patrol, second responder programs, and Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.). The authors discuss how well current policing practices match up with effective approaches, describe general implications for policing, and conclude by noting policing strategies which too little is known about to make informed recommendations. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.