Predictive Policing Technology: Adding Efficiency To Community and Problem Oriented Policing

Law enforcement agencies collect data from traffic citations, automated license plate readers, police reports, arrest reports, law enforcement bulletins and many other sources. The use of crime predictive software to analyze this wealth of information will lead to improved deployment of limited personnel, reduced crime, and improved quality of life for the community. Recruiting and retaining police officers has become an issue for law enforcement agencies nationwide. Municipal budgets are under constant strain to meet the demands of law enforcement agencies. The need to identify efficiencies and better utilize police resources is more important than ever. The use of crime predicting software allows law enforcement supervisors to assign police personnel and assets to defined areas during specific times to address precursor variables of crime. Police officers can focus on the environmental factors and criminal behavior. Law enforcement can partner with community members, local business owners, government agencies, and stakeholders to solve issues. As agencies become proficient with the software, learn to manage the data, and use efficient deployment of law enforcement resources, crime reduction will be a result.