NCJ Number
86588
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 51 Issue: 12 Dated: (December 1982) Pages: 1-9
Date Published
1982
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The use of directed patrol systems is a relatively inexpensive way to increase police effectiveness., particularly in small or medium-sized police departments.
Abstract
Whereas traditional preventive patrols entail quasi-random movement through beats, directed patrol uses the usual patrol methods to focuses on the specific crime and order maintenance problems that exist in a community. Crime analysis is a crucial element in the planning of directed patrol. Police administrators must use their records systems to identify crime patterns and other community problems and to tailor tactics to fit the particular crime problem. The analysis should identify the victims, the perpetrators, the methods by which crimes are being committed, and the times at which crimes are occurring. Input from staff, field officers, and the community is also important in determining the areas of greatest need. Police administrators and planners must also develop training and advisory supports to assure complete program implementation. Firstline supervisors, patrol officers, communications and dispatch personnel, investigative personnel, and other police personnel must all accept their changed responsibilities under a directed patrol system. Among steps administrators should take to develop a directed patrol program are participatory planning, officer and supervisor training, performance monitoring, public education, and development of a performance evaluation system. The increasing resource constraints facing the public sector make directed patrol an increasingly attractive option for increasing the efficiency of police agencies. Photographs and 15 footnotes are provided.