International Crime Mapping: Caveats and Considerations

• NCJ Number: 190422
• Journal: Crime Mapping News Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Dated: Winter 2001 Pages: 1-3
• Author(s): Jim Griffin
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Downloaded August 29, 2001.

Annotation

Expanding the field of crime mapping to countries throughout the world will result in a greater exchange of information and increased trans-border cooperation among law enforcement professionals in the effort to counter transnational crime, but there are barriers and impediments to such an effort.

Abstract

With the paltry budgets some overseas police departments command, it is not surprising that little, if any, remains for investment in crime analysis and prevention tools such as crime mapping. The lack of technological experience is another impediment to the development of crime mapping in many countries. Although computers and other electronic tools are taken for granted in the Western world, such technology is absent in many police departments throughout the world. Other hindrances to the implementation of a GIS (Geographic Information System) are the lack of police data and inaccurate, outdated, or simply no maps. As in other sectors, the language barrier can hobble law enforcement efforts regarding the use of GIS. Software in English, Spanish, and French abounds, but it is not available in other languages. Also, some countries have multiple languages and dialects, further complicating the language problem. There are more universal difficulties as well; namely, the human aversion to change. Current routines are familiar, and learning new skills takes time that could be spent on other tasks. Although the challenge of implementing GIS's in countries where it does not exist is formidable, police departments worldwide are accepting the challenge. In La Plata, Argentina, for example, six officers have received GIS training. With World Bank backing, as well as funds from the provincial government, maps have been updated and coded in GIS. Other countries, such as South Africa, Mexico, and India, continue to make strides in implementing crime mapping at the strategic and tactical levels. 6 references