NCJ Number
143801
Journal
Journal of Security Administration Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Dated: (1993) Pages: 31-41
Date Published
1993
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Problem-oriented policing, based on linking similar calls or problems, studying the causes, and tailoring responses to the causes versus individual symptoms, has been implemented on a department-wide basis at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Abstract
Problem-oriented policing begins with a major change in the direction an organization is willing to take and attempts to improve the effectiveness of police actions in reducing or eliminating problems confronting the public. This form of policing blends well with the environment and expectations of colleges and universities. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a four-step process is used to address and resolve problems (scanning, analysis, response, and assessment). The scanning step identifies problems in terms of behavior, territory, people, and time. The analysis step involves learning about the scope and effects of the problem and then identifying causes. The response step develops a solution to the problem, while the assessment step evaluates response effectiveness. The University of Wisconsin uses a cascading approach to implementing problem-oriented policing that started with management staff and then incorporated detectives and patrol officers. The goal is to change the leadership function and operational aspects of policing. Instead of simply responding to calls on a reactive basis, the problem-oriented policing approach eliminates or reduces problems and more effectively utilizes strained police resources. 2 references