NCJ Number
146675
Date Published
1989
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This report presents findings of an evaluation of the Baltimore County Police Department's (Maryland) use of patrol officers to conduct problem-oriented policing.
Abstract
The problemsolving project used all patrol personnel in the experimental area. Officers handled problemsolving projects while on directed patrol. Supervisors assisted by making time blocks available, but patrol officers were expected to respond to calls for service. Officers dealt with crime problems, public disturbances, and other business and community problems. Project objectives were to increase the amount of patrol officers' uncommitted time by expanding the department's alternatives for handling service calls and to develop an analytical capability that enables patrol officers to identify and resolve community and business problems and crimes. Another project objective is to develop a manageable system to direct the use of uncommitted patrol time more efficiently and effectively. Data sources used to assess effectiveness were departmental files on individual problemsolving projects, information on repeat calls for service, other departmental records, interviews with officers and supervisors, and observations of conditions. Based on such measures as reductions in calls for service, written evidence of citizen satisfaction, observed differences in conditions, and cost savings, most of the problemsolving projects met their stated objectives. Recommendations for patrol problemsolving are offered. A 10- item bibliography