Evidence-Based Policing Matrix
Neighborhood – Lancashire Constabulary (2008)
Study Reference:
Location in the Matrix; Methodological Rigor; Outcome:
Neighborhoods; Focused; Proactive; Moderately Rigorous; Effective
What police practice or strategy was examined?
This study used problem-oriented policing and the SARA model (scanning, analysis, response, assessment) to address community problems in the Farringdon Park estate (locally known as Dodge City) in Preston, England. A neighborhood policing team in Lancashire Constabulary recognized high levels of poverty and crime, especially burglary and criminal damage incidents. The team analyzed the problem using data from the police, the neighborhood association, vacant property analyses, resident surveys, and environmental surveys. The “Mappin for MOPPIN” process allowed children and residents to add flags to a model of the community to call out issues. The response phase consisted of multiple strategies, including enforcement (e.g., arrests, warrant execution, hot spot patrol), situational efforts (e.g., target hardening, improved lighting, more CCTV), and social efforts (e.g., restorative justice, outreach work by youth services).
How was the intervention evaluated?
The team had regular process evaluation meetings to ensure people and agencies were delivering what they had promised. For the outcome evaluation, the team used a quasi-experimental approach and chose a control area, a similar estate in Preston known locally as ‘The Trees’ neighborhood. The team also looked at crime in the neighborhood adjoining the response area to evaluate displacement or diffusion.
What were the key findings?
Calls for service data showed a 57% reduction in all crime and a 47% reduction in calls for service comparing the pre- to post-period. Time series analyses incorporating data from the control area suggest a significant crime decline without evidence of crime displacement. There were also indications from observations and qualitative data that the project had improved the area through significant drug dealing convictions, more resident engagement in community activity, and greater resident efforts to maintain the appearance of the community
What were the implications for law enforcement?
The research suggests the effectiveness of a multi-facted problem-oriented policing approach to addressing neighborhood crime problems. Moreover, the assessment also indicated the approach was cost-efficient and saved the constabulary more than $200,000 due to the decrease of all crimes and calls for service.
Where can I find more information about this intervention, similar types of intervention, or related studies?