Assignment:
It is importance to have official crime data on how it can make a significant outlook to the communities which can deliver an important form of resources within the police departments to the community by "Prevent crimes, providing safety and security, and understanding what is happening within the community". Without official crime data, how can a department/ agency improve the needs for their community? This is where official crime data comes into play by "This program is the most reliable source of crime statistics for law enforcement administration, operation, and management. It is also used by researchers, politicians, and criminal justice professionals to gain a deeper understanding of crime and society" (Walden University, 2019).
Walden University (2019) explains the composure of each function of how it benefits of improving the communities and departmental needs. First, predictive policing- which helps prevent crimes (in the future) by being combative and being proactive. Second, Improving community relations- As this "paints a picture" (per se) to the community by allowing them to see how their law enforcement is making a positive approach and by providing them a means of safety and security or protect and serve. Third, budgeting formation- When one thinks about departmental budget, a budget is "key" to helping pay for training, staffing, equipment and provide other needs for the department to serve the community. Data provides a outlook for the department to apply themselves for grants and/or funding to cover such expenses, for example; let say if crime (a) has risen and this department does not have the adequate funds to cover such expenses (staff or equipment). Without such crime data to apply for grants, how can they help and prevent such crimes? As crime data can be apply as a form of "foundation" to help the department apply for a grant which can help them to combat such crimes. Four, initiative assessment- I think this can be applied more for the community, as individual(s) want to move into areas to raise a family and have nice areas to live in.
1. What are some issues with using official crime data?
2. What public policy changes could be made by relying upon the 2 articles?
Reference
Bachman, R.D., &Schutt, R.K. (2018). Fundamentals of research. Criminology and criminal justice. (4th ed.) Thousand Oaks, CA. Sage Publication.
Baumer, T. & Adams, K. (2003). Controlling a jail population by partially closing the front door. The prison Journal. Vol. 86 Number 3.
Beattie, R. (1955). Problems of criminal statistics in the United States. Journal of criminal law and criminology. Vol.46. Issue 2.
Miller,J. (2003). An arresting experiment: Domestic violence victim experience and perceptions. Purdue University. Sage Publicaiton.
Mosher, C.J., Miethe, T.D., & Hart, T. C., (2011). The Mismeasure of crime. (2nd. ed.) Thousand Oaks, CA. Sage Publicaiton.
Walden University (2019). Why national crime statistics are important: Learn about the data that can lead to safer communities.