Neighborhood by neighborhood: community policing in a rust belt city. Issue 2 (9th July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cooley, Will; Bemiller, Michelle; Jefferis, Eric; Penix, Rose
• Is Part Of: Policing. Volume 42:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 226
• Page End: 239
• Publication Date: 2018-07-09
• Subjects: Community-oriented policing -- Discretion -- Citizen satisfaction -- Implementation; Police -- Periodicals; 363.205
• DOI: 10.1108/PIJPSM-01-2018-0002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1363-951X

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine citizen satisfaction with police services and perceived safety using survey research in two high crime neighborhoods. Problem-oriented crime deterrence strategies were used in one neighborhood, the other served as a control group. Design/methodology/approach: Mixed-methods approach was used to measure the effectiveness of problem-oriented approaches in persistent high-crime areas. Pre- and post-intervention surveys were conducted by sampling addresses in both neighborhoods and analyzing results. Findings: No between-neighborhood differences were reported regarding the satisfaction with police services or improvement in perceived safety. Originality/value: These findings suggest that this deterrence strategy is a promising approach to reducing crime while not damaging community perceptions. However, departments must vary place-based strategies, and prevention is difficult given historical contexts, the absence of credible community partners and limited resources in a declining city.