Strayer University
Computer Information Systems CIS 500
October 21, 2012
Introduction
Crimes are best defined as an act, omission, or neglect that result in breaking the law and is punishable by the courts. In effort to maintain law and order in society many cities have taken the initiative to move toward innovation in crime solving and crime prevention. While traditional methods of policing are still being used, larger cities have incorporated technological advances such as the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to assist with efficiency and effectiveness in crime fighting strategy. One GIS system that is widely used is COMPSTAT. COMPSTAT is a Geographic Information System that identifies problem …show more content…
Crime prevention is a critical element to execute in effort to increase quality of life for citizens. Law enforcements’ obligation is one of social responsibility. Social responsibility is best defined as the consideration of the greater good for the greatest number. (Boone 2011, p.45) The main goal of law enforcement is to make the best possible decisions for the safety and well-being of the people. Traditional policing methods involve police patrolling and crime assessments. Patrolling is used to create a police presence on the streets that in theory should deter crime from taking place. Patrolling also provides the opportunity for police to quickly respond to calls in their area. Patrolling is considered a proactive approach to crime fighting as it not only prevents some crimes it makes the community members feel …show more content…
COMPSTAT enforces that command staff hold the responsibility of crime prevention and reduction with little regard for patrolling officers in the decision making process. While traditional policing or patrolling entrusts decision making based on the street activity. This type of policing is a partnership between law enforcement and citizens. The crossroads is evident as the two different approaches clash. The technology approach favors the command officer‘s decisions, while traditional patrolling favors the leadership and decision making of officers on their individual patrols. (Willis, Mastrofski, & Weisburd 2003,