Differences in Risk for Arrest and Non-Arrest for Violent Crime in Jersey City, NJ

• In Event: Risk Terrain Modeling II

Abstract

This study examines the spatial context of violent offenses with a weapon in 2014 in Jersey City, NJ. We present the differences between places where the environmental risk factors of violent offenses result in arrests (and case clearance) and those where arrests do not occur. In particular, we examine how gang territories located in highly vulnerable areas for crime may moderate the likelihood of arrest in those locations. We used Risk Terrain Modeling (RTM) methods to identify the spatial risk factors that influence the likelihood of arrest at certain places. This study helps to inform police departments about which spatial risk factors to focus resources on before, during and after criminal investigations ensure in order to promote successful investigations and case clearance within the communities they serve.

Authors

• Henri Buccine-Schraeder, Rutgers University

• Joanna Kubik, Rutgers University

• Joel M. Caplan, Rutgers University

• Paul Boxer, Rutgers University

• Leslie W. Kennedy, Rutgers University