Pulling Levers: An Examination of the Targeted Offenders Program (TOP) in Dallas, Texas.

• In Event: Research on Focused Deterrence Strategies

Abstract

Evidence-based policing programs targeting specific areas or high-offence individuals are beginning to attract considerable attention from academics and practioners. Academically, data provided by these programs allow scholars to critique their effects and test certain theory-based explanations of criminal activity (e.g., routine activities, social disorganization, deterrence, etc.). Practitioners are able to evaluate the viability of applying smart policing principles to their crime problems. In the current study, one such program currently in place in Dallas, Texas is examined. The Targeted Offender Program (TOP) is a program designed with Smart Policing’s evidence-based, data driven concepts in mind. TOP utilizes a focused deterrence (i.e., pulling levers) approach to reduce crime in one of Dallas’ more crime ridden neighborhoods. Preliminary findings from this program show promising results with an overall reduction in violent and property crime. This study concludes with suggestions for future police practice and recommendations for theoretical approaches for researchers.

Authors

• Stephen A. Bishopp, The Caruth Police Institute

• Robert Morris, University of Texas at Dallas