Hot Spots Policing and Crime Prevention: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

• In Event: Hot Spots Policing

Abstract

Research consistently demonstrates that crime is unevenly distributed across space and relatively few places account for disproportionately high levels of crime. This suggests that the police may be more efficient and effective at reducing crime when targeting crime “hot spots,” or small geographic areas where crime clusters. These insights have seemingly become common knowledge among crime scholars and practitioners, and small places have increasingly been incorporated into crime prevention strategies. Given the proliferation of interventions that have employed this strategy in recent years, it is prudent to assess the evolving body of research on hot spots policing. In this paper, we detail an updated systematic review of hot spots policing and crime that adhered to the protocols and conventions of the Campbell Collaboration. Meta-analysis techniques are used to determine the magnitude, direction, and significance of the effects of hot spots policing methods on crime. Similar analytic methods are used to examine whether policing interventions at hot spots are associated with crime displacement or a diffusion of benefits. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of relevant policy implications stemming from our findings.

Authors

• Anthony Braga, Northeastern University

• Andrew V. Papachristos, Yale University

• David M. Hureau, University at Albany - SUNY

• Brandon Turchan, Rutgers University