Developing and Implementing a Data-Driven Focused Deterrence Strategy in Philadelphia

• In Event: Research-Practitioner Partnerships in Philadelphia: Data-Driven Crime Reduction Efforts and Evaluation in Action

Abstract

In the spring of 2013, the city of Philadelphia implemented a focused deterrence initiative modeled after the Boston Gun Project. Focused deterrence strategies offer a multifaceted approach to targeting a specific group of offenders or types of offenses. Before implementation, initiative leaders from the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office and Philadelphia Police Department brought in a research team to provide guidance around how best to use data to inform the strategy. The partnership works together to utilize data to measure the levers being pulled by the wide array of city agencies involved in the intervention. In addition, the research team tracks both implementation and outcomes. This paper will discuss how the partners work together to support and sustain the focused deterrence initiative.

Authors

• Caterina Gouvis Roman, Temple University

• Caroline Keating McGlynn, Philadelphia District Attorney's Office