Best Practices for Illustrating the Spatial Variability of Crime: Re-imagining the Crime Map

• In Event: Advances in Spatial Methods for the Study of Crime & Place

Abstract

Many methods exist in mapping software to illustrate the spatial variability of crime. Yet, the use of maps from recent crime and place research does not parallel cartographic advancements. This study examines the recent use of maps in research of the spatial variability of crime and presents innovative methods for illustrating crime across multiple geographic levels. To examine the recent use of maps, data from studies on the spatial variability of crime were used. Further, using crime data from Atlanta, GA, estimates of spatial variability were illustrated using dynamic maps. This study’s findings observed no prior use of dynamic maps to illustrate the spatial variability of crime. Additionally, multiple open-source methods are discussed and presented on how to create dynamic maps. These types of maps allow for a nuanced illustration of crime variability across multiple geographic levels. Presently, maps are underutilized in research on the spatial variability of crime. To properly illustrate the spatial variability of crime, methods which incorporate multiple geographic levels are necessary. Dynamic maps are an effective method that should be embraced by future research.

Author

• Matthew Spencer, South Dakota State University