Using an integrated agent-based simulation environment to conduct randomized controlled trials in policing

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

This study first develops CARESim (an integrated agent-based simulation environment for crime analysis and risk evaluation) and then uses it to conduct randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in policing. CARESim encompasses an agent-based conceptual model of behaviors for risk estimation, a modeling background using GIS for agents’ mobility and interactions, a data management module, and a user interface for high-risk individuals (HRIs). Moreover, this simulation environment is data-driven and built upon various types of public data, such as census data, local commute data, transportation data, weather data, crime data, patrol data, and POIs. By creating a synthetic population in a jurisdiction and modeling their daily activities related to crime and victimization, CARESim can replicate prior policing RCT experiments on patrol and focused deterrence in the simulated environment and evaluate various conditions for improving the effectiveness of policing strategies.

Authors

• Mengyan Dai, Old Dominion University

• Yifei Gong, City University of New York

• Feng Gu, College of Staten Island