Spatial Clustering Analyses of Calls for Service Data in a Selection of Police Jurisdictions

• In Event: Spatial Patterns of Crime

Abstract

It is well established that spatial and temporal locations of crime often cluster in small areas, often known as crime “hot spots.” Despite the great amount of attention that research has focused on crime hot spots, there is little research on the concentration of all 911 or “Calls for Service” (CFS) calls in geographic areas. Most CFS calls are not serious-crime related but are rather related to other issues such as disorder, mental health related concerns, health emergencies, traffic related calls, or other community-related concerns and represent residents necessary and discretionary engagement with the state. The current study seeks to explore to what extent CFS are concentrated in geographic areas, what types of calls have the highest or lowest concentrations, and what sociodemographic characteristics are associated with certain call type clusters. Using CFS data from 9 jurisdictions, spatial and temporal analyses are conducted to establish and explore patterns of call concentration in space, time, and call type. This study also assesses the role outliers and missing data play in impacting these relationships. Insights into call type patterns can inform police resource allocation as well as pinpoint areas where problems may need to be addressed. Future research recommendations are also discussed.

Authors

• Heather Prince, RTI International

• Christopher Scott Inkpen, RTI International