Crime mapping

Information sharing enables agencies to combine data resources and use different types of data to create a more accurate or clearer picture of what is going on in an area. The ability to 'mix and match' different data sets and to join or overlay information from a range of agencies can lead to the identification of different variables, for example, an area with a high volume of empty or derelict housing may correlate directly with high levels of burglary, criminal damage, arson or vehicle crime. Identifying these variables can help to identify and develop a case for measures, needed to reduce crime and disorder in that area. The results of this process may indicate that most offenders are under the age of 18 or there is a significant illegal drugs problem. For example, this could indicate:

• the resources of the Youth Offending or Drug Action Teams need to focus on the area

• the local police may need to be more pro-active in patrolling and targeting of drug suppliers

• a neighbourhood watch scheme should be established

• community organisations need to be developed and consulted more frequently by crime and disorder agencies

• schools and other agencies need to reduce truancy levels or they need to work together encourage crime prevention measures

• victim support organisations may have a role in assisting victims and preventing repeat victimisation

• the local authority may need to consider whether:

  • public housing needs to be target hardened or in terms of improving levels of crime and quality of life

  • better street lighting would deter criminals

  • empty properties need to be boarded up

  • alley-gating needs to be introduced to restrict access

  • derelict houses need to be demolished

  • poorly designed housing needs to be 'secured by design'.

  • whether a local child curfew is needed

  • a neighbourhood warden should be introduced

  • a CCTV scheme is necessary

  • the area would benefit from a more costly regeneration package

There may be a range of interventions, which may be necessary to reduce the problems in the area. Crime Mapping can also be useful in monitoring the impact of interventions on levels of crime and disorder by regularly monitoring and evaluating up-to-date information/data on the area, which identifies, whether crime has been reduced or displaced elsewhere.

Crime mapping has been particularly successfully

Focus Areas (Hot Spots)

Standards of Data

Privacy protection starts with the initial collection of the information to ensure there is a good reason for doing so and only for legitimate uses for which, where necessary, the individual has given an informed consent.

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