Is crime analysis at the heart of policing practice? A case study

Abstract

Following the introduction of National Intelligence Model (NIM) in 2004, this paper explores whether crime analysis has been integrated into policing practice. Fieldwork was conducted in one UK police force with both analysts and police officers. Findings from the analysis of semistructured interviews and focus group discussions suggest that while crime analysis is acknowledged as being central to the business of everyday policing, police officers' general lack of understanding of how analysts work and their capability leads to underutilisation of their skills. The research uncovered knowledge and process gaps, deepened by cultural constraints, budget cuts and resource reallocations, which inhibited incorporation of analysis into the heart of policing practice. Findings also indicated that analysts lack the resources, time, and sometimes, motivation to undertake sophisticated analysis, and often feel frustrated when officers' opinions override analytical wisdom. The paper argues that at least in the UK, better training and cultural change are necessary for creative utilisation of analytical resources and for bridging the knowledge and process gaps in the organisation.

The Evolution of the Police Analyst and the Influence of Evidence-Based Policing

“…For example, whilst hypothesis testing was shown by Chainey (2012) to improve analysis, this was an approach used infrequently by many analysts. Further, this and other research (Belur and Johnson, 2016;Townsley, et al, 2011;Sissens, 2008) found analysts key skills are hampered by poor training, particularly in the application of rigorous scientific research methods. Innes et al (2005) found that police analysts did not use rigorous methodologies in developing objective analytical conclusions.…”

“…Innes et al (2005) found that police analysts did not use rigorous methodologies in developing objective analytical conclusions. In essence, seventeen years after the implementation of the NIM, research in both the UK (Belur & Johnson, 2016) and the USA (Carter, 2015;Santos & Taylor, 2014) questions whether police analysts are able to think analytically. This is quite surprising as Santos (2014) demonstrates that crime analysis is an essential component in directing a variety of policing activity.…”

“…The analyst became the focus of numerous demands from a variety of police departments, often supporting the routine administration of the tasking and coordination meetings (Ratcliffe, 2004). Belur and Johnson (2016) found that the analyst often had to respond to what police managers warranted current attention which, often tactical in nature, focused on short term issues that did not allow analysts the time to examine crime issues. However, Ratcliffe notes that "good research takes time" (2004, p. 86), with Belur and Johnson (2016, p. 7) adding, "problem profiles take time and police fail to accept the time it takes".…”

“…Finally, it should also be noted the organisational culture of the police, which is said to be particularly strong, and often obstructing reform (Chan, 2001), is also said to hinder crime analysis. Specifically, the inability to integrate crime analysis into mainstream policing, and the failure to understand or appreciate the analyst role may have inhibited their contribution to policing (MacVean & Harfield, 2008;Belur & Johnson, 2016;Santos & Taylor, 2014).…”

“…If this approach is to be embraced the role of police analysts could once more become critical. Belur and Johnson (2016) argue analysis in a police setting is weak compared with academic institutions. Whilst the NIM stifled the analyst role, the use of more scientific analyses, many of which underpin EBP approaches, could add value to crime analysis.…”