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Predictive policing substantially reduces crime in Los Angeles during months-long test

A UCLA-led team developed a mathematical model to predict crime hotspots, which was tested in Los Angeles and Kent, England. The model accurately predicted crime locations more often than human analysts, leading to a significant reduction in crime rates in Los Angeles, with potential annual savings of $9 million.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of the American Statistical Association·DateOct 7, 2015

ER doctors stress need for good communications with police

ER physicians emphasize the importance of developing strategies to optimize communications between police and ED workers due to differing perspectives on patient privacy and investigation needs. They suggest attempting to obtain patient consent before disclosing information and using limited disclosure when necessary.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Journal of Emergency Medicine·DateMay 26, 2015

Police not prepared for death investigations

Research by Queensland University of Technology highlights the difficulties faced by police during death investigations, including emotional re-traumatization of bereaved families. Junior officers are often tasked with gathering evidence while comforting family members, leading to concerns about their preparation and cultural competence.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPolicing & Society·DateMar 15, 2015

Terror attacks offer insights for first responders

A study from the University at Buffalo School of Management analyzed surveys and interviews with Mumbai Police officers involved in the response to terrorist attacks. The researchers found that first responders who received timely information access made better decisions, while those without proper training were less effective. To impr...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalIIMB Management Review·DateFeb 16, 2015

Do cops need college?

A new study found college-educated police officers are dissatisfied with their jobs, have negative views of their supervisors, and don't favor community policing. However, the researchers suggest that a college education may actually lead to less force being used on citizens, making police departments more legitimate and trustworthy.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Criminal Justice Education·DateFeb 5, 2015

Can racial injustice be settled out of court?

Researchers recommend increasing documentation of racial disparities in policing and trial outcomes to prevent inequality. They also suggest implementing bias training and promoting institutional diversity to reduce racial biases in legal decision-making.

SourceSAGE·JournalPolicy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences·DateJan 12, 2015

First scientific report shows police body-cameras can prevent unacceptable use-of-force

The Rialto experiment showed that evidence capture is just one output of body-worn video, and the technology is most effective at preventing escalation during police-public interactions. The 'preventative treatment' of body-worn-video relies on the combination of the camera plus cognition of surveillance, causing individuals to modify ...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Quantitative Criminology·DateDec 24, 2014

Study identifies risk factors for sexual assault, including age and alcohol consumption

A Danish study found that women aged 15-24 years old were more likely to be sexually assaulted, while those who consumed over 5 units of alcohol were at risk of being attacked by a stranger. The study highlights the need for awareness and education among healthcare professionals, police, and the general public to prevent sexual assault.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateOct 15, 2014

In sync and in control?

A study by UCLA social scientists found that men who march in unison with others perceive a potential foe as smaller and less intimidating, leading to increased feelings of power and aggression. The researchers theorize that this phenomenon may be an evolutionary adaptation that favors individuals moving in coordination with groups.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 26, 2014

Upgrading electronic monitoring, downgrading probation

A new electronic monitoring system is being implemented in England and Wales, combining GPS tracking and radio frequency technology. This system aims to improve the reliability and credibility of offender management, with a focus on reducing recidivism rates.

SourceSAGE·JournalEuropean Journal of Probation·DateAug 18, 2014

Do urban casinos increase local crime? Not in this case study

Researchers at Drexel University and Temple University found that the introduction of SugarHouse Casino had no significant impact on violent street felonies, vehicle crime, residential burglary, or drug crimes in the immediate neighborhood. Crime rates were largely unaffected, with some displacement to surrounding areas observed.

SourceDrexel University·JournalSecurity Journal·DateJul 17, 2014