Crime analysis: an examination of crime prevention and reduction strategies

This paper reviews the history and evolution of crime analysis as an investigative tool and its application in conventional policing strategies designed to reduce crime and disorder. The theoretical foundations and processes of crime analysis are presented and the five main types of analytical approaches (Intelligence, Criminal Investigative, Tactical, Strategic and Administrative) are summarized. A hypothetical example is used to illustrate the basic principles that govern a crime analyst’s function and the role of a crime analyst embedded in a law-enforcement environment. Although crime analysis as a profession is still in the developmental stages and continues to be shaped by conventional law enforcement practices, it has the potential to make significant contributions to the development of strategic approaches to crime reduction.