S.A.R.A. Model

Problem-solving policing forces the police to focus on the problems that cause incidents. This strategy uses the acronym S.A.R.A. for the four distinct parts. Explain S.A.R.A. Discuss the possible advantages and disadvantages of this policing method.
Next, please come up with a crime related problem a police department/ community may encounter, and apply the S.A.R.A. model to it. Your solution to the problem should be creative. Please be sure to discuss how you would measure the results of your efforts (numbers of calls for service, numbers of arrests, individuals diverted from the CJ system or referred to other community/ governmental agencies, etc.) to determine whether your response was effective or not.

Full Answer Section

Response: Developing and implementing targeted interventions that address the root causes of the problem. This could involve a variety of strategies, such as:

  • Increased police patrols in specific areas.
  • Community outreach and education programs.
  • Environmental design changes, such as improved lighting or street closures.
  • Collaboration with social service agencies to address underlying issues like poverty or mental health.

4. Assessment: Evaluating the effectiveness of the implemented response through data analysis, community feedback, and comparisons to before-and-after data. This allows for adjustments and improvements to the response as needed.

Advantages of POP:

  • Reduced crime and disorder: By addressing the root causes, POP aims to prevent future criminal activity and improve overall community safety.
  • Improved police-community relations: Collaboration with the community fosters trust and understanding, leading to more effective policing.
  • Data-driven decision making: POP relies on data to identify problems and evaluate solutions, promoting evidence-based practices.

Disadvantages of POP:

  • Requires significant resources: Implementing POP effectively requires investment in data analysis, training, and community outreach programs.
  • Long-term commitment: Solutions may take time to show significant results, requiring sustained commitment from police and community stakeholders.
  • Challenging to measure success: Measuring the impact of POP can be complex due to various external factors influencing crime rates.

Applying S.A.R.A. to a Sample Problem:

Problem: Increased reports of theft from vehicles in a specific neighborhood.

Scanning: Police data shows a cluster of vehicle break-ins concentrated in a particular neighborhood over the past two months.

Analysis: Investigation reveals that most break-ins occur at night, targeting vehicles parked on the street. The neighborhood lacks adequate street lighting and has a high number of vacant properties, creating opportunities for offenders.

Response:

  • Increased police patrols: Officers conduct increased patrols in the neighborhood, focusing on nighttime hours and known hot spots.
  • Community engagement: Police collaborate with residents to organize neighborhood watch programs and raise awareness about vehicle security measures.
  • Environmental design changes: The city council approves funding to improve street lighting in the affected area.

Assessment:

  • Track the number of vehicle break-in reports: Compare the number of reports before and after implementing the response to assess its effectiveness.
  • Analyze crime displacement: Monitor for potential shifts in criminal activity to other areas.
  • Collect community feedback: Conduct surveys or focus groups to gauge residents' perceptions of safety and satisfaction with the response.

Measuring Success:

  • Decreased reports of vehicle break-ins: A significant reduction in reported incidents would indicate the effectiveness of the response.
  • Increased community satisfaction: A positive change in residents' perceptions of safety could suggest that the response is improving quality of life.
  • No crime displacement: The absence of increased crime in other areas would demonstrate that the response is not simply pushing the problem elsewhere.

Conclusion:

The S.A.R.A. model provides a valuable framework for addressing crime problems through data analysis, targeted interventions, and ongoing evaluation. While challenges exist, POP offers a promising approach to building safer communities by tackling the root causes of crime and disorder.

Sample Answer Problem-Oriented Policing and the S.A.R.A. Model Problem-oriented policing (POP) is a strategic approach that focuses on addressing the underlying causes of crime and disorder rather than simply reacting to incidents. It emphasizes data analysis, collaboration, and community engagement to develop effective solutions. The S.A.R.A. model is the core framework of POP, representing four cyclical stages: 1. Scanning: Identifying and prioritizing crime and disorder problems through data analysis, community surveys, and officer reports. 2. Analysis: Examining the nature, scope, and contributing factors of the identified problem. This may involve mapping crime hot spots, analyzing victim and offender demographics, and identifying potential environmental or social factors influencing the problem.