Problem-Oriented Policing (POP) is a methodology that reorients the focus of police work toward problem-solving, rather than the traditional model of “reacting and responding to isolated incidents” [1]. POP is a proactive model that seeks to coordinate very specific responses to recurring problems by means of a thorough analysis of the causes that lead to the recurrence of those problems and the search for, implementation, and evaluation of effective solutions.
POP emphasizes the design of solutions that are preventive in nature, that do not rely solely on the use of repressive techniques or the criminal justice system, and that involve other public agencies, the community, and the private sector when their participation helps to solve the problem.
One of the most popular methodologies for POP implementation is the Scanning, Analysis, Response and Assessment (SARA) method. Briefly, each of the four stages consists of the following:
1. Scanning: The objective of this stage is to define the problem to be solved as clearly and specifically as possible. To this end, Scanning includes identifying recurring problems and the consequences of those problems for the community and the police, prioritizing those problems and selecting a few for detailed examination. A “problem” is a group of similar incidents that recur and generate harm to a part of the community. Different sources are used to prioritize potential problems associated with crime and disorder in the territory under analysis. This may include identifying the problems of most concern to the community, confirming that the problem actually exists, and understanding the consequences of the problem and the frequency with which it occurs.
2. Analysis: The goal is to identify and analyze all relevant data to better understand the problem, including whether it is necessary to narrow its scope so as to define it more specifically, and to look for possible explanations as to why the problem is occurring. It is essential to leverage the knowledge of crime analysts and the experience of law enforcement personnel who are familiar with the territory.
3. Response: The police and their partners select one or more responses or interventions based on the results of the analysis conducted in the previous step. A response plan is outlined and then executed that includes the nature of each response, the specific objectives these responses are intended to achieve, and the responsibilities of the various partners who will be involved in implementing the response.
4. Evaluation: Consists of assessing whether the responses were implemented in a manner consistent with the response plan and whether the responses achieved the intended effects. This stage therefore includes both a process evaluation and an impact evaluation.